A beginner's guide - bali
Brief spot overview: Jimbaran Beach surf spot is located in Jimbaran Bay, close to the Denpasar Airport. It’s a sheltered spot ideal for beginners when the swell is big enough. The bay also offers a few other small beaches with beginner-friendly waves. Though less crowded than Bali’s more popular areas, it’s still a short ride from popular areas like Canggu and Uluwatu.
What you’ll learn in this guide: This Jimbaran surf spot guide covers key spot info, wave characteristics, and the best surf conditions to help you time your sessions.
The area
Surf spot name: Jimbaran Beach
Geographical location: Jimbaran Beach surf spot is located in Jimbaran Bay, Kuta. It’s close to the Denpasar Airport and easy to access. Simply drive to the beach entrance, and the beach will be right in front of you.
What you need to know
The surf breaks Muaya Beach, Lifeguard Hut, and Ahimsa in the Jimbaran Bay are suitable breaks for beginners and intermediates.
Low to moderate
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 type: Mixed beach and reef break depending on where on the beach you surf, as there are a couple of different beginner spots to choose from including Muaya Beach, Lifeguard Hut, and Ahimsa.
Wave direction: Left and right
Surf height: Around 1 to 5 feet (0,3-1.5 meters)
When to surf
Everything you need
Although Jimbaran Beach is a rather quiet spot, it’s quite well-developed. You can find beachfront cafés with ocean views, sun beds and umbrellas for rent and a convenient parking close to the entrance.
While this beach is not a major surf hub, there are a few spots for surfboard rentals and lessons aimed at beginners. Basic facilities such as public restrooms and showers are also available, though limited in some areas. Additionally, several beachfront hotels and resorts provide easy access to the beach.
Other activities
1. Boat trips & fishing charters: For those who want to venture offshore, boat trips and fishing charters are available. You can explore the coastline, go on a fishing excursion, or take a leisurely boat ride along the bay.
2. Jimbaran Fish Market: Located on the northern end of the bay, the Jimbaran Fish Market offers a local Balinese experience. You can see fishermen bringing in their catch, buy fresh seafood, and even have it cooked at a nearby warung.
3. Dine at beachfront seafood restaurants: If you can’t tell already, Jimbaran is famous for its seafood. Enjoy a meal at one of the many beachfront restaurants that line the shore, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish, lobster, and other seafood. I recommend dining at sunset so you can enjoy the beautiful ocean sunset view.
4. Uluwatu Temple: A short drive from Jimbaran Beach, the iconic Uluwatu Temple sits perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. You can explore the temple grounds, enjoy the views, and watch the traditional Kecak Dance performance during sunset.
5. Spa & wellness: Several high-end resorts near Jimbaran Beach, such as the Four Seasons and InterContinental, offer luxurious spa treatments. Pamper yourself with a Balinese massage, body scrub, or facial to unwind after a day at the beach.
Test your knowledge
Time's up
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!
I am Emilia, a beginner surfer who started this surf blog to inspire other beginner surfers looking to start their surfing journey! The Beginner Surfer is a resource for all things related to surfing for beginners and how to get started. Get to know me better here.
Sign up to stay in the know about new beginner surfing tips.
© The Beginner Surfer 2024
Learn when and where to surf in Bali in the Bali beginner surf guide, launching soon!
How much do you really know about surfing? Take the quiz and find out! Fill out your details below to access the quiz.