Bali draws surfers from every corner of the world, and for good reason. The island sits at the centre of some of the most consistent surf in Southeast Asia, with breaks suited to absolute beginners in the shallower waters of Kuta and Canggu through to powerful reef breaks at Uluwatu and Padang Padang for experienced riders. Choosing the right school makes a significant difference to how quickly you progress and how safe you stay in the water.
The schools listed here were selected based on verified student review scores, volume of reviews, and geographic spread across Bali’s main surf zones. Every entry holds a rating of 4.8 stars or above, with several carrying perfect 5.0 scores across hundreds of sessions. The list covers schools in Kuta, Canggu, Uluwatu, and across the island more broadly, so you can find options close to wherever you are staying.
Whether you have never stood on a board or you are working on your cutbacks, there is a school here suited to your level. Prices, class formats, and instructor experience vary, so reading each entry carefully before booking will save you time and money.
1. UP2U Surf School Bali
High-volume surf school in Bali with a 4.9-star rating across nearly 1,400 reviews
UP2U Surf School Bali has built one of the largest review bases of any surf school on the island, with a 4.9-star rating drawn from 1,399 verified student reviews. That volume of consistent feedback is a strong signal of reliable instruction and a well-run operation rather than a one-off good experience.
The school offers lessons for beginners and those looking to develop their surfing further. Instructors are experienced in reading local conditions and placing students in the right spot to catch waves confidently. Gear is included with lessons, and the overall structure caters well to solo travellers, couples, and small groups alike.
With nearly 1,400 reviewers across different skill levels and nationalities, UP2U carries the kind of track record that is difficult to fake. Students consistently highlight the patience of instructors and the quality of post-session feedback as key reasons they would return or recommend the school.
Pros
- 4.9-star rating across 1,399 reviews, one of the highest review volumes in Bali
- Experienced instructors suited to both beginners and improvers
- Equipment included with lesson packages
- Strong reputation among solo travellers and group bookings
Cons
- High demand may mean sessions book out in peak season
- Less specialised for advanced surfers seeking coaching at harder breaks
Best for: Beginners and intermediate surfers looking for a well-reviewed, established school with a strong track record
Website: up2usurfschool.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
2. Bali Bisa Surf School Uluwatu
Uluwatu-based surf school with a 4.9-star rating across 246 reviews
Bali Bisa Surf School operates out of Uluwatu, one of Bali’s most well-known surf areas. The school holds a 4.9-star rating from 246 reviews, placing it among the highest-rated surf schools at one of the island’s more challenging coastal stretches.
Uluwatu is home to a variety of breaks that suit both learners on the beach and surfers ready to tackle longer reef waves. Bali Bisa positions itself well for students who want to learn in or near a world-famous surf zone, with instructors who understand the local conditions and can match students to the right break for their ability.
The volume and consistency of reviews across different nationalities suggest this school delivers reliably on its instruction promises. Students frequently mention the quality of one-on-one attention and the instructors’ knowledge of Uluwatu’s specific water conditions as standout features.
Pros
- 4.9-star rating from 246 reviews, a strong result for a school in the Uluwatu area
- Located in one of Bali’s premier surf zones
- Instructors with local knowledge of Uluwatu’s conditions and breaks
- Suitable for students wanting to learn near world-class surf spots
Cons
- Uluwatu can be less accessible than Kuta or Canggu for those staying in the north of the island
- Reef breaks in the area are not suitable for absolute beginners without proper guidance
Best for: Surfers staying in the Uluwatu area who want instruction close to quality reef breaks
Website: balibisasurfschool.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
3. Private Surf School Canggu Bali
Private surf instruction in Canggu with a 5.0-star rating across 300 or more sessions
This Canggu-based school focuses on private instruction, offering one-on-one sessions that allow instructors to give undivided attention to each student. The school holds a consistent 5.0-star rating across more than 300 student sessions, a strong result that points to a high standard of personalised teaching.
Canggu has become one of Bali’s most popular areas for surf learners, with beach breaks that are forgiving for beginners and varied enough to keep intermediate surfers progressing. A private format means sessions can be adapted on the spot to match conditions and the student’s pace, rather than following a fixed group schedule.
For travellers who want focused coaching rather than a group lesson experience, this school’s format and rating make it one of the more compelling options in the Canggu area. Students regularly note the flexibility of session timing and the depth of feedback from instructors as key advantages over group-based alternatives.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating across 300 or more sessions
- Private instruction format allows for focused, personalised coaching
- Based in Canggu, one of Bali’s most popular and accessible surf zones
- Flexible session scheduling reported by students
Cons
- Private lessons typically cost more than group sessions
- Smaller operation may have limited availability during busy periods
Best for: Individuals or pairs who want personalised instruction and are willing to pay a premium for private sessions
Website: balisurfinstructor.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
4. Surf School Bali
Established surf school in Bali with consistent 5-star reviews from students
Surf School Bali holds a 5.0-star rating from its student base and has maintained that score consistently across its review history. The school operates across Bali’s surf zones and covers a range of student levels, from those picking up a board for the first time to those working on technique and wave reading.
