Craving your first wave on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula? 🏄

Almost all beaches close to Melati Villa offer the perfect playground for beginners – not just surfing, but paddle boarding, snorkelling, and more.

Here’s our complete guide to getting started, safely.

1. Beginner Surf Lessons around Bingin

Even though Bingin is traditionally known as a reef break for advanced surfers, many surf schools now offer beginner‑friendly coaching, especially during high tide when waves are softer.

• Froggy Surf School runs “Level 1” one‑on‑one or trio lessons at Bingin or nearby Balangan, with expert instruction and equipment included. You can find out more HERE.

• Pacific Surf School offers 90‑minute private, semi‑private or group lessons, complete with surfboard and rash guard—perfect for first timers at approximately USD 30-40 per lesson. You can find out more HERE.

• Bali Swell Surf School provides year‑round lessons tailored for all levels across Uluwatu and south‑peninsula breaks, with flexible spots based on conditions. You can find out more HERE.

Best times to learn: Dry season (April‑October), high to mid tide, mornings for gentler sets – Pacific Surf notes Bingin can be ideal for beginners under these conditions. You can find out more HERE.

2. Choosing the Right Package & Instructor

• Lesson formats: Private (1:1), semi‑private (2–3), or small group (4–5). Beginners usually benefit most from private or semi‑private for more feedback and wave time. You can find out more HERE.

• What’s included: Board rental, rash guard, beach‑based theory lesson on safety, currents, paddling and popping up—roughly USD 30–50 per 90-minute session. You can find out more HERE.

• Instructor tips: Book schools with certified instructors (e.g. WSS & lifeguard‑trained), ideally local or bilingual guides, and ask for reviews or video feedback if available. You can find out more HERE.

3. Safety, Gear & Tips for Beginners

• Surfing at Bingin involves reef entry and exits, so consider reef booties if stepping off on low tide. Avoid low tide when reefs are exposed and waves more intense.

• Learn about rip current awareness, turtle zones, sun protection and board handling during the land‑lesson portion. An experienced instructor is pivotal.

4. Other Beginner‑Friendly Water Sports Nearby

• Stand‑up Paddleboarding (SUP): Ideal in calmer bays like Jimbaran or Pandawa. Great for day or sunrise paddles. You can find out more HERE.

• Snorkeling: While Bingin isn’t known for diving, nearby beaches and reefs off Pandawa or Padang Bai offer guided snorkel trips – ideal for marine‑life spotting.

• Yoga by the beach: Several surf camps (e.g. Padang Padang Surf Camp) include yoga sessions to stretch, strengthen and reset post‑surf – perfect for restful mornings or sunset flow.