Bali’s Best Hidden Beaches for Surfing – Finding Secret Surf Spots Off the Beaten Path

Bali, known as the surfing capital of Indonesia, offers world-class surf spots that attract wave riders from across the globe. From the famous breaks of Uluwatu to the bustling shores of Kuta, Bali has long been a hotspot for surf enthusiasts. However, with its increasing popularity, these well-known spots can often become crowded, especially during peak season. For those seeking a more intimate and secluded surf experience, Bali’s hidden beaches provide the perfect solution.
Unlike the mainstream surf locations, Bali’s hidden beaches offer pristine conditions, fewer crowds, and an opportunity to experience the island’s surf culture in a more authentic and undisturbed setting. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking for a new challenge, these secret surf spots allow you to enjoy the waves while connecting with Bali’s untouched beauty.
In this article, we’ll uncover Bali’s best hidden surf beaches—places where you can escape the crowds, catch the perfect wave, and experience Bali’s surfing culture like never before.
1. Nyang Nyang Beach – Bali’s Best Kept Surfing Secret
Tucked away in Uluwatu, Nyang Nyang Beach is one of Bali’s best-kept surfing secrets. While Uluwatu itself is famous for its incredible waves, Nyang Nyang remains relatively untouched and much less crowded, offering a perfect escape for surf enthusiasts looking for some peace and solitude.
To reach this hidden beach, you’ll need to trek down a steep path through jungle terrain and rocky cliffs, but the effort is more than worth it when you reach the shore. The beach’s surf break is renowned for its powerful left-handers and consistent waves, making it a favorite for intermediate to advanced surfers. The surrounding landscape is incredibly picturesque, with white sand, clear blue water, and the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of surfing.
One of the biggest advantages of Nyang Nyang Beach is the lack of commercial development. This hidden paradise allows surfers to catch waves in peace and serenity, making it the ideal destination for those who prefer a quieter surf experience away from the crowds.
Local Tip: Due to the hike to reach the beach, it’s best to come with comfortable footwear and enough water to stay hydrated while exploring.
2. Green Bowl Beach – A Secluded Surfing Oasis
Green Bowl Beach, also located in Uluwatu, is a beautiful, hidden beach that offers a much quieter surf experience compared to the more popular beaches in the area. The beach is a secluded cove surrounded by cliffs, which provides a sense of privacy and a chance to enjoy the waves without the heavy crowds.
The surf at Green Bowl Beach is perfect for intermediate surfers, with consistent breaks and relatively uncrowded waters. The waves here are often less intense than those found at Uluwatu, making it ideal for those looking to improve their skills or simply enjoy a relaxing surf session in a beautiful setting. What makes Green Bowl Beach truly special is the tranquil atmosphere and the nature-filled surroundings that make it feel like you’re surfing in a private paradise.
The beach is accessible by descending a series of stairs that lead you through lush vegetation and past local stone temples. Although the path down is a bit of a challenge, once you reach the shore, you’ll find unspoiled beauty and perfect waves.
Local Tip: Come early in the morning to catch the best waves before the crowd arrives and to enjoy a peaceful and uninterrupted surf session.
3. Bingin Beach – A Hidden Gem for Surfing and Seclusion
While Bingin Beach has gained some recognition among local surfers, it is still considered one of Bali’s hidden gems for surfing. This beach is nestled in South Bali, just south of Uluwatu, and is famous for its fast, powerful breaks. Its relatively remote location makes it a great alternative to more commercialized beaches, offering an authentic surf experience for those willing to make the trek.
Bingin Beach is a favorite among advanced surfers due to its strong waves and challenging surf, but it also offers areas where intermediate surfers can enjoy the break with a little more ease. The beach’s backdrop of towering cliffs and lush greenery adds to the tranquility of the spot, creating a stunning and peaceful environment to surf.
The journey to Bingin Beach involves a bit of a walk down the cliffs, but it’s worth it for the beautiful views and the opportunity to catch some of Bali’s best waves in a more secluded setting.
Local Tip: Check the tides before heading out to Bingin Beach, as the surf can vary greatly depending on the water conditions.
4. Suluban Beach – The Perfect Hidden Surf Spot in Uluwatu
Often referred to as "Blue Point", Suluban Beach in Uluwatu is a hidden surf spot that’s tucked away beneath a towering cliffside. This surf paradise is accessed via a narrow cave and a series of stairs that lead you to the beach, making it a secret gem for those who enjoy a bit of adventure in their surf sessions.
Suluban Beach is famous for its challenging reef breaks, which attract experienced surfers looking for a bit of thrill. The beach’s narrow cove creates a unique surf spot with excellent left-hand breaks, making it a favorite for surfing enthusiasts who seek an adrenaline-packed experience. The cliffside view from the top also offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic vistas of Bali’s southern coastline.
One of the best parts of surfing at Suluban Beach is the sense of isolation you get. Because of its relatively hidden location, it is often less crowded than other popular surf spots in Bali, allowing for more uninterrupted waves.
Local Tip: Bring water shoes for navigating the rocky coastline and reef breaks to ensure safety and comfort during your surf adventure.
5. Karamas Beach – A Secret Surf Spot in East Bali
Located on the east coast of Bali, Karamas Beach is a lesser-known surf spot that provides both seclusion and great surf conditions. Unlike the more crowded surf locations in Kuta and Seminyak, Karamas offers a more peaceful and authentic surf experience.
Karamas Beach is known for its consistent, clean waves that break both left and right, making it perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers. The beach is not only beautiful but offers a true Balinese atmosphere, where you can surf while experiencing local culture. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and barren lands, providing a scenic and peaceful environment.
While Karamas Beach is not as popular as other spots, its waves and surrounding beauty are perfect for those who are willing to venture further east and experience the island’s more hidden surf locations.
Local Tip: Visit Karamas Beach during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the few surfers who frequent the area and enjoy a quiet surf session.
Why Bali’s Hidden Surf Beaches Are So Special
Bali’s hidden surf beaches offer so much more than just perfect waves—they provide an escape from the crowds, a chance to immerse yourself in Bali’s natural beauty, and the serenity of surfing in secluded spots. These hidden gems allow surfers to enjoy Bali’s legendary surf breaks without the hustle and bustle of the more tourist-heavy areas like Kuta or Seminyak.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a less crowded beach to practice or an advanced surfer seeking challenging reef breaks, Bali’s remote surf spots have something to offer everyone. The beauty of these hidden beaches lies not only in the surf conditions but also in the sense of discovery that comes with finding your perfect wave in an undiscovered spot.
By choosing one of Bali’s hidden surf beaches, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the island’s raw natural beauty while experiencing some of the world’s best waves.
Bali’s Hidden Surf Spots – A Surfing Adventure Awaits
Bali’s hidden beaches offer the perfect balance of surfing and solitude, where surfers can enjoy Bali’s world-class breaks without the distractions of overcrowded beaches. Whether you’re heading to Nyang Nyang Beach for some peaceful waves, discovering the thrill of Suluban Beach, or enjoying the serene surf at Karamas Beach, these secret spots provide the perfect environment for surfing enthusiasts.
Bali’s hidden surf locations are a treasure trove of natural beauty and surf culture, and they offer the ultimate surf adventure for those looking for something unique. So, pack your surfboard, venture off the beaten path, and discover some of Bali’s best hidden surfing spots. Your next surf adventure is waiting!