The best surf islands near Bali
— for beginners
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Introduction
Bali has some of the best surf spots in Indonesia for beginners, and it’s the go-to destination for those just starting their surfing journey. It’s full of mellow waves, surf schools, and sandy-bottom beach breaks that are perfect when you’re just starting out. But what happens after you’ve caught your first few green waves and feel ready to explore something new?
If you’re looking to take your surf adventures beyond Bali, there are some nearby islands offering beginner-friendly waves – and fewer crowds. These are perfect if you’re looking for a more quiet and different experience that is not as commercial as Bali. In this post, I’ll share three beginner-friendly surf islands near Bali that I recommend.
I’ve teamed up with Lineup Experience, a curated surf trip tool that recommends surf spots based on your level, style, and needs. It’s especially helpful once you move beyond beginner beach breaks — the app offers tailored suggestions, with local tips, live forecast data and logistics so you always know where to surf and how to approach it.
The best surf spots in Indonesia for beginners, beyond Bali
In this post, I’ve listed three of the best surf islands near Bali for beginners — East Java, Lombok, and Sumbawa — and I’ll share insights to help you decide which island suits you best.
1. East Java
East Java is just a short ferry ride from Bali, yet far less developed and much quieter. The first time I visited Indonesia back in 2014 I spent a few days in East Java exploring the island with two close friends. We hired a local guide — a friendly family man who drove us to beautiful places, showed us around the island, and took us to a beginner-friendly surf spot. We were even invited to his home for dinner, where his wife prepared a nice meal and we got to meet their children. It was a truly special experience that made me fall in love with Indonesia — not just for the waves, but for the warmth of the people.
Even if this was quite some time ago and it has developed a bit since, I’ve been told that East Java is still one of those places that feels like a hidden gem — it’s one of the best surf islands near Bali for beginners that are looking for empty lineups. The surf spots here are uncrowded and the island itself is just beautiful — perfect if you’re craving a slower, more local experience.
There aren’t tons of surf schools or resorts, but that’s part of the charm. Instead, you’ll find peaceful surf towns where life revolves around the tides, and sunsets are best enjoyed with your board stuck in the sand.
Surf spot recommendation for beginners in East Java
While most surfers know the region for the legendary barrels of G-Land, there’s a completely different side to this area that’s perfect for beginners. The beaches near Grajagan village offer soft, sand-bottom waves that are mellow and forgiving. From here, it’s easy to go to Tiger Tracks that gets more swell if there’s not enough power at the Grajagan beaches.
Who is East Java for?
Those looking for an authentic Indonesian experience in a quieter, more rural setting. East Java is easy to reach from Bali, yet it feels worlds away. The surf lineups are uncrowded, the locals are friendly, and the scenery is beautiful.
- Pros: Easy to reach, uncrowded surf, budget-friendly, rich cultural experience
- Cons: Fewer amenities, limited nightlife, can feel very remote
East Java is just a ferry ride from Bali. Expect quiet beaches, uncrowded waves, and a taste of rural Indonesia
2. Lombok
If you haven’t visited Lombok I highly recommend putting it on your list — I wish I had spent at least another week here. It’s such a stunning island, with lush jungles, white sand beaches, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for both relaxing and surfing. It’s one of the best surf islands near Bali.
Lombok offers the same tropical surf dream as Bali with fewer crowds on the island itself, although the surf lineups can get rather crowded nowadays. Most surf spots are accessible by boat, and there are several surf camps and board rentals availabe.
The southern coast of Lombok is home to some of the most beginner-friendly waves on the island. I recommend staying in Kuta Lombok — it has a laid-back atmosphere, but still plenty of great cafés, shops, and markets to explore between surf sessions. Here you’ll fall into the rhythm of ‘surf-eat-sleep-repeat’.
Surf spot recommendation for beginners in Lombok
Selong Belanak is a stunning white sand beach with soft, rolling waves – it’s one of the best surf spots in Indonesia for beginners that are completely new to surfing. The sandy bottom makes it ideal for your first sessions. If you’re just starting out, this is the spot. More confident beginners and intermediates can venture out to spots like Gerupuk Inside Right for longer rides and a gentle reef wave experience.
