The Ultimate Guide to Bali's Beaches and Surf Spots: From Uluwatu to Medewi

Bali is not just a tropical paradise—it’s a sacred rite of passage for surfers and beach lovers. Its diverse coastline offers everything from world-class reef breaks to quiet black-sand shores perfect for sunset lounging. Unlike other touristy destinations, Bali’s beach culture is rooted in community, spirituality, and a deep respect for the ocean. The island’s western and southern coastlines are hotspots for surfing, while its eastern and northern edges offer more laid-back, swim-friendly experiences. This guide dives deep into specific locations, breaks, conditions, local scenes, and tips for both seasoned surfers and those simply chasing the sun.

Wave Type and Breaks
Uluwatu is famed for its powerful, consistent left-hand reef break that peels across multiple sections—The Peak, Racetracks, Temples, Outside Corner, and The Bombie. Each section has its personality: Racetracks is fast and barreling, while Outside Corner lights up during big swells with long, peeling waves.

Best Time to Surf
Dry season (May to September) brings strong southern swells, offshore winds, and optimal surfing conditions. Early mornings often offer glassy conditions.

Beach Access and Culture
The cave entrance is a rite of passage—you literally paddle out from inside a limestone cave. The cliffs above host warungs and bars like Single Fin, where Sunday sunset parties gather locals, surfers, and digital nomads. Despite its fame, the beach still retains an aura of respect among surfers.

Skill Level
Intermediate to Advanced. Sharp reefs and heavy crowds demand confidence and etiquette.

Wave Characteristics
Padang Padang is Bali’s most dangerous and beautiful wave. A short, heavy left-hand barrel, it breaks over shallow coral and resembles Hawaii’s Banzai Pipeline. It only works during solid swells (usually 6ft+), but when it does, it’s elite-level surfing.

Alternative Beach
Next door is Padang Padang Right—a mellow beach break suitable for beginners and surf lessons.

Local Tips
Don’t underestimate the power here. Spectators gather on the surrounding cliffs to watch daring drops and thick barrels. Check the Padang Padang Cup, a one-day contest held only when conditions align.

Wave Details
Bingin offers a short, machine-like left barrel that breaks predictably over reef. It’s one of the most picturesque waves in Bali, especially during low tide and golden hour.

Best Conditions
Mid to high tide softens the reef’s danger, making takeoffs easier. Swells of 3–6 feet work best.

Vibe and Accommodation
The beach is accessible via a steep cliff staircase. Once down, you’ll find warungs and boutique stays like The Sun and Surf Stay that cater to surf-focused travelers. Expect a close-knit surf community vibe.

Skill Level
Intermediate to Advanced. Shallow reef and narrow takeoff zone mean mistakes get punished.

Surf Characteristics
A rare sand-bottom wave in the Bukit Peninsula, Dreamland is ideal for beginners on small days and delivers powerful shore breaks when the swell increases.

Swimming and Family-Friendly Features
Wide sandy stretches, gentle beach entry, and ample space make it a popular destination for families. However, lifeguards are rarely present, so caution is advised during high tide.

Tourism Impact
Now part of the Pecatu Indah Resort project, Dreamland has seen significant development. Weekends can get crowded with local tourists, but the early mornings remain peaceful.

Beaches and Surf Breaks
Canggu isn’t just one beach—it includes Batu Bolong, Echo Beach, and Berawa. Each spot has unique offerings:

• Batu Bolong: Long, rolling waves perfect for longboarders and learners
• Echo Beach: Punchy reef breaks for shortboarders and experienced riders
• Berawa: Often overlooked, this beach offers shifting sandbars and a quieter surf scene

Scene and Lifestyle
Cafés like Crate, surfboard rentals on every corner, co-working spaces, and yoga studios—Canggu is modern Bali. It’s ideal for digital nomads and beginner to intermediate surfers.

Best Time to Go
Dry season mornings are ideal. Watch out for crowds, especially after 8 a.m.

Wave Profile
Medewi is home to the longest left-hand point break in Bali. The wave starts mellow and builds in speed, making it perfect for longboarders and intermediate surfers wanting to practice their turns.

Local Community and Atmosphere
Located on Bali’s west coast, Medewi feels decades behind Uluwatu in development—and that’s a good thing. Friendly locals, affordable homestays, and minimal nightlife make this a retreat.

How to Get There
A two- to three-hour drive from the airport, best with a private driver or rented scooter. Roads can be rough, so avoid traveling at night.

Skill Level
Beginner to Intermediate. Rocks are round instead of sharp reef, but still caution is needed at low tide.

Wave Dynamics
Unlike the west coast's lefts, Keramas serves up a powerful right-hand reef break that barrels and sections for airs and turns. It’s one of the most high-performance waves in Southeast Asia.

Best Surfing Conditions
Wet season (October to March) favors Keramas with its offshore winds. Morning sessions are cleaner before onshores arrive.

Events and Pro Scene
Keramas has hosted World Surf League events, attracting international pros. The Komune Resort offers direct beach access and luxury suites with views of the lineup.

Skill Level
Advanced. Fast takeoffs and shallow inside section aren’t beginner-friendly.

Why They Matter
During Bali’s wet season, the wind shifts onshore in the west. That’s when Nusa Dua and Serangan on the east coast come to life.

Nusa Dua
Home to several reef breaks best accessed by boat. The waves are strong, clean, and powerful, offering a great wet-season alternative.

Serangan
A mellow reef break suitable for all levels, especially during mid-tide. It’s less crowded than Nusa Dua and has a chilled-out feel.

Balangan
A quieter Bukit beach with a long, wrapping left-hander. Ideal at mid tide. The cliffside views and coconut stalls give it a rustic charm.

Green Bowl
Accessible via a long staircase, Green Bowl has a short but powerful wave and is often empty due to its isolation. Also great for snorkeling.

Yeh Gangga
North of Canggu, this black sand beach has powerful beach breaks. Ideal for advanced surfers looking to escape the crowds.

• Beginner: Padang Padang Right, Batu Bolong, Medewi, Serangan
• Intermediate: Dreamland, Bingin (on smaller days), Medewi, Berawa
• Advanced: Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Keramas, Nusa Dua, Green Bowl

Respect the Locals
Always wait your turn and avoid snaking waves. Local surfers often have priority, especially at more sacred or traditional breaks.

Tide and Reef Awareness
Check tide charts before entering. Many reef breaks are dangerous at low tide.

Board Rentals and Lessons
Canggu and Kuta offer the widest range of lessons and rentals. Expect to pay around IDR 100,000–150,000 per hour for a board, and IDR 300,000–500,000 for a lesson.

When Not to Surf
Avoid surfing during big storm surges, jellyfish season (typically December to February), or when rivers have spilled rubbish into the ocean after rain.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Waves

Bali’s beaches offer more than just surf. They’re sacred places where temple ceremonies take place, where locals gather with families, and where the sun sets in cinematic splendor every day. Whether you’re paddling out at Uluwatu’s cave or wading into the black sands of Medewi, you're not just surfing—you’re becoming part of a living, breathing island story.

Let the tide guide you. Let Bali show you why it’s more than just a destination—it’s a surf pilgrimage.