What was once a small hard-to-get-to village on the edges of Kuta has now morphed into the Canggu people know today–a well-loved surfing centre that attracts all walks of life, from digital nomads, expatriates, yogis, and hipsters.
The waves this side of Bali suit different skill levels, from pro surfers to those dipping their toes into the sport. Both long rides and shallow barrels can be found in Canggu, so it welcomes all types of surfers. It even has a famous wave named after it called the Canggu River Mouth, so named because of its location at the river’s end.
Read on for everything you need to know about Canggu surfing, from the best surf spots, surfing seasons, and surf camps.
What are beaches in Canggu like?
Canggu is home to Canggu Beach, Batu Bolong Beach, Echo Beach, Berawa Beach, Nelayan Beach, Batu Belig, and Prancak Beach. Unlike the white sand beaches in the South of Bali, the shores of Canggu are lined by grey, powdery dark sand from the volcanic rock in the northern part of the island. People flock to these beaches at sundown, and the beach bars can be packed, especially in high season.
Lining these beaches are a variety of spots, from Berawa Beach near Seminyak up to Echo Beach, where waves are not for the faint of heart. Around these beaches are plenty of accommodations, from high-end resorts and hotels to budget-friendly surf hostels and guest houses.
All along the beaches, you can find local surf instructors, with long and short board rentals ready for students and local warungs for lazing on bean bags and sun loungers with shady umbrellas. Take a stroll in the morning with local beach and dog walkers, or come for the famous sunsets later in the day. Canggu beaches are popular with locals and tourists alike.
When to surf in Canggu
Waves are plentiful in Canggu all year round. The best time to surf in Canggu depends on what kind of breaks you’re after (height, power, consistency). In general, though, there are two seasons for surfing in Canggu.
Monsoon Season (November to March)
Don’t let the term monsoon season mislead you. Monsoon season in Bali is a time when the wind is particularly strong. Even when it rains, the showers are sparse or pass by quickly.
During the monsoon season, waves are less powerful on the west coast. As a result, advanced surfers who want more challenging waves pack up and move elsewhere on the island. But this also means the monsoon season is perfect for beginners. A word of caution, though: Bali waves can be fickle and big waves sweep up unexpectedly, so stay cautious.
Dry Season (April to October)
Summer in Bali starts in April, and surfers are raring to paddle out once the East to Southeast trade winds rev up. The dry season is also great for surfing in Canggu because high swells come to visit this west coast.
During this period, the southwest winds create offshore surf conditions ideal for surfing. The biggest swells typically occur between May and September, with waves ranging from 3-10 feet in size.
It’s worth noting that the surf conditions can be affected by variables like tides and winds, so it’s a good idea to check on the surf forecast or consult with local surf experts before heading out.
Canggu Surf Lessons for Beginners – FINNS Surf Academy
Don’t let the long barrels intimidate you. There are plenty of surf schools around Canggu to ease you into surfing. We recommend taking surf lessons or enrolling in a surf camp to get a good foundation in the sport and learn proper surf etiquette, a must when surfing in a sought-after location like Bali.
Bali is a fantastic place to learn surfing, and there are many camps. Professional instructors will also instruct you on proper pop-up form and wave positioning.
If you’re a newbie or not fully confident in your skills, join us at FINNS Surf Academy, located in the heart of Canggu. Our surf camp welcomes beginners and intermediate surfers of all ages.
At FINNS Surf Academy, you can take one-on-one lessons with experienced surfers who know the ins and outs of the sport. In no time, you’ll be able to paddle, pop out on a surfboard, and ride the waves easily.
If you learn best in a group environment, FINNS Surf Academy also has small group classes to hone your skills.
Here are the programs offered at FINNS Surf Academy.
3 Days – Learn to Surf Program
Gain the confidence to take on the waves in just three days with the Learn to Surf Program at FINNS. This course will teach you the basics of surfing including correct technique and form. The instructor will help you perfect your skills through video analysis.
Plus, lessons start at the pools at FINNS Recreation Club, so you can learn in a comfortable environment before surfing the ocean waves on the beaches of Canggu. You’ll also get to go on two surf trips during the Learn to Surf Program.
4 Days – Intermediate Intensive Program
Refine your surfing prowess through FINNS Surf Academy’s Intermediate Intensive Program. By the end of this program, you’ll be well-versed in intermediated surfing techniques and confident enough to tackle more challenging waves.
The sessions are intensive and span six hours. Lessons include how to practice mind-body connection and how to master breath-holding for long periods.
As indicated by the program name, you’ll feel like a fearless surfer once you finish the program. As a bonus, you’ll get lunch and a fitness pass to FINNS Recreation Club to sweeten the deal.
Surf Lessons for Kids in Canggu – Kids Surf Program
Got little ones in tow during your Canggu trip? Sign them up for the Kids Surf Program at FINNS!
These lessons are the perfect way for kids to learn a new skill, socialize and have fun in a safe environment and under the tutelage of experienced teachers.
With skilled mentors at the helm, children between the ages of 8 and 14 can join this program, which provides surfboards and transportation to and from the beach. They are assured of having a great time and rapidly becoming skilled young surfers.
Guided Surf Trip
On top of the excellent surfing class repertoire at FINNS Surf Academy, we have a guided surf trip available every weekend for kids and beginners. During the trip, the surfing enthusiasts will surf under the watchful eye of coaches on the beaches of Canggu and Bali.
The guided surf trip is a great way to get a real feel for the waves outside class time and practice the techniques they’ve learned during the programs.
Best Canggu Surf Spots
Here are some of the best surf spots in Canggu for beginner to experienced surfers.
Berawa
Berawa is the perfect place for amateur surfers and beginners because of its classic left and right waves, coupled with reefs and a bottom that gradually tapers out. The waves are between 1-2m high. As a bonus for learners, there are many surfboard rentals and cafes or “warungs” in this area, so everything is taken care of, from equipment to refreshments.
Batu Bolong
Batu Bolong is another Canggu surf spot that’s great for beginners. It has sandy bottoms with small, around 1m high, and slow waves, perfect for practising turns and other foundational skills. The beach at Batu Bolong is also ideal for longboard and stand-up paddle surfing because of the slower and more rounded waves from both left and right. Riding the long waves at Canggu is less intimidating for these surfers.
Echo Beach
Echo Beach is the surfing epicentre of Canggu. The reef breaks are flat, ideal for surfing, and have both left and right waves and shallow reefs. However, this spot and its areas are best left to seasoned surfers.
Surf with us at FINNS Canggu
Don’t hesitate to contact our team for questions about surfing in Canggu or lessons at FINNS Surf Academy. After a thoroughly exciting day of surfing, make sure to drop by FINNS Beach Club to refresh by the pool and refuel with a snack and cocktail. We’re excited to have you at FINNS!
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