A beginner's guide - Bali
Dreamland Beach surf spot guide for beginners
Brief spot overview: Dreamland Beach surf spot is a popular surf spot in the Uluwatu area for all levels of surfers. This surf spot is only suitable for beginners when the conditions are small enough. I think it’s a good spot to go to when Thomas Beach and Baby Padang are too small.
What you’ll learn in this guide: In this Dreamland Beach surf spot guide you’ll learn some general spot information, the wave characteristics of the spot, and what the best surf conditions are here, so that you can time your surf sessions just right.
The area
Location information
Surf spot name: Dreamland Beach
Geographical location: Dreamland Beach is situated in the Uluwatu area, a popular surf town in Bali. To reach it, head to the parking area, walk down the stairs and go past the small shops. You might need to pay a small entrance fee at the parking lot or when reaching the beach.
What you need to know
General spot information
Ability level
Dreamland Beach suits all levels, but beginners should only surf it in smaller conditions. As it's a reef break, I don't recommend it for first-timers—try a sand-bottom break like Kuta Beach instead.
Crowd factor
Moderate. Since Dreamland Beach surf spots suits all levels of surfers, it can occasionally become rather crowded. However, it's still less crowded than many other popular surf spots in Bali.
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: Mixed beach and reef break. Expect bigger waves here than at other Uluwatu beginner spots like Thomas Beach and Baby Padang. However, even though the waves are bigger they are still soft and mellow.
Wave direction: Left and right
Surf height: Waist high – 1.5x overhead
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. Thomas Beach is a quiet white sand spot with secluded coves, ideal for relaxing or a peaceful swim.
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.
Test your knowledge
Surf spot quiz
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