Tropical conditions, consistent waves and a vast number of surf spots to choose from. Bali is an ideal setting for learning to surf! From surf camps and week-long retreats to a one-off lesson to dip your toe and find out if surfing in Bali is for you- there are many different options for learning to surf on the Island of the Gods.
One of the great things about learning to surf in Bali is that you don’t need anything at all! Board hire starts at 50k ($5AUD) per hour from the board rentals along the beach. But before venturing out on your own you might want to take a few lessons, or even spend a week or so at a Surf Camp or Retreat to get the hang of the basics and some surf etiquette.
One thing is for certain after you ride a couple of waves you will be hooked! And YES- your arms will be sore. But in the best possible way!
What are the advantages of paying for lessons or going to a surf camp?
- You will learn the basics like how to ‘pop-up’.
- Your coach will brief you on the conditions and teach you how to read a surf report.
- You will also be told where the dangerous currents are, and what to do if you get caught in one.
- Getting pushed into waves will help you get started.
- They will prepare everything for you including board wax and rash vests.
Who are the providers of surf lessons?
Women’s Only Retreats
Retreats are designed with solo women travellers in mind. Of course, you may want to bring a friend but you are sure to meet other like minded travellers. You will be staying in a villa in a private room with ensuite, and it is a slightly more luxurious experience than surf camps. While some women’s retreats focus on surfing, others offer surf lessons as an optional add on to other activities such as yoga, fitness, spa treatments and site seeing. Women’s Retreats in Bali usually have shared dinners and other communal experiences like welcome circles and other opportunities to get to know people from around the world. The great thing about surfing with other women is that women support women in the water which is sure to make your day or even your week!
Surf Camps
This is a great option if you are wanting a fully immersive surf experience in Bali. This means you will be surfing daily, maybe even twice daily depending on the conditions and what the camp offers. There is usually a few different accommodation options, from shared rooms to private rooms. You will often find young travellers at surf camps, so there may be quite a social atmosphere. Most camps offer video coaching sessions in the afternoons after a morning surf which is awesome if taking your surfing to the next level is your goal. Breakfast and lunch are often provided with options for dinner also. Some camps offer daily yoga and some sightseeing. Surfcamps are awesome for solo travellers and accommodate surfers of all levels from beginner to advanced.
Within walking distance to Berawa beach and surf spot is Wave House Surf Camp. They offer various accommodation options from dorm style to private rooms. They also have 2 swimming pools and a fitness and yoga space on site. You will have surf coaching 7 days a week, with once a day video analysis. You will visit different spots throughout your stay depending on your ability and the conditions. Beginner through to Intermediate surfers are welcome. Breakfast and airport transfers are included and social activities are planned throughout the week. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, bars and shops within walking distance for you to explore on your down time.
BOOK YOUR STAY OR A SURF LESSON HERE!
Address: Discovery Villas Jl. Subak Sari No.#100, Tibubeneng
Instagram: @wavehousebali
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Surf Schools
Surf schools are kind of like surf camps but don’t include accommodation or any other packages like meals and yoga. Generally they pick you up from your accommodation each day and take you surfing wherever the conditions are right. This can be a great option for families who are learning to surf together as it leaves the rest of the day for other activities and you aren’t on a surf camp schedule. Surf Schools can coordinate with you on whether you surf everyday or every other day.
If you are looking for a fun morning activity to enjoy by yourself or with your friends, why not head down to the beach board rental and hire a surf instructor for an hour. They will go over the rough basics and grab you a beginner friendly board (the really long wide ones, usually with a foam deck). Once you have your board and rash vest, it will be straight to the sand to practice paddling and popping up. When your instructor is happy with your pop and you have established if you are goofy foot or regular foot, then it’s time to get wet. The best spots for beginners are where the waves are 2-3ft, and already broken, usually closer to the beach. Your instructor will pick a wave and give you a little push so you can concentrate on your first ever pop up! It’s a feeling you will never forget.
Santai Surf School
Located at Double Six Beach in the Legian area is another surf school where you can take casual lessons. A good starting point for anyone who has never surfed before, the waves at Legian Beach are super mellow and ideal for beginners. Balinese owned and operating since 2012, Santai Surf School has a great team of coaches who will have you screaming for “one more”! They also have full insurance cover for all guests.
Address: Jalan Arjuna, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Seminyak
Instagram: @santai_surf_bali
Website: Academy of Surfing
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Which surf break is for you?
Although your surf guide or coach will guide you to the best spot with conditions and your skill level in mind, it’s good to note what areas of Bali might be the best for you. Different surf spots are seasonal also. Soon you will be reading the surf report like a pro!
- Beginner Breaks
Legian, Kuta, and Seminyak
- Intermediate-Advanced
Canggu
- Advanced
Uluwatu Peninsula
Final Words
Now you know a little bit about the providers of surf lessons on the island, all you need now is your swimming gear and some waterproof sunscreen!
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