A Beginner's Guide to Surfing in Indonesia: Best Spots in Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa

Indonesia is nothing short of a surfer’s paradise. With its vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, it boasts some of the most consistent and varied surf breaks in the world. From the legendary barrels of Uluwatu in Bali to the untouched reefs of Sumbawa, the country offers waves that cater to every skill level. For beginners eager to dip their toes into the surf culture, Indonesia provides an ideal playground with warm waters, friendly locals, and a vibrant surf community. In this guide, we’ll break down the best beginner-friendly surf spots across Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa, along with practical tips on seasons, rentals, lessons, and safety.

Why Indonesia Is Perfect for Learning to Surf

What makes Indonesia so appealing for beginner surfers? First, the tropical climate means water temperatures hover comfortably between 27–30°C (80–86°F) year-round, removing the need for bulky wetsuits. The vast coastline ensures a variety of wave types, from mellow beach breaks to more challenging reef breaks, allowing beginners to progress gradually. The surf culture here is welcoming and well-established, with numerous surf schools and rental shops that cater specifically to novices. Additionally, the affordability of lessons and equipment rentals makes Indonesia accessible for travelers on a budget.

Beginner Surf Spots in Bali

Bali remains the heart of Indonesia’s surf scene, particularly for learners. While it’s famous for advanced breaks, several beaches offer gentle waves ideal for beginners.

Kuta Beach: The Classic Beginner’s Playground

Kuta Beach is the quintessential spot for a first surf session. Its long stretch of sandy beach breaks produces small, soft waves that rarely exceed 1 meter (3 feet), perfect for those just starting out. The beach is dotted with surf schools offering group and private lessons, making learning easy and structured. Expect to pay around IDR 350,000–500,000 (roughly $22–32) for a 2-hour beginner lesson, which includes board rental and an instructor. Board rentals here typically cost IDR 50,000–100,000 per hour ($3–7), with soft-top foam boards recommended for stability and safety.

Kuta’s popularity means it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, but the lively atmosphere and abundant amenities compensate well.

Canggu (Batu Bolong): For Progressing Beginners

Canggu, particularly Batu Bolong Beach, offers slightly more challenging waves that appeal to intermediate beginners. The waves here are a bit faster and more powerful than Kuta but still manageable for those who have mastered paddling and standing up. The sandy bottom reduces risk compared to reef breaks. Numerous surf schools are available, with lessons priced similarly to Kuta.

Canggu’s trendy cafes and laid-back vibe make it a favorite spot for surfers looking to combine learning with lifestyle.

Seminyak: Gentle Waves in a Stylish Setting

Seminyak is another excellent spot for beginners who prefer quieter lineups than Kuta but still want easy access to amenities. The waves here are gentle, rolling in at about 0.5 to 1 meter (1.5 to 3 feet), ideal for practicing balance and technique. Surf schools and board rentals are plentiful, and prices hover in the same range as Kuta and Canggu.

Surf Spots in Lombok

Just east of Bali, Lombok offers a less crowded, equally stunning alternative with pristine beaches and a welcoming vibe for learners.

Selong Belanak: Lombok’s Best Beginner Beach

Selong Belanak, located on Lombok’s southern coast, is renowned for its soft, sandy beach breaks that produce consistent, mellow waves perfect for beginners. The beach is wide and uncrowded, providing plenty of space to practice without pressure. Surf schools here offer lessons for IDR 350,000–450,000 ($22–29) per session, often including board rental.

The local surf shops rent out beginner-friendly longboards and soft-tops at about IDR 60,000–90,000 per hour ($4–6). Selong Belanak’s calm waters and friendly locals make it a top choice for first-timers.

Gerupuk: For All Levels

Gerupuk Bay, a short drive from Kuta Lombok, offers multiple breaks suitable for various levels. Beginners can focus on spots like the inner bay beach breaks, which feature rolling waves and sandy bottoms. More advanced surfers head to the reef breaks outside the bay.

Board rentals and lessons here are comparable in price to Selong Belanak. The area’s scenic beauty and relaxed vibe add to the learning experience.

Kuta Lombok: Emerging Beginner-Friendly Breaks

While Kuta Lombok is better known for intermediate and advanced waves, some nearby beach breaks are suitable for beginners on smaller days. The town itself is developing rapidly with new surf schools and rental shops, making it increasingly accessible.

Surf Spots in Sumbawa

Sumbawa, east of Lombok, is less commercialized and offers waves that range from beginner to advanced, making it an exciting frontier for surfers.

Lakey Peak: A Challenge for Intermediate-Advanced Surfers

Lakey Peak is famous for its powerful reef breaks and barrels, generally not recommended for beginners due to sharp coral and strong currents. However, it’s an excellent destination for those progressing from beginner to intermediate levels.

