If you’ve been eyeing Bali for a surf trip, chances are you’ve heard all about Canggu and Uluwatu. But surfing in Seminyak has its own charm, and a lot of people tend to overlook it.
It’s not about chasing monster waves or joining some hardcore surf cult. Surfing here is more relaxed. Accessible. A little chaotic sometimes, but in a good way.
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth paddling out in Seminyak — it absolutely is. Here’s everything we’ve picked up, from where to surf in Seminyak to where to get the best board wax and post-surf smoothie.
Can You Surf in Seminyak?
Short answer: yes. Longer answer: it’s not perfect, but it’s fun — and a solid choice, especially if you’re staying nearby and want a mellow wave.
The waves along Seminyak Beach aren’t particularly dramatic, which is actually a plus for beginners. It’s a sand-bottom beach break, no sharp reef to slice your foot open, and you’ll see plenty of learners and instructors scattered along the shoreline.
That said, it’s not just for total beginners. Some days you get decent waist-to-chest-high waves that are perfect for cruising. You’re not going to catch your best-ever barrel here, but you will get your fix. Plus, you won’t need to Uber to Uluwatu to find it.
Where to Surf in Seminyak
So you’re standing on Seminyak Beach, board in hand — now what?
First, know this: the whole beach is surfable. But depending on what you’re after and your level of course, a few spots stand out.
Best surfing in Seminyak
- Double Six Beach
This is the unofficial HQ for beginner surfers. You’ll see surf schools lined up, lots of soft-top boards, and instructors calling out directions in three languages. It’s smooth, safe, and good for learning to pop up.
- La Plancha area
Located a bit to the north, where you’ll see the iconic rows of colorful umbrellas. Still beginner-friendly, but sometimes you get punchier waves here. There’s a sweet left-hander that works on a mid-tide.
- Petitenget Beach
Closer to Potato Head and W Bali, fewer people, a little more power in the wave, it’s better suited for folks who’ve surfed a few times and are confident paddling out alone.
In short, surfing in Seminyak Beach is all about beach breaks, not reef breaks. That makes it way more approachable — especially if you’re new or just want to keep it casual.
Best Time to Surf in Seminyak
If you’re chasing clean waves, the dry season is your time to go — April to October. The winds blow offshore in the mornings, and crowds are heavier, but manageable.
You can also surf during the rainy season (November to March) and still have a blast. Swells tend to be smaller and messier, but if you’re a beginner, that might actually work in your favor. Plus, when fewer people are in the water, there are more chances to stand up.
Don’t tell anyone else, to get the best time to surf in Seminyak, go early. Seminyak wakes up late, so if you’re in the water by 7 AM, it’s just you, a few locals, and clean sets rolling through.
Surfing in Seminyak for Beginners
If you’re just getting started, Seminyak surfing for beginners is kind of ideal. It’s approachable, it’s forgiving, and you won’t be out there with a bunch of pros doing airs over your head.
Seminyak surfing lessons
You’ll find instructors all along Double Six Beach and around La Plancha. Most offer:
- 1.5 to 2 hour sessions
- Soft-top board rental
- Rash guard
- A solid mix of actual coaching and cheerful encouragement
Expect to pay around IDR 300,000–400,000 (roughly $20–30 USD), depending on how long and what’s included.
You don’t need to book in advance unless it’s high season — just walk up and ask.
Best Surf Shops in Seminyak (Without the Tourist Trap Vibe)
Need wax? Forgot your leash? Or maybe you just want to stare at beautifully shaped boards while sipping cold brew? Seminyak’s got you.
Here are a few spots you can check out — not just for the gear, but for the vibe:
- Drifter Surf
More than a surf shop. Think of it like a lifestyle space: boards, curated tees, surf books, and seriously good coffee. The price tag tells how this shop is very well curated.
Drifter Surf, Jl. Kayu Aya No.50, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Phone: 0817-5115-111
- Rip Curl School of Surf
This one’s part surf shop, part lesson center. It’s not huge, but they’ve got decent options if you’re just looking for fins, rash guards, or a reliable soft-top rental.
Jl. Raya Seminyak, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
- Bali Surf Outlet (BSO)
Not in Seminyak, technically, but a 10-minute scooter ride to Kuta. Big-brand stuff at discount prices. If you’re not picky, you can score real bargains.
Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai, Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
For intricate board designs or something custom, you might want to head to Canggu instead. But for basic gear or a backup swimsuit, Seminyak covers it.
Beach Clubs In Seminyak That Let You Walk In With Sandy Feet
One of everyone’s favorite things about surfing in Seminyak? You can wrap up your session, towel off, and grab a drink within ten minutes.
Here’s where you can end up post-surf:
- La Plancha: Right on the sand, loud music, beanbags everywhere. It’s chaotic in the best way.
- Potato Head: Bit more stylish, bit more polished. No dress codes necessary for a good time after some great waves.
- Ku De Ta: A classic. Fancy cocktails, decent crowd, and sunset views that hit just right after a long surf. You might want to dry off and change into something other than branded singlets and board shorts.
Most of these spots are walking distance from where you’ll be surfing. So don’t overthink it, just go where the vibe feels right.
Where to Shop and Refuel After Your Surf – Seminyak Village
Not every post-surf moment has to involve cocktails and beanbags — sometimes, you just want air conditioning, a decent meal, or to replace the sunnies you lost in the ocean.
Just a short walk (or flip-flop shuffle) from the beach clubs, Seminyak Village is where many surfers head when they’re ready to switch from beach mode to chill mode.
You’ll find:
- Surf-friendly fashion from local and global brands like Bamboo Blonde.
Great food options (because you can’t live on smoothie bowls alone. But if you’re craving one, Oakberry is your go-to!) - Airy indoor space that gives you a break from the Bali heat.
- Spring Spa for a post-surf massage to pamper your senses and soothe your sun-kissed skin.
It’s also a solid place to cool down, meet up, or grab last-minute sunscreens before heading to your next surf session.
Surfing in Seminyak FAQs
Can you surf in Seminyak?
Absolutely! It’s a sandy-bottom beach break, super forgiving and perfect for beginners.
Seminyak or Canggu — which is better for surfing?
If you want bigger waves and cooler surf cafés, go to Canggu. But if you want an easier paddle-out, fewer egos in the water, and beach clubs nearby, Seminyak wins.
Where should I learn to surf in Seminyak?
Just head to Double Six Beach and talk to the instructors. You don’t need to book in advance unless it’s peak season. Ask around, see who you vibe with.
Where’s the best surf in Bali overall?
Depends on what you want.
- Total beginner? Seminyak or Kuta.
- Intermediate? Try Canggu or Medewi.
- Advanced? Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Keramas, and bring reef booties
Surfing in Seminyak isn’t about chasing massive barrels. It’s about keeping things simple. It’s not the most hardcore surf destination in Bali and that’s the beauty of it. No pressure, no scene. Just fun waves and good vibes, right outside your hotel.
And when all is said and done, wrap up your surfing adventure at Seminyak Village to indulge in some well-deserved treats.