The school’s name signals a broad approach rather than a niche focus, and its reviews bear that out. Students from different countries and experience levels report positive outcomes, suggesting instructors can adapt their teaching style to different learners rather than applying a one-size approach to every session.
For visitors who want a reliable all-round option without committing to a highly specialised format, Surf School Bali’s consistent rating and broad student base make it a practical choice worth considering alongside the more niche providers on this list.
Pros
- Consistent 5.0-star rating from students
- Covers multiple areas and ability levels across Bali
- Adaptable instruction style reported across reviews
- Strong general reputation among international visitors
Cons
- Less differentiated than schools with a very specific niche or location focus
- Review volume details are not as publicly prominent as some competitors
Best for: Visitors wanting a dependable, general-purpose surf school with a strong review record
Website: surfschoolbali.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
5. Froggy Surf School Bali
Popular Bali surf school with a 5.0-star rating across 826 reviews
Froggy Surf School Bali combines a perfect 5.0-star rating with one of the highest review counts on this list, at 826 verified student reviews. Maintaining a flawless score at that volume is a genuine marker of consistent quality, since it rules out the possibility that the rating reflects only a small or selected sample.
The school caters to a wide range of students and appears well-equipped for high throughput without sacrificing the quality of individual sessions. Reviews point to engaged, communicative instructors who keep safety front of mind while ensuring students actually catch waves and enjoy the experience.
Froggy’s combination of volume and score makes it one of the most credible surf schools on the island by the numbers. For first-time surfers in particular, the consistency across hundreds of reviews offers a degree of confidence that the experience will match expectations.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating across 826 reviews, an exceptional result at high volume
- Suitable for a wide range of student levels
- Strong safety focus reported across student reviews
- High throughput without apparent drop in session quality
Cons
- Popularity may mean sessions are booked out well in advance during peak season
- High demand schools can sometimes feel busier on the water
Best for: First-time surfers and intermediates who want the reassurance of a high-volume, high-rating school
Website: froggysurfschool.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
6. Libra Bali Surf School
Bali surf school with a 5.0-star rating across 359 student reviews
Libra Bali Surf School holds a 5.0-star rating across 359 reviews, a strong and credible result that sits comfortably in the upper tier of surf schools across the island. The review count is substantial enough to carry real weight, and the perfect score suggests a very low rate of unsatisfactory student experiences.
Students highlight attentive coaching and a well-organised lesson structure as recurring positives. The school appears to attract a mix of solo travellers and small groups, with instructors reportedly comfortable working across different nationalities and ability levels without losing focus on individual progress.
For travellers comparing similarly rated schools, Libra’s review count and consistent score make it a strong contender. Its position at 359 reviews places it in a reliable middle ground between newer schools still building feedback and the very large operations that handle hundreds of students each month.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating from 359 reviews
- Well-organised lesson structure noted across student feedback
- Comfortable working with different nationalities and experience levels
- Good fit for solo travellers and small groups
Cons
- Limited public detail on which specific breaks or areas the school primarily operates from
- May be harder to distinguish from other similarly rated schools without contacting directly
Best for: Solo travellers and small groups wanting reliable instruction from a well-reviewed school
Website: librabalisurfschool.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
7. Poggy Bali Surf School
Emerging Bali surf school with a 5.0-star rating across more than 100 sessions
Poggy Bali Surf School is a smaller operation by review count, but it holds a consistent 5.0-star rating across more than 100 student sessions. For a school still building its public profile, that score across a meaningful number of sessions points to a high standard of instruction and student satisfaction.
Smaller schools often offer a more personal experience than larger operations, with instructors investing more time per student and sessions less likely to feel rushed. Poggy appears to fit that profile, with students noting the attentive nature of the coaching and the relaxed but focused atmosphere of lessons.
Visitors who prefer a less commercialised experience and are comfortable with a school that is building rather than already fully established may find Poggy a particularly good match. The 5.0 rating, while across fewer reviews than some on this list, has been earned consistently rather than in a single burst of early feedback.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating across 100 or more sessions
- More personal atmosphere typical of smaller surf schools
- Attentive coaching noted across student reviews
- Less crowded sessions compared to larger schools
Cons
- Smaller review base than most other schools on this list
- Less established public profile may require more research before booking
Best for: Travellers who prefer a smaller, more personal school environment over a high-volume operation
Website: poggybalisurfschool.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
8. Koko Surf School
Beginner-focused surf school in Berawa, Canggu, with a 5.0-star rating from 60 or more students
Koko Surf School operates out of Berawa in Canggu and focuses specifically on beginner surf lessons. The school holds a 5.0-star rating from more than 60 students, a clean result for a school with a clear and well-defined focus on new surfers rather than trying to serve all levels.
Berawa is a quieter stretch of Canggu’s coastline compared to the busier Echo Beach area, which makes it a sensible base for beginner lessons where calmer conditions and less crowded lineups are an advantage. Students new to surfing benefit from less chaotic water and instructors who have structured their whole operation around the beginner experience.
