Beginner Surfing in Bali – Is Surfing for Me?

Some of our guests who have never surfed, or only tried once, ask: ‘Is surfing with Seaside Tribe really for me?’ Absolutely – if you’re curious, adventurous, and ready to challenge yourself (and laugh at a few wipeouts along the way), you’re in the right place.

We like to keep it real: surfing is both easy and difficult at the same time. At Kedungu, you’ll be learning in the real ocean – with real waves, real paddling, and the real thrill that makes surfing so addictive.

Why Kedungu is Special

Kedungu Beach is one of Bali’s most welcoming surf spots, with waves that suit all levels. For first-time beginners, we use a protected area close to shore where the waves are smaller and more forgiving – but still powerful enough to give you a true surfing experience.

Unlike sandy beach breaks where you only ride white water in knee-deep water, Kedungu is a semi-reef break. The ocean floor is a mix of sand and rock, creating longer, smoother rides and the feeling of real surfing from day one.

This balance – safe enough to learn, yet authentic enough to be exciting – is what makes Kedungu the perfect place for your first real surf lesson in Bali.

Surfing Feels Easy (and Hard at the Same Time)

Easy: With the right surfboard, guidance, and waves, you’ll likely stand up and ride your first wave within a session or two. Our surf guides make this possible by teaching you the fundamentals before you even paddle out – from how to position yourself on the board, to the right paddling technique, and the timing of your pop-up. They’ll also explain how waves form, which ones to catch, and which to let pass, so you start developing a surfer’s eye from day one.

Hard: The challenge comes from putting this theory into practice. The ocean has its own rhythm, and learning to paddle with strength, cross the shorebreak, and read shifting conditions takes time. But that’s where the knowledge of our guides really shines – they know Kedungu inside out, and will position you in the right spot, give you feedback after every attempt, and celebrate your wipeouts just as much as your first real rides.

What You’ll Need as a Beginner Surfer

Basic swimming skills: being comfortable in the water, able to float, swim, hold your breath, and stay calm if you fall in.
General fitness: you’ll need enough stamina to paddle, pop up, and use muscles you don’t normally work – especially in your shoulders, arms, and core. It’s a workout, but the stoke makes you forget the effort.
Courage: the ocean can feel intimidating at first, but every surfer started exactly where you are.

So, Is Surfing with the Seaside Tribe for You?

Surfing isn’t the easiest holiday activity you could choose – but that’s exactly why it’s so special. It’s more challenging, more rewarding, and way more fun than you might expect.

At our small surf camp, Seaside Tribe in Kedungu, Bali, you’ll learn real surfing in a supportive, community-focused environment. We keep it personal: small groups, local surf guides who know the waves inside out, and a crew that cheers for every little victory – from your first paddle to your first ride.

So if you’ve been asking yourself, “Could I be a surfer?” the only way to find out is to give it a go. Join our tribe, catch your first wave, and discover why surfing becomes a lifelong love for so many.

👉 Ready to experience real surfing in Bali? Check out our Seaside Tribe surf packages and start your adventure today.