Last updated on December 6th, 2023 at 01:23 pm
If you are looking for the best surf spots in Indonesia, you came to the right place. This guide will give you all the information you need for your next surf trip to Indonesia. From general travel information to surf seasons, the best surf spots, and everything else you need to know about surfing in Indonesia.
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About Surfing in Indonesia
Anyone who calls himself a surfer must surf in Indonesia at least once in his lifetime. This is the place where unbelievably long barrels make their way to shore in perfect shape and represent the wet dream of surfers all around the world. For that reason, Indonesia is considered by many the absolute best surf destination on the planet.
With its 17,000 islands and 54,000 KM of coastline, Indonesia is located in Southeast Asia. It faces the Indian Ocean, and is receives year-round swells. Due to its exposure to any swell direction and unique reef shelves, Indonesia provides world-class surf 365 days a year. Most waves break over coral reefs, but you can also find occasional beach breaks. When surfing in Indonesia, you can ride all types of waves for any skill level. Yes, some of the famous spots in Indonesia you have been hearing about are suitable for advanced surfers only. However, with such a variety of beaches, there are plenty of waves for beginners as well.
Being such a fantastic surf country, Indonesia has become extremely popular over time. Surfers from all over the world come here regularly to enjoy the perfect waves, and therefore, all the tourist facilities are here at reach. With a developed backpacker’s scene, surfers, divers, and luxury vacationers staying here at any given moment, it can get crowded, especially during the dry season. However, you can always find a quiet spot for yourself if that’s what you seek.
The Best Surf Spots in Indonesia
Indonesia’s Archipelago has a diverse coastline with many Islands facing different directions. This area is such a swell magnet that you can find perfect surf conditions almost every single day. When surfing in Indonesia, you can choose between countless breaks spread along the islands. They all offer epic surf waves, so it is just a question of personal preference.
So, in detail, these are some of the best surf spots in Indonesia:
Bali:
Break type- Mainly reef beaks.
Skill level- Most waves are suitable for advanced surfers, but there are a few beginner spots, too.
Description- Bali is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about surfing in Indonesia. In other words, Bali is the Indonesian surf capital and the place 99% of the surfers go to on their surf trips. On the island of Bali, you will find the famous left-barreling waves you have always seen only on TV, some beginner-friendly surf spots, and everything in between. When it comes to surfing, Bali has it all. For that reason, Bali is probably the most visited and crowded surf destination in the world. Actually, surfers from all over the world come here regularly and create a magnificent surf scene. Bali is home to some of the best surf spots in Indonesia. In addition, it offers excellent nightlife, diving, and fascinating culture.
For a complete summary of the best surf spots in Bali, visit our post about surf spots in Bali.
Java:
Break type- Mostly reef breaks and some beach breaks.
Skill level- Most waves are suitable for advanced surfers, but there are a few beginner spots, too.
Description- Java, Indonesia’s capital island, is the world’s most populated island. Therefore, you can expect some big local crowds in the water in the spots next to the big cities. However, if you make the journey to the more remote areas, you will ride some perfect waves with very few surfers in the lineup. On East Java, for instance, you will find G-land, one of the longest lefts in the world. This massive wave is for experts only, with multiple sections and barrels that will blow your mind. Other world-class breaks on East Java are 20’s 20’s, Tiger Tracks, and Pacitan. On the other side of the island, in West Java, you will find One Palm Point, an epic left barrel breaking over a very shallow reef. In addition, you can surf some beach breaks as well in Batu Karas or in Pandangaran.
Sumatra:
Break type- Mostly reef breaks and some beach breaks.
Skill level- Most waves are suitable for advanced surfers, but there are a few beginner spots, too.
Description- Sumatra, the largest island in Indonesia, Is home to various world-class waves. Compared to most spots in Bali or Java, here you can find many empty barrels making their way to shore with anyone riding them. In the past, surfing Sumatra was almost impossible as it was so inaccessible. However, nowadays, on charter boats, surfers can explore this uncrowded surf paradise. In Sumatra, you will find countless beach breaks and coral reefs with perfect barrels. If you want to surf here, come with an adventurous state of mind and explore some incredible waves that were hardly ridden before.
Mentawai Islands:
Break type- Mostly reef breaks.
Skill level- Mostly advanced surfers.
Description- Famous for its glorious surf conditions, the Mentawais can be divided into 3 different surf areas- Playgrounds, Sipura, and Pagai. Amazingly, you can find hundreds of barreling reef breaks spread along these Islands. The most famous ones are Rifles and Lance’s, which break to the right side, and Green Bush and Macaronis, which open up to the left. Each one of these spots is pure perfection. Moreover, these breaks are surrounded by other less famous spots, but not less epic. Therefore, it is impossible to explain how good the surf in the Mentawai is, so just come and see for yourself. You will find some of the best surf spots in Indonesia and perhaps in the world.
Nias:
Break type- Mostly reef breaks and some beach breaks.
Skill level- Mostly advanced, and a few beginner waves.
Description- Located in front of the North Shore of Sumatra, Nias also offers some world-class breaks. Since Nias is so remote, you will hardly find any foreigners here. The most famous spot in Nias is Lagundri Bay, which offers an aggressive right-hand point break. Moreover, on the inside part of the same bay, there is a fantastic beach break for beginners.
Nusa Islands:
Break type- Reef breaks.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- This is the small island right next to Bali. In fact, you can get here by taking a 40-minute boat ride from Bali, so it can be an excellent half-day trip. The waves here break over an extremely shallow reef, be aware and bring your booties.
Lombok:
Break type- Beach breaks and few reefs.