Yo-Yo's: More Beginner-Friendly Waves

Nearby Yo-Yo's break offers softer, more manageable waves suitable for beginners and longboarders. The sandy bottom and gentle surf here make it a safe place to practice. Surf schools in Sumbawa are less numerous but still available, with lesson prices slightly lower, around IDR 300,000–400,000 ($19–26) per session.

Board rentals in Sumbawa generally cost between IDR 50,000–80,000 per hour ($3–5), often including beginner-friendly boards.

Best Seasons for Surfing in Indonesia

Indonesia’s surfing seasons largely follow its tropical climate of dry and wet seasons, each affecting surf conditions differently.

Dry Season (April to October): The dry season is the peak surfing period, especially from May to September. During this time, consistent winds and swell directions produce clean, powerful waves ideal for all levels. Bali’s west coast (Kuta, Canggu) and Lombok’s south coast (Selong Belanak, Gerupuk) shine in these months.

Wet Season (November to March): The wet season brings heavier rains and stronger winds from the opposite direction, resulting in choppier and less predictable surf. However, the east coast of Bali and Lombok may still have rideable waves. Sumbawa’s breaks can sometimes be more forgiving in this period.

Beginners should aim to visit during the dry season for stable, manageable surf conditions.

Board Rentals and Types for Beginners

Renting a surfboard is straightforward in Indonesia, with many rental shops located near popular beaches. Prices typically range from IDR 50,000 to 100,000 per hour (~$3–7), or around IDR 150,000–300,000 per day ($10–20) depending on the board quality and location. Foam-top boards are highly recommended for beginners due to their buoyancy and safety. Longboards, generally 8 to 9 feet long, provide stability and ease of paddling, making them the go-to choice for novices.

Always inspect the board for dings or cracks before renting, and ask the shop staff for recommendations based on your skill level and local conditions.

Best Surf Schools and Lesson Prices

Indonesia boasts a plethora of surf schools that cater specifically to beginners, offering structured lessons to help you catch your first waves safely.

Pricing: Expect to pay between IDR 350,000 and 500,000 per session (~$22–32) for a 1.5 to 2-hour lesson. This typically includes board rental, instructor guidance, and sometimes even photos or video feedback.

Where to Find Them: Kuta, Canggu, and Seminyak in Bali have the highest concentration of surf schools, such as Rip Curl School of Surf and Odyssey Surf School. In Lombok, Selong Belanak Surf School is well-regarded. Sumbawa’s offerings are more limited but Yo-Yo’s Surf School provides quality lessons.

Booking lessons in advance during peak season is advisable to secure your spot.

Safety Tips for Beginner Surfers

While surfing in Indonesia is exhilarating, safety should never be overlooked, especially for beginners.

Currents: Some beaches, even beginner spots, have rip currents. Always ask local instructors about current patterns and learn how to identify and escape rip currents.

Reef Awareness: Many Indonesian waves break over coral reefs, which can cause serious injury. Stick to sandy beach breaks when starting out and always wear reef booties if venturing onto reef breaks.

Sun Protection: The tropical sun is intense. Use high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen, wear a rash guard, and consider a wide-brim hat or surf cap when resting onshore.

Hydration and Rest: Surfing is physically demanding. Drink plenty of water and avoid overexertion, especially in the hot, humid climate.

Essential Gear to Bring

Packing smart can enhance your surfing experience in Indonesia.

Surfboard Bag: If bringing your own board, a padded bag protects it during flights and transit.

Rash Guard: Lightweight, UV-protective rash guards prevent sunburn and reduce board rash.

Reef Booties: Useful for reef breaks to protect feet from sharp coral.

Waterproof Sunscreen: Choose reef-safe options to protect both your skin and marine life.

Earplugs: Helpful if you’re prone to surfer’s ear or ear infections.

Travel Insurance: Ensure it covers water sports and possible injuries.

Conclusion

Indonesia is an unbeatable destination to start your surfing journey, offering warm water, friendly waves, and a supportive surf community. Bali’s Kuta Beach remains the most accessible spot for absolute beginners, while Canggu and Seminyak offer progression-friendly waves. Lombok’s Selong Belanak and Gerupuk provide less crowded, pristine alternatives, and Sumbawa’s Yo-Yo's offers an emerging beginner-friendly scene. The best time to visit is during the dry season for consistent, clean waves.

With affordable board rentals (IDR 50,000–100,000/hour or $3–7) and surf lessons (IDR 350,000–500,000/session or $22–32), learning to surf in Indonesia is both practical and rewarding. Remember to prioritize safety, respect the ocean, and bring the right gear to make your experience enjoyable and memorable.

Whether you dream of riding your first wave or progressing to intermediate breaks, Indonesia welcomes you with open arms and endless swells. Grab your board, embrace the tropical vibes, and dive into the vibrant world of Indonesian surfing!