Best Surf Lesson around Uluwatu

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or refining your surfing skills in Bali’s legendary surf spots, this Uluwatu surf lesson from Curly 17 Surf School might just be your perfect choice. With a stellar 5/5 rating from 63 reviews, this experience promises personalized coaching, expert guidance, and the opportunity to enjoy Bali’s incredible surf environment. It’s designed to suit all skill levels, from total beginners to seasoned surfers looking to improve their technique.

What truly sets this tour apart is the focus on individual progress—your instructor, Curly, with nearly 20 years of surf experience, tailors each session to your ability and goals. Plus, the small group size ensures plenty of personalized attention. On the downside, the lesson lasts only 1.5 hours, so those wanting a more extensive surf experience might find it a bit brief. Still, for quick, effective lessons that fit into a Bali itinerary, this is tough to beat.

If you’re someone eager to learn in a friendly, professional setting, or if you’ve only ever dipped your toes in surfing but want to build confidence, this tour is likely to be a great fit. It’s especially suitable for first-timers, intermediate surfers, or those who simply want to enjoy Bali’s iconic waves with expert supervision.

Good To Know

• Personalized coaching ensures your surf lesson matches your experience level and goals.
• Expert instructor Curly brings nearly 20 years of surf and coaching knowledge, making safety and skill-building top priorities.
• Suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to intermediate surfers aiming for improvement.
• Meet at Balangan Beach, a scenic spot with ideal conditions carefully chosen based on tide and wind conditions.
• Small group sizes (up to 5 participants) allow for more tailored feedback and a relaxed vibe.
• Includes tips on tide, wind, and best times to surf, maximizing your chances of catching waves.
• The cost is competitive, offering great value considering personalized instruction and the prime location.
• Reviews highlight fun, encouragement, and lasting memories, with many visitors catching their first waves or improving significantly.
• Booking flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and reserve-now/pay-later options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Uluwatu Surf Lesson Experience

Location & Meeting Point

The lesson begins at Balangan Beach, one of Bali’s most renowned surf spots. The instructor, Curly, takes care to study local tides and wind conditions beforehand, ensuring your session is scheduled for optimal surf. This prep work means you won’t waste time or energy fighting unfavorable conditions. The coordinates are -8.792048, 115.123421, and the spot offers a relaxed environment perfect for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.

This beach is famous for its high-quality waves, comfortable water temperature, and stunning coastal views—truly a memorable backdrop for learning. The location is accessible and provides easy facilities, making it a practical and scenic start to your surf adventure.

Duration and Booking

The lesson lasts 1.5 hours, which might seem short but is carefully designed to maximize your learning and fun. The small group size (max five participants) ensures you get ample feedback and attention, especially important if you’re new or looking to sharpen specific skills.

Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, making it easy to fit into your Bali plans. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, there’s little risk if your schedule changes unexpectedly.

What to Expect During the Lesson

The session kicks off with a brief theoretical introduction—covering safety, paddle techniques, and understanding waves. Then, you’ll head into the water, where Curly’s approach combines patience with encouragement. His style is described as fun and motivating, with reviews mentioning how he helps overcome fears and builds confidence.

Most lessons involve a mix of personalized coaching on paddling, positioning, and timing, along with practical tips for reading the waves. Reviewers mention how Curly constantly provided advice, making sure each of them caught waves and improved their stance and technique.

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The Wave Environment

Uluwatu and nearby spots like Canggu offer consistent surf, but conditions vary daily. Curly’s experience in Bali’s surf forecast helps tailor each lesson, so you’re set for the best possible waves. Many reviews highlight how the instructor’s local knowledge made a real difference, ensuring they surfed when conditions were most favorable.

The Instructor: Curly

Many reviewers praise Curly for his professionalism, friendliness, and ability to teach across skill levels. His approach blends technical advice with humor, making lessons both effective and enjoyable. Review excerpts include praise for his patience, safety focus, and ability to push students just enough to progress without feeling overwhelmed.