Who is Lombok for?
Those who want easy access to mellow waves and a fun, social atmosphere. Kuta Lombok is a great base — it’s relaxed but lively, with good food, stylish cafés, and a welcoming surf scene. While the island is quieter than Bali overall, the popular beginner spots can still get crowded in the water.
- Pros: Easy to reach, social vibe yet not too busy, great beginner waves
- Cons: Lineups can get busy
Chill surf vibes, tropical backdrops, and beginner-friendly waves are just a scooter ride away if you stay in Kuta Lombok
3. Sumbawa
While I have not (yet) visited Sumbawa myself, I’ve partnered up with Lineup Experience to share beginner-friendly surf insights and what makes this island worth the trip.
Sumbawa is a remote island east of Lombok, known for its raw beauty and world-class surf. While many of the waves here are suited for more advanced surfers, there are also a few beginner-friendly breaks.
The island itself is peaceful and rural, with far fewer tourists than Bali or Lombok. Expect stunning landscapes and a true “surf trip” feel. It’s best for beginner surfers who are comfortable traveling off the beaten path and paddling out with more independence.
Surf spot recommendation for beginners in Sumbawa
In Central Sumbawa, Lakey Pipe Beach — also known as “Inside Beachie” — is a great option for beginners. It’s easy to access, has soft, forgiving waves, and several surf schools nearby. West Sumbawa, on the other hand, is more remote and harder to reach, with fewer schools and more advanced or lesser-known spots, making it less ideal for beginners.
Who is Sumbawa for?
Independent beginner surfers who are ready to go a little off the grid. If you’ve moved past whitewater and feel comfortable surfing mellow reef breaks, Sumbawa can be a dream. Just be prepared for a more rural experience and simple accommodations.
- Pros: Uncrowded lineups, stunning scenery, great for some digital detox
- Cons: More remote, which makes it a bit more time-consuming and costly to reach. Not great for complete beginner surfers.
Sumbawa is raw, remote, and peaceful — perfect for those looking to escape the busier Bali scene and don’t mind fewer modern comforts
Which island should you choose?
East Java, Lombok and Sumbawa have some of the best surf spots in Indonesia for beginners. But which island is the best one for you? I’ve put together a comparison table below to help you decide.
|
Island
|
Vibe
|
Surf crowd
|
Accessibility
|
Best for
|
Downsides
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
East Java
|
Rural, authentic, peaceful
|
Uncrowded
|
Easy (ferry from Bali)
|
Culture-rich surf trips and quiet progression
|
Fewer amenities, limited nightlife, can feel very remote
|
|
Lombok
|
Relaxed yet social
|
Medium to crowded
|
Easy (ferry, fast boat or flight from Bali)
|
Those wanting a balance of surf and fun town life
|
Lineups can get busy
|
|
Sumbawa
|
Remote, raw, adventurous
|
Uncrowded
|
Moderate (flight or ferry – takes time and can cost more)
|
Surfers seeking solitude, nature, and empty waves
|
Takes time to get to, fewer modern comforts
|
So, which one is best for you?
If you’re after a peaceful, authentic adventure close to Bali, East Java might be your spot. Want a more social surf vibe with a mix of comfort and crowd? Lombok could be the perfect fit. And if you’re ready to explore somewhere truly off the beaten path with uncrowded waves and raw beauty, Sumbawa is calling.
Get personalized surf spot recommendations in Indonesia with Lineup Experience
If you’re planning a surf trip to any of the islands I’ve shared in this post, or other Indonesian islands, and want to discover more surf spots, Lineup Experience is your go-to tool. Lineup Experience gives you surf spot recommendations tailored to your level, with curated real-world guidance on where to go, what to bring, and what to expect before and after you paddle out. Instead of sorting through generic surf maps, you get local clarity — fast.
It’s especially helpful once you start surfing more independently and progressing toward the intermediate level, and you want to be sure you’re heading to the right spots, at the right time, without spending hours on research.
Quiz: test your knowledge
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this post! Whether you have suggestions for improvement, want to share what you liked, or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Your feedback helps me create better content for all aspiring surfers!