Best Uluwatu Beginner Surf Spots
Uluwatu is world-famous as a surfing destination. It is a little bit confusing for there to be a surf spot at Suluban beach, which is commonly known as Uluwatu, while Uluwatu is also a region of Bali that has a variety of surf spots for surfers of all abilities. Suluban beach can be surfed by beginners when the swell is very small, but most days the swell and current are too strong.
It is essential to find the right spots and conditions to learn safely and confidently. Luckily, the area offers several beaches with gentle, beginner-friendly waves. Here are the top spots to consider for beginner and novice surfers in the Uluwatu area:
1. Baby Padang
Baby Padang is one of Bali’s best beginner surf spots and the easiest place to learn in the Uluwatu area. The waves here are consistent and predictable, making it ideal for beginners. You will find long rides going left, which is perfect for practising your turns, while the shorter rights tend to break directly at the channel, providing an easy paddle back to the lineup. Access to the beach is through a winding staircase with plenty of monkeys everywhere. The stairs can be tiring, but it is worth it once you get to the bottom. Everything you could need is available on the beach, including surfboard/kayak/stand-up paddle rentals, food and drinks, surf lessons, and more. There are showers and bathrooms near the top of the stairs. Lifeguards are watching over the beach carefully.
When to surf: Best on days when the swell is not much more than head high and on a medium to high tide. Big swells cause the waves to break too fast and create strong currents, which can be dangerous for beginners. Be aware of the strong currents in the channel, and stay calm if caught in one. When the tide is low, the reef becomes exposed, and the waves break over water that is too shallow. Not sure about tides? Read here for more info on tides and how to plan a surf session. Asking a local if the conditions are safe for surfing is a great way to confirm if it is safe or not.
Baby Padang’s gentle waves make it a great choice for beginners of all ages—including kids—so it is no surprise that many of our guests choose it as part of their family Bali surfing holiday.
2. Dreamland Beach
Dreamland offers a variety of waves that can suit surfers at different levels, depending on the conditions. It is the only beach break with a sandy bottom in Uluwatu—great for beginners, but there are rocks on the inside, so caution is advised on entering and exiting the water.
Access to Dreamland beach is very easy, with just a few steps before you reach the sand from the car park. Like Baby Padang, everything you need here is available on the beach. Plus, there are restaurants on the promenade just above the beach.
Wave types: An A-frame with short right-handers and fast left-handers that sometimes barrel, breaking over flat rock at low tide. When conditions are small, Dreamland provides smooth, easy rides that are perfect for those just starting out.
Beginner surfers need to head to the Southern end of Dreamland Beach, towards Balangan, to find softer waves away from the other wave types.
When to surf: Best on days when the swell is not much more than head high and on a low tide. Big swells cause the waves to break too fast and create strong currents, which can be dangerous for beginners. If the tide is too high, then the waves will disappear.
3. Balangan Beach
Balangan is difficult to access on low tide and is best suited for beginners during very small days at high tide, when Baby Padang will be flat or too small to surf. When the conditions are right, this is an incredible surf experience for a beginner, as the beach is very beautiful and the water is very clear. Visiting Balangan is like going back in time as the local warungs still line the beach.
Access to the beach is easy. Surfboard rentals, surf lessons, food and drinks will be available at a local warung. Some warungs will have showers and a bathroom, but most will not. There are no regular lifeguards on duty here. Best to pick a warung to eat at so you can save your belongings while you surf.
Conditions: Balangan is only suitable for beginners when the swell is very small
4. Thomas Beach
Named after a local homestay, Thomas Beach has become more accessible and more popular in recent years. It is a beautiful spot with a gentle left-hander that breaks at mid-high tide, providing steady, easy rides.
Similar to Baby Padang, beach access is via a winding staircase that must be traversed (more difficult than Padang Padang) and everything is available on the beach.
Crowds and safety: This is not a famous wave as it does not have the length of ride of Uluwatu and other famous spots. However, it is a very good spot for beginners to learn when the current is not strong and the tide is high enough to safely cover the reef.
Final Tips for Beginner Surfers
- Check the swell forecast: Ensure conditions are suitable for beginners—small waves and gentle currents.
- Check the tides: At low tide there is typically not enough water and you need 1m of tide as a minimum for safety.
- Sun protection: Early mornings or late afternoons when sun is low in the sky, or wear a hat, rash vest and sun block.
- Use the right equipment: Soft-top boards are recommended, and a knowledgeable local surf instructor can help you find the best spot and timing.
- Stay safe: Always be aware of currents, rocks, and other hazards, and do not hesitate to ask locals or lifeguards for advice.
- Spot selection: Some breaks such as Bingin and Padang Lefts are never safe for beginners as the wave breaks in too shallow water. Suluban beach will be too big except on the very smallest swells.
With these beginner-friendly spots and some smart planning, you will be well on your way to enjoying Bali’s beautiful waves safely and confidently. Have fun, and remember—patience and practice make perfect!
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