What You Will Learn

• Wave reading and timing – understanding when to paddle and catch a wave.
• Paddling techniques – maximizing efficiency to conserve energy.
• Pop-up skills – the crucial move to stand up smoothly.
• Safety tips – how to fall safely and respect the ocean.
• Wave selection – spotting the best waves for your skill level.

Even in just 1.5 hours, many participants report noticeable improvements, often catching their first wave or increasing their confidence on the board.

The Real Value: Why It’s Worth It

The lessons are priced competitively, especially given the personalized coaching and prime location. Many reviews highlight how much they learned in such a short time, emphasizing that quality instruction matters more than hours spent. This experience is particularly good for travelers who want a quick, fun, and effective surf lesson without committing to multiple days.

What Travelers Say

• “Curly was an amazing teacher and an incredibly talented surfer. With him, you don’t just learn how to surf—you learn about life, too,” shares a reviewer from Turkey.
• “He made sure I felt comfortable with how to maneuver the board and stand up before getting in the water,” recalls a visitor from the US.
• “The instructor was super patient and kind, making the experience very enjoyable,” notes another guest from the Netherlands.

These testimonials underline how a knowledgeable guide can turn a simple surf lesson into a memorable, confidence-boosting experience.

Who Should Consider This Uluwatu Surf Lesson?

This tour is perfect for beginners seeking a friendly, encouraging environment to learn how to surf. The focus on safety, fun, and personalized feedback appeals to those new to the sport. Intermediate surfers aiming to sharpen their skills or learn wave reading will find the tailored coaching highly valuable.

Travelers with limited time but a desire to get in the water and make meaningful progress will appreciate how much they can achieve in just 90 minutes. The small group setting ensures everyone gets individual attention, making it ideal for those who prefer more personalized guidance than larger group lessons.

While not suitable for children under 10 or those with back problems, most other adventurous travelers, non-swimmers included, can participate comfortably with proper instructions.

Practical Tips for Your Surf Lesson

• Bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable and protected.
• Dress according to the weather forecast; Bali can be hot, but mornings and evenings might be cooler.
• Arrive early to meet your instructor and get a quick briefing.
• Listen carefully to safety instructions and don’t push beyond your comfort zone.
• Expect to get wet—wear appropriate swimwear and be prepared for some splashes!
• Photos and videos are often taken during the session, so ask your instructor if you’d like to review your progress afterward.

The Sum Up

This Uluwatu surf lesson by Curly 17 Surf School offers a fantastic way to enjoy Bali’s world-famous waves with expert guidance. The personalized approach, combined with the comfortable, scenic location at Balangan Beach, makes it a standout experience for all skill levels. Whether you’re trying surfing for the first time or looking to polish your technique, Curly’s professionalism and local knowledge ensure you get maximum value for your time and money. The small group size creates an intimate, supportive environment, perfect for building confidence and catching waves.

Most reviewers rave about the fun, friendly atmosphere and the progress they made—all while soaking up Bali’s incredible ocean views. If you’re after a practical, high-quality surfing lesson that fits into a busy Bali itinerary, this experience hits the mark.

For those who love learning from passionate locals, want a memorable adventure, or simply crave a good dose of Bali surf, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to check the weather ahead of your booking to ensure smooth sailing!

FAQ

Is this surf lesson suitable for complete beginners? Yes, many reviews mention that beginners are warmly welcomed and helped to stand up on their first waves.

How long does the lesson last? The session lasts 1.5 hours, providing ample time to learn and practice key skills.

Can I book this lesson and pay later? Absolutely. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Where do I meet my instructor? The meeting point is Balangan Beach, chosen for its ideal surf conditions. Coordinates are provided for easy access.

What should I bring? Pack a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable and protected.

Is this experience good for intermediate surfers? Yes, many reviews mention that even experienced surfers benefit from Curly’s coaching, especially on wave reading and technique.

Are children under 10 allowed? No, this tour is not suitable for children under 10.

How many people are in each group? The lesson is limited to 5 participants, ensuring personal attention.

Will I get photos or videos of my session? Often, photos and videos are taken during the lesson, and you can review your progress afterward.

This detailed review aims to help you understand why this surf lesson could be a highlight of your Bali trip—and how it might just turn you into a surfer.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby