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!

  • I really had a great experience in Cafe del Mar. the food is worth the price, the ambience (especially during sunset) is great, and the service is 10/10! Also I would love to say thank you to Arsa, Wiwin & Ray for their services & hospitality, they are really friendly & helpful to us! Parking: n/a

    Tara Aziza A Avatar Tara Aziza A
    June 26, 2023
  • Skip Finns and head on over here instead! The setting was beautiful, food was delicious, music- just the right vibe… but above all else, the service (especially Selvia) was outstanding ♥️ Selvia went above and beyond with food and drink recommendations (must try the bebek and Jimbaran fish) and the staff surprised us with bday cake! Will definitely be back the next time we’re in Bali 😘

    Karthini Avatar Karthini
    May 3, 2023
  • This beach front bar has beautiful views very relaxing. Plenty of seating you can choose and nice pool. The atmosphere so beautiful, however the food taste just average and no direct access to the beach. The service was pretty good and staff were friendly.

    Kimu Moren Avatar Kimu Moren
    October 12, 2023
  • AMAZING high-end beach club! I spent a whole day here by myself. They open at 12. It's such a beautiful, clean and tranquil place. The pool is very beautifully designed. The water inside there is crystal clear and refreshing. Subtle ibiza vibes. Nice crowd. The food is very tasty and fresh, as well as all the cocktails. The staff is beyond friendly. very attentive and professional. It's my favourite beach club and i've spent 1 month in bali and seen some beach clubs. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a relaxed place with good prices while still upper-scale.

    Anela Cee Avatar Anela Cee
    June 3, 2023
  • Tempatnya asik, kesini waktu kemarin ada event. Untuk suasana tempat bagus, luas, dan instagramable terutama untuk spot poolnya. Untuk akses masuknya lumayan mudah. Dan untuk pelayanan saya sangat terbantu dikarenakan pelayan yang sigap dan siap untuk membantu registrasi. Parking: Tempat parkir yang luas

    Okta Angga Avatar Okta Angga
    October 5, 2023
  • Had a relaxing and chilled time here cocktails were meh but everting else wasn’t

    Rob Prespanoski Avatar Rob Prespanoski
    October 12, 2023
  • Food is fantastic Service is awesome Atmosphere is very good Very clean The minus point is can’t access to the beach

    Val Tan Avatar Val Tan
    June 26, 2023
  • Absolutely amazing and a must try! The service was incredible, the atmosphere was incredible and the food was lovely. BE AWARE THOUGH.. the security don’t allow legitimate bluebird taxi services and you may find yourself getting ripped off by barter taxi services so make prior arrangements for travel. Aside from that it was magic

    andrew shields Avatar andrew shields
    October 13, 2023
  • Fantastic beach club with highly attentive staff. Could not recommend more!

    Bradford Jefferies Avatar Bradford Jefferies
    October 12, 2023
  • I like this place.

    Hendrika LT Avatar Hendrika LT
    October 5, 2023