Bali’s best beginner surf spots offer gentle waves and safe conditions for your first ride. You’ll find Kuta Beach’s sandy bottom and 2-4 foot waves perfect for learning, while Batu Bolong Beach in Canggu delivers consistent breaks ideal for novices. Old Man’s Canggu features rolling waves with plenty of space to practice, and the peaceful Medewi Beach boasts long, gentle lefts for building confidence. Nusa Dua Beach rounds out the top spots with its mellow waves and sandy bottom. Each location offers affordable board rentals and lessons, making your surf journey even easier. Let’s explore what makes each spot uniquely suited for beginners.

Kuta Beach

Catching your first wave is a breeze at Kuta Beach, Bali’s most famous surfing spot for beginners. The sandy bottom and consistent waves make it perfect for learning, while the long stretch of beach gives you plenty of space to practice. You’ll find gentle waves rolling in throughout the day, typically reaching heights of 2-4 feet.

You can rent boards right on the beach for about $5 per hour, and there’s no shortage of surf schools offering lessons. Local instructors share valuable surfing tips while introducing you to bits of Balinese local culture between sessions.

The best time to surf is early morning before the crowds arrive, or late afternoon when the day-trippers head home.

When you’re not in the water, you’ll find beach bars, local warungs, and surf shops lining the shore. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming – no one judges beginners here.

Watch out for the strong currents during monsoon season (October to April), but otherwise, the waves are forgiving year-round. Free parking is available near the beach, and you can easily walk to nearby shops and restaurants in between surf sessions.

Batu Bolong Beach

Tucked away in Canggu, Batu Bolong Beach serves up perfect waves for novice surfers looking to build confidence. You’ll find consistent waves that break both left and right, making it easier to catch rides as you learn. The beach’s sandy bottom means fewer risks when you fall, and the waves typically stay under 4 feet high – perfect for mastering the basics.

Multiple local surf schools line the beach, offering lessons at competitive rates. You can easily rent surfboards right on the spot, with friendly staff helping you pick the right board size for your skill level. The beach gets busy during peak hours, but if you show up early morning, you’ll have more space to practice your moves.

  • Best surfing conditions from 7 AM to 10 AM when crowds are thinner
  • Surfboard rentals available for as low as $5/hour
  • Several beachfront cafes where you can fuel up before or after surfing
  • Local surf schools offer both private and group lessons
  • Free parking available near Old Man’s Restaurant

When the afternoon winds kick in, the waves can get choppy, so plan your session for earlier in the day when conditions are more predictable and beginner-friendly.

Old Man’s Canggu

Located just steps from Batu Bolong Beach, Old Man’s Canggu offers gentle, rolling waves that break predictably on a sandy bottom.

You’ll find consistent surf conditions throughout the year, making it perfect for learning how to surf or improving your basic skills. The waves here typically range from 2-4 feet, creating an ideal training ground for beginners.

Several local surf schools line the beach, offering affordable lessons and board rentals. You can book a single session or sign up for multi-day packages to build your confidence in the water.

The instructors are friendly and patient, and they’ll teach you essential surfing techniques and ocean safety.

The best time to surf is during early morning sessions when the winds are light and the crowds are thin. You’ll want to avoid the midday rush when more experienced surfers take over the waves.

There’s plenty of space to practice, and you won’t feel pressured by other surfers. After your session, you can relax at one of the many beach cafes that overlook the break, watching other surfers while planning your next session.

Medewi Beach

About three hours west of Denpasar, Medewi Beach stands out as one of Bali’s most peaceful surf spots for beginners. The long, gentle left-hand wave gives you plenty of time to practice your stance and build confidence. You’ll find fewer crowds here compared to the popular southern beaches, making it perfect for learning without pressure.

You can catch Medewi surf throughout the year, but the best conditions happen during the dry season from April to October. The waves typically reach heights of 2-4 feet, ideal for those just starting their surf journey. As the day winds down, you won’t want to miss the legendary Medewi sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant oranges and pinks.

  • Local surf schools offer affordable lessons with experienced instructors
  • Small black-stone beach with natural, uncrowded atmosphere
  • Best waves occur during morning sessions before the wind picks up
  • Several basic accommodations right by the beach
  • Easy parking and access to local warungs serving fresh seafood

The laid-back vibe and consistent waves make Medewi an excellent choice for surfers who want to escape the tourist hustle and focus on improving their skills.

Nusa Dua Beach

On Bali’s southeastern peninsula, Nusa Dua Beach offers some of the gentlest waves you’ll find on the island. The consistent, rolling waves break over a sandy bottom, making it perfect for your first surfing experience. You won’t have to worry about sharp reefs or crowded lineups here.

The beach’s protected location means you can surf year-round, with the best conditions from April to October. Early morning sessions give you the cleanest waves and fewer people to dodge. You’ll find several surf schools right on the beach, offering board rentals and lessons at reasonable prices.

Nusa Dua activities extend beyond surfing. When you’re done catching waves, you can snorkel, kayak, or just chill on the pristine white sand. The area’s packed with beachfront restaurants where you can grab a cold drink and watch other surfers.

For Nusa Dua accommodations, you’ve got options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Most places are within walking distance to the surf spots, and many offer surf packages that include lessons and equipment.

The nearby shopping centers and spas make it easy to plan activities on days when you’re not surfing.