Over the last few years Canggu has become one of Bali’s key destinations for surfers, digital nomads, and those seeking nightlife. Offering a strong surf community and an eclectic mix of beaches and surf spots, Canggu now rivals Kuta and Seminyak in popularity. However, Canggu’s waves, while versatile, don’t handle larger swells as well as the famous Bukit Peninsula reefs that you would find in Uluwatu.

Surfing conditions in Canggu are ideal when waves are head-high to slightly overhead. Smaller waves are inconsistent, and bigger ones can become too challenging.

Canggu’s surf spots are spread across five main beaches From south to north:

• Berawa Beach
• Nelayan Beach
• Batu Bolong Beach
• Echo Beach
• Pererenan Beach

While Berawa and Pererenan are technically outside the boundaries of Canggu, they are often still referred to as part of Canggu due to their close proximity and the area’s growing popularity as a cohesive surf and lifestyle hub.

Canggu Surf Tips

1. Skill Levels in Canggu

While Echo Beach and Pererenan cater to more advanced surfers, Batu Bolong and Old Man’s Beach remain beginner-friendly. However, conditions can change quickly. It’s crucial to check tide and wind conditions daily, as these can heavily influence the quality and safety of the waves. This is particularly important during the wet season, as onshore winds and debris from nearby rivers can degrade water quality.

2. Berawa and Pererenan: Part of the Canggu Surf Scene

While Berawa and Pererenan technically fall outside the boundaries of Canggu, locals and visitors alike still refer to these spots as part of the broader Canggu surf area. Over the years, Canggu’s popularity has grown to encompass these neighboring beaches, and they share much of the same surf culture and vibe. So, don’t be surprised if you hear them casually lumped together under the Canggu umbrella.

3. Choose Your Spot Based on Skill Level

Canggu offers surf spots for all abilities, but it’s crucial to know which break suits your level. Batu Bolong and Old Man’s are perfect for beginners, with softer waves and longboard-friendly conditions. For intermediate surfers, Berawa provides a bit more challenge with its punchier waves, while Echo Beach and Pererenan deliver fast, powerful rides suited for advanced surfers. Keep in mind that conditions can change quickly with tides and wind, so always check local reports before paddling out.

4. Beat the Crowds with Early Sessions

Canggu is no secret anymore, and its surf spots can get packed, especially at popular breaks like Echo Beach and Sandbar. If you’re looking for more space, your best bet is to head out early—well before 9 AM. This is when you’ll find the cleanest waves and the fewest surfers. For those who want an even quieter session, Berawa and Pererenan are usually less crowded than the busier spots like Batu Bolong.

5. Wet Season Water Quality

The wet season (November to March) brings more than just onshore winds—it also affects the water quality, particularly at River Mouth and areas near river outlets. After heavy rain, runoff can carry debris into the ocean, making the water murky and less pleasant to surf. If you’re sensitive to water quality or prone to ear infections, it’s a good idea to pack earplugs or avoid these spots after rain. Dry season, from April to October, offers better water quality and more consistent conditions.

6. Respect Local Surf Etiquette

With the rising popularity of Canggu, it’s important to respect the local surf culture. The lineups here can get competitive, so practicing good surf etiquette—like giving priority to locals and not dropping in on waves—will go a long way toward maintaining harmony in the water. Don’t be afraid to ask abo

Berawa Beach Surf Spots

The Peak

Berawa Beach features several surf spots, with The Peak offering versatility for all surfers. On smaller days, it provides mellow waves, while larger swells create high-performance walls and the occasional barrel. It works well across all tide levels, making it a consistent option for a variety of skill levels.

The Ledge

The Ledge is a faster, barreling right-hander that works during low tide and larger swells. Due to its shallow reef, this wave is recommended only for experienced surfers. Its steep take-off and hollow sections create challenging but thrilling rides.

The Bombie

The Bombie is a deeper-water wave, breaking further out from the shore. This right-hander requires a solid swell to work but offers long, softer waves when it’s on. Popular with SUP riders and those on bigger boards, The Bombie is a less-crowded alternative to Canggu’s busier spots.

Nelayan Beach

Between Berawa and Batu Bolong lies Nelayan Beach. While the waves here are less consistent, Nelayan offers a peaceful retreat from Canggu’s more crowded breaks. This beach also caters to kite surfers when the wind picks up.

Batu Bolong Beach Surf Spots

Batu Bolong

Batu Bolong is a top spot for beginners and longboarders due to its soft, slow-breaking waves. The wave breaks both left and right, often peeling for more than 100 meters. This spot can get crowded, especially in the morning when conditions are optimal, so arriving early is recommended.

Old Man’s

Just south of Batu Bolong, Old Man’s offers a mellow wave, suitable for beginners. It breaks both left and right and is best at low to mid-tide. The wave becomes softer and less consistent at high tide, making it an easygoing spot for longboarders and novices.

Echo Beach Surf Spots

Echo Beach Left (Stairs)

Echo Beach is known for its black sand and offers several popular surf spots. Echo Beach Left, often called Stairs, is a powerful left-hander breaking over a shallow reef. It’s best surfed at mid to high tide when the reef is covered. Low tide can expose the reef and make the conditions less surfable. Stairs is popular for its barrelling sections, making it a favorite among intermediate to advanced surfers. Cafes line the shore, giving spectators a prime view.

The Sandbar

Positioned between Echo Beach Left and River Mouth, The Sandbar is an A-frame wave, breaking both left and right. The left-hand side can offer barrels, while the right is typically shorter. This spot attracts advanced surfers, especially during mid to high tide, and is ideal for practicing aerial maneuvers due to its sandy bottom and shifting peaks.

River Mouth

The River Mouth is one of the premier surf spots in Canggu, offering a right-hander with hollow sections. It works best at high tide, creating powerful and consistent barreling waves. On larger swells, it can hold waves up to 1.5x overhead, drawing intermediate and advanced surfers alike.

Pererenan Beach

Pererenan Beach offers both left and right reef breaks. The right-hand wave provides longer, more relaxed rides, while the left is steeper and faster. Pererenan is often less crowded than Echo Beach or Batu Bolong, providing a quieter surf experience for intermediate surfers.

When to Surf in Canggu (West Coast Conditions)

The best time to surf in Canggu is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. Morning sessions are typically optimal, with light offshore winds and clean conditions. As the day progresses, trade winds can create sideshore or onshore conditions, but evening sessions can still offer quality waves. The wet season, from November to March, brings more onshore winds, though there are still opportunities to surf during lighter wind windows. Beginners may prefer this season for smaller, more manageable waves.

Canggu has made its way onto the Surfing Map of Bali

Canggu is now a vibrant surf destination with a range of waves for every skill level. From the soft beginner-friendly waves at Batu Bolong to the more high-performance barrels at Echo Beach, Canggu offers something for everyone. The area is also a hub for digital nomads, wellness seekers, and those looking to enjoy Bali’s nightlife, making it a well-rounded destination for surfers and non-surfers alike. There are plenty of accommodation options, suitable for backpackers and travelers who are keen on spending their time in a beautiful resort or a luxurious villa. There are plenty of surf schools and local surf teachers offering their services.

With five main beaches — Berawa, Nelayan, Batu Bolong, Echo, and Pererenan — this newly developed destination offers a diverse coastline for surfing. The waves are generally larger than those in Kuta or Legian, and early morning sessions often yield the best conditions. The ground is mostly reef with some sandy patches, so, as always be mindful when paddling out and check with the surfers and locals if you are unsure about the conditions.