Summary

Amongst having great waves and surf spots, Java is also the most populated Indonesian island and home to the country’s capital city, Jakarta. Java is a great destination for surfing enthusiasts, with its abundance of surf breaks, beautiful scenery, and rich Indonesian culture.

Surfing conditions in Java are ideal for surfers of all levels. The island is exposed to the Indian Ocean, which generates some of the world’s most consistent swells. While some of the best surf spots in Java, such as G-Land, are definitely more suitable for experienced surfers, some other waves like Batu Karas are perfect for beginners. The southern coast of Java, which is more exposed to the Indian Ocean swell remains the best place to find great waves.

When to surf Java

The best time of the year to surf in Java, Indonesia is from May to October, which is the dry season. During this time, swells are consistent and the winds are mostly offshore, creating ideal surfing conditions. However, surfers can still find good waves during the wet season from November to April, although conditions are unpredictable and waves are less consistent.

Where to stay in Java

The G-Land area remains very secluded but there are some nice Airbnb’s in the area which are very close to the surf spot.

Surf spots in Java

G-Land

G-Land is the most famous surf spot on the island of Java. It is a perfect left-hand point break with great walls to carve and also a few hollow sections to get barreled. 

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : High
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Batu Karas

Batu Karas is a right-hand point break that is great for beginners and intermediate surfers. Waves are typically softer and more gentle which makes it perfect to learn how to surf. On bigger days, advanced surfers can also catch some challenging waves.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Sand and reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : S
• Optimal wind direction : SSW

Pacitan

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Cimaja

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

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Indonesia is widely considered the ultimate surfing paradise, offering year-round waves, warm tropical waters, affordable living, and a seemingly endless variety of world-class surf spots.

From the bustling beaches of Bali to the pristine reefs of the Mentawai Islands, Indonesia offers surf experiences for every skill level. This guide covers the best places to surf in Indonesia, when to go, budget tips, and more to help you plan your perfect surf trip.

Why Surf Indonesia?

• Year-Round Waves

• Tropical Weather

• Cheap Food & Accommodation

• Wide Range of Surf Spots

• Unmatched Island Adventures

Whether you’re looking for soft beginner-friendly beach breaks or barreling reef passes, Indonesia has it all.

Best Places to Surf in Indonesia

Bali

Bali is the most popular surfing destination in Indonesia with famous surf spots like Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Keramas. The great thing about Bali is its versatility, having as many surf spots for experts as for beginners.

Read our complete surfing guide to Bali, Indonesia

In fact, advanced surfers will find challenging surfing conditions down in Bukit’s Peninsula while beginners can go further north to Canggu or Medewi to find mellow and fun waves. Bali is also a great place to surf in Indonesia for everything you can do beside surfing such as visiting temples, partying, hike a volcano or rejuvenate in the jungle.

Mentawai Islands

The Mentawai Islands, in West Sumatra, provide some of the highest level surfing in Indonesia with perfect, challenging reef breaks and only a fraction of the crowds you’ll find in Bali. Every year, surfers from all around the world go to Mentawai Islands to improve their surfing in a perfect environment.

Read our complete surfing guide to the Mentawai Islands

The Mentawai Islands are a bit harder to access than Bali or Java but the reward is totally worth it. Many surf camps and charter boats are located in the Mentawai to help you access some remote waves and provide food and accommodation. The only thing left for you to worry about is catching the best waves out there! 

Lombok

Lombok is Bali’s direct neighbor to the east and obviously gets the same unique swell exposure and consistency. Therefore, both of Lombok’s south and east sides are filled with amazing surf spots with only a fraction of Bali’s crowds which make the journey well worth it.

Read our complete surfing guide to Lombok, Indonesia

If there are many high level waves in Lombok like Desert Point and Mawi Beach, surfers can also find some gentle waves in Senggigi or even near Gili Islands where swells don’t reach as directly. For all those good reasons, Lombok is definitely a place to strongly consider on a surf trip to Indonesia.

Sumbawa

On the same stretch of islands called the Lesser Sunda Islands, Sumbawa comes right after Lombok and is another amazing place to surf in Indonesia. Sumbawa is typically more suitable for advanced surfers since most surf spots on the island are reef breaks which tend to offer quite radical surfing conditions.

