Surfing Seasons in Bali: When to Go and Where to Surf

Bali is a world-class surf destination, known for its warm waters, consistent swells, and diverse breaks that cater to everyone from total beginners to barrel-chasing pros. But while the waves roll in all year long, the surfing season in Bali follows a unique rhythm—shaped by wind patterns, ocean swells, and local weather.

To help you make the most of your surf trip, here’s a deep dive into Bali’s surf seasons and what each one offers.

Dry Season (April – October): West Coast Firing

Dry season is peak surf season in Bali, especially along the west coast, which includes legendary breaks like:

• Uluwatu

• Padang Padang

• Impossibles

• Bingin

• Canggu

• Kuta Reef

What makes it special?

During this time, southeast trade winds blow offshore across Bali’s west coast, grooming the waves into clean, consistent lines—perfect for powerful, glassy barrels and long rides. Indian Ocean swells arrive frequently, often in the 4–8 ft range and sometimes more, making it prime time for intermediate and advanced surfers.

What to expect:

• Consistent swells

• Long days of sunshine

• Bigger crowds at popular spots

• Ideal for reef breaks and performance surfing

Whether you’re chasing barrels at Uluwatu or improving your style at a mellow Canggu peak, this is when Bali’s surf scene is at its most alive.

Wet Season (November – March): East Coast Awakens

The wet season is often misunderstood—it rains more, yes, but Bali still offers great waves, especially on the east coast, where wind and swell patterns shift.

Key breaks include:

• Keramas

• Serangan

• Nusa Dua

• Sanur

• Green Bowl

What makes it special?

The wind direction reverses to a westerly pattern, which blows offshore on the east coast, making breaks like Keramas shine with clean morning sessions and solid, fast waves.

Swells tend to be smaller and less frequent than during the dry season, but there are still plenty of fun, high-performance days. And with fewer visiting surfers, you often get more space in the lineup.

What to expect:

• Glassy morning conditions

• Afternoon onshore winds (plan early!)

• Shorter windows between swells

• Great time for surf trips to the east or even Lombok

If you’re hunting for high-quality surf without the crowds, the wet season is your secret weapon.

Shoulder Seasons (March–April & October–November): Hidden Gold

For many surfers, March–April and October–November are the best of both worlds—less crowded, decent swell, and shifting winds that open up both coasts of the island.

You can catch great waves in:

• Canggu (early/late season west coast)

• Serangan (early/late season east coast)

• Kedungu (off-the-beaten-path west)

• Green Bowl (when conditions align)

These transitional months often offer clean, manageable surf with mixed swell directions and lighter winds. It’s a great time for intermediate surfers or travelers who want flexibility and fewer people in the water.

Year-Round Tips for Surfing in Bali

• Tides matter. Many reef breaks work best at mid to high tide. Low tide can be sharp, shallow, and unforgiving.

• Early mornings are golden. Winds are typically light and conditions clean from sunrise until around 10–11 AM.

• Watch the swell. Always check surf forecasts—Bali picks up south to southwest swells, with dry season being more consistent.

• Respect local customs and lineup etiquette. Bali’s surf culture is vibrant and friendly, but always paddle out with respect.

Beginner-Friendly Surfing & Kedungu Surf Lesson Opportunities

If you’re learning to surf, Bali is perfect year-round. Breaks like:

• Kuta Beach

• Legian

• Seminyak

• Batu Bolong (Canggu)

• Kedungu

…offer soft sand bottoms, gentle waves, and plenty of surf schools.

One standout option for beginners is joining a Kedungu surf lesson. Located in a peaceful coastal area west of Tanah Lot, Kedungu is less crowded than mainstream spots and offers long, rolling waves that are perfect for building confidence. A Kedungu surf lesson is ideal for beginners and intermediates looking for personalized guidance in a relaxed, authentic environment—away from the chaos of the more touristy breaks.

Conclusion: Bali Is a Year-Round Surf Paradise

Whether you want to charge barrels or catch your first green wave, Bali delivers. Each season brings its own magic—from west coast power in the dry months to east coast gems in the wet. Plan your surf trip based on your skill level, wave preference, and crowd tolerance—but no matter when you come, Bali always has a wave waiting for you.

🏄‍♂️ Ready to paddle out? Let the season guide your stoke—and if you’re just getting started, don’t miss out on a Kedungu surf lesson to kick things off right.

Surfing Seasons in Bali: When to Catch the Best Waves