Overview – Is There a Best Time to Surf in Bali?
Yes, the best time to surf Bali depends on your surfing level, the coast you want to explore, and what kind of conditions you’re after.
Bali has waves 12 months a year, but there are two main surf seasons that change everything:
The Dry Season: (April to October)
In this time of the year you will experience almost no rain, slight offshore breezes, and an average temperature of 28ºC.
The Wet Season: (November to March)
Now it’s time for glassy mornings, fewer crowds, and monsoon rainfalls that are most of the time followed by bright sunshine. The average temperature in the wet season is slightly higher at about 31ºC.
Dry Season (April to October) West Coast Dominates
Winds: Offshore from sunrise to sunset due to easterly trade winds.
Swell: Polar storms form regular southwest swells hitting the Bukit Peninsula at a perfect angle.
Ideal For: Intermediate to advanced surfers, though beginners will also find the right size and wave quality.
Main Spots: Uluwatu, Bingin, Impossibles, Padang Padang, Balangan
Crowds: Peak months are July and August.
This is when Uluwatu shines. Long-period groundswells groomed by offshore winds make the waves powerful but perfect all day long.
Wet Season (November to March) East Coast Comes Alive
Winds: Onshore on the west coast, offshore on the east.
Main Spots: Keramas, Serangan, Nusa Dua, Sanur
Ideal For: All levels of surfers chasing fewer crowds.
Bonus: Warmer water, quiet lineups, and lush tropical landscapes.
Due to unpredictable weather, experienced surfers can score epic waves and beginners can have less struggle with smaller waves on the east coast. Wind changes fast, so flexibility is key. Surf camps usually have the best pick for the day.
DID
YOU
SURF
TODAY?
Month-by-Month Breakdown
JANUARY
Wet Season
East coast best, glassy mornings
FEBRUARY
Wet Season
Light winds, good for early sessions
MARCH
Transition
Unstable, but hidden gems possible
APRIL
Dry Season Begins
Consistent swell begins
MAY
Dry Season
Ideal for beginners / intermediates
JUNE
Peak Dry
High consistency, larger swells
JULY
Peak Dry
Crowds peak, epic surf
AUGUST
Dry Season
Similar to July, slightly smaller swells
SEPTEMBER
Dry Season
Still consistent, fewer crowds
OCTOBER
Transition
Last great month before rains
NOVEMBER
Wet Season
East coast starts to work
DECEMBER
Wet Season
Good if you chase specific winds
Recommendations by Skill Level
Beginners: May, October, early April (small swell windows)
Intermediates: May, June, September, October
Advanced: June, August on the west coast, and December to February on the east coast.
Though it needs to be said that all levels will find waves that suit their skills all year round in Bali.
Where Should You Stay?
If your focus is the west coast, stay in Uluwatu, Padang Padang, or Bingin. You’ll be minutes from five or more reef breaks and can walk to several surf spots.
For wet-season missions, Keramas or Nusa Dua on the east coast is ideal. One big advantage of the Bukit is that going from west to east takes only about 20 minutes by motorbike or car.
Plan Your Trip with Expert Help
Not sure when to come? Check CARI Surf Camp or send us your dates. We’ll tell you what waves to expect honestly.
CARI Surf Camp Uluwatu
Progress Faster with local experts. Want to surf these legendary breaks with confidence? Join CARI Surf Camp, the largest surf camp in Uluwatu!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to surf in Bali?
Bali has waves all year. The dry season from April to October is best for west-coast surf, while the wet season from November to March often favors the south and east coasts.
Is the dry season or wet season better for surfing in Bali?
Both seasons can be excellent. Dry-season trade winds and southwest swells favor Uluwatu, Bingin, Impossibles, Padang Padang, and Balangan. During the wet season, Keramas, Serangan, Nusa Dua, and Sanur can offer cleaner conditions.
What are the best months for beginner surfers in Bali?
May, October, and early April often provide smaller swell windows that are more comfortable for beginners. Conditions change daily, so a local surf coach can choose the safest spot.
Which Bali coast works best during the wet season?
The east and south coasts are usually the most useful during the wet season, including Keramas, Serangan, Nusa Dua, and Sanur. Wind and swell can change quickly, so flexibility is important.
Where should I stay for a Bali surf trip?
For west-coast surf, stay around Uluwatu, Padang Padang, or Bingin. The Bukit Peninsula is also practical in the wet season because you can reach the east coast in about 20 minutes by motorbike or car.
