Question 1

What is the best time to do surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Situated in the southern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is a surfer’s paradise. You will be able to dive all the way to warung via sealed roads, making all the different four sections of the beach easily accessible. The five different surfing sections in Uluwatu include:

The Temple: The long and hollow waves that come with the mid and high tides
The Peak: just in front of the warung along the caves and they come with high tides
Racetrack: super fast barrels on low tides
Outside Corners: Wherein the corners of the lip don’t start breaking until the swell is already 8’ range. This is perfect for long and fast rides.
The Bombie: monster waves on very large swells and available during the rainy season around October.

Consequently, the seasonal breaks offer the best surfing opportunities. April to October is when you get the best swells and it is also the wet/dry season in Uluwatu.

Question 2

Is it worth visiting Uluwatu for surfing?

Accepted Answer

Although one can enjoy a lot of things in Bali, Uluwatu is considered one of the best beached for surfing across the globe. Most of the surfing in Uluwatu happens around Bukit - a limestone peninsula on the southernmost tip of the island. It will offer very dramatic and steep cliffs, white sand beaches and impressive temples that can lure any surfer. Driving further south, you will encounter several other popular surf breaks including spots like Dreamland, Balangan, Bingin, Padang-Padang, Impossibles, Suluban and lastly, the Uluwatu Beach itself.

Also, the most important factor that makes Uluwatu a perfect stop for surfing is the highly consistent waves.

Question 3

Which season sees the peak of surfers in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

The highly consistent Uluwatu surfs have been the focal point among surfers of all levels traveling to Bali. This is the part of the island that gets swells of all sizes, ranging from small (perfect for beginners) to huge monster waves. While surfers travel to Uluwatu all across the year, June to October is the time when you will see surfboards everywhere! This is when the sea offers the most dramatic swells and the perfect GoPro moments!

Question 4

What will be duration of surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

This depends on what you are seeking. Professional surfers stay for more than months riding the waves during the dry-wet seasons across the beaches in Uluwatu. However, surfing classes are also offered for beginners and range from basic one-day courses to weekly courses that help build your skills. If you have been looking forward to taking your first surfing lesson and understand the sport, a weeklong surfing vacation would be highly recommended.

On the other hand, you can always rent a surf board for a day and ride the waves with just a guide assisting you.

Question 5

What is the price of surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

The price of surfing varies according to the surf school you choose and the package your go for. Here are the top picks with the prices:

Padang Padang Surf Camp – US$50 for couples (starts at US$23 for a standard surf lesson)
Pro Surf School – Beginners surf lessons starting at US$38
Rapture Surf Club – Weekly surfing packages starting at US$161.
Surf Goddess Retreat – Surf, Spa and yoga packages starting at US$2195 per person
Rip curl School of Surf – Starts at US$141 for three sessions
UP2U Surf School – Starts at US$25 per person per day
Surf Buddy Bali – Private and beginners surf lessons starting at US$30 and US$25 per person for group lessons
Odyssey Surf School – Group lessons starting at US$35 per person
Santai Surf School – Starts at US$36

Question 6

Is it safe to do surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Uluwatu offers all kinds of waves, ranging from low tides to huge monster swells. Your safety will always depend on your level of experience and the beach you choose. While there will always be rescue teams across the surfing beaches, it is necessary that you choose the location wisely, according to your skill level. The reefs can be particularly dangerous as they are shallow and falling in can hit your hard.

Question 7

Are there any precautions need to be taken while doing surfing?

Accepted Answer

When looking to surf around Bali beaches, it is necessary that:You respect the localsKnow the beach. sometimes shallow reefs can be dangerousRemember where you can go back in fromWatch the waves closely from the warung before you go in with your surf boardAlways be prepared for a fast and late dropAlways wear a leash attached to your boardWear a waterproof and reef-safe sun block

Question 8

Will the people with some health issues be allowed to do surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Surfing demands a lot of stamina and you need to be prepared for and laugh at falls. The reefs can be dangerous as the corals are sharp and if the cuts aren’t taken care of immediately, they can easily develop an infection. Consequently, people suffering from health complications like asthma, heart problems, low blood pressure or low immunity aren’t recommended to try surfing.

There are other water sports that are safer and allow you to enjoy the waves.

