10 Top Surf Spots Near Sanur, Bali: Your Complete Guide to the Best Waves

Sanur, with its calm waters and beautiful sunrise views, might not be the first place that comes to mind for surfing. But this peaceful coastal town sits perfectly positioned for surfers who want to explore some of Bali's best waves. Whether you ride a scooter along the coast or paddle out from the beach, amazing surf spots are waiting just minutes away.

This guide reveals the top 10 surf spots near Sanur that every surfer should know. From gentle beginner breaks right off Sanur Beach to world-class barrels at nearby reefs, you'll find detailed info on each location. We've included exact addresses, skill levels, and what makes each spot special.

Why Sanur is Perfect for Surfers

Sanur offers something special that busier areas like Kuta and Seminyak can't match: a relaxed home base with easy access to diverse surf breaks. You can surf mellow reef breaks in the morning, then cruise 30-40 minutes to famous spots like Uluwatu or Keramas in the afternoon. The calm village atmosphere means better rest between sessions, while the central location on Bali's east coast puts you close to both wet-season and dry-season waves.​

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Many surf schools operate from Sanur's beaches, offering boat rides to offshore reefs that are perfect for learning. The warm welcome from locals and lower crowds compared to Canggu make this area ideal for surfers of all levels.​

1. Baby Reef (Sanur)

• Address: Accessible by boat from Pantai Mertasari, Sanur, Denpasar, Bali

• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Best Season: Wet season (November to April)

Baby Reef sits about 700 meters offshore from Sanur Beach and offers one of the best learning environments in Bali. This protected reef break creates soft, controlled waves that help developing surfers build confidence without fighting heavy currents or sharp shallow reefs.​

Surf schools love Baby Reef because it works well on small swells and mid to high tides. The slow left and right peaks give plenty of time to practice your pop-up and turns. Even on larger days elsewhere, Baby Reef often stays manageable for those still learning.​

You'll need a boat to reach Baby Reef, but many surf schools near Mertasari Beach offer affordable boat taxi services. The peaceful setting and low crowds mean more waves for you.​

What Makes It Special: Perfect wave shape for beginners, consistent during wet season, protected environment​

2. Hyatt Reef (Sanur)

• Address: Off Fairmont Sanur Beach, Jalan Danau Poso, Sanur, Denpasar, Bali

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Rating: Fun factor 8/10

• Best Season: Wet season (November to April)

Hyatt Reef breaks nearly 2 kilometers offshore at the southern corner of Sanur's reef system. Despite its name, the break actually sits in front of the Fairmont Sanur hotel rather than the Hyatt. This positioning makes it one of the most exposed and powerful waves in the Sanur area.​

The reef has three distinct sections: the Outer Peak, Main Peak, and Inside Peak. The outside peak delivers short, steep, hollow waves suitable only for expert surfers. The main and inside peaks offer intermediate-friendly long rides that work best on high tide with medium swells.​

Getting there requires either a long paddle or a boat charter for around Rp 100,000. Most surfers choose the boat option to save energy for surfing. The current can be intense when swells pick up, so early morning sessions work best before winds strengthen.​

What Makes It Special: Multiple peak options, long rides, less crowded than other reef breaks​

3. Sanur Reef

• Address: Front of Grand Inna Bali Beach Hotel, Jalan Hang Tuah, Sanur, Denpasar, Bali

• Skill Level: Advanced to Expert

• Rating: 9/10 when conditions align

• Best Season: Wet season with large south-southwest swells

Sanur Reef stands as one of Bali's premier waves when everything comes together perfectly. This fast, hollow right-hander creates incredible barrels over shallow reef, making it suitable only for advanced surfers who know how to handle critical drops.​

The break needs rare conditions to show its true power: large wet-season swells (1.5x overhead to double overhead), high tides, and westerly offshore winds. When these elements align, surfers get treated to barrel sections that can lock you in for over 100 meters.​

Strong localism exists here because the wave fires so rarely. When Keramas and Nusa Dua reach double overhead, that's when Sanur Reef comes alive. The heavy drop and relentless barrel demand expert-level skills and reef awareness.​

You can access Sanur Reef from the end of Jalan Hang Tuah, the same spot where ferries depart for Nusa Lembongan. The view from passing boats offers a spectacular glimpse into the barrel.​

What Makes It Special: World-class right-hander, epic barrels, rare and special conditions​

