Your Ultimate Guide to Surf Travel in Indonesia
Indonesia has 16 main surf areas. There are 166 surf spots and 121 surf holidays. Go explore!
Overview of surfing in Indonesia
Indonesia is the holy land of surfing — a dreamlike archipelago stretching across the equator, blessed with the most consistent swell windows on the planet, crystal-blue water, warm tropical climates, coral reef shelves, volcanic coastlines, and endless coastlines shaped perfectly by Indian Ocean swells and the powerful Indian Ocean swell.
Indonesia truly ticks all the boxes for surfers seeking variety, quality, and adventure.
This is a place where perfect waves aren’t rare — they’re normal. Reef breaks fire almost every day, sand-bottom points wrap for hundreds of metres, and isolated islands offer untouched lineups with turquoise lagoons, dense jungles, palm-shaded huts, and the slow rhythm of island life. The vastness and diversity of the islands Indonesia offers make it a playground for surf exploration. Indonesia is also home to some of the best waves on the planet.
What sets Indonesia apart isn’t just the quality of surf, but the variety. Indonesia is home to some of the best places to surf in the world. Bali alone offers everything from beginner-friendly rollers to world-class barrels. Lombok has sheltered bays for learners plus Desert Point, one of the world’s most perfect left barrels. Sumatra harbours the Mentawai Islands — the benchmark for global surf travel. Java holds powerful, remote lefts like G-Land. Sumbawa offers hollow rights and playful peaks. Even underrated regions like Rote, Sumba, and the Maluku Islands are packed with undiscovered or lightly-trafficked waves, making them some of the most exciting surf destinations in Indonesia.
Indonesia is a lot more than surf too. It’s spirituality, temples, art, music, food, jungle hikes, underwater coral worlds, and some of the friendliest people anywhere. Travelers fall in love instantly — and surfers often stay for months or years because life here is simple, full, beautiful, and shaped entirely by the ocean and the tides.
For many surfers, Indonesia isn’t just a destination. It’s the center of their surf universe — a true surfer’s paradise.
Best Surf Spots in Indonesia
There are way too many top quality surf spots to choose from in this incredible island chain, so here are three that are considered the best of the best.
Bali is the most iconic surf island in Indonesia. A hub of spirituality, tourism, bohemian beach culture, nightlife, and perfect reef breaks known for their real quality. The Bukit Peninsula alone holds some of the world’s most famous lefts, offering real quality surf that attracts surfers from around the globe. Canggu offers a younger surf scene filled with digital nomads and stylish longboarders. Kuta provides safe learning waves. East Bali lights up in wet season with offshore winds and rising swells. Bali is a year-round surf machine.
Lombok is Bali’s quieter sibling — more rustic, more local, and far less crowded. The bays around Kuta Lombok are perfect for beginners. Gerupuk has multiple boat-access waves that suit different levels. Desert Point on the southwest coast is one of the longest, hollowest left-hand barrels ever discovered.
Gili Islands
The Gilis are a string of tiny islands offering mellow reef breaks, clear water, snorkelling, turtles, and party vibes. Perfect for beginners and cruisy longboard sessions.
Java is the beating heart of Indonesian surfing culture. From raw slabs near Cimaja to the world-famous left-hand freight train at G-Land, Java offers jungle-backed waves that feel remote and unfiltered. Much of Java’s coastline is wild, with fewer tourists and heavier surf, attracting adventure-driven surfers.
Home to the most iconic boat trips in surfing history, Sumatra is pure perfection. The Mentawais produce machine-like waves every day. Simeulue and North Sumatra are emerging as number-one alternatives — less crowded but equally perfect. This is Indo’s ultimate “dream wave” region.
This long chain of islands is home to heavy barrels, long peeling points, and smaller surf villages. Sumbawa can be divided into two regions, each offering different surfing experiences—one with challenging reef breaks for advanced surfers and the other more remote and less demanding, showcasing the island’s diverse surf spots. Sumbawa’s Lakey Peak, Scar Reef, and the well-known Yo-Yo’s (often referred to as ‘yo yos’ by experienced surfers for its consistent waves) attract serious surfers. Sumba’s raw desert-meets-jungle coastline offers empty waves and stunning scenery. Rote is a longboarder’s paradise with long, friendly lefts.
These emerging regions hide dozens of world-class setups with minimal documentation. Surf tourism is still young here, making them perfect for surfers wanting discovery over convenience.
The definition of frontier surfing. Isolated islands, deep lagoons, coral cays, and untouched reef passes produce world-class waves for surfers willing to travel far from tourist trails. A true explorer’s dream.
