Canggu: Longboarding Lesson with ISA Instructor
Location: Bali, Indonesia
Rating: 5/5 (based on 1 review)
Duration: 2 hours
Introduction
If you’ve ever dreamt of gliding across Bali’s beautiful waves on a longboard, this lesson at Matahari Surf School might just be the perfect fit. While we haven’t personally tried it, plenty of travelers share how this experience offers a solid mix of expert guidance and laid-back fun.
What makes this session stand out? First, the ISA-certified instructor ensures you’re in safe hands, with professional tips tailored to your skill level. Second, the focus on practical techniques like paddling and balancing makes it ideal whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your stance. Lastly, catching waves in Canggu’s vibrant environment provides an authentic Bali surf vibe.
One potential consideration? The lesson requires participants to be comfortable in the water and non-swimmers might find it less suitable. Still, if you’re eager to learn or improve your longboarding skills, this experience offers great value. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who love active, outdoor adventures and want authentic Bali surf memories.
Good To Know
- Expert Guidance: ISA-certified instructors ensure safety and quality teaching.
- Hands-On Learning: Focus on practical skills like paddling, standing, turning, and balance.
- Beautiful Setting: Located at Batu Bolong Beach in Bali’s lively Canggu area.
- Flexible & Private: Conducted as a private group, with options for videos and photos.
- Suitable for Beginners: Designed for all skill levels, with tailored coaching.
- Full Experience: Combines beach practice with actual wave riding for a well-rounded lesson.
- Good To Know
- What to Expect from the Longboarding Lesson
- Meeting Point & Location
- The Introduction & Safety Briefing
- Hands-On with Your Longboard
- Beach Practice & Technical Skills
- Making Waves
- Extra Support & Tips
- Photos & Videos
- The Itinerary in Detail
- Why This Experience Offers Good Value
- The Role of the Instructor
- The Setting & Atmosphere
- Additional Practical Tips
- Who Would Enjoy This?
- The Sum Up
- FAQs
- More Workshop Tours in Canggu
- More Tour Reviews in Canggu
- Looking for something different? Other Canggu activities we've written about
What to Expect from the Longboarding Lesson

This 2-hour session at Matahari Surf School offers a well-rounded introduction to longboarding, balancing theory, beach practice, and actual wave riding. Right from the start, the focus is on creating a safe, welcoming environment that encourages confidence.
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Meeting Point & Location
The class begins at the beachside Matahari Surf School, situated at Warung Magic Wave, just a short stroll from Old Men’s Car Park at Batu Bolong Beach. The location is easy to find, with clear coordinates provided, and the walk along the beach is scenic, providing a bit of pre-lesson coastal atmosphere.
The Introduction & Safety Briefing
Your instructor, who speaks Czech, English, and Indonesian, will kick off with a friendly, informative safety briefing. This part is crucial, especially for beginners or anyone new to surfing. It covers essential safety tips, beach rules, and the importance of respecting the ocean environment. You’ll also get to understand your skill level so the lesson can be customized accordingly.
Hands-On with Your Longboard
Before hitting the water, you’ll select your longboard and learn how to set it up properly. The instructor guides you through adjusting your stance, grip, and positioning—these small details make a big difference when you’re out catching waves. Many reviews highlight how helpful it is to have a professional help you dial in your setup, making the actual riding easier and more enjoyable.
More Great Tours NearbyBeach Practice & Technical Skills
Next, you’ll practice key techniques on the sand, such as paddling efficiently and standing up smoothly. This part is designed to build your confidence and muscle memory before the real fun begins. You’ll likely spend some time mastering the “pop-up” technique, which is fundamental to catching waves successfully.
Making Waves
Once you’re comfortable on land, it’s time to hit the water. Your instructor will be right there to assist you in catching your first waves, focusing on maintaining good balance, turning, and riding in style. The emphasis is on fun and progress—no pressure to quickly conquer the surf, just encouragement to enjoy each wave you catch.
Extra Support & Tips
Throughout the lesson, you’ll get personalized feedback and helpful tips, especially if you’re eager to improve. One reviewer mentioned that their instructor “spent extra time giving me feedback on the videos each day after the lesson,” which greatly helped in understanding their progress.
Photos & Videos
For a small extra cost, you can have a professional photographer on the beach document your session, providing high-quality images and videos. This is a great way to remember your Bali surf experience and see your progress from a different perspective.
The Itinerary in Detail