4. Serangan

• Address: Jalan Pulau Serangan, Sesetan, Denpasar Selatan, Bali 80229

• Skill Level: All levels

• Rating: Fun factor 8/10, Crowd factor 9/10

• Best Season: Wet season (November to March)

Serangan Island lies just 500 meters off the coast of South Bali, connected by a causeway that makes access easy. This surf spot sits about 15 minutes from Sanur and offers multiple peaks that cater to surfers of every ability level.​

The reef produces both left and right-hand waves that break from waist high to double overhead. What makes Serangan special is its versatility—it works on all tides and offers different peak options depending on swell size and direction. Beginners can find gentle sections on higher tides, while advanced surfers chase bigger sets farther out.​

Getting there is simple: drive over the causeway on Jalan Pulau Serangan, pass the security checkpoint (small fee required), and park near the warungs. On high tides, paddle straight out through the breaking waves. On lower tides, walk carefully across the reef, watching for sea urchins in coral holes.​

The wet season brings the most consistent surf to Serangan, with November through March offering the best conditions. The spot can get crowded due to its easy access and multiple peaks.​

What Makes It Special: All-level waves, multiple peaks, easy access from land​

5. Seminyak Beach

• Address: Jalan Pantai Seminyak/Jalan Double Six, Seminyak, Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361

• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Rating: 4.5/5 for beginners

• Best Season: Dry season (April to October)

Seminyak Beach stretches along Bali's western coastline, offering consistent beach break waves that work for all ability levels. Located just 30 minutes from Sanur and 15 minutes north of Kuta, this golden sand beach has become one of the island's most popular surfing destinations.​

The beach features several distinct surf spots including Double Six, Gado Gado, Nixoma, and Ku De Ta. These breaks produce mellow walls with easy takeoffs and peaks that help you practice flow and turns. The sandy bottom makes it safer for learning compared to reef breaks.​

Double Six Beach sits at the southern end of Seminyak on Jalan Double Six. It's best surfed at mid to high tide when the waves become more peely and forgiving. Gado Gado offers both left and right-hand waves over sandy bottom, best at mid tide for clean takeoffs and longer rides.​

Ku De Ta Left and Right breaks in front of the famous beach club on Jalan Kayu Aya (Oberoi Street). The waves here are slightly punchier than central Seminyak, making them fun for intermediate surfers on bigger swells.​

Northeast trade winds during dry season blow offshore, creating clean conditions most mornings. Surf schools and board rentals line the beach, making it easy to get started.​

What Makes It Special: Long mellow rides, beginner-friendly, vibrant beach scene​

6. Keramas

• Address: Keramas Beach, accessible via Komune Resort, Jalan Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra, Gianyar, Bali

• Skill Level: Advanced to Expert

• Rating: World-class (hosts WSL events)

• Best Season: Wet season (November to March), but surfable year-round

Keramas Beach on Bali's east coast delivers one of the world's most exciting right-hand reef breaks. This black sand beach sits about 30 minutes from Sanur via the coastal road through Sanur. The powerful waves break over shallow volcanic rock, creating fast, hollow sections and perfect barrels.​

The wave demands respect—it features steep drops, shifty takeoff zones, and critical barrel sections. Mount Agung's offshore winds blow almost daily, providing clean conditions especially during wet season. Dry season mornings also work well before afternoon onshore winds arrive.​

Access is straightforward: follow Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai north from Sanur, turn right at the large monkey statue roundabout onto Jalan Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra, and watch for Komune Resort signs. Paid parking sits at the end of the road near the beach.​

Besides the main peak, Keramas Beach offers two additional spots: Carparks (both lefts and rights) and KFC or "Keramas Fried Chicken". High tide brings the best shape and safer conditions over the reef.​

The spot hosts professional surf competitions, attracting top surfers worldwide. The governed pecking order and competitive lineup mean you need strong skills and good surf etiquette.​

What Makes It Special: World-class barrels, offshore winds year-round, black sand beach, professional competition venue​

7. Padang Padang

• Address: Jalan Labuan Sait, Padang Padang Beach, Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung, Bali

• Skill Level: Advanced (Padang Padang Left), Beginner-Intermediate (Baby Padang Right)

• Rating: Top 5 surfing locations worldwide

• Best Season: May to September (dry season)