Nias
This right hand reef break was heavily altered after a big earthquake. The change is positive for those looking for deep barrels, which are on basically every wave now after the reef jutted up. The wave is heavy and best left to those that are well prepared. Learn more here!
Desert Point
One of the longest right-hand barrels in the world when on, although it is fickle. This spot when working dishes out barrels of upwards of 20 seconds! Take care, the reef is both extremely shallow and sharp. Learn more here!
Accommodation: Where to Rest and Ride
Accommodation options in Indonesia are as diverse as its surf spots. Budget travellers can embrace the surf camp culture, sharing waves, rooms, and stories with fellow surfers. Mid-range options offer cozy surf resorts with easy access to the waves, while luxury seekers can indulge in stunning beachfront villas or exclusive island retreats. No matter your budget, you can get great accommodation close to world-class waves.
121 Best Surf Resorts and Camps in Indonesia
Getting there
Regions: The Wave-Rich Archipelago
Indonesia’s surf regions are as diverse as the waves themselves, promising an unforgettable adventure for surfers from all walks of life.
- Bali: Bali, often hailed as the “Island of the Gods,” is the heart of Indonesia’s surfing scene. Its enchanting beauty, rich culture, and warm waters have lured surfers for decades. The southern Bukit Peninsula is a surfer’s dream, home to world-renowned spots like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Bingin. Uluwatu’s long left-hand wave, breaking in front of awe-inspiring cliffs, is a must-surf spot just based on the historicity of the setting. If you prefer right-handers, venture to Keramas, a high-performance wave offering perfect barrels and air sections. Check out the best spots on Bali here!
- The Mentawai Islands: Surfing’s Gold Standard Located off Sumatra’s coast, the Mentawai Islands are one of the top Indonesian surf destinations. This remote and wave-rich series of islands offers legendary breaks such as HTs, Rifles, and Macaronis. Charter boats and land camps cater to surfers and families alike, and the allure of uncrowded waves in paradise is undeniable. The Mentawai Islands are ideal for experienced surfers ready to take on heavy barrels and fast walls, making it a bucket-list destination for many. Check out the absolute best spots on the Mentawai chain here, and for a more detailed overview click here!
- Java: While Bali might steal the spotlight, Java’s wave potential should not be overlooked. The infamous G-Land in Grajagan Bay offers one of the longest and most consistent left-hand barrels in the world. The thrill of riding this epic wave, set against the backdrop of the lush Plengkung National Forest, is an experience to cherish. Java’s rugged coastline is ripe for discovering other spots. There are so many little corners and reef passes that are home to both known and unknown breaks.
- Lombok and Sumbawa: Neighboring Bali, Lombok and Sumbawa offer surfers an escape from the crowds and a chance to score perfect waves in a more secluded setting. Lombok’s Desert Point is home to one of the best and longest barrels in the world. With the right swell, it transforms into an endless tube ride, just watch out for the razor sharp and shallow reef. Sumbawa boasts Indonesian staples like Lakey Peak, Supersuck, and Scar Reef, offering a mix of world-class barrels and rippable walls.
- West Timor: For the adventurous surf traveller seeking solitude, West Timor is the answer. Situated to the east, this lesser-known region shares more similarities with Western Australia than other parts of Indonesia. The waves in West Timor, such as the rippable left at T-Land, are user-friendly and often uncrowded. The region’s desert landscapes, sapphire blue waters, and friendly lineups make it a great option for those looking for an off the beaten track trip to the archipelago.
Getting There: Embarking on the Surf Journey
Most international travelers land in Bali (Denpasar). Jakarta is the second-largest surf gateway.
From there, island transfers involve:
- Domestic flights
- Public ferries
- Fast boats
- Private charters
- Surf charter boats (Mentawais, Banyaks, Telo Islands)
Scooters are the transportation of choice on land. Roads range from smooth highways to rugged, undeveloped tracks.
Crowds
Bali: heavy
Mentawais: moderate, depends on trip traffic
Lakey Peak: moderate
Java reefs: light
Lombok: moderate
Sumbawa: light
Sumba: light
Rote: moderate
Papua + Maluku: empty
Go remote → find peace.
Stay near Bali → accept the crowds.
If you’re willing to travel further, you can find uncrowded waves in Indonesia’s more remote regions, where exclusive surf spots offer pristine conditions away from the crowds.