Read our complete surfing guide to Sumbawa, Indonesia

One thing to note is Sumbawa is a massive island with two airports and two distinct surfing areas which are quite far away from each other. Therefore, you may want to stick with either West Sumbawa or the Lakey Peak region. In West Sumbawa alone, you will find at least a dozen of world-class surf spots such as Yoyo’s, SuperSuck, Scar Reef and Northern Rights

Java

Java is Indonesia’s most populated island but it also is a great place to surf in Indonesia. In fact, the whole south side of Java is exposed to consistent waves and many surf spots have made their way to become legendary. One of them is G-Land, on the very south-eastern tip of Java, which is one of Indonesia’s best waves. 

Although G-Land is probably Java’s most famous surf spot, there are still some other incredible waves on Java such as One Palm Point and Grajagan. Keep in mind that due to its high population, Java’s surf spots are often more crowded than others.

Sumba

Sumba is a hidden gem in Indonesia and has some incredible surfing opportunities with barely anyone in the water. The reason for this is Sumba is extremely remote and overlooked by the surfing community. However, a wave in Sumba called Nihiwatu is one of Kelly Slater’s favorite wave on Earth!

Read our complete surfing guide to Sumba, Indonesia

Best Surf Camps in Indonesia

Find a Surf Camp in Indonesia, Starting at US$120

8 Day Surf Evolution Surf Camp in Mentawai Islands, Indonesia
US$1,568, including:

• 2 surf sessions per day
• 2 times per day speedboat to go surfing
• Surf coaching and training
• Services of experienced surf guides or coaches
• Nutritious breakfast, lunch, and dinner per day
• Coffee, tea, snacks, and drinking water
• 7 nights’ accommodation

Best Time to Surf in Indonesia

Indonesia offers year-round surf, but the April to October window is the best for most regions.

Budgeting a Surf Trip to Indonesia

Money-saving tip: Eat at warungs (local restaurants) and consider surf camps that include accommodation, meals, and lessons to keep costs low.

Getting Around Indonesia

• Domestic Flights: Fastest way to travel between islands like Bali, Lombok, Java, and Sumbawa. Expect to pay $40 – $150 per flight.

• Ferries: Cheap but slower. Useful for nearby islands like Bali to Lombok or Sumbawa.

• Scooters: Most common way to get around surf towns. Rentals cost around $4 – $8 per day.

• Private Drivers & Taxis: Affordable, especially if shared.

• Charter Boats: Essential for exploring Mentawai Islands and remote surf spots.

Tip: In the Mentawai Islands, most surfers stay in surf camps that include daily boat transport to waves.

Conclusion

Indonesia is a bucket-list surf destination for a reason. Whether you’re chasing barrels at G-Land, soaking up the Bali vibe in Canggu, or venturing to remote islands like Sumba, the options are endless.

For surfers of all levels, Indonesia offers an incredible combination of world-class waves, affordable travel, rich culture, and tropical beauty.

The post Ultimate Surfing Guide to Indonesia appeared first on MyWaveFinder.

With year-round swells, sunshine and Bintangs, Indonesia is probably the world’s best surfing destination, period. For years now, surfers of all levels come from around the globe to chase some Indonesian perfection and catch waves all day, everyday.

Indonesia is huge and you will find waves pretty much anywhere that is exposed to the Indian Ocean. However, if you are gonna pick one spot for a surf trip, it has to be one of the 10 following places.

1.  Uluwatu, Bali

Uluwatu is a world-class wave located on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula right by the cliffs of Uluwatu. This reef break produces long and perfect left-hand waves that can go on for as long as a few hundred meters.

Uluwatu is also a great place to settle and enjoy wonderful Balinese sunsets or go visit the Temple for a little cultural escape.

Find a Surf Camp in Uluwatu, starting at US$581

2. Desert Point, Lombok

Desert Point is definitely Lombok’s best wave, by a mile! This fast and hollow reef break is an absolute race track that is super challenging even for the best surfers out there. Lombok is Bali’s neighbor to the east and both islands are only a short ferry away from each other. Sometimes, simply by going to Lombok, you will skip some of the Balinese crowds while still getting the same swells.

