Best Surfing Beaches in Indonesia

The world’s largest archipelago Indonesia is located on the Ring of Fire where volcanic activity is prominent causing rugged landscapes and formations. It is a country packed with diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches and biodiversity. With an active surf scene paired with breathtaking backdrops, consistent swells, and a surf culture deeply interwoven with local life, Indonesia isn’t just a surfing destination, it’s the holy grail. When it comes to world-class surf destinations, Indonesia isn’t just on the map, it is the map. So wax up, paddle out, and discover the ultimate line-up of Indonesia’s finest surf spots, ranked from legendary to laid-back.

1. Mentawai Islands, West Sumatra

The Mentawais are the crown jewel of Indonesia’s surf scene. Mentawai Islands, located off the west coast of Sumatra is a remote chain of over seventy islands only accessible via boat or surf charter, so you can uninstall Google Maps on your phone. From the hollow barrels of Hollow Trees to the playful peelers at Ben Bengs, the islands have something for every advanced surfer. It’s home to a large variety of flora and fauna, lush tropical rainforests, clear turquoise waters, and the Mentawai tribe, known for their unique shamanistic culture. Tucked away from the mainland crowds, It’s like a surfer’s own tropical surf playground, with no traffic, just turquoise tubes.

1. G-Land, Java

What makes this destination ideal for advanced surfers is the fact that G-land has one of the longest, most powerful left-hand reef breaks in the world. A left-hand reef break that can hold up to 12 feet of waves, especially in the May – October (dry season). Situated in a remote jungle area on the edge of Alas Purwo National Park in East Java, G-Land is unique for its wild and unspoiled surroundings. An Indonesia travel package including G-land takes you through divided sections with Kongs at the top of the point with occasional barrels for professional surfers while Keyhole offers an easier paddle-out zone, making entry and exit safer and more manageable. It’s all fun and waves until your arms forget how to paddle back

1. Uluwatu, Bali

Uluwatu has cliffs more dramatic than a theatre act and waves stronger than espresso. Found on the southern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, the beach is best fit for intermediate to advanced surfers due to its fake take-offs and sharp reef. Its entrance is unique, descending a staircase through a cave to reach the paddle-out point is not what people expect when they plan to peacefully reach this point in one piece. Uluwatu Temple offers a surreal backdrop especially during sunset to the surfers during their sessions. The wave breaks into four sections – The Peak, Racetracks, Temples, and Outside Corner, each catering to different swell sizes and daring levels.

1. Desert Point (Bangko-Bangko), Lombok

Desert Point is renowned for its legendary left-hand point waves that are ridiculously long, hollow, and can stretch up to 300 meters. It features one of the most challenging waves and delivers some of the best barrels in the world when the swell, tide, and wind align. It is a pilgrimage for surfers waiting for the right conditions to hop into the water, the remoteness and raw beauty of the place adds to the mystique. Desert Point lies at Lombok’s southwestern tip, just a brief boat journey from Bali’s coastline. It’s a destination where surfers come for the barrels and stay for the reef tattoos.

1. Padang Padang, Bali

Known for its fat and hollow left-hand reef break often called the “Balinese pipeline” because of its powerful, tube-heavy wave. It is best suited for advanced surfers during the dry season from May to September with big south-southwest swells and mid to high tide. Padang Padang right is a more beginner-friendly option, especially at high tide. If the waves don’t knock you out, the stairs on the way down just might. The beach attracted global fame after being shot in the movie Eat Pray Love and is now a beloved spot for both surf photographers and pros, also because of its photogenic aura. Annual surf contests like Rip Curl Cup keep Padang Padang in the spotlight.

1. Lakey Peak, Sumbawa

Lakey Peak located on the southeastern coast of Sumbawa is a wave magnet. Its A-frame reef break gives both left and right rides making it a consistent favorite for intermediate to advanced surfers. The left has occasional barrels and is longer than the right one. Lakey Peak picks up swells all year round especially during April to October. It nurtures a relaxed atmosphere and has grown into a thriving surf community with budget-friendly stays, chill cafes, and scooter rentals. The place is void of any beach parties or out-of-place activities, it’s just surfers, sunsets, and sand goblins.

1. Nias Island, North Sumatra

Nias is infamous for its world-class right-hand reef break at Lagundri Bay, near Sorake. All level surfers are welcomed by the waves, from beginners to professional surfers, the waves here can range from playful to psycho. The island gets a heavy reliable swell all year long, the wave is heavy, and strong and offers a perfect barrel section making it a paradise for experienced surfers. Nias practices its culture with ongoing traditions like Lompat Batu (stone jumping) or the War Dance, which is regularly performed by tourists. As an island strongly connected to its culture, Gunungsitoli’s main town holds the Museum Pusaka Nias which exhibits over 6000 artifacts tied to Nias’ cultural heritage.

1. Canggu, Bali

Canggu features a trove of beaches such as Echo Beach, Berawa, and Batu Bolong spot on for beginner to intermediate surfers. Fostering a large surf community, the area includes surf schools and shops which are available so you don’t end up looking like a tourist if you don’t know how to surf. Canggu is gaining the masses’ attention by becoming a digital nomad hub for its laid-back atmosphere, economical cost of living, and good internet. It is dotted with a productive lifestyle inclusive of organic cafés, co-working hubs, nightlife, yoga studios, and trendy shops creating a surf-town vibe that appeals to both travelers and digital nomads.

Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer, the waves of Indonesia welcomes all levels. Surfing here is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life and a connection between tradition and adventure. Regardless if you’re chasing barrels, learning your first pop-up, or simply soaking in the tropical bliss, Indonesia serves up a surfing experience as diverse and wild as its islands. So pack your bags, because if surfing doesn’t excite you then the multitude of activities and picturesque surroundings definitely will.