Surfing in Canggu: A Quick Guide for Surfers

A laid back town once upon a time, Canggu has now turned into one of the go-to spot for surfing! With a variety of beaches to explore, you can find the perfect waves for everyone, from beginners to advanced surfers, creating a community of Canggu surf enthusiasts.

With plenty of affordable accommodations and trendy eateries in the area, there’s a reason why Canggu continues to attract people from all over the world to experience the sandy beaches and stunning sunsets over crashing waves.

Our quick guide to surfing in Canggu will help you navigate through the waters.

Best time to surf in Canggu

Depending on the kinds of waves you’re after, you can divide them into two seasons: dry season and rainy season. Great waves are found year-round, even during the “off-season”, but if you’re looking for a specific surfing experience, then consider planning your holidays accordingly if you’re thinking of adding surfing in Canggu to your itinerary.

Dry season: April to October

Like most beaches in Bali, the best time to surf in Canggu is during the dry season, usually running from April to October. Summers in Bali are ideal for catching the waves, with light winds and consistent swells from the Indian Ocean coming into the west coast.

The biggest swells usually occur around May to September caused by seasonal wind patterns, making this time of year perfect for intermediate or professional surfers to ride the waves. Mornings are always a prime hour for surfing, usually from 10-11 AM.

As always, consult with Canggu surf guides and keep up with the weather forecast as surfing conditions can change unexpectedly.

Rainy season: November to March

During the rainy season, or monsoon season, waves are generally less powerful on the west coast. While you can expect heavy downpours, rainfall in Bali usually comes in short bursts, followed by pockets of sunshine for a few hours.

You can expect smaller and less consistent swells around the west coast, making the season ideal for those starting their surfing journey to familiarize themselves with the waves, while advanced surfers will move away from Canggu to surf elsewhere. And due to the unpredictability of the weather, there are fewer tourists on the island, which means less crowd, offering a more relaxed surfing experience.

It’s important to note that because of the volatile weather, be aware of big waves that can sweep you away, taking note of the current Canggu surf condition before paddling the waters.

Where to surf in Canggu

The shores of Canggu is characterized by dark, volcanic sands, unlike the white beaches of Sanur or Uluwatu. The waves vary from mild swells to advanced breaks all year long, making it the perfect spot for beginners and surf enthusiasts alike.

The long coastal strip includes Berawa Beach, Echo Beach, and Batu Bolong Beach. You can find several surf schools nearby, along with board rentals should you decide to dip your toes in the waves!

Berawa Beach

This beach is a local favorite, especially for beginners. Mellow right and left waves with mixed rocky reefs and sandy bottoms make this beach perfect for surfers of all levels. You can polish up the basics or show off your moves in a barrel.

Pros:

Mid to high tide
Plenty of beachside stalls

Cons:

Rocky reefs
Unsuitable for swimmers

Echo Beach

One of the first beaches to gain popularity in Canggu, Echo Beach remains the top destination for surfers with its iconic black sands and unbeatable sunsets. This beach is often filled with seasoned surfers due to the difficulty of the waves. You can still enjoy a day in the sand watching their impressive tricks.

Pros:

Stunning views
High swells

Cons:

Exposed, uneven, and sharp reefs
Not for beginners

Batu Bolong Beach

Canggu’s most popular wave, Batu Bolong is the go-to for amateur surfers. With a mellower wave, this beach is the perfect place to hone your surfing skills. You can expect a higher number of people in the water, queuing for their turn in the wave.

Pros:

Beginner friendly
Ideal for longboard and stand-up paddle surfing

Cons:

Crowded
Less challenging waves

After exploring the diverse Canggu surf scene, make sure to stop by Café del Mar Bali for a rejuvenating cocktail on hand and fuel up on some tasty treats as you wait for the sunset to paint the sky. Then, head over to the dance floor as the night comes alive. We’ve saved you a spot!