Dreaming of a trip to paradise? Indonesia could be the next destination on your list. Take a look at SurfGirl’s Guide to Indonesia to plan your surf holiday of a lifetime.
Indonesia is a country of contrasts. Bustling streets and silent reefs. Parties silenced by unforgettable sunsets. Located within the coral triangle, the country is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, and the surfing is life-changing.
Indonesia often gets a bad rep. With complaints that it’s touristy or overcrowded, but maybe that’s from people who are going to the wrong places. What many often don’t realise is that Indonesia is an archipelago of over 17,000 islands. From Bali that everyone knows and loves, to more remote paradises like Sumbawa and beyond.
Our travel editor, Scar spent 2 months travelling across the country, finding you the best spots to surf in Bali and beyond, finding amazing surf stays and exploring what makes Indonesia such a bucket list destination. So let’s get into it.
Canguu
Canggu is often the place people point to when they say Indonesia is “too touristy”, and there’s no denying that it’s busy, but it’s also where many trips begin for a reason. The energy is infectious, and it’s a soft landing into Indonesian culture if it’s your first time in the country.
Mornings revolve around tides and coffee, afternoons around heat and recovery, and sunsets are best spent in the water or watching from the sand. It’s creative and constantly evolving, and no one can argue that Canggu is not a lot of fun.
Uluwatu
The cliffs are imposing and the waves are serious. Uluwatu is where Bali’s surf heritage really shows itself. Uluwatu break itself is not for the faint-hearted, think long paddle-outs, and a reef break that demands respect. You don’t want to get on the wrong side of the cliffs there.
For the less experienced surfers, if you aren’t keen on heading to Padang Padang with the crowds, try Thomas Beach in the middle of the two. You’ll have quite a few stairs to climb down to get to the beach, but it’s so worth it. Even if you’re not surfing, just watching the sets roll through from the cliffs is enough to understand why people fall so hard for this place.
Medewi
Way up in the West of Bali is Indonesia’s longest wave. A dreamy left-hander that lives up to its fame. Medewi is a place where things start to shift. Fewer cafés, fewer distractions, and life that’s dictated almost entirely by the swell. The wave here is a long, rolling left that requires patience; it’s a challenging surf, and needs some paddle power and good positioning, but its so so rewarding.
Medewi is getting more popular as a spot, so it’s best to keep on the right side of the locals and brush up on your surf etiquette before you go. You’ll definitely stay out longer than you planned. Life feels simple in Medewi. The focus is firmly on the surf. It’s not flashy, and that’s why it’s so enticing.
Lombok
Lombok feels like Bali’s wilder, less polished sibling. The mountains are bigger and greener and the roads are less structured, which means more adventure and fewer crowds if you’re willing to explore. Reef breaks in Lombok will be some of the most beautiful places you have ever seen. It’s difficult to fathom that places like this exist.
There’s a rawness here that makes you feel like you’ve stepped slightly off the main path, and it can be the place where people start to understand just how vast and diverse Indonesia really is.
Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is not normally a well-known destination for the surf, but there is a consistent reef break on the Sunset side of the island. The lineup is complete with the most amazing view of Lombok, making for some breathtaking moments. The surf scene is more basic here, with surf schools operating from the beach, without the big marketing budgets of some of the other islands.
You can’t go to Gili T without trying out some scuba diving. Book a try dive, to see sharks, turtles, mantas and tropical fish, all in their own environment. And finally, it’s not called the party island for no reason. There’s something on every night!
Nusa Lembongan
Just a short boat ride from Bali, and with turquoise water and dramatic cliffs, it’s not a stop you want to miss on your trip. The names of the breaks are slightly intimidating: lacerations, no man’s, razors, so I would advise getting an instructor with good local knowledge to take you out to a level that is right for you.
Across the bridge at Nusa Ceningan, sunset beers at Mahana Point are unbelievable. Depending on your level, you can cliff jump into the surf with your board to surf, or watch with a beer from the restaurant.
The waves here are world-class and powerful, drawing surfers from all over the world, but there’s still a laid-back island rhythm that softens the edges.
Scar Reef, Sumbawa
Sumbawa is otherworldly. Remote, rugged and unapologetically surf-led, this is not a place you stumble upon by accident. It’s a bit harder to access than the locations mentioned so far, but you’d be crazy to pass up on the opportunity to surf empty waves in paradise.
Scar Reef is one of those breaks that makes the journey worth it, fast, and demanding, but endlessly rewarding if you get it right. At the same spot, there is Bingin and Phantoms, both with more accessible surf, and the locals will take you out to a spot that suits your level.
Sumbawa is what Bali and Lombok were a decade ago. Unexplored perfection. There’s not a lot to distract you here. Wake up, surf, eat, sleep, repeat.
Here’s where you should stay:
Xanadu Surf & Yoga
Xanadu Surf & Yoga
Xanadu Surf & Yoga, Lombok
If Lombok is where Indonesia starts to feel wilder and more spacious, Xanadu is where you learn to truly slow down. With 2 locations: The Retreat, set just outside of Kuta, and The Village, which is at the heart of the town, both blend barefoot luxury with purpose, creating a space that feels nurturing, as you progress in your surfing.
Days are simple at Xanadu: early surf sessions on stunning reef breaks, yoga overlooking the ocean, long mealtimes, and afternoons spent between the spa and ice bath.
Xanadu has become a quiet force within Lombok’s surf scene, particularly for women. The atmosphere is inclusive and genuinely supportive, reflecting the island’s strong female presence in the lineup. Lombok’s waves are accessible for all levels, which makes progression feel natural, and the coaching reflects that same philosophy.
