If you’ve already practiced your pop-up in Kuta or glided on the longboards at Batu Bolong, Berawa Beach is your next big milestone. Located just a stone’s throw from the famous Finns Beach Club, Berawa offers a bit more “punch” and power, making it the ultimate training ground for surfers looking to transition from beginner to intermediate.
Where is Berawa?
Berawa is the southern gateway to Canggu. It sits perfectly between the upscale vibes of Seminyak and the hipster heart of Batu Bolong. You can recognize it by its vast stretch of dark volcanic sand and the iconic silhouette of Finns Beach Club on the shoreline.
How Many Surf Spots are in Berawa?
Berawa isn’t just one wave; it has three distinct “personalities” depending on where you paddle out:
- The Peak: Located directly in front of the main beach entrance. This is a shifting A-frame (breaks both left and right) over a sandy bottom with some scattered rocks. It’s the most popular spot for those just starting to catch “green” waves.
- The Ledge: Situated slightly to the south (in front of the Legong Keraton Hotel). This is a faster, more technical right-hander that breaks over a reef. It’s where the intermediates go to practice speed.
- The Bombie: An offshore break further out to sea. This wave is big, soft, and rolling—perfect for longboarders, SUP riders, and those who want a massive ride without the steep “drop-in” of the shore breaks.
Skill Level: Beginner or Intermediate?
Berawa is a “Progressive” spot. It caters to both, but you need to know where to go:
- Beginners: Stick to The Peak on smaller days. The sandy bottom makes it safer, and the waves are usually manageable if the swell is under 4 feet.
- Intermediates: This is your playground. Berawa waves are faster and steeper than those at Batu Bolong, providing the perfect opportunity to practice bottom turns, cutbacks, and generating speed.
Beach Conditions & Accommodation
- The Vibe: Berawa is “trendy-meets-tranquil.” It’s less chaotic than central Canggu but still has a massive selection of world-class cafes and beach clubs for your post-surf coconut.
- The Bottom: It’s a mix of sand and soft reef. While it’s generally safe, you should be mindful of the occasional rock at low tide.
- Accommodation: It is very easy to find a place here. From luxury surf hotels like the Koa Surfer Hotel to social surf camps like Cari Surf, you can stay within a 5-minute walk of the waves.
The Reality Check: Challenges & Pro Tips
Berawa can be a bit more “wild” than Kuta. Here is how to handle the downsides:
| The Bad Thing | Our Pro Tip to Avoid It |
| Strong Currents & Rips: Berawa is known for its “river-like” currents that can pull you down the beach quickly. | Pick a Landmark. Before you paddle out, pick a building or a beach umbrella on shore. Check it every 5 minutes to see if you’ve drifted. |
| Shifting Peaks: The waves don’t always break in the same spot, which can be frustrating for beginners. | Observe first. Spend 10 minutes watching from the beach to see where the waves are actually “peeling” before jumping in. |
| Water Quality: After a big storm, the lagoon at the southern end can wash debris into the ocean. | Avoid surfing after heavy rain. Wait 24–48 hours for the water to clear to avoid ear or skin infections. |
| The “Shore-Dump”: At high tide, the waves can break right on the sand, making it hard to get out. | Paddle out during Mid-Tide. This is when the waves are most organized and easiest to get past. |