Bali certainly deserves a mention when discussing the best surfing destinations in the world. One of the reasons it sits at the top is because of its varied beaches which provided all year round waves for beginners and seasoned surfers alike; this unique variety is due to the Bali’s reef-fringed shoreline. Bathed in a tropical climate ensuring the water is always warm, perfect for when you’re inevitably going to spend all of your day falling in the water rather than standing on your board; plus the white sand beaches are so beautiful you may just wish to spend all day relaxing!
If you’re still a beginner surfer planning your trip to Bali and you’ve potentially never been on a board before, one of the most important decisions you make won’t be the board you ride but the surf camp you choose. Bali is littered in numerous different surfing camps all catering to a different area of the market; each one has a unique combination of style culture, and atmosphere, so if you’re planning on spending any amount of time in Bali where you stay is of the up most importance!
A final bit of general information you should bear in mind before we get into the details is that although Bali does offer waves all year round, they change depending on the season. The dry season is the most popular of the year and the west coast has the best waves during this time, however, the wet season still offers amazing waves, but this time on the east coast.
Baring all of that in mind you should decide what kind of holiday you’re looking for; you can go for the cheaper more travel-esque surf camps that are renown for attracting a truly international audience and guarantee a hectic, wild and thrilling time. Or, you could go for one of the most relaxing options, which provide made of beautifully handcrafted local materials that create a uniquely traditional Indonesian atmosphere and cultural feel that lets you be fully rested for the day of surfing ahead.
Some of the best surf schools on Bali offer either of these two extremes or more likely somewhere in the middle. For example, the Rapture camp has the international appeal young travelers may be looking for; but the camp also promises year round amazing weather and water temperatures so the camp never detracts from its original purpose, to offer the best surfing available. So if you’re ready to party at night then hit the beaches early in the morning, this is the place for you. If you’re interested in Rapture camp then head to their website: http://www.rapturecamps.com/bali-surfcamp/
Another option for people who are only interested in doing as much surfing as possible is the Stormrider camp. Situated around the corner from the well-known Echo-Beach of Canggu, which comes along with all the best local restaurants, bars and shops you can find the perfect environment to wind down after a long day surfing. Stormrider is always looking to give you the best surfing experience so check out their website to learn more: http://stormrider-surfcamp.com/bali/balicamp-overview
Finally, if you’re looking for that traditional Indonesian atmosphere, why don’t you try the Brown Sugar camp, located in Medewi on the west coast, it is surrounded by the local inhabitants and their rice-fields and coconut hills. Renowned for its relaxing atmosphere you have the option of seeing the local wildlife or exploring the Hindu temples if you wish to take a break from surfing, but don’t worry Brown Sugar also has some amazing surf spots as well as beautiful sites. If you’re interested in the unique style Brown Sugar camp has to offer, head to their website: http://www.surfen-ohne-en.de/de/index.html
The owners and the staff that work at these camps are all people who know Bali well, and most importantly, love to surf; they’ll always be willing to help with any enquiry you may have and may even join you for a bit of relaxation when there shift finishes.
There is countless surf schools over all of Bali, making the right choice is the most important choice when it comes to making your holiday as enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re looking for a more traditional and cultural experience to really get to know the Indonesian way of life on this small island of surf and paradise; or if you want the more international traveler experience full of parties on excitement, somewhere on Bali you’ll find the experience you’re looking for – and the knowledge on how to surf of course!