Uluwatu Surf Guide | Explore The Best Surf Spots Without a Car

An Introduction To Uluwatu Surf

Uluwatu surf, Nestled along Bali’s rugged Bukit Peninsula, is a surf mecca renowned for its world-class waves, breathtaking cliffs, & laid-back vibe. Accessible by bike or short walks, Uluwatu & nearby beaches provide surf experiences for different levels, making it ideal for surfers looking to travel without the hassle of a car.

At the heart of the surf scene is Uluwatu Beach, renowned for its powerful reef breaks, challenging waves, & breathtaking cliffside views that have made it an iconic surf destination in Bali.

Just a stone’s throw away are Padang Padang, Bingin Beach, & Dreamland—each offering its own distinct surf conditions, from Padang Padang’s famous barrels to Bingin’s consistent left-handers & Dreamland’s expansive sandy shores.

Together, these beaches create a vibrant local surf culture where surfers can immerse themselves in diverse wave experiences against stunning backdrops & enjoy the laid-back beach lifestyle that Bali is known for.

Best Time For Uluwatu Surf

Seasons:

Dry Season (April-October): Consistent swells, best for intermediate & advanced surfers.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.
Wet Season (November-March): Variable conditions, less crowded but still decent surf.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.

Surf Conditions:

Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 10 foot, best with a southwest to south swell.
Break Type: Primarily reef breaks with rocky bottoms, creating powerful & hollow waves.
Tide & Wind: Best surf during mid to low tide, with east or southeast winds.
Skill Required: Intermediate to advanced surfers, though smaller swells are manageable for those with some experience.

Uluwatu Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius

Best Surf Spots	Distance from Uluwatu	Wave Size	Wave Quality	Skill Level
Uluwatu Beach	In the town centre	3-10 foot	Powerful reef break	Intermediate to advanced
Padang Padang	Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) east	3-10 foot	Hollow, barrel waves	Intermediate to Advanced
Bingin Beach	Approx. 2.5km (1.5mi) east	2-10 foot	Left-hand reef break	Intermediate to Advanced
Dreamland Beach	Approx. 3.5km (2.2mi) south	2-8 foot	Consistent beach break	All levels

Access To Uluwatu Surf Spots

Best Surf Spots	Walking Time	Biking Time	Public Transport
Uluwatu Beach	5 min.	Not required	Not required
Padang Padang	Approx. 25 min.	5-10 min.	5 min taxi
Bingin Beach	Approx. 50 min.	Approx. 20 min.	10 min taxi
Dreamland Beach	Approx. 60 min.	Approx. 25 min.	25 min taxi

Accommodation in Uluwatu

Accommodation Type	Description	Price Range per night (EUR)	Price Range per night (USD)
Hostels	Dormitory-style accommodation	€10 to €32	$12 to $35
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments	Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units	€45 to €120	$50 to $130
Luxury Stays	Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments	€140 to €190+	$150 to $200+

How To Get To Uluwatu

How to get to Uluwatu from Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS)
To reach Uluwatu, the most convenient route is to fly into Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS) & then take a taxi to your destination.

Below is a guide with estimated costs & various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Uluwatu based on your preferences & budget.

Distance: 22 km (14 mi)

Taxi or Ride-share (Best Option)
- Time: 45 min.
- Cost: Approx. $20-$30 USD
Public Transport (Bus + Ojek)
- Time: 1.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $10 USD per person

Discover Uluwatu: What to Do When the Waves Are Flat

When the waves aren’t on, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at Uluwatu. Here are five great things to do around Uluwatu:

Explore Uluwatu Temple:
Perched dramatically on a cliffside, Uluwatu Temple offers awe-inspiring ocean views, serene surroundings, & daily Kecak dance performances at sunset.

Watch the Kecak Fire Dance:
Held every evening at Uluwatu Temple, this captivating dance involves a chorus of chanting performers & is set against a stunning sunset backdrop, adding a unique cultural experience.

Dine at Cliffside Restaurants:
Enjoy fine dining or casual eats with breathtaking ocean views at cliffside restaurants like Single Fin. Relish local & international cuisine while watching the waves & sunset.

Visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park:
Just a short drive from Uluwatu, this cultural park features the iconic Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue, traditional Balinese dance performances, & exhibitions on Bali’s rich heritage.

Unwind with a Spa Day:
Experience Balinese spa treatments in luxurious settings. From cliffside spas with ocean views to serene jungle retreats, Uluwatu has many options to relax & rejuvenate.

Exploring Denpasar: The Best Sights and Landmarks to Visit

If the surf isn’t working for a few days, you can easily head to Denpasar to enjoy its vibrant culture, famous landmarks, & incredible dining scene.

Visit Bajra Sandhi Monument:
This iconic monument in Renon Park honors Bali’s history & struggle for independence. Climb to the top for panoramic views, & explore the museum inside to learn about Bali’s cultural heritage.

Explore Pasar Badung Market:
Dive into local life at Bali’s largest traditional market, offering fresh produce, textiles, spices, & handicrafts. It’s a vibrant place to shop, taste local street food, & experience Bali’s market culture.

Tour Bali Museum:
Located near Puputan Square, this museum provides a rich collection of Balinese art, archaeology, & ethnography. Learn about Bali’s fascinating history, culture, & ancient artifacts across four different buildings.

Relax at Sanur Beach:
Though close to Denpasar’s city center, Sanur Beach offers a tranquil escape with calm waters & a long beachside promenade. Take a walk or bike ride along the shore & enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, art markets, & oceanfront cafes.

Experience Sakenan Temple:
Located on Serangan Island, this beautiful temple is a cultural landmark dating back to the 10th century. Sakenan is especially lively during the Kuningan festival, when locals make colorful offerings, & processions bring the temple to life.