Crowded but mellow: Batu Bolong for beginner surfers

Let me introduce you to Batu Bolong, the beating heart of Canggu’s surf scene—and one of the best places in Bali to learn to surf.

Batu Bolong is the main beach in Canggu, about 30 minutes north of Seminyak. It’s known for long, rolling waves that peel gently over a mostly sandy bottom, making it perfect for beginners. The lineup here is always  VERY llively—expect a mix of learners, local instructors, and more experienced surfers hunting for something mellow. 

???? The surf
Batu Bolong is a soft, sloping reef and sand break. The waves break far out and roll in a long, forgiving way that gives beginners plenty of time to get to their feet. If you’re just starting, you’ll probably spend most of your time in the inside whitewater practicing pop-ups. Once you’re ready for green waves, the outside sections can deliver long rides on smaller swells.

It’s crowded almost every day, especially at mid-tide in the mornings. But if you’re patient—and smile a lot—you’ll still get your waves.

And there’s more baddish news.

???? Water quality
Mixed. Bali’s dry season (May–October) tends to be cleaner, but after heavy rains, runoff from nearby rivers can cloud the water and bring debris. If you have sensitive skin, it’s worth rinsing off right after your session.

???? Wardrobe
Boardshorts, bikinis, or a surf suit are perfect—no wetsuit needed. The water stays around 27–29°C (80–84°F) year-round. Sun protection is a must. The sun here is no joke, so don’t skip your zinc and a good rash guard.

☀️ Best time for beginners to go
April to October is prime time. Dry season brings more consistent swell and offshore winds in the mornings, making conditions cleaner. November to March is the wet season—more rain and onshore winds, but you can still find fun waves if you’re flexible.

⚠️ Hazards
Batu Bolong is beginner-friendly, but there are a few things to watch out for:

• Crowds: This is one of Bali’s busiest breaks. Collisions and dropped boards are common.
  
• Reef: It’s mostly sand with patches of reef—be mindful if you fall feet-first.
  
• Longboards: Most people here ride longboards, so always look around before you paddle for a wave.

???? Rentals + lessons
You’re spoiled for choice. Dozens of surf schools and beach shacks offer board rentals and beginner lessons. Look for instructors with ISA certification or strong reviews.

???? When you’re not surfing

• Grab a smoothie bowl or coffee at the local shacks
  
• Watch the sunset with a Bintang in hand at Old Man’s.
  
• Explore Canggu’s boutiques, markets, and yoga studios.
  

???? Solo friendly?
Absolutely. Batu Bolong is a magnet for solo travelers. The vibe is friendly, social, and easy-going. You’ll find surf hostels, co-working spaces, and endless cafes to meet other wave-chasers. Just be ready for the occasional scooter traffic jam and a lineup that feels like rush hour.

Author: The Wipeout Weekly team