Read our complete surfing guide to Lombok, Indonesia

3. Lakey Peak, Sumbawa

Read our complete surfing guide to Sumbawa, Indonesia

Right after Lombok comes Sumbawa, just another ferry away. This island is more remote, less crowded and less developed than Bali and Lombok. Sumbawa also has GREAT waves! The island is pretty wide and has two separate airports and surfing areas. Lakey Peak is on the east side of Sumbawa and is a fantastic A-frame reef break.

4. Mentawai Islands, Sumatra

Read our complete surfing guide to Mentawai Islands

The Mentawai Islands have dozens of world-class reef breaks that make this archipelago a true surfing mecca. Although the Mentawais are more remote and hard of access, the hassle is totally worth it and most trip to the Mentawais turn out to be the surf trip of a lifetime!

5. Padang Padang, Bali

Padang Padang is another flagship surf spot on Bali, located in Bukit’s Peninsula. This left-hand wave is a hollow reef break, perfect to practice some barrel rides or simply play with a long and steep wall.

6. Yoyo’s, Sumbawa

Yoyo’s is a super consistent wave located in Sekongkang Bay, which is known for being a swell magnet. The bay is positioned in a way to catch any swell from the south-west and produce perfect waves. Yoyo’s is a right-hand reef break that works better in the morning from mid to high tide.

7. Mawi Beach, Lombok

Another nice wave on Lombok is Mawi Beach which is probably the most consistent surf spot on the island. Mawi works at all stages of the tide and breaks left and right, making it a really fun surf spot. Mawi Beach is located about 25 minutes from Kuta and a few other breaks are on the way.

8. G-Land, Java

G-Land, on the island of Java is another world-class left-hand point break that produces a perfect, long and sometimes hollow wave. Good news is G-Land is on the very eastern tip of Java which makes it just a small journey from Bali.

9. Scar Reef, Sumbawa

West Sumbawa is very rich in waves and Scar Reef is another gem of a surf spot that can be found in the area. This punchy reef break is very critical and thrilling for the barrel lovers! Scar Reef isn’t too far of SuperSuck which is another iconic reef break in West Sumbawa.

10. Nihiwatu, Sumba

Nihiwatu is not a very known surf spot compared to the rest of our list, but believe it or not, it is one of Kelly Slater’s favorite wave in the world! The island of Sumba is right beneath Sumbawa and is a very raw and underdeveloped Indonesian island that is perfect for the most adventurous surfers out there. Nihiwatu is just a perfect left-hand wave, mostly uncrowded and super consistent.

Read our complete surfing guide to Sumba, Indonesia

The post 10 Best Waves and Places to Surf in Indonesia appeared first on MyWaveFinder.

For the last couple decades, fueled by world-class waves and surf spots, Asia has been an emerging surfing destination. With stunning natural beauty and cheap traveling costs, Asia is now established as a very popular spot to catch some of the world’s best waves.

Although Bali is still the most popular surfing destination in Asia, there are still several other places that offer insane surfing conditions, with only a fraction of the Balinese crowd. Without digging too deep and revealing any local/secret spots, here are the 10 best waves and surf spots in Asia…

To find the best surfing destination for you, try our WaveFinder search engine!

10. Scar Reef, Sumbawa, Indonesia

Hands down one of the best waves in Asia, Scar Reef is located in West Sumbawa.This region is stacked with many other high-level reef breaks like Yo-yo’s, Northern Rights and Super Sucks. Scar Reef is a powerful and hollow wave that breaks on larger southwesterly swells and provides epic barrels, featuring a very shallow reef, hence its name.

Located just next to Lombok, Sumbawa is often way less crowded than Bali simply due to its remote location. 

Read our full surf guide to Sumbawa, Indonesia

9. Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia

Uluwatu is probably Bali’s most popular and most beautiful surf spot. Not only is the wave itself incredible but the whole setup is truly gorgeous.

Located in the Bukit’s Peninsula, Uluwatu is known for its cliffs and sunsets. The wave has several different takeoff spots that can connect on good days and form a long, sometimes hollow, mesmerizing ride.

