Bali’s digital nomad hotspot isn’t just popular with remote workers looking for a great community and laidback lifestyle.
Canggu is also one of the Indonesian island’s main surf spots, with some of the best waves and breaks around.
On my second trip to the island, surfing in Canggu was top of my personal bucket list of things to do in Bali.
And, even though I was pretty wiped from visiting Komodo National Park, Lombok and Sumatra, I’m SO glad I decided to drag my achy body to the beach and surf in Canggu.
It may just be one of the best surf spots in the world!
Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a complete kook, it’s totally possible to surf in Canggu (and love it!).
Here are some of the things I wish I’d known before surfing in Canggu and some personal tips for making the most out of your trip.
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Where to Surf in Canggu
There are three main surf beaches in Canggu, each best suited to different abilities and experience levels.
Here’s what to expect at each of them:
Echo Beach
Known for its black sand beauty and rippable waves, Echo Beach is a favourite among surfers of all levels.
Its consistent waves make for some excellent rides, making it a particularly popular spot with beginner surfers and anyone who wants to surf in a convenient spot.
It’s also the most accessible spot along the Canggu beaches thanks to its location off the main road and proximity to many to Canggu restaurants.
If you can handle the crowds and the bigger waves, there’s nothing quite like surfing at Canggu’s Echo Beach with the vivid Bali sunset as a backdrop.
Surfing at Echo Beach: In summary
- Pros: Consistent, relatively easy to surf with gentle waves and easy access from the main promenade and most Canggu accommodation.
- Cons: This main spot can get a little crowded and doesn’t have the most consistent wave.
- Tip: Echo Beach is also ones of the most popular places to watch sunset in Canggu so expect it to be crowded. The beachfront cafes also mean you’ll likely have an audience at any time of day.
Batu Bolong Beach
With a laid-back vibe and accommodating waves, Batu Bolong is a top pick for novice surfers who are just getting comfortable with the board.
Thanks to the softer waves, it’s a great spot for long-boarders and new surfers, yet still a fun wave for more experienced surfers.
It’s also the go-to spot for surf schools, with many of them lining the beach’s edge. That means that it can be full of inexperienced surfers, particularly in the mornings.
That said, I still really enjoyed surfing here and would recommend it as the best place to start surfing in Canggu.
Surfing at Batu Bolong Beach: In summary
- Pros: The most popular surf spot in Canggu, with great waves for both beginners and more experienced surfers.
- Cons: The surf schools generally start here so you’ll need to be extra vigilant of other surfers who might not yet have much control. Advanced surfers may get frustrated.
- Tip: Head here early in the morning for the cleanest breaks. Turn left and walk down the beach a little to avoid the worst of the crowds.
Berawa Beach
If you want to head to a slightly less crowded Canggu surf spot, check out Berawa beach.
When I arrived in Bali and wanted to go surfing in Canggu, I decided to book a lesson to get me started.
Not only was it my first time surfing abroad – and with a board that wasn’t my own – but I was completely unfamiliar with the waters.
My body was also still completely exhausted from the Rinjani hike and jungle trekking in Sumatra, so I felt more confident with a local supervising me.
As soon as my surf instructor found out that I had some surfing experience, he suggested we head to Berawa beach instead of the usual beginner spot at Batu Bolong.
It would be less crowded, he said, and a more enjoyable experience for a more intermediate surfer.
And Berawa beach certainly offers a mix of fun and challenge with its punchier breaks.
It’s ideal for surfers looking to push their limitations a bit further and enjoy surfing in Canggu away from the surf schools and the busiest crowds.
Surfing at Berawa Beach: In summary
- Pros: It’s quieter than the main Canggu beaches, offering a more relaxed session for intermediate surfers.
- Cons: It’s a little farther from the centre of Canggu and may take longer to get to.
- Tip: Berawa has a beach break and two reef breaks, so more advanced surfers will have fun here.
Canggu Surfing for Beginners
If you’re just dipping your toes into the surf, don’t fret.
Among the many local warungs serving great food, Canggu’s coastline is dotted with countless surf schools just waiting to help you learn the basics of surfing and catch your first wave.
And once you do… you might not be able to stop.
Having learned to surf in Portugal, Canggu offered a relatively relaxing and super enjoyable surf experience.
The combination of the right waves, warm weather and lack of strong currents make it an ideal place to take your first lessons.
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Learning to surf in Canggu
Even if you’re surfing for the first time ever, you won’t have any issues getting started in Canggu.
There are countless surf camps and schools offering surf lessons for all skill levels, including complete beginners.
You can choose between group classes or private lessons, and can book a session online or at one of the many surf schools lined up along the beach in Canggu.
A word of warning: don’t be put off by the number of vendors who will likely yell a “Hello, how are you? What’s your name?” at you at you walk down the beach.
They’re annoying, yes, but it must work given how many times someone asked me if I wanted to rent a board or take a surf lesson.
If I hadn’t pre-booked a surf lesson online, I may well have decided against surfing in Canggu because of it, but I’m glad I didn’t.
I was also relieved when I finally found the school I’d booked the lesson with: Spicy Surf School.
After being hassled all the way down the beach, I walked straight past Spicy because – to my relief – nobody was out on the sand yelling.
Gibe took me out for a private session and really helped me get to know the break and progress with my surfing skills.
We even did a little technique work on-land, which was super helpful and showed me a new approach.
If you prefer to book with a Canggu surf school that you know won’t disappoint, I can’t recommend them enough.
You can also book a lesson with them online in advance.
What to Know Before Surfing in Canggu
No matter how experienced you are, surfing in Canggu offers its own challenges and charms.
Whether you’re heading to Canggu for a once-in-a-lifetime surf trip, are one of the many digital nomads who want to enjoy the best of Canggu, or simply trying something new, here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Leave the wetsuit behind: Between the warm water temperature of the surrounding Indian Ocean and the scorching Bali sun, there’s really no need for a wetsuit. If, like me, surfing in Canggu will be your first time surfing wetsuit-free, just be prepared for some grazed knees! A rash vest will help.
- Start early: Not only will you avoid the harshest heat, but you’ll beat the crowds to Canggu’s crystal-clear waters. It only gets busier and busier as the day goes on.
- Pick the right season: Canggu’s main surf season runs from April to October. However, Canggu’s famous waves rarely take a day off. I surfed in Bali in December and the conditions were almost perfect.
- Know your surf etiquette: When you’re surfing in new territory – and especially when it’s busy with beginners – it’s important to know and respect some basic surf etiquette.
- Ask around: There’s no shortage of surfboard rentals in Canggu, so you’ll never need to worry about finding a board. However, it helps to ask around to get a good deal and a board that you’re happy with.