Question 9

What kind of medical emergencies might occur and how to deal with them?

Accepted Answer

Surfing is a highly strenuous activity and all your safety depends on how well you balance yourself and how flexible you are. Falling down with the waves is not unusual bit there are special technique to save you from getting hurt. Still people might suffer from neck sprains, back sprains and in the worst case, head hit.The risk is especially more if you are surfing close to the reefs that can give you sharp cuts if you fall down. 

Whenever there is an eventuality, the lifeguard teams and paramedics are always ready to help. After the required first aid, you will be taken to the nearest medical center, depending on the nature of your injury.

Question 10

Can people with vision problem do surfing?

Accepted Answer

It really depends on how far you are able to see clearly. Myopic people will easily be able to surf. All they need is to concentrate on the waves and learn to balance. It would be difficult if you suffer from farsightedness.

Question 11

Can beginners learn surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

If you are just beginning to get a grasp of the surfing scene, chances are high that you must have already heard about Bali being the paradise! It's home to a surfing culture that even rivals Australia, Hawaii, and California. The best time for beginners to learn surfing in Uluwatu is between the months of April and October when the island experiences its dry months. There are also several beaches that offer smaller swells during the rainy season, but you should be ready to get wet – not just with the surf but also on land. The rainy season is also when you can escape the touristy crowd and meet more surfing people like you!

The best spots for beginners to learn surfing in Uluwatu include:

Padang Padang Right
Dreamland
Kuta
Medewi
Canggu

While there are several surf schools across the beach, it is important that you choose the right one. Make sure that your instructors are ISA (International Surfing Association) certified.

Question 12

Can kids also do surfing?

Accepted Answer

Most surfing schools in Uluwatu offer beginner lessons for kids. There are a few beaches that offer small but consistent swells that would be perfect for kids to experiment on. It is however very necessary that kids are accompanied by instructors, regardless of the surfing location they choose.

Question 13

What is the minimum age for surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Kids love surfing but they need to be a minimum 6 years of age if they want to take the board into the sea. Between 6 and 8 years, kids need to be accompanied by their parents or instructors. This is not the age to surf but to build the confidence in the water. They might go for some practice sessions in the shallow water across the reefs.

To go deeper into the sea, a minimum age of 9 is preferred. This is when they are allowed to ride their first wave.

Question 14

Do we need to have any experience for surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

There are several schools around Uluwatu that offer beginner lessons for individuals, kids, couples and even groups. You need not have any prior surfing experience but it is necessary that you have the basic fitness level necessary to surf. Surfing as such is a very strenuous activity and isn’t quite recommended for people suffering from heart problems, blood pressure conditions and similar ailments.

Question 15

Which all institutes are there for surfing lessons in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Popular surf schools in Uluwatu include:

Rupture Surf Camp
Stormrider Sufcamp Bali
In Da Surf Bali
SurfHolidays.com
Pelan Pelan Surf and Yoga Retreat
Shantai Surf School
Odyssey Surf School
Ripcurl School of Surf
UP2U Surf School
Surf Buddy Bali
Pro Surf School

Question 16

Are the surfing classes separated by skills?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to skills, surfing classes will be divided into three groups – beginners, intermediate and professional. In beginner classes, you would be acquainted with the basic of surfing and you get to practice in shallow water and low waves. This would be your introduction to the sport. For people who have been surfing for some time now, an intermediate level course will allow their improvement to becoming a professional and taking on more difficult waves.

Professional level surfing will, on the other hand, allow you to take on the monstrous Bombies along with other surfers of international repute.

Other than this, there are special sessions for kids, couples, and private groups.

Question 17

Will there be a guide for surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

There’s a reason why Uluwatu or “Ulu” has been a top pick among surfers from across the world. It’s not just a beach that will give you the best rides but are also well managed and safe. If you are beginner, it is necessary that you understand the rip current here under the guidance of a local instructor/guides. Most surfing school offer instructors and guides and the charges are nominal. While it is not necessary to have a guide along, it would turn out to be a highly helpful investment.

Question 18

Are there any prerequisites for the surfing lessons?

