Surfing Bali: Chasing Waves and Unforgettable Adventures
Bali, often called the "Island of the Gods," is famous for its breathtaking coral reefs, pristine beaches, and vibrant Indonesian culture. This summer, my girlfriend and I embarked on a surf trip to chase epic waves and explore the island's wonders. Having visited Bali years ago, I always knew I’d return, and this time did not disappoint.
Arrival and Bingin Beach
We arrived late at night and made our way to Bingin Beach on the Bukit Peninsula. To our surprise, our taxi driver helped haul our bulky board bag down a steep staircase carved into the cliffs. Navigating a winding passageway, we reached our accommodation perched perfectly above the shoreline, offering a front-row seat to Bingin’s legendary surf.
At sunrise, we woke to the sight of playful monkeys combing the beach for coconuts and other treasures. Not far down the coast, we spotted the famous Dreamland surf spot, with waves peeling beautifully into the channel. Excited, we geared up for our first session. Dreamland, with its forgiving waves and mellow vibe, is perfect for beginners. The clear, turquoise water and consistent surf set the stage for an unforgettable morning.
That evening, we savored a freshly fried fish dinner right on the sand while the sun dipped below the horizon—a magical way to end the day.
Exploring Uluwatu
The next day, we rented a scooter and rode south to Uluwatu. Our destination: Temples, a break located on the southernmost stretch of Ulu’s iconic reef. My girlfriend, relatively new to heavier surf, faced her first challenging session, and it was incredible to see her progression.
During one wave, I caught a double-up barrel just feet from where she stood on the reef. Moments like these remind me why I love surfing—it’s about sharing experiences and pushing limits. Later, we drifted to the Race Track, where mellower waves allowed us to relax and enjoy a series of long lefts.
After our session, we treated ourselves to a meal at Single Fin, a cliffside restaurant overlooking Uluwatu. With consistent swells in the forecast, we planned to explore more breaks and hidden gems in the days ahead.
Green Bowl and Rekindling the Stoke
One standout session was at Green Bowl, located on the eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula. After a 30-minute scooter ride and descending what seemed like the island's longest staircase, we were rewarded with stunning views and powerful waves. This break is no joke—its fast, punchy right-handers require a high skill level.
Surfing Bali again after 15 years brought back a flood of memories. My first tube rides were at Bingin, and returning with a sharper skill set made the experience feel fresh and exhilarating. While Bingin remains crowded and more developed than I remembered, Ulu’s Race Track offered less pressure and more consistent rides, making it my go-to for the trip.
A Change of Pace in Canggu
Midway through the trip, we moved to Canggu to soak in a different vibe. The waves here were softer and more beginner-friendly, with long, playful rides perfect for laid-back sessions. The brown river water mixing into the ocean added a unique touch to the scenery.
Canggu offered plenty to explore off the water too. We indulged in vibrant breakfasts with acai bowls, browsed local shops, and immersed ourselves in Indonesian culture. One evening, we attended a traditional fire ceremony in Seminyak—a mesmerizing experience that showcased Bali's rich artistry and devotion.
A Sacred Journey to Ubud
One morning, we woke early for a two-hour drive to Ubud to visit Tirta Empul, a sacred temple known for its holy water pools. Arriving during a morning prayer session, we observed locals performing their rituals before joining in ourselves. Donning traditional garments, we participated in the cleansing ritual, rinsing under a series of fountains to wash away bad karma—a powerful moment of reflection and gratitude.
Scoring Padang Padang
As the trip neared its end, a major swell arrived, fulfilling my dream of surfing Padang Padang. Timing the high tide, I paddled out for warm-ups before the real show began. The waves delivered, offering heavy barrels and thrilling rides, though the reef reminded me to stay sharp.
At sunset, I caught some of the best waves of my life, a surreal way to end our Bali adventure. Surfing Padang Padang during such perfect conditions was a dream come true—a moment of pure stoke gifted by the Island of the Gods.
Until Next Summer
Bali has a way of weaving magic into every moment, whether through its waves, culture, or natural beauty. This trip reignited my love for surfing and left me hungry for more. Next summer, I’ll be back for another round of epic waves and unforgettable experiences.
best place ever!!!