A beginner's guide - Bali
Padang Padang Right surf spot guide (Baby Padang)
Brief spot overview: Padang Padang Right, located close to the famous Padang Padang Left, is a great beginner spot in Uluwatu. Unlike its challenging counterpart, it offers smaller, gentler waves, perfect for learning. This is a popular beginner’s surf spot, so it tends to get crowded.
What you’ll learn in this guide: This Padang Padang Right surf spot guide covers key spot info, wave characteristics, and the best surf conditions to help you time your sessions just right.
The area
Location information
Surf spot name: Padang Padang Right (also known as Baby Padang)
Geographical location: Padang Padang Right is located on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, near the popular surf town of Uluwatu. To reach it, head to the Padang Padang Beach entrance where you need to pay a small fee. From there, walk down the stone steps through a cliffside opening, leading you directly to the beach.
What you need to know
General spot information
Ability level
Padang Padang Right surf spot is good for beginners and intermediates. However, since it's a reef break I do not recommend it if it's your very first time surfing- instead, try a sand bottom break, like Kuta Beach.
Crowd factor
High. Padang Padang Right surf spot tends to be quite crowded, especially due to its small size. With many beginners in the lineup, the spot can feel packed, particularly during peak hours.
Water temperature
Ranges from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) – a wetsuit is not needed but I personally prefer wearing a spring suit.
what the waves are like
Wave characteristics
Wave type: Reef break with mellow, soft waves
Wave direction: Right
Surf height: The surf height typically ranges from waist to head high making it ideal for beginner surfers
When to surf
The best surf conditions
The best swell direction
The best wind direction
The best surf height
The best tide condition
Basic essentials available
Amenities and facilities
Other activities
What to do in Uluwatu besides surfing
1. Explore hidden beaches and hike: Discover quiet beaches and scenic cliffside walks with stunning views.
2. Relax at beach clubs: Spend a day at popular beach clubs like Sundays Beach Club.
3. Spas: Enjoy massages, facials, and wellness treatments at local spas.
4. Shopping: Browse boutiques and markets for unique jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. ELCE Swim is my favourite store in Uluwatu.
5. Fitness activities: Stay active with yoga, pilates, gym sessions, or join a dance class.
6. Uluwatu Temple: Visit this cliffside temple for breathtaking views and cultural performances like the Kecak fire dance.
7. Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park: Explore this cultural park with impressive statues and performances showcasing Bali’s heritage.
8. Watch the sunset: Enjoy stunning sunsets from cliffside viewpoints, beach clubs, or Uluwatu Temple.
9. Nightlife: Experience Uluwatu’s laid-back nightlife with beachfront bars and live music. Popular spots like Single Fin, El Kabron, Savaya, and Hatch offer a great mix of drinks, dancing, and socializing by the ocean.