More than just a surf retreat, Xanadu is rooted in community. It’s a place where confidence grows both in and out of the water. You arrive for the surf, but you leave with a new energy.
Surf Goddess Retreat
Surf Goddess Retreat
Surf Goddess Retreat, Bali
Surf Goddess Retreat in Bali is the original surf and wellness retreat for women, celebrating 23 years of empowering women through surfing, self-care, and sisterhood.
Designed for beginners catching their first waves to intermediates refining their skills, the instructors teach at Bali’s most beginner-friendly surf breaks with a focus on safety, fun, and technique.
More than a surf camp, Surf Goddess is a complete surf and wellness retreat. Between surf sessions, you’ll enjoy unlimited spa treatments, daily yoga, and nourishing meals prepared by a private chef, thoughtfully tailored to individual preferences and dietary needs. At sunset, the Intention-Setting Cacao Ceremony weaves heart, ritual, and transformation into your experience.
Make your retreat uniquely yours, with a choice from 12 cultural, adventure, and wellness activities. From a Mount Batur sunrise trek, countryside cycling, and whitewater rafting, to snorkelling reefs and Holy Spring Temple ceremonies, you can experience Bali’s beauty and spirit in unforgettable ways.
This holistic blend of surfing, self-care, and cultural immersion allows you to go home not only a stronger surfer, but also renewed, inspired, and deeply connected to yourself.
Pelan Pelan
Pelan Pelan
Pelan Pelan, Bali
Pelan Pelan is about slowing down, and somehow, that’s exactly why people keep coming back. Tucked away in a secret corner of Bali, away from the crowds, this intimate surf and yoga retreat feels more like a home than a hotel, and that’s entirely by design. Pelan Pelan was built around the idea that when you remove pressure, connection naturally follows.
Surf days are relaxed and unhurried, yoga is grounding not performative, and meals are enjoyed long into the evening. The energy here is warm and open, created by a team who genuinely care, not just about your surfing, about how you feel while you’re staying. Guests often arrive solo and leave with friendships that last a long time.
There’s no rush to improve. That’s what makes Pelan Pelan so special. In an industry that can sometimes feel loud and competitive, this retreat offers something rare: space to breathe, and to reconnect, whether that’s with others or with yourself.
MojoSurf
Mojosurf
Mojosurf, Bali & Beyond
Rather than single-location camps, Mojosurf creates surf adventures, multi-stop experiences that take you across different islands, waves and cultures, with all logistics handled so your only job is to surf, explore and progress.
What began as an Australian surf company back in 1998 has grown into more than 27 years of chasing waves, teaching progression, and sharing the surf lifestyle with travellers from all over the world. With surf camps spread across Bali, Lombok, Nusa Lembongan and Java, Mojosurf offers a gateway into some of the country’s most iconic, as well as the lesser-known surf destinations. Whether you’re catching your very first wave or refining a certain skill, their instructors work with small groups to maximise your progression.
Canggu is where many Mojosurf journeys begin. From there, Mojo takes you deeper. Red Island in Java delivers uncrowded perfection and raw landscapes, while Nusa Lembongan offers boat access to world-class reef breaks in gorgeous turquoise water, and Lombok brings variety and adventure.
Accommodation ranges from social dorms to private bungalows, always comfortable and surf-focused. But Mojo is about more than where you sleep. It’s about shared sunsets, post-surf beers, new friendships, and that unmistakable feeling of freedom.
Marshmellow Surf & Wellness
Marshmellow Surf & Wellness
Marshmellow Surf & Wellness, Lombok
Where tranquillity meets adventure, Marshmellow Surf & Wellness is a soulful escape designed to empower both body and mind.
Marshmellow is tucked away in the quieter streets of the laid-back Kuta on Lombok’s stunning south coast. Lombok is still refreshingly untouched, making the perfect backdrop for meaningful adventure at a slower, more mindful pace.
The villa itself is a relaxing retreat, with a lush garden and pool area, comfortable lounge spaces and quiet corners to unwind.
What makes Marshmellow special is the thoughtful balance woven into every part of the experience. The program involves daily surf sessions paired with restorative wellness practices that encourage guests to relax, recharge, and grow. Expert surf coaching is tailored from beginners to intermediates, alongside additional surf training activities, yoga, ice baths, and free access to premium gym facilities, allowing challenge while supporting recovery.
Groups are kept intentionally small, creating a safe, welcoming environment where everyone feels encouraged. Flexible check-in days, a beautifully designed room, and nourishing daily breakfast and lunch make it easy to focus entirely on yourself.
Community and connection are at the heart of life at Marshmellow. Shared experiences, from beach BBQs and Sasak-style family dinners to village visits and sunset trips, connect guests with local culture and each other, fostering a warm, supportive atmosphere.
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Thank you to all of the brands who kitted us out for the trip!
Gandys
An outdoor brand with products that are made to see the world. From everyday, and travel bags, to wardrobe staples, they’re a one stop shop for travellers. Gandys don’t just look good, they do good too. With 10% of every sale going towards funding education for children all around the world.
STOX
STOX Energy Socks give everyone a simple and scientifically proven way to boost performance and take care of their legs. Designed with graduated compression to improve circulation, fight fatigue, and keep travellers comfortable on long trips, by reducing swelling and boosting blood flow.
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi is a sustainable outdoor brand that specialises in backpacks and accessories, with their standout Del Dia collection celebrating colour. Each item is made from fabric cut-offs that are handstitched together in the Philippines to create completely one-of-a-kind items, completely unique to its owner.