Padang Padang, known as "Bali's Pipeline," sits between Impossibles and Uluwatu on the Bukit Peninsula, about 45 minutes from Sanur. This legendary surf spot features two distinct breaks: the famous left for professionals and the gentler right beach break (Baby Padang) for intermediate surfers.​

The main left delivers world-class barrels when conditions align perfectly. The wave breaks over shallow reef at mid to high tide on rising swells, creating walled-up perfection with southeast offshore winds. On the best days, you'll see professional surfers who've flown in specifically to ride these incredible tubes.​

Baby Padang (Padang Padang Right) offers a more forgiving experience over reef, suitable for intermediate surfers looking to progress. This right-hander works year-round and maintains a friendly lineup atmosphere.​

Reaching the beach requires descending stone steps through a striking rock formation at the Padang Padang Beach entrance (small fee required). The picturesque sandy beach nestled between cliffs creates an unforgettable setting.​

Peak season runs May through September when consistent south-southwest swells combine with southeast trade winds. The wave can get intense with heavy crowds when it's firing.​

What Makes It Special: Legendary left-hand barrels, beautiful beach setting, iconic surf destination​

8. Uluwatu

• Address: Suluban Beach (Blue Point Beach), Uluwatu, Pecatu, Bukit Peninsula, Badung, Bali

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Expert

• Rating: 5/5 (Bali's premier surf spot)

• Best Season: Dry season (April to October)

Uluwatu reigns as Bali's most famous surf destination, sitting on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula about 50 minutes from Sanur. This vast reef playground offers five different peaks that turn on at different tides and swell sizes, all breaking left down the reef.​

The five main peaks are: Temples (least crowded), The Bombie (big wave spot), Outside Corner, The Peak, and Racetrack. Each section has its own personality, from powerful barreling takeoffs to long bowling walls with tapered shoulders. Ultimate rides happen when you connect multiple sections—waves from The Peak through to Racetrack or even Bombie to Outside Corner can deliver rides up to 2 kilometers.​

Access is through "The Cave" at Blue Point Beach. You'll climb down cliff stairs and squeeze between high rocks to reach the water. High tide lets you paddle directly in; low tide requires walking across sharp reef. The strong current demands respect and good paddling fitness.​

Uluwatu works on south to southwest swells and southeast winds. It rarely goes flat because of its exposed position, making it a dry season staple. The spot attracts Bali's hottest surfers and can get very crowded with competitive lineups.​

The clifftop setting near Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple adds cultural richness to the surf experience. Sunset sessions here become magical with kecak dance performances available at the temple.​

What Makes It Special: Five world-class left-hand peaks, consistent year-round, iconic Bali surf culture​

9. Canggu (Echo Beach)

• Address: Jalan Batu Mejan (Echo Beach), Canggu, Kuta Utara, Badung, Bali 80361

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Rating: World-class

• Best Season: Year-round

Echo Beach anchors Canggu's surf scene with powerful waves that break over reef about 40 minutes from Sanur. This black sand beach hosts three main surf spots: Echo Beach Left, Sandbar, and Rivermouth—all suited for intermediate to advanced surfers.​

The main Echo Beach break delivers fast, tubular left-handers over shallow reef right in front of Sate Bali restaurant. It creates some of the nicest tubes on Bali's west coast outside the Bukit Peninsula. The wave works best at mid to high tide with swells between 4-8 feet.​

Sandbar produces punchy, wedgy, mostly hollow peaks popular with bodyboarders. Strong currents here demand caution. Rivermouth breaks at the river's edge, offering a fast, tubular right-hander with an occasional left at lower tides.​

Parking costs 2,000-3,000 IDR for bikes and cars near the beach. Use the channel in front of Sandbar to paddle out safely, watching for submerged rocks at lower tides. No board rentals exist at Echo Beach itself, so bring your own.​

The area offers numerous beach clubs, warungs, and restaurants along the boardwalk. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent since the black sand gets hot during the day.​

What Makes It Special: Powerful tubes, year-round consistency, vibrant surf town atmosphere​

10. Balangan

• Address: Jalan Pantai Balangan, Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung, Bali (approximately 45 minutes from Sanur)

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Rating: 4.5/5

• Best Season: Dry season (April to October)

Balangan Beach offers a stunning white sand beach framed by cliffs with a long, consistent left-hand reef break. Located on the Bukit Peninsula's northern section, this spot sits about 45 minutes from Sanur in the cluster of world-class Uluwatu area waves.​