Accepted Answer

Surfing, regardless of the kind of wave you are getting into, demands a considerable amount of physical stamina. Clear all your doubts because, once you are in the sea, you will need a clear head. So,

Start with an open mind and be optimistic
Live in the moment
Go for interval training to shape up your body and improve flexibility
Practice the pop-up technique until you master it
Get to know the different types of currents and waves
Choose your surfboard wisely

Question 19

What sort of fitness I must have to do Surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Uluwatu is a surfing paradise and everyone, starting from beginners to professionals look forward to the waves here. While some of the beaches and ocean stretches are marked safe for your first surfing lesson, it is also necessary that you have a decent level of fitness before looking to ride the waves. Flexibility is a must have thing and if you are stiff, a couple of introductory lessons can help straighten things up.

Surfing, though fun and ‘cool’ demands a lot of physical stress and you should be ready for it.

Question 20

Are there lifeguards on the Uluwatu beach?

Accepted Answer

Most beaches south of Kuta are peaceful, friendly and well monitored. Lifeguards are deployed across the stretch either by the government or by the several surfing schools that conduct workshops and training in the sea. Be sure that someone is always watching you and would be ready to help in case you land up in trouble

Question 21

Is there a need to buy a costume or will it be given there at the spot?

Accepted Answer

Well, both options will work. You can get your own costume from the several surf shops across Uluwatu. However, you can also ask for a costume when you book surfing packages with one of the surf schools there. In most cases, equipment is provided to the surfers and is inclusive of the booking price

Question 22

From where I can buy a wetsuit?

Accepted Answer

Wetsuits are important for the dawn patrols and if you are looking to surf beyond the first half of the dry season when the water gets colder. In case, you catch cold too easily, go for a short. While people also use cotton t-shirts, it doesn’t give the best protection from the sun or the saline water.

Lastly, wet suits will always make you look cooler and more professional! You can buy a wetsuit from the hundreds of surf shops lining the Uluwatu Beach. Kuta would be the most preferred place to buy as you will have loads of materials and designs to choose from.

Question 23

What all things need to be carried while surfing?

Accepted Answer

Surfers have special requirements when packing a bag for Uluwatu. The essential to have handy include:

Tropical water wax
Leg rope leash strings
Spare leg strap
Spare fin keys
Wax comb
Reef boots (especially if you are a beginner)
Ding repair kit
Bikini / bathers / board shorts
First aid kit – hydration tablets, plasters, pain killers
Energy snacks
Beach towels
Helmet (for beginners)
Zinc sun screen above SPF 30
Rash vests / old t-shirts
Travel insurance

Question 24

From where we can buy surfing board or can we rent it?

Accepted Answer

Check with the airlines if it charges you extra for bringing in a surf board. However, there is plenty of high-quality board available for rent across Uluwatu. With little bargaining skills, you can hope to strike a good deal. It is generally believed that the locally made surfboards don’t offer the best lamination and will thus be more open to dings.

However, at the same time, there would be plenty of people who would be ready to repair your board! In fact, the best ding repair shops are in Kuta and in 90% of the cases you won’t be able to see where that ding was in the first place. They are that good!

Question 25

What all things I should consider while buying a surfboard?

Accepted Answer

If you have been looking for surf shops, Kuta would be the place. Hundreds of shops selling almost everything related to surfing – this part of Bali can be luring for surfers. All shops are well stocked but you might find them to be a little thin when it comes to women wear. Prices too are in the nominal range and the amount you go on to pay will depend a lot on the bargaining skills you have.

Don’t hesitate to haggle for prices. At the same time, it will be wise to check out the numerous promotional sales that happen all round the year. If you have been planning to buy a surfboard from Bali, ensure that:

It is well laminated (in most cases, the laminations aren’t good)
Go for a long board even if you are a beginner
Molded boards are good to start with
The more the volume, the better the ride
Ask for the leash, board ba, and fin to be included in the price if they aren’t allowing the preferred discounts
Always check for existing cracks and dings
Scrap off all the wax before you finally pay. This would reveal all the doggy repairs, if any
Pick it up in person
Don’t settle for boards that sound too good to be true when it comes to the price. There is a high probability of something being wrong.

Question 26

Are there any certifications we can get for surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

The most popular certifications in surfing schools are the beginner’s certification and intermediate certifications. 
There are also schools in and around Uluwatu that offer surfing instructor courses. These are special sessions for advanced surfers who want to go and get licensed for surf instructors.