Lineup Lowdown
Indo etiquette is simple but important:
- Never drop in (seriously)
- Don’t paddle around everyone
- Learn the takeoff zone before paddling straight to it
- Respect locals, boat drivers, surf guides
- Don’t surf shallow reef at low tide unless you know your limits
- Give way to older locals
- Smile — “terima kasih” goes far
- Do not litter on beaches
Indo vibes reward respect and patience.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Indonesia
Surf Seasons and When to Go
Dry Season (May–September)
Indonesia’s prime surf season
Light southeast trade winds
Consistent SW swells
During the dry season, the south and western side of islands like Bali and Sumbawa receive the best swell and surf conditions, making them ideal for surfers.
Perfect for Bali west coast, Bukit, Mentawai, Sumbawa
Wet Season (November–March)
Still surfable
Offshore winds on Bali’s east coast
Smaller, clean waves
Best for learning + mellow surf
Fewer crowds at popular surf spots, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter experience
Shoulder Seasons (April & October)
Glassiest conditions
Offshore winds change direction
Best-time-to-score windows
Low crowds
Epic Mentawai dates
There is no “bad time” to surf Indo — just different zones firing.
Water Temperatures and Weather
Water stays between 27–30°C
Air sits at 26–33°C year-round
Rainy season brings heavy showers but warm water
Dry season has cool mornings and offshore winds
No wetsuit needed.
Just sunscreen and a rashguard to avoid reef tattoos.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
Bali
Uluwatu
A long, multi-section left-hand wave with tubes, open faces, and infinite lines. It handles all swell sizes and is perfect for advanced surfers. Sunset sessions at Ulu are a spiritual experience.
Padang Padang
Shallow, hollow, powerful, and fast — the “Balinese Pipeline.” A wave of a lifetime, but only for experts.
Bingin
A perfect, photogenic, mechanical left that breaks the same every time. Short but intense.
Canggu
A mix of peaks: Batu Bolong for beginners, Echo Beach for intermediate to advanced surfers, and Pererenan for a mix of barrels and performance walls. One of Bali’s busiest surf towns.
Keramas
A world-class right on Bali’s east coast with perfect faces and barrel sections. One of the best high-performance waves in Indonesia.
Lombok
Desert Point (Bangko-Bangko)
Endless left tubes running along razor reef. When it’s pumping, you can get the longest barrels of your life. Needs big SW swell, low tide, and little wind.
Gerupuk Bay
Fun, safe, beginner-to-intermediate reef waves. Each break has its own character. Boat access only.
Mawi
A hollow left and right peak. Fast barrels and power make it a favourite among advanced surfers.
Mentawai Islands
Macaronis
A flawless left with mechanical shape. Perfect for performance surfing and the ultimate dream wave for many travelers.
HT’s (Hollow Trees / Lance’s Right)
A shallow right-hand barrel breaking over a perfect reef shelf. Heavy but iconic.
Kandui Left
A long, perfect left that delivers huge, heavy, open-barrel rides.
Rifles
One of the longest, most perfect right-handers in Indo, producing endlessly hollow sections.
Lances Left
Fun, forgiving, high-performance left. Loved by intermediates.
Java
G-Land (Plengkung)
A long left-hand point offering multiple sections — Speedies being the heaviest. Jungle camp vibes, raw power, and some of the most perfect barrels on earth.
Batu Karas
A gentle, user-friendly right point great for beginners, longboarders, and cruisy sessions.
Pacitan Reefs
A series of high-performance peaks on a stunning coastline.
Sumbawa
Lakey Peak
A symmetrical wave offering perfect A-frame barrels in both directions. Consistent and beautiful.
Lakey Pipe
A shallow, hollow left that offers intense drops and draining barrels.
Scar Reef
A powerful left that dishes out thick, heavy barrels for experienced surfers only.
Yo-Yo’s
A reliable right-hander that works in all swell directions. Great for intermediates.
Sumba
Nihiwatu (Occy’s Left)
A legendary left-hand wave that wraps along a pristine reef. Resort access only, but perfection when pumping.
Pero
A remote, beautiful reef break with hollow sections and clean walls.
Rote & Timor
T-Land (Nemberala)
One of Indonesia’s longest left-hand waves. Gentle, playful, and perfect for long rides. Great for mid-lengths.
Boa
A heavier, more advanced reef with punchy sections.
North Sumatra & Simeulue
The Peak (Simeulue)
A powerful A-frame with perfect barrels. Works on most swells.
Alus Alus
A reef break offering heavy, shallow barrels for experienced surfers.
Indonesia surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Learning to Surf in Indonesia
Best beginner spots:
- Kuta Beach
- Batu Bolong
- Serangan (small days)
- Padang Padang Right
- Gerupuk
- Gili Trawangan breaks
- Batu Karas
Benefits of learning in Indo:
- Warm water
- Consistent waves
- Cheap rentals
- Good instructors
- Easy to progress fast
Lessons cost AU$20–50.