The reef break features multiple fast sections that rarely barrel except on powerful swells. Almost every wave breaks very fast, making it perfect for practicing high-line surfing and learning to generate speed while racing the wave. On overhead-plus days, the sections often connect beautifully, delivering breathtaking rides of 300-400 meters.​

Balangan works on all tides but breaks best at dead low and high tide on bigger swells, when advanced surfers come out. Beginners can surf here when swells are small and tides are high, sticking to the inside and riding whitewater. Just watch for rocks below the surface near shore.​

The wave quality may not match neighboring spots like Bingin or Padang Padang for barrels, but Balangan's beautiful beach setting and relatively undeveloped charm make it worth visiting. Southeast trade winds blow offshore during dry season.​

Access involves parking at the clifftop and descending to the beach, or parking near the beach via a bumpy, narrow road. Multiple warungs line the beach offering food, drinks, and gear storage.​

What Makes It Special: Long rides up to 400 meters, beautiful white sand beach, less developed atmosphere​

Best Time to Surf Near Sanur

Sanur's unique position on Bali's east coast means different surf spots work best at different times of year. Understanding seasonal patterns helps you score the best waves.​

• Wet Season (November to April): East coast spots like Sanur Reef, Baby Reef, Hyatt Reef, Serangan, and Keramas work best during wet season. Westerly winds blow offshore on these breaks, creating clean conditions. South and southwest swells filter through, lighting up the reefs.​

• Dry Season (April to October): West coast spots including Seminyak, Padang Padang, Uluwatu, Canggu, and Balangan shine during dry season. Southeast trade winds blow offshore, and consistent south-southwest swells from the Southern Ocean create perfect conditions.​

• Transition Months (April, May, October, November): These months offer the best of both worlds. You can surf west coast breaks in the early morning before winds shift, then head to east coast spots in the afternoon.​

Getting Around: Scooter Rentals Make It Easy

Exploring all these surf spots requires reliable transportation. A scooter gives you the freedom to chase waves wherever conditions are best. You can easily load a surfboard and cruise between beaches without relying on expensive taxis.​

Ready to explore Bali's best surf spots? Rent a scooter from Cinchy and enjoy hassle-free delivery to your location in Sanur. All scooters come with insurance, clean SNI-certified helmets, phone holders, and 24/7 support. Book your scooter online and start your surf adventure today!

Essential Surf Safety Tips

Surfing Bali's reefs and beaches requires awareness and preparation:

• Check conditions before paddling out: Wave size, currents, and reef exposure change with tides

• Wear reef booties on shallow reef breaks: Protect your feet from sharp coral and rocks​

• Respect the locals and lineup etiquette: Many breaks have established pecking orders​

• Surf within your ability level: Start at beginner spots before progressing to advanced waves

• Use boat access for offshore reefs: Long paddles can drain energy needed for surfing​

• Watch for rips and currents: Use them to paddle out but don't let them pull you off course​

• Bring sun protection and water: Tropical sun is intense, and staying hydrated matters

• Never surf alone: Especially at remote breaks or challenging conditions

Where to Book Surf Lessons

Several reputable surf schools operate near Sanur and surrounding areas:

• Sanur Surf School: Offers boat taxi services to Baby Reef and surf lessons​

• UP2U Surf School: Located in Legian, teaches at multiple beach breaks​

• Kima Surf Camps: Operates camps in Seminyak, Canggu, and other areas with guided sessions​

• Bali Surfing Camp: Runs programs at Kuta, Seminyak, Uluwatu, and other spots​

Most schools offer beginner packages, intermediate coaching, video analysis, and equipment rental. Prices typically range from 400,000-1,000,000 IDR per session depending on location and group size.

Plan Your Surf Trip

Sanur's central location and calm village atmosphere make it an ideal base for exploring Bali's diverse surf breaks. Whether you're learning at Baby Reef or charging barrels at Keramas, having your own transportation opens up endless possibilities.

Start your Bali surf adventure the right way. Book your scooter rental with Cinchy and enjoy convenient delivery, affordable rates, and top-quality service. With 24-hour free cancellation and POS payment options, planning your surf trip has never been easier.

The waves are waiting. Grab your board, rent a scooter, and discover why Bali remains one of the world's greatest surf destinations. From gentle learner waves to thundering barrels, the best surf spots near Sanur offer something for every surfer. See you in the lineup!