Read our full surf guide to Bali, Indonesia

8. Cloud Nine, Siargao Island, Philippines

Cloud nine is the best wave and most popular surf spot in the Philippines. It is a heavy barreling slab located on the island of Siargao, a small surfing island on the eastern side of the country.

This wave, known as the Asian Pipeline, is not suited for novice surfers but is still more forgiving than its Hawaiian sister with a reef that’s a bit more forgiving.

Read our complete surf guide to Siargao, Philippines

7. Nihiwatu, Sumba, Indonesia

Sumba is a pretty remote island from the Lesser Sunda Islands (Nusa Tenggara) that is home to one of Indonesia’s best waves, Nihiwatu.

This long and perfect left is still a pretty hidden gem compared to the big Indonesian names like Uluwatu, Padang Padang or Kuta. However, it has everything to give you a session to remember.

Also read: 10 Uncrowded Surfing Destinations

6. Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

Arugam Bay is a small surf town located on Sri Lanka’s east coast, away from the big city noise. It is home to several sandy point breaks like Peanut Farm and Whiskey Point, that are suitable for surfers of all levels.

Not only is Arugam Bay far from the big city crowds, it also is blessed with raw natural beauty, both on land and in the water.

Read our full surf guide to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

5. Lakey Peak, Sumbawa, Indonesia

Sumbawa is still very underdeveloped compared to Bali even if it they are just a short flight or a coupe ferries away from each other. Despite this, Sumbawa has some of Indonesia’s best waves. One of them is Lakey Peak…It is a perfect A-frame located in Central Sumbawa that consistently fires hollow lefts and rights.

Read our complete surf guide to Sumbawa, Indonesia

4. Nias, Sumatra, Indonesia

Nias is a small surfing paradise located just north of the Mentawais chain. It is obviously exposed to the same consistently epic conditions and rewards its visitors with the surf trip of a lifetime. The region being so remote helped keeping the place raw for a long period of time and only surfers make the journey out here. Most waves are powerful world-class reef breaks that will challenge even the best surfers out there.

Also read: The World’s 10 Best Right-Hand Waves

3. Desert Point, Lombok, Indonesia

Lombok is direct neighbor with Bali and also has one of Asia’s best wave. The island’s most popular and publicized surf spot is Desert Point… This wave is a fast and hollow left that has been tackled by many of the world’s best surfers and featured on several magazines. It is known for having a punishing reef and for simply being one of Indonesia’s most challenging wave.

Read our full surf guide to Lombok, Indonesia

2. Pasta Point, Maldives

Pasta Point is a dreamy reef break located in a true paradise on Earth. The wave is only accessible for guests staying at the Dhonveli Resort, which prevents it from getting too crowded. Pasta Point is very exposed to swells and is not much affected by the wind which makes it a very consistent break during the high season.

Read our full surf guide to the Maldives

1. Lances Right, Mentawai, Indonesia

The Mentawai Islands are now known as the number one surfing destination, not only in Asia, but in the whole world. This chain of islands located off Sumatra’s west coast are definitely not easy to get access to but the reward is astonishing. The Mentawais are home to some of the planet’s most consistent and best reef breaks.

Lance’s Right (also known as HT’s) is most definitely the highlight of the region. A consistent, perfect right-hand barrel breaking over a sharp reef and offering the cover-up every surfer dreams about…

Read our full surf guide to the Mentawai Islands

The post 10 Best Waves and Surf Spots in Asia appeared first on MyWaveFinder.

Summary

Surfing in Bali is a dream for wave riders from around the world, and for good reason. The island offers consistent swell, world-class surf spots, tropical vibes, and a rich surf culture, all at an affordable price. From the legendary reef breaks of Uluwatu to the mellow waves of Medewi, Bali has something for surfers of every level.

Whether you’re chasing barrels or just getting started, this Bali surf guide has everything you need to plan your trip—from the best surf spots to where to stay and when to go.

Of course, such a reputation brings a lot of surfers on the island and line-ups tend to get very crowded. For a bit less people in the water you might want to check out Lombok or Sumbawa or Sumba.

Why Surf in Bali?