Skill level- Beginner-friendly (except for Desert Point)
Description- This island is relatively close to Bali and similar to it in size. However, Lombok’s coastline is full of Bays and offers mostly soft breaks that are more suitable for beginners. An exception to that is the spot that is considered one of the best waves in the world, Desert Point. If you come to surf Desert Point, make sure you are on the top of your game, as this amazingly fast barrel will throw you hard right on the shallow reef unless you know what you are doing.
West Timor:
Break type- Mostly reefs.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- On the southeastern side of Indonesia, this island shares similar geographic conditions with West Australia. Due to its remoteness, you can find here many epic breaks with no crowds. The most famous spot here is T- Land.
If you are new to surfing, and you are looking for beginner waves, check out our post about the best beginner surf beaches in Indonesia.
Surf Seasons in Indonesia
Due to its diverse coastline, you can surf in Indonesia year-round and score perfect waves. However, you must know where to go according to the time of the year.
To clarify, Indonesia is a tropical country with 2 major seasons, the dry and the wet. In both seasons, the average weather is about 27°C (80 F), and the water temp is about the same. However, there is a difference in the surf conditions due to different swell and wind directions.
The dry season, between May to October, is considered the touristic high season. This is also the surfing peak season, with consistent swells and offshore winds. During these months, the beaches that face west (Uluwatu, Padang Padang, etc..) will perform best. Also, you can expect huge crowds in the water and outside of it.
In contrast, the wet season lasts from November to April. This time of the year is considered the low season, but don’t get it wrong, you can surf epic waves during these months, too. Although the swell will not be as big as in the high season (which can be good if you are not a pro surfer), and you will have to deal with 1-2 hours of rain every day, at least you won’t have to deal with the big crowds in the lineup. In fact, the beaches that are facing east (Keramas, for example) will actually perform better during these months.
To sum up, any time is good to surf in Indonesia. If you are after the big 10-15 foot waves and can deal with a crowded lineup, go between May and October. However, you can enjoy 2-5 feet waves with much less crowds between November and April. You can always go in the transition months between the seasons (April, May, or October, November) to get a bit of both worlds.
Surf Camps in Indonesia
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world, the best way to explore the surf beaches of Indonesia is at a surf camp. In detail, these are the most recommended ones:
1. Endless Summer Surf Camp, Bali– Endless Summer is, without a doubt, one of the best surf camps in Indonesia. It has over 10 years of experience and operates in 2 different locations on the island of Bali- Kuta and Canggu.
For more details about surf camps in Bali, please click here.
2. Mentawai Surf Camp– Mentawai Surf Camp is surrounded by over 20 incredible breaks within a 10 km radius. It offers all-inclusive surf packages for experienced surfers and lessons for beginners.
For more details about surf camps in the Mentawai Islands, please click here.
3. Surf Camp Lombok– The camp offers a unique surfing experience with detailed step-by-step guidance, individual intelligent goals, and immediate informative feedback.
For more details about surf camps in Lombok Island, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Indonesia
When coming to surf in Indonesia, you obviously want to stay in the right place, which means as close as possible to the best spots. These are some of the most recommended surf hotels in the country:
1.Flower Bud Bungalow Balangan, Bali– Built entirely with raw and natural materials, like bamboo and wicker, Flower Bud Bungalow blends harmoniously with its tropical surroundings. It features a 12 m outdoor swimming pool and spa treatments.
2. Bima Sakti Homestay Echo Beach Canggu– Offering a terrace and hot spring bath, Bima Sakti Homestay Echo Beach Canggu is situated in Echo Beach in Canggu, 6 km from Tanah Lot Temple. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant.
3. Raffiel Nias, Mentawai Islands– With sea views, Raffiel Nias is situated in Lagudri and has a restaurant, room service, bar, garden, barbecue, and sun terrace. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property.
For more surf hotels in Indonesia, check out our post about the best surf resorts in Indonesia, or simply look for deals on Booking.com.
What Skill Level is Required to Surf in Indonesia
There is an incredible selection of surf spots in Indonesia, so surfers of all levels can find breaks that suit their skills. For instance, beginners can surf mellow waves in spots like Lombok and Kuta Beach in Bali. Intermediate surfers, though, will find more challenging waves in Canggu and Medewi in Bali. And finally, if you are an advanced surfer, you can ride fantastic barrels in hollow reef breaks like Padang Padang in Bali, G-Land in Java, or Macas in the Mentawais.
Which Island in Indonesia is Best to Stay At on a Surf Trip
On a surf trip, it is best to focus on one area to spend more time surfing and less traveling. However, there are many great surf beaches in Indonesia, and sometimes, it can be hard to choose where to stay. So, considering the waves and the general atmosphere, these are the most recommended locations to stay:
1. Bali– This is the Indonesian surf capital and the most famous surf destination in the world. It offers countless surf spots, fantastic nightlife, and fascinating culture.
2. The Mentawai Islands– This is a surf paradise with waves of all kinds and for all skill levels. You will not find better waves anywhere else in the world, as this is as good as it gets.
3. Lombok– On this island, beginners can find User-friendly waves and various surf camps.
Indonesia– Travel Information
* Language- Indonesian.
*Population- about 270 million.
*Currency- Indonesian rupiah.
*Calling code- +62.
*Time zone- GMT +7.
*Pros- perfect waves, warm water, fascinating culture.
*Cons- the famous spots are mega crowded.
Conclusion- Final Thought
In summary, Indonesia is a surfer’s paradise with absolutely perfect waves. The long rides, the big barrels, and the general atmosphere are magical. Not for no reason, Indonesia has a reputation as the best surf destination in the world, so if you have never been here yet, what are you waiting for?
We hope you enjoyed reading this guide about the best surf spots in Indonesia. Have a great surf trip!
