Surfs Up in Bali: Kuta Beach Surf Fest and Top Surfing Spots

TheIndonesia.co - Kuta Beach, Bali’s iconic surfing destination, came alive once again as 136 surfers from across the globe gathered to compete in a vibrant surfing competition organized by Beachwalk Shopping Center. This event is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the spirit and identity of Kuta, a place that has long been at the heart of Bali’s tourism and surf culture.

Kuta’s 2025 surfing competition is more than just a sporting event—it's a symbol of cultural revival and continuity. As tourism patterns shift and evolve, Bali’s waves remain constant, drawing surfers from all walks of life. Whether you're a first-time surfer catching your very first wave or a seasoned pro chasing barrels at Uluwatu, Bali welcomes you with open arms—and open waters.

Half of the participants were local Indonesian surfers, while the rest hailed from countries with deep surfing roots such as Australia, Japan, South Korea, and various parts of Europe. Reksa Hartoyo, Campaign & Experience Manager at Beachwalk, stated that this diverse turnout underscores the global appeal of Kuta Beach and its legendary waves.

Reviving Kuta’s Surfing Legacy

Reksa noted that in recent years, tourism in Bali has shifted toward newer, quieter destinations like Uluwatu, Canggu, and Nusa Lembongan. As a response, the competition—held from June 18th to 22nd, 2025—aims to reaffirm Kuta’s legacy as a world-class surfing hub.

“We want to remind people that Kuta is still here,” Reksa said, according to Antara News Agency. “Despite the shifts in tourism, Kuta remains alive—with its surf, its culture, and its spirit.”

The two-day surfing event featured five categories: Junior, Longboard Men, Longboard Women, Open Men, and Open Women. With a prize pool of IDR70 million (about USD 4,300), the competition saw participation from surfers as young as five years old. The first day focused on preliminary rounds, leading up to the semifinals and finals held the next day. Winners were honored in a ceremony on Friday, June 20th.

Organizers were pleasantly surprised by the enthusiasm, especially given that registration was open for just one week due to the need to monitor weather conditions. Reksa expressed optimism about future events, noting that the competition not only provides a platform for skill development but also encourages young surfers to pursue their passion.

“This is an opportunity for the youth to train and grow in the sport,” Reksa added. “We’ve seen strong interest from both local and international participants, and we’re confident this tradition will grow stronger.”

More Than Surf: Celebrating Kuta’s Cultural Roots

Beyond surfing, Beachwalk Kuta Fest 2025 served as a cultural showcase. The five-day festival included traditional Balinese performances, craft exhibitions, and collaborative efforts with local community leaders to highlight the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Kuta.

Gita Sunarwulan, General Manager of Beachwalk Shopping Center, emphasized the festival's role in rekindling the charm of Kuta post-pandemic.

“We are celebrating the essence of Kuta through local arts, culture, and community involvement,” Gita said.

Best Surfing Spots in Bali and How to Get There

While Kuta remains an accessible and lively spot for beginner surfers, Bali is home to a range of world-class surf destinations suitable for all skill levels. Here's a quick guide to the best surfing beaches in Bali and how to reach them:

1. Kuta Beach (Beginner-Friendly)

• Why Surf Here: Consistent, soft waves ideal for beginners. Surf schools are plentiful and affordable.
• Getting There: Just 15 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Easily accessible by taxi or scooter.
• Best Time to Surf: March to October (dry season).

2. Uluwatu (Advanced)

• Why Surf Here: Home to some of the most powerful and long left-hand reef breaks in Bali.
• Getting There: Around 45 minutes from the airport. A private driver or motorbike rental is recommended due to the winding roads.
• Best Time to Surf: April to September.
• Tip: Check out the famous Uluwatu Temple and clifftop sunset bars while you're there.

3. Canggu (All Levels)

• Why Surf Here: Offers a mix of beach and reef breaks. Popular among digital nomads and expats.
• Getting There: About 1 hour from the airport, depending on traffic. Many visitors opt to stay here due to the hip cafes and vibrant social scene.
• Best Time to Surf: May to September.
• Tip: Echo Beach is a favorite for more experienced surfers, while Batu Bolong suits beginners.

4. Padang Padang (Intermediate to Advanced)

• Why Surf Here: Often referred to as the “Balinese Pipeline,” it's a great spot for barrel chasers.
• Getting There: Located near Uluwatu, about 45 minutes to an hour from the airport.
• Best Time to Surf: June to September.
• Note: There’s also a smaller wave area ("Padang Padang Right") perfect for intermediates.

5. Medewi (Longboarding Haven)

• Why Surf Here: Known for its long, mellow left-hand point break, ideal for longboarders.
• Getting There: A bit off the beaten track—around 2.5 to 3 hours from the airport. Best reached by car.
• Best Time to Surf: April to October.
• Tip: Stay overnight in a local guesthouse to enjoy the quiet charm of this sleepy village.

6. Nusa Lembongan (Uncrowded Reefs)

• Why Surf Here: Less crowded with crystal-clear water and great reef breaks.
• Getting There: Take a fast boat from Sanur Beach (30-45 minutes).
• Best Time to Surf: March to October.
• Top Spots: Playgrounds (intermediate), Lacerations (advanced), and Shipwrecks (intermediate to advanced).

Planning Your Bali Surf Trip

• Transportation: For the most flexibility, consider renting a scooter (IDR 60,000/day or ~$4) or hiring a private driver for longer journeys. Be cautious and ensure you have an international driver’s license.
• Accommodation: From luxury resorts near Uluwatu to budget hostels in Canggu, Bali has options for every traveler. Many surf spots also offer surf camps with accommodation, meals, and lessons included.
• Surfboard Rentals: Available at nearly every surf beach, ranging from IDR 50,000 to 100,000 (~$3 to $6) per hour.
• Surf Schools: Especially in Kuta and Canggu, there are numerous schools offering beginner lessons with English-speaking instructors.