Thomas Beach surf spot guide for beginners

A beginner's guide - Bali

Thomas Beach surf spot guide for beginners

Brief spot overview: Thomas Beach surf spot is a lesser-known gem among Bali’s surf spots. It’s located in central Uluwatu, not far from more famous Uluwatu surf breaks. This is a great beginner’s surf spot with small, mellow waves and low crowds.

What you’ll learn in this guide: In this Thomas 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.

Explore the Bali surf guide for beginners

Want to learn how to surf in Bali? Explore the best beginner beaches, surf schools, cafes and more in the Bali surf guide.

The area

Location information

Surf spot name: Thomas Beach

Geographical location: Thomas Beach is situated in Uluwatu, a popular surf town in Bali. To reach it, head to Suka Café, where you’ll find a small path directly across the road. Follow this trail for a 5-10 minute walk down a set of long stairs, leading you to the serene shores of Thomas Beach.

What you need to know

General spot information

Ability level

Thomas Beach surf spot is the best spot in Uluwatu for beginners. 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

Low. This spot is much less crowded compared to other beginner surf spots in the Uluwatu area.

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: Mostly left, but you can find right-hand waves too

Surf height: 2 to 6 feet (0.6 to 1.8 meters)

When to surf

The best surf conditions

The best swell direction

S, SW

The best wind direction

The best surf height

Opt for 1-3 feet (0,3-1 meters) if you're a beginner

The best tide condition

Rising tide, from mid to high, is best. High tide also works, but waves are less frequent. Avoid low tide when the exposed reef makes it dangerous.

Learn how to read a surf forecast

Learn how to find out what and when the best surf conditions are at your surf spot, so that you don’t end up at the beach when the waves are either disappointingly flat or dangerously large.

Basic essentials available

Amenities and facilities

This is a quieter surf spot with fewer amenities than other Bali beaches. There’s scooter parking at the top, followed by a long staircase down to the beach. You’ll find sunbed and umbrella rentals, and surf schools like Moana Surf School and Color of the Life Surf School offering lessons and board rentals. For food, Warung Ari is a simple local option by the beach, with basic facilities like a toilet and a bucket for “showering.” However, I preferred heading to Suka Café on the main road for a bite.

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.

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