The Best ‘New’ Surf Spot in Bali, Indonesia

The Best ‘New’ Surf Spot in Bali, Indonesia

Let me preface by stating that the surf break is not actually new at all but it is just beginning to read on the radar of surf travelers across the globe.

Keramas Surf Breaka s it all- except for accomodations

Where is this great surf spot?

The location is called Keramas Surf Break and it is located near Ketewel, Bali.  It’s about a 10-minute drive from Sanur on the way to Amed.  One reason this surf spot had been overlooked by most surfers and many pros was that it was difficult to get to.  The area consists mainly of peaceful rice fields and fishing villages.  It is known for its fertile volcanic soil.  Keramas maintains the highly sought after and rarely found “Old Bali” feel.

How do I get to this amazing surf spot?

About 8 years ago The World Bank funded The Sunrise Road that would connect Keramas with the rest of Bali via a wide and well-maintained roadway.  Previous to the construction the only way to Keramas and points East in Bali was through a small, congested road.  While the new bypass is not quite complete, it has opened up access to the little known surf haven.

What is in the area?

Even with the new bypass, the surf break at Keramas remains uncrowded.  There are very few accommodations, restaurants and services available in the area.  This means that most surfers stay in Kuta or even Uluwatu.  They must wake up very early, battle the traffic and congestion of Kuta just to enjoy the wonderful surf at Ketewal.

Beautiful Keramas Surf Break- Bali's best kept surfing secretSurfline’s Jon Huberman summed it up well saying, “Once an ultra-secret hideaway of tightlipped surfing expats, in the past few years, no other spot has received more media attention than Keramas. Whether it's Andy Irons dropping in out of a Helicopter, or any of dozens of international professional surfers adding a section to the latest surf movie, Keramas is no secret anymore. The good news is that Keramas does live up to its' hype. It's an excellent reef break in a classic black sand beach and rice field setting, and, in a land of perfect lefts, it's one of a few perfect rights. 

Keramas is a fun right-hander for hot dog surfing when it is smaller. In the past few years, surfers have been pushing the limits of what is considered too big to surf at Keramas. Even on the biggest days of the year, some local and international chargers have been paddling out there, returning with stories, film, and photos of glory.”

How can I stay in a great place near the surf break?

We have owned land in Ketewel for many years and have worked with the local banjar to allow farmers to continue to grow rice and tobacco on the land.  We have been approached numerous times by people wanting to develop the land into big hotels and the like but we have turned down these offers as we wanted to do what we could to help protect the peaceful area.  We have meticulously planned for years to create an eco-friendly surf villa and wellness retreat on the land.  We have worked with local architects, eco-tourism professionals and many others to develop the smallest footprint and most eco-friendly resort we could.  We want to provide surfers with affordable luxury accommodations with easy access to one of the best surf breaks in all of Bali.  For more on our villas please click here.

We have a deep love for the area and concern for its future. This is why we have put so much time and research into developing a resort that supports the local people and provides a much needed service to travelers at the lowest environmental impact.

Please email us or post your comments below.

Happy Surfing & Happy Travels,

The Balifornians

Comments

[Bali Hotel]

Awesome info. Thanks for sharing.