Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much do surf lessons cost in Uluwatu?
Private lessons (1 student) cost 650,000 IDR. Semi-private lessons (2 students) cost 1,000,000 IDR in total, or 500,000 IDR each. Group lessons (from 3 students) cost 400,000 IDR per person. Every lesson lasts 2 hours and includes your board, rash guard, safety briefing, surf theory and feedback. Packages of 3 or 5 lessons with video analysis are also available. See our prices page for details.
2. How do I book a surf lesson?
Message us on WhatsApp (+62 851-9137-6196) or Instagram (@hawaiisurfbalii). Tell us your date, how many people are joining, and your surfing experience (first time, or how many times you've surfed). We reply with the best time and surf spot for you.
3. What are your payment options?
We accept card, cash or bank transfer. You can pay in advance or at the surf spot. Packages must be paid at the latest on your first lesson.
4. What is your cancellation policy?
If you book a week or more in advance, we take a 20% deposit to reserve your lesson, and this deposit is non-refundable. If you need to change your booking, it needs to be told the evening before the lesson or the latest 5h in advance of the surf lesson. If we cancel because of weather or ocean conditions, we will reschedule your lesson at no extra cost.
5. Where do the lessons take place?
We teach the surf lessons in Uluwatu area. We choose the spot each day based on your level, the swell, the tide and the wind. Beginner lessons are usually at Balangan, Dreamland or Padang Padang. Intermediate and advanced lessons take place at different spots around Uluwatu. In the wet season we also teach in the Nusa Dua area. We confirm your meeting point the day before your lesson.
6. Do I need any surfing experience?
No. We teach complete beginners, intermediate surfers and advanced surfers. Beginners learn ocean safety, paddling, the pop-up and how to catch whitewater waves. Intermediate surfers work on technique and catching their own waves. Advanced surfers can book coaching and surf guiding.
7. How long is a lesson and how long will I be in the water?
Each lesson is 2 hours, including surf theory on the beach before you enter the water. We don't offer 1-hour lessons, but if two hours feels too long we can finish earlier. If you want more time in the water, you can extend the lesson for an extra fee.
8. What time are the lessons?
Lesson times change every day because they depend on the tide and ocean conditions. We confirm your exact time with you the day before your surf lesson.
9. What is included in a surf lesson?
A professional local surf instructor, a surfboard, a rash guard, a safety briefing, surf theory, and feedback after your session, we also include zinc, sunscreen and reef booties.
10. What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel and a bottle of water. We recommend bringing some extra cash if you want to buy something after the surf lesson in the restaurant. We provide everything else.
11. Can I learn to surf if I can't swim?
Yes you can join a surf lesson if you do not know how to swim. But you need to inform us in advance so we choose a surf spot that has easy paddle.
12. Is surfing safe for beginners in Uluwatu?
Yes, when you are with experienced instructors and at the right spot. Our instructors are local surfers who know the reefs, currents and conditions, and we choose beaches that suit your level.
13. Can children take surf lessons?
Yes we offer children's surf lessons Please tell us your child's level when you book so we can choose a safe beach. Balangan is often a good choice for children because the waves break close to the beach.
14. Which type of lesson should I book?
Private lessons give you the most attention, the most waves and the fastest progress. Semi-private lessons suit couples or two friends, and you take turns catching waves. Group lessons are the most affordable and most social, but each person catches fewer waves.
15. How many lessons do I need to learn to surf?
Most people catch their first waves in one lesson. To surf more independently, we recommend a package of 5 or more lessons so you can build skills step by step. Our packages include video analysis.
16. Who are your instructors?
Our instructors are local Indonesian surfers with many years of experience teaching around Uluwatu and Bali, with international recognized certificates.
17. Do you offer video analysis and surf photography?
Yes, through our sister company Indo Surf Cam. Videos and photos are available for an extra fee if you request them in advance. If you book video, we review it with you after your session so you can see what to improve.
18. Do you offer pickup and drop-off?
Yes, we offer car pickup and drop-off for lessons in the Uluwatu area. The price depends on your location and how many students join. We also recommend car transportation for surf lessons in Nusa Dua. Airport transfers and transport to other parts of Bali are available for up to 7 passengers with luggage and surfboard bags.
19. What happens if a board is damaged?
If a board is damaged during an intermediate or advanced lesson, you pay for the repair. You can add board insurance for 50,000 IDR per session, or 200,000 IDR for a week or more of lessons. This is though somethings that depends on the situation when the board was broken, and we always try to find a good solution!
20. When is the best time of year to surf in Bali?
You can surf in Bali all year. In the dry season (about May to September), we surf mainly on the west coast around Uluwatu. In the wet season (about October to April), we move to the south-east coast near Nusa Dua, where conditions are better. Beginners can learn in both seasons on both sides of the island.