Bali is one of the top destinations in the world for learning to surf. There is a reason why backpackers, young travelers, and adventure seekers visit the island every year. It’s not only the beginner-friendly breaks, but the world-class instructors too.
It is fair to say that the pros make surfing look easy. There are so many people out there who think that surfing looks incredibly cool, but find the reality of getting into the water with a board incredibly daunting, which is fair. Being at the mercy of the elements for a small human is a daunting task indeed. This is where the magic of instructors comes into play.
Sure, anyone could teach themselves the very basics of how to surf by watching a couple of YouTube videos and renting a board and wetsuit for an hour. But it is top-class tuition that will not only ensure that beginners get themselves in a technically good place, but also have early success and stay safe in the water.
This is why Bali is renowned around the world for being one of the best places to learn to surf. Many of the surf instructors in Bali hail from the province itself and all around the archipelago. These instructors have sea water pumping through their veins, many have been surfing for as long as they can remember, and live and breathe the surf life.
Whether planning a full surf camp vacation or simply wanting to give surfing a go while in Bali, there are options to suit every intention. Surf camps like Dawn Patrol in Balangan in Uluwatu offer everything from intensive learn to surf camps to single surf lessons, surf trips around Indonesia, and surf and stay packages.
Dawn Patrol explains, “Our mission is to provide personal, authentic, and thrilling experiences and knowledge to our customers on every step of their search, choosing the best reef breaks & beach break wave conditions and location, tailored for surfer ability.”
What makes surfing in Bali such a special experience is that there are waves and breaks for every ability. It’s not only total rookies who can benefit from some surf tuition. Surf tutorage in Bali can take surfers from total beginners all the way through to professional mentorship.
For those seeking something a little less committed in terms of a surf practice, one of the joys of visiting Bali is that there is still space for the spontaneous.
Head to any of the beaches along the central southern coast, from Kuta through to Canggu, and you will find small surf schools and board rental businesses lining the beachfront.
One-to-one sessions start from as little as IDR 150,000 an hour, including wetsuit and board hire, sometimes even cheaper in the low season.
The trick is to get the timing right, especially if it’s your first time out on the water. Sunrise, sunset, and the late afternoon are the most popular times for surf lessons in Bali, and there are spots, especially around Kuta, Legian, and Canggu, where the water can be crowded.
Opt for a session in the late morning or early afternoon to have a little more space out in the lineup.
One thing is for sure: whether you opt for an intensive surf school experience or a spontaneous surf lesson in Seminyak, top instruction is guaranteed.
There is something about the magic, the undeniable skill and enthusiasm of surf instructors in Bali that ensures that even the most inexperienced and nervous surfers are up and riding waves even on their first session, no matter their age.
It is important for all tourists visiting Bali who intend to go surfing to check their travel and medical insurance policy covers the activity. In many cases surfing is considered an ‘adventure’ activity and is only covered by an add-on package to the policy.
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