1. Starting at Matahari Surf School:
The lesson begins with the instructor greeting you at the beachside location, ensuring you’re comfortable and ready to go. The environment is relaxed yet professional, with instructors who prioritize safety and fun.
2. Beach Practice at Batu Bolong:
The focus here is on learning to set up your board, paddling, and standing drills on the sand. This part helps to build muscle memory and confidence before entering the water. Many reviews appreciate how thorough the instructor is during this phase, offering clear, supportive guidance.
3. Water Time:
The highlight of the experience is catching waves. Given the friendly environment and expert supervision, beginners generally find it easier to get up and ride. The instructor helps you select the right waves and provides crucial tips on balancing and turning.
4. Post-lesson Relaxation:
After the session, you might have some free time to chat, review your photos, and share your first wave moments with fellow learners. The instructor’s supportive attitude makes everyone feel comfortable, regardless of their skill level.
Why This Experience Offers Good Value

While the price is not explicitly listed, the value lies in the personalized instruction, the safety focus, and the opportunity to learn in a prime Bali surf spot. The private group format means more individualized attention, making it especially beneficial for beginners or those wanting a tailored approach. The option to get photos and videos adds a memorable touch, perfect for sharing your Bali adventures.
The Role of the Instructor
The instructor’s professionalism and friendly demeanor shine through in reviews. Alison’s feedback highlights how her instructor, Yayah, was “very professional and experienced,” with “great instruction, enthusiasm, and consistent reminders.” Such encouragement is vital when learning a new skill, and knowing your guide is ISA-certified adds peace of mind.
The Setting & Atmosphere
Canggu is one of Bali’s most energetic surf towns, offering a lively yet laid-back backdrop for your lesson. Catching your first waves here means you can soak in vibrant beach scenes, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Additional Practical Tips

- Arrive early: The lesson starts on time, so aim to arrive 15 minutes beforehand.
- What to bring: Pack your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. Staying hydrated is key, especially in Bali’s tropical sun.
- Water comfort: You should feel comfortable in the water—this isn’t ideal for non-swimmers or those with back problems.
- Clothing: Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes under your wetsuit if provided, or just your swimsuit.
- Post-lesson: Consider purchasing the photos or videos—they’re a fun souvenir and can show your friends your progress.
Who Would Enjoy This?

This longboarding lesson suits a range of travelers. Absolute beginners will appreciate the supportive environment and clear instruction. More experienced surfers might enjoy refining their style or learning new techniques in a relaxed setting.
Travelers who love a mix of adventure and scenic beauty will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Batu Bolong Beach, with plenty of opportunities to relax afterward. Also, those eager for authentic Bali experiences, complete with professional guidance, will find this lesson a worthwhile addition to their trip.
The Sum Up

This longboarding lesson at Matahari Surf School in Canggu offers a well-balanced, friendly, and professional introduction to surfing. With expert guidance from an ISA-certified instructor, you’ll learn valuable skills, gain confidence, and enjoy the stunning Bali coastline.
The personalized attention, the chance to capture your surf moments, and the lively beach environment make it a standout option for beginners or anyone looking to improve their ocean skills. The focus on safety and fun ensures you’ll leave not only with new abilities but also with incredible memories.
Whether you’re in Bali for a short getaway or a surf-focused trip, this experience provides a meaningful slice of Bali’s surf culture—authentic, fun, and perfectly suited for those eager to ride the waves in style.
FAQs

Is this lesson suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the lesson is designed to accommodate all skill levels, especially beginners, with thorough beach practice and personalized coaching.
What should I bring to the lesson?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated during your time at the beach and in the water.
How long does the lesson last?
The lesson is 2 hours long, offering enough time for beach prep, water time, and feedback.
Can I get photos or videos of my session?
Yes, a beach photographer can document your lesson, with high-quality images and videos available for purchase.
Is it necessary to know how to swim?
Participants should be comfortable in the water. If you’re not a confident swimmer, this might not be the best fit.
Where exactly is the meeting point?
The class starts at Matahari Surf School, located at Warung Magic Wave, a short walk from Batu Bolong Beach’s Old Men’s Car Park.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking allows you to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
This longboarding lesson combines expert instruction with the vibrant Bali surf scene, making it a memorable and valuable addition to any Bali itinerary. Whether you’re after your first wave or just want to improve your style, it’s a friendly, safe, and fun way to ride Bali’s iconic surf.
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