Acclaimed internationally for its fierce waves and breathtaking scenery, surfing in Bali is the dream of every surfer. While there is always good surf, Bali's two seasons determine where the best waves are located. The general rule is that during the rainy season, the East coast is the best place to surf; and during the dry season, surfers will find themselves on the West coast of Bali. We give you an overview of the best surf beaches during these two seasons.

1/ Surfing in Bali during the dry season

It is therefore not surprising that the most popular time to surf in Bali is the dry season, especially from June to September. As this period coincides with the high tourist season, the beaches can become very crowded. To avoid the crowds, look for quieter beaches off the beaten path. Of course, they will be harder to access, but the reward is worth it.

During Bali's dry season, the best waves are found on the island's west coast. From Kuta to Uluwatu, the west coast offers the biggest and best swells; thanks to the southeast trade winds that also blow at this time of year. Among the best surf beaches on the west coast are:

Bingin

Bingin beach is an exposed reef, which means there are no rocks. It also features a massive left-breaking swell that tends to be fairly short; and therefore is best handled by experienced surfers. Bingin is a very beautiful beach, and it must be admitted that it is quite busy.

Padang Padang

The waves here are more suited to advanced surfers because they are very fast; and the left-breaking swells even challenge the best. The fact that the waves break over a very sharp coral reef only adds to the difficulty of this spot.

Tukad Balian

It is a magnificent beach break with waves suitable for intermediate-level surfers. Balian is not a crowded beach, the waves are regularly lefts and the swell is long and big. Because of its location at the mouth of the Balian River; the waves also tend to break while rushing, creating a strong rip.

Some surfers like to get behind the waves at this spot; but you must be careful as the rip is very strong and can carry surfers long distances. Compared to many other beaches on Bali's west coast; Balian has some of the biggest waves, with stunning panoramic views as a bonus. In addition, the water is generally warm, clean and the sand is black. Tukad Balian is located in the Tabanan regency; in the village of Lalang Linggah, about an hour and a half drive from Kuta.

This beach is also an extremely popular surf spot with a magnificent 180º view of the Indian Ocean. It also has barrel waves that are perfect for experienced surfers. Located in the resort area of Pecatu, it takes about 30 minutes to get there from Legian. It is also close to many tourist attractions, including the Uluwatu temple.

Uluwatu

The considerable number of surfers that are at Uluwatu at any time says a lot about the quality of the waves. The swells are fast and powerful and the currents are strong. So be careful, especially when entering and exiting the Uluwatu cave that leads to the main breaks. Because of their challenging nature, Uluwatu's waves are more suited to confirmed surfers. When you have finished surfing; head to the Single Fin restaurant and bar, which sits on the cliff overlooking the magnificent coast.

Kuta and Seminyak beaches

The smaller and softer beach breaks of Kuta and Seminyak suit surfers of all levels.

2/ Surfing in Bali during the rainy season

If you want to avoid crowds in the waves and enjoy a more relaxed vibe; head to Bali during the rainy season.

The wind changes that occur during this time of year produce left-breaking swells on the west coast that are much softer and smaller than those of the dry season. In contrast, the best waves are found on Bali's east coast; where, thanks to the strong monsoon conditions, the winds are fierce and the right-breaking waves are almost perfect.

Among the best surf beaches on Bali's east coast are:

Nusa Dua

This famous stretch of beach offers long and heavy right-hand waves that can reach up to 3 meters high. If those heights are intimidating, then head down the coast to find smaller waves.

Keramas

Located east of the city of Denpasar, in Sanur; the waves at Keramas beach are very powerful and suit high-level surfers. Also watch out for coral reefs and sea urchins.

Keramas

Here are some lesser?known beach breaks on Bali's east coast; which are particularly suitable for surfing during the rainy season:

Mushroom Rock / Sir Lanka / L'île de la Tortue / Tanjung Sari / Hyatt Reef / Récif de Sanur / Ketewel

Advice SoGuide: It is best to surf Bali's beaches early in the morning to avoid land breezes. This applies both to the rainy season and the dry season.

The beaches of Bali, especially in the south, tend to be a bit polluted during this time of year; strong currents carry debris onto the shore.

An additional advantage for surfers during the rainy season is the warm water. While most surfers can get by without a wetsuit for most of the year; water temperature also tends to drop slightly during the dry season; especially from July to August.