Bali has always been on my travel bucket list, and when I finally made it to Canggu, I knew I had to try surfing. This vibrant beach town is renowned for its surf culture, making it the perfect place for beginners like me. With a mixture of excitement and a bit of trepidation, I signed up for a surf in Canggu, eager to dive into this quintessential Balinese experience. Here’s a rundown of my unforgettable day learning to surf in Canggu.
Why Canggu is a Surfer’s Paradise
Canggu offers the perfect blend of relaxed vibes and thrilling surf spots. The beaches here cater to all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned pros. Echo Beach and Batu Bolong are two popular spots, known for their consistent waves and stunning scenery. The town itself is a mix of laid-back cafes, beach bars, and yoga studios, creating a welcoming environment for travelers.
Choosing the Right Surf School
With numerous surf schools in Canggu, finding the right one was a challenge. I eventually settled on SSC Surf School after reading glowing reviews. Their reputation for friendly, experienced instructors and a strong emphasis on safety made them stand out. Booking a lesson was straightforward, and I was all set for my adventure.
Getting Ready
On the day of my lesson, I arrived at SSC Surf School feeling both nervous and excited. The staff greeted me warmly and introduced me to my instructor, Made. He reassured me that surfing is all about having fun and not to worry about perfection. After a brief introduction, we suited up, grabbed our boards, and headed to the beach.
Learning the Basics on Land
We started with a land lesson to cover the basics. Made explained the different parts of the surfboard, how to position ourselves, and the correct paddling technique. He demonstrated how to pop up on the board, and we practiced this on the sand a few times. It felt a bit awkward, but Made’s patient guidance made it easier to grasp.
Hitting the Water
With the basics covered, it was time to face the waves. We waded into the warm water, boards in tow. Made helped me catch my first few waves by positioning the board and giving me a gentle push. The first attempts were a bit shaky, and I wiped out a few times, but Made was always there with encouragement and tips.
Catching My First Wave
The moment I finally caught a wave was magical. I felt the board lift beneath me as the wave surged forward. Remembering Made’s advice, I popped up and managed to stay upright for a few exhilarating seconds. The rush of riding my first wave was unlike anything I’d ever experienced, and it left me craving more.
Progress and Perseverance
Over the next couple of hours, I gradually improved. Each successful ride, no matter how brief, boosted my confidence. Made provided constant feedback, helping me refine my technique. The camaraderie among the other students added to the experience; we cheered each other on and laughed off our wipeouts together.
Relax and Enjoy
One of the biggest lessons was to relax and enjoy the process. Tension and overthinking can hinder your performance. Embracing the joy of being in the water and going with the flow made a huge difference.
Eyes on the Horizon
Keeping my eyes on the horizon instead of looking down at the board helped with balance and stability. It’s a small adjustment, but it made a big impact on my ability to stay upright.
Persistence Pays Off
Surfing is all about persistence. Every fall is a step closer to getting it right. The sense of accomplishment after a successful ride is worth every tumble.
Celebrating Small Victories
After the lesson, we gathered for a debrief and some much-needed hydration. Despite the initial challenges, I felt a sense of achievement. Made highlighted our progress and encouraged us to keep practicing.
Embracing the Surf Community
The surf culture in Canggu is incredibly welcoming. Post-lesson, I joined my fellow surfers at a nearby café, where we swapped stories and tips. The sense of community is strong, and it’s easy to make friends with like-minded travelers.
Ideal for Beginners
Canggu’s beaches are perfect for beginners. The gentle waves and sandy bottoms provide a safe and enjoyable learning environment.
Supportive Community
The surf community here is supportive and inclusive. Whether you’re a solo traveler or with friends, you’ll find encouragement and camaraderie.
Beyond Surfing
Canggu offers more than just great waves. From yoga classes to delicious local food, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. It’s a holistic experience that combines adventure and relaxation.
My Surfing Journey Begins
Taking a surf lesson in Canggu was one of the highlights of my Bali trip. It was challenging yet incredibly rewarding. The thrill of catching my first wave and the joy of being part of the surf community made it an unforgettable experience. If you find yourself in Bali, don’t miss the chance to try surfing in Canggu. Whether you’re a complete novice or looking to refine your skills, the waves here will welcome you. So grab a board, dive in, and ride the wave of a lifetime!
Ned Trujillo 