• World-famous waves like Uluwatu, Padang Padang & Keramas

• Warm water year-round—no wetsuit needed

• Surf-friendly infrastructure: camps, rentals, and lessons everywhere

• Affordable lifestyle with great food, cheap transport & scenic stays

• Plenty to do on flat days, from temples to yoga retreats

When to surf Bali

The best time to surf Bali, is from May to October which is when the Indian Ocean pushes consistent ground swells towards Indonesia. Winds are usually light and offshore on the west side of Bali during that period.

From November to April, conditions will be better on the east side at surf spots like Keramas. It is therefore possible to surf throughout the whole year in Bali.

Where to stay in Bali

On Bali’s west side, there are two main areas that are great to establish yourself on a surf trip to Bali. The first one is Uluwatu, down in the Bukit’s Peninsula. Uluwatu is strategically positioned close to many of Bali’s best waves, including Padang Padang, Impossibles, Balangan and obviously Uluwatu.

It is a great place to stay with may restaurants and bars right on the cliff which offer amazing sunset views.

Best Places to Stay in Uluwatu

Le Cliff Bali

Suarga Padang Padang

Alila Villas Uluwatu

Further up north is the lovely surf town of Canggu which is suitable for surfers looking for a mix of great surf and fun social life. Canggu is a bit more packed and rowdy than Uluwatu but definetly offers a nice upbeat vibe.

Best Places to Stay in Canggu

Villa Impian Room (2-3 guests)

Puri Temple 3-bed Villa (6 guests)

Puri Burung Villa (8-9 guests)

Surf spots in Bali

Uluwatu

Photo by Steven Wilcox

The whole west coast of Bukit is packed with world-class surf spots, Uluwatu being the main attraction. A dreamy left-hand wave with several different peaks that can connect on a decent swell and produce a long, powerful and challenging wave. There are also a few hollow sections to pull in and test your tube-riding skills.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Padang Padang

Right after Uluwatu, comes Padang Padang, a long barreling wave that is just a little more critical than its neighbor.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : SE

Kuta Beach

Only a few minutes from Denpasar airport, Kuta is Bali’s main beach break. Many surf schools and surf shops can be found in the area which is usually why most surfers start their trip here. The wave itself is a typical, yet powerful beach break that should suit all surfing levels.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Canggu

Canggu is a popular and nice surf town that attracts many surfers looking for a mix of social life and waves. The break is fairly gentle and is suitable for surfers of all levels. At night, you can find many bars and clubs in Canggu to meet fellow surfers.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Mostly reef
• Best tide : Mid to High
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

Medewi

Further up the coast, Medewi is an amazing left-hander that is often forgotten by travelers due to its remote location. However, it is well worth the trip for one of Bali’s longest wave. Medewi breaks over a sandy bottom which is perfect for surfers of all skill levels. Beginners have a blast in Medewi due to its sand bottom, which is pretty rare in Bali, and the soft waves on offer.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

Keramas

Most popular break on Bali’s east side, Keramas is also a very consistent, high-level surf spot. Located on a beautiful black sand beach, Keramas offers a hollow, yet maneuverable wave breaking on an exposed reef. Keramas has been hosting professional surfing events from the World Surf League in the past and is a great place to check out.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : High
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : S
• Optimal wind direction : W

Getting there and around

The most common way into Bali is from Denpasar International Airport, located next to Kuta. You can also reach the island via a ferry from Java or Lombok. To get around in Bali, renting a motorcycle is probably the best way as it gives you a lot of freedom and remains a fairly cheap option. Many motorcycles also have a surfboard rack to carry your equipment. Make sure to bring an international driving license in case they pull you over for a check up and be very careful driving around as things do get hectic.

Safety/things to know

• Visas on arrival are only valid for 30 days for most passports. If you want a second 30 days, you need to apply in advance. For visa information, visit the Indonesian government’s website.
• Crowds get very heavy in Bali especially during the high surf season. You may want to consider visiting the neighboring islands of Lombok, Nusa Lembongan or Sumbawa which are less busy.
• Foodborne illnesses are frequent in Bali. Bring some electrolytes and be careful what you eat and drink.

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