Question 27

What if it rains while I am surfing?

Accepted Answer

Surfing under the rain is a unique fun. This is the time when the waves will be at the fullest but you would want to see clearly. Surfing under the rain is recommended for intermediate and professional surfers. It’s not about getting wet but about seeing clearly. However, those who are in the practice, rains will be amazing for a day of surf.

Question 28

Will I find accommodations near surfing spots?

Accepted Answer

Finding an accommodation near a surfing spot is perhaps the best way to be in the scene and close to the waves. Most reputed surf schools in Uluwatu are located near the beach you advanced booking will allow you reserve your accommodation. Further, there are several hotels and villas that have come up all along the popular surf coast of Uluwatu and finding one won’t be too difficult.

Question 29

Which beaches are famous for surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Beaches in Uluwatu famous for surfing include:

Uluwatu Beach
Impossibles
Padang Padang Beach
Dreamland Beach
Green Ball Beach
Bingin Beach
Balangan Beach
Kuta Beach
Kuta Reef
Brawa Beach
Legian Beach
Peenan Beach
Canggu Beach
Tanah Lot
Seseh Beach
Balian Beach
Kedunggu Beach
Medewi Beach
Serangan Beach
Nusa Dua Beach
Keramas Beach
Lembongan Beach
Sanur Reef

Question 30

What kind of food facility I can find near the surfing spots?

Accepted Answer

If you have booked a packages surfing trip, it will be inclusive of the food. However, you must also check out the local restaurants and food stops in Uluwatu. Don’t go for cheap restaurants as there is always a risk of contamination. Always settle for decent stops and the price you will pay won’t be too expensive either.

Question 31

Do I need to make advance booking for surfing lessons?

Accepted Answer

If you have a special preference or recommendations, it is necessary that you book your sessions well in advance. Those looking to surf wouldn’t be looking for a one day basic course but a proper surfing vacation that can last anything between a week and a month and even more.

To get the slot, it is necessary that you do the reservations well in advance. Drop in’s allowed but it could be a trouble finding these advanced lessons or the accommodations. During the surfing season, the existing avenues are completely booked.

Question 32

What modes of payment are available in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

The most preferred mode of payment is cash. Consequently, keep a lot handy when you are going around Uluwatu. There are some hotel, restaurants and surf schools that will also accept credit cards.

Question 33

What about ATMs and Money Exchangers?

Accepted Answer

There are several money exchangers and ATMS around Uluwatu. While ATMs are fine, it is necessary to be a bit cautious about money changers. Private Service providers will charge you greater rate of commission. It is also necessary to ensure that you go for registered money exchange services.

There are places that can dupe you. The recommended money exchange services include:

Central Kuta Puri Gading, Jl. Raya Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung
Money Exchange, Jl. Uluwatu II No.29, Jimbaran, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung
Authorized Money Changer Arta Jaya Dewata, Jl. Uluwatu I No.123, Jimbaran, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung
Pt. Arta Jaya Dewata, Jl. Raya Uluwatu No.69, Ungasan, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung
AMC money changer, Jl. Uluwatu 72 Ungasan, Ungasan, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung
Dirgahayu Valuta Prima Money Changer, Jalan Raya Uluwatu No.7, Pecatu, Kuta Selatan, Ungasan, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung

Question 34

What else I can do with surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Surfing is something that you do during the early morning or the evening. The rest of the day can be well spent in other water sports or just hopping around the city of Uluwatu, visiting the local attractions or checking out the local cuisine and culture.

Sunday Night Party at Single Finns Club
Saturday Night Party at Padang Padang Beach
Visit the Uluwatu Temple
Go for a Remedial Deep Tissue Therapy Massage
Participate in the Kecak Fire Dance
Beat the heat at Blue Point Restaurant
Enjoy the panoramic views of the Pura Luhur
Get an Ocean Spa
Visit the Garuda Wisnu Temple
Do some Scuba Diving

Question 35

Are there any water sports too apart from surfing in Uluwatu?

Accepted Answer

Surfing is just one of the several water sports in Uluwatu. Apart from surfing, people come to Uluwatu for:

Kite surfing
Parasailing
Stand up paddling
Banana rides
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Rafting
Sea Walking
Water Jetpacks
Fly boarding
Wakeboarding
Flying Fish

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