Board rentals cost AU$10–20/day.
Safety and Etiquette
Indo is paradise, but the ocean demands respect:
- Watch the reef — it’s sharp and unforgiving
- Know tides; some breaks are unsurfable at low
- Wear reef booties at certain spots
- Bring a first-aid kit for cuts
- Protect your belongings in tourist zones
- Know your limits — Indo can humble even pros
Most accidents come from shallow reef or crowd collisions, not wildlife.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
Popular in:
- Uluwatu
- Canggu
- Lombok
- Nusa Lembongan
- Sumba
- Rote
Typical inclusions:
- Surf coaching
- Yoga + meditation
- Breathwork
- Healthy meals
- Ocean-view villas
- Transport to surf spots
- Cultural tours
Prices range AU$800–4,000 depending on luxury levels.
Accommodation Options for Surfers
Hostels: AU$10–25
Homestays: AU$15–40
Guesthouses: AU$25–80
Boutique surf camps: AU$80–200
Luxury villas: AU$200–800
Mentawai charter boats: AU$2,500–6,000 per week
Plenty of options to suit any budget.
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
Indo vs Australia:
- More consistent
- Warmer
- Cheaper
- More perfect reef setups
Indo vs Hawaii:
- More accessible for intermediates
- Cheaper
- Longer rides
- Less big-wave focused
Indo vs Central America:
- More reef barrels
- Heavier
- More consistent swell
Indo vs Maldives:
- More variety
- Heavier waves
- Cheaper overall
Indonesia remains the gold standard for surf travel.
Expenses (AUD)
Meals: AU$2–10
Water: AU$0.50–1
Scooter: AU$5–10/day
Boat missions: AU$20–60
Charters (Mentawai): AU$2,500–6,000
Accommodation: AU$10–800/night
Indonesia offers incredible value for extraordinary waves.
Cultural Notes
Expect:
- Warm, welcoming hospitality
- Deep religious traditions
- Temple ceremonies
- Gamelan music
- Rice terraces
- Local warungs serving cheap, delicious meals
- Respect for elders and family hierarchy
Cultural respect is deeply appreciated in Indonesia.
Cell Coverage & Wi-Fi
Bali + Lombok: fast, strong connectivity
Java: improving
Sumatra: decent in major towns
Mentawais + remote islands: very weak or none
SIM cards are extremely affordable.
Environmental Impact
Indonesia’s world-class surf spots and pristine waters are a magnet for surfers from around the globe, but this popularity comes with real environmental challenges. As surf trips and surf camps multiply in hotspots like Bali and the Mentawai Islands, the pressure on local ecosystems is growing. Pollution from increased tourism, plastic waste, and untreated runoff can threaten the health of coral reefs—the very foundation of Indonesia’s epic waves. Overfishing and careless anchoring by boats can further damage these fragile environments, putting the future of legendary surf breaks at risk.
Surfers have a unique connection to the ocean, and with that comes a responsibility to protect it. Whether you’re chasing barrels in the Mentawai Islands or enjoying fun waves in Bali, simple actions make a difference: choose eco-friendly surf camps, minimize single-use plastics, respect local guidelines, and support conservation efforts. Many destinations now encourage reef-safe sunscreen and organize beach clean-ups, helping to keep Indonesia’s surf spots clean for the next generation.
By making sustainability a core part of every Indonesia surf trip, surfers can help ensure that these pristine waters, vibrant reefs, and world-class waves remain unspoiled. Protecting the environment isn’t just good for the planet—it’s essential for the future of surfing in Indonesia.
Final Thoughts
Indonesia is the greatest surf destination on Earth — a place where perfect waves are a daily occurrence, where swells wrap into crystal-blue coves, where jungles meet coral reefs, and where surfers can chase the experience of a lifetime across thousands of islands. Whether you’re learning in Kuta, getting barrelled at Padang, travelling by boat through the Mentawais, scoring Desert Point on a dream swell, or exploring under-the-radar reefs in Sumbawa, Rote, Java, or Sumatra, Indo offers something unmatched anywhere else.
It’s warm, beautiful, endlessly diverse, and spiritually powerful. The waves will push you, humble you, reward you, and stay with you forever. Surfers from every corner of the world come to Indonesia not just for waves, but for connection, transformation, culture, adventure, and the deep sense of joy that surfing here brings.
Indonesia isn’t just a surf trip — it’s a pilgrimage, a chapter in every surfer’s life, and the closest thing we have to wave perfection.
A tropical surf paradise beyond imagination.
