If you’re planning to join a surf camp in Bali, you should pick a surf school in Uluwatu! Here are two surf camps in Uluwatu you should consider for your surfing holidays in Bali (which are also perfect for solo travelers). It’s the best way to learn to surf in Bali.

Many people see Bali as a surfing paradise! They are right, there are so many surfing spots around Bali (and some other islands in Indonesia), that make it the perfect spot for surfers of every level.

Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.

I recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, an affordable travel insurance offering automatic monthly payments that you can cancel anytime. I've been using it since 2019, and I can assure you it's the perfect solution for nomads like you and me. Learn more by reading our SafetyWing review.

When it comes to picking the right surf school in Bali it can be quite a challenge. There are so many options in Bali from quick lessons found on the beach to surfing hostels. The best way to learn how to surf is to join a surf camp especially if you have no experience at all. I did a couple of times, once in Portugal and, of course, in Bali!

One of the main surf spots in Bali is Uluwatu! Known for its beautiful waves, shades of blues and gorgeous views (especially at sunset time), Uluwatu should be on everyone’s list! A lot of people learn how to surf in Canggu, which isn’t necessarily the best option out there!

Here’s why you should consider going to a surf camp in Bali, how to pick the right surf school and why you should head to Uluwatu to do so.

Surf Spots in Uluwatu, Bali

Learn to surf Bali

Learning to Surf in Bali | Bali Surf Camps for Beginners and Intermediates

You can read about my experiences in Rapture Camps in Portugal, where I was facing my fears and learning how to become more confident in the water.

Many people dream of surfing at least once in their life, and it seems like you must try it if you’re heading to Bali.  

Rapture Camps Bali offers private surf lessons, guiding sessions for beginners and for intermediates.  I absolutely trust their team and it’s the best option out there for those who want to learn how to surf or simply improve their surfing skills. I believe it’s the best Bali surf camp out there!

Why You Should Go Surfing in Uluwatu | Uluwatu Surf Spots

Uluwatu is a great location when it comes to surfing. It’s close enough to many main surf spots such as Padang Padang, Impossibles, Bingin, Dreamland and Balangan, making it the perfect surfing base. Not too far from Nusa Dua you can also learn how to surf on the East Coast.

Uluwatu has also some of the best beaches in Bali as well as gorgeous views, cliffs and the sunsets out there are pretty amazing. Perfect for those who also want to party, you could end up at Single Fin on a Sunday night (or on Wednesday) for a night you won’t forget (or maybe you will actually!).

You can also find many good cafés and restaurants around Uluwatu. It’s a cool surf town that is worth visiting.

Best Surfing Schools in Bali | Picking Your Surf Camp in Uluwatu, Bali

I know I’ve been bragging a lot about Rapture Surf Camps in Bali, but I do want to share how amazing they are! There are two camps in Bali – Cliff and Padang. Both have different atmospheres, locations, and styles. I spent time in both camps and picking the right one can be quite challenging.

To help you make the right decision, here’s a list of advantages for both camps as well as reasons why you could consider one or the other.

Rapture Surf Camp Bali: Cliff

Rapture Camp Bali Cliff

Where to learn to surf in Bali

Why You Should Stay at Cliff Surf Camp

Cliff Surf Camp is super modern, classy and is a bit secluded. It gives you the peace and chill vibes you could be looking for. Located next to Green Bowl (which is an amazing beach by the way), it’s a great spot to truly relax and spend time at the camp.

The rooms are modern, new and absolutely fantastic! You can relax in peace pretty much anywhere in the camp as it’s quite huge and there are many spots where you can actually hide if you need to. The camp features an infinity pool as well as a lounge including a pool table and a ping-pong table.

It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers and people who are looking for relaxing between surf sessions. Cliff Camp does look like a surf resort!

I absolutely loved my time at Cliff Camp and I had the privilege to stay in the penthouse which features a huge balcony and a massive room! Of course, it was hard not to appreciate every single minute of my time at the camp!

Rapture Surf Camp Bali: Padang

 

Surf Camp Bali Padang Padang

Best place to learn to surf in Bali | Photo Credit: Rapture Camps

Why You Should Stay at Padang Surf Camp

Padang Surf Camp has a cosy atmosphere which makes it a lot more social! Not as big as Cliff, you get the jungle vibes and the location will allow you to visit the town and admire the sunset while you’re there.

If you’re planning on visiting Uluwatu, this choice would be smarter as it’s closer to the town and is surrounded by restaurants and cafés.

The rooms aren’t as new and modern as Cliff but they are quite comfortable. Although it did feel a lot more humid considering the environment is more “jungle-ish”. There’s also a pool at Padang as well as a pool table and a big relaxing spot where you can easily take a nap!

It’s ideal for solo travelers, party animals and foodies who want to get out and explore. Padang is also a great choice!

I did love my time in Padang as well!  I had a bungalow as well as an outdoor shower which was pretty cool! The location was great and it was a lot easier to be social and meet other people in this camp.

Final Decision: Which Bali Surf Camp Should You Pick?

Surfing in Bali

Best surf camp in Bali

Well, this isn’t an easy decision. If you have a bit of time I’d recommend you stay in both camps to get the most of the peace found in Cliff and the fun vibes found in Padang! If I had to go back for another Bali surf trip, I’d probably go to Cliff as I really love the ocean views as well as the modern setting!

Disclaimer: I was invited to Rapture Camps. 

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015. She is been living abroad since 2014. Originally Canadian, she has been living and working online in many destinations around the world. She is passionate about traveling, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit.

She has traveled extensively in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. She is now living in Thailand.


☑ Book your flight: Who said you won’t be able to find cheap flights? My top saving tip is flexibility. If you're flexible, you should be able to find a cheaper flight. Check out Skyscanner or Google Flights for the hottest deals.

☑ Book your accommodation: Want the comfort of being at home or the luxury of a hotel? I love using Vrbo and Booking.com for those very reasons. If you're a solo traveler, Hostelworld offers a wide variety of hostels you should take a look at. Alternatively, if you're a budget traveler, sign up for Worldpackers to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work.

☑ Rent a car or an RV: Make your trip more comfortable by renting a car with DiscoverCars.com. This website allows you to compare car rentals around the world. If you're traveling in the United States, find an RV rental on RVshare.

☑ Stay safe: Travel mishaps happen – so, better be safe than sorry by covering your back with travel medical insurance. I would suggest SafetyWing, Genki or Heymondo as they offer the best rates, especially for long-term travelers.

☑ Pack the essentials: Universal charger, check; power bank, check; passport, check! What else could you forget? I've put together this ultimate packing list just for you!

☑ Do you need a visa? If you aren't sure if you need a visa, it’s highly recommended for you to double-check. You can use iVisa - it's super useful and easy to use.

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.