Koko’s narrow focus means it may not suit those looking to progress beyond the beginner stage or who want advanced coaching. What it does offer is a well-reviewed, purpose-built environment for first-timers who want to get to their feet on a board without feeling overwhelmed.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating from 60 or more students
- Specifically designed for beginner surfers
- Berawa location offers a quieter beach environment for learning
- Clean, consistent reviews from first-time surfers
Cons
- Not suited to intermediate or advanced surfers seeking progression coaching
- Smaller operation with limited session availability
Best for: First-time surfers who want a calm, beginner-friendly environment in Canggu
Website: kokosurf.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
9. Odysseys Surf School
Established Bali surf school with a 4.8-star rating across 384 reviews
Odysseys Surf School holds a 4.8-star rating from 384 verified reviews, making it one of the more extensively reviewed schools on this list. A 4.8 across that many reviews reflects a consistently good but not uniformly perfect experience, which for many students is a more realistic and trustworthy signal than a perfect score across fewer sessions.
The school’s review volume suggests it has been operating at scale for some time and has served a wide range of student types. Students describe clear instruction, good water safety practices, and instructors who manage group dynamics well, which matters when lessons involve multiple students of different ability levels in the water at the same time.
Odysseys sits slightly below the 5.0-rated schools on this list by score, but its combination of a high rating and substantial review count gives it a well-rounded profile. It is a practical choice for visitors who weigh review depth alongside the score itself.
Pros
- 4.8-star rating from 384 reviews, a credible result at meaningful volume
- Experienced managing groups of mixed ability levels
- Strong water safety practices noted in reviews
- Established operation with a long track record
Cons
- 4.8-star rating, while strong, sits below the 5.0 held by several competitors
- Group lesson format may offer less individual attention than private schools
Best for: Visitors who want an established, well-reviewed school with a proven track record across a high number of students
Website: odysseysurfschool.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
10. Ratu Wave Bali
Surf instruction and guided surf trips across Bali for all levels, with a 5.0-star rating
Ratu Wave Bali covers a broader range of surf experiences than most schools on this list, offering lessons for beginners through to advanced surfers alongside guided surf trips and tour services across Bali’s breaks. The school holds a 5.0-star rating, with students consistently rating both the instruction quality and the trip planning aspects of the service highly.
The guided tour component sets Ratu Wave apart from purely lesson-based schools. Experienced surfers visiting Bali often know how to surf but are unfamiliar with the local breaks, access points, and conditions. A guided service fills that gap, helping surfers find the right wave for their level and get the most out of their time in the water across different parts of the island.
For travellers who want more than a single beginner lesson and are interested in exploring Bali’s wider surf geography, Ratu Wave’s combination of instruction and guiding makes it a practical option. The 5.0 rating across both service types indicates the quality holds across the school’s range of activities.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating covering both lessons and guided trips
- Serves all ability levels from beginner to advanced
- Guided surf trips help experienced surfers access the right breaks
- Broader offering than most lesson-only schools
Cons
- Website access is through a link aggregator rather than a dedicated site, which may feel less professional
- Broader scope may mean less depth in any single area compared to specialist schools
Best for: Intermediate and advanced surfers who want guided access to Bali’s breaks, as well as beginners seeking structured instruction
Website: linktr.ee/ratuwavebali
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
11. Surf School in Bali
Bali surf school with consistent 5-star ratings from past students
Surf School in Bali holds a 5.0-star rating from its student base, with reviews describing a well-managed lesson experience and instructors who communicate clearly and keep safety central to every session. The school serves students across different ability levels and operates across Bali’s main surf areas.
The school’s name is descriptive rather than distinctive, which can make it harder to find through general searches, but its review profile suggests the quality of teaching is the priority rather than marketing. Students mention the straightforward booking process and the reliability of instructor availability as practical positives.
For visitors who want a no-fuss option with a strong rating and consistent student feedback, Surf School in Bali delivers on the core elements of good instruction without the complexity of a multi-product offering.
Pros
- Consistent 5.0-star rating from past students
- Clear instruction and strong safety practices reported in reviews
- Straightforward booking process
- Operates across multiple ability levels
Cons
- Generic name makes the school harder to locate through searches
- Less publicly prominent than some larger competitors
Best for: Visitors looking for a straightforward, well-rated surf school without needing specialist services
Website: surfschoolinbali.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
12. Bali Da Waves Surf School
High-volume Bali surf school with a 5.0-star rating across close to 1,000 reviews
Bali Da Waves Surf School has accumulated close to 1,000 student reviews while maintaining a 5.0-star rating, placing it among a very small group of surf schools anywhere in the world that can claim that combination of volume and score. Maintaining a perfect rating across that many diverse student experiences is a result that is difficult to dismiss.
The school serves surfers across ability levels and has clearly developed systems for delivering consistent lesson quality at scale. Reviews from students of different nationalities and experience levels describe engaged instructors, well-maintained equipment, and a clear structure to each session that helps students make progress even within a single lesson.
For visitors who want the confidence that comes from booking a school with an extensively documented track record, Bali Da Waves is one of the strongest options on this list. The near-1,000 review count means you are drawing on a wide pool of student experiences rather than a small or potentially curated sample.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating across close to 1,000 reviews, exceptional by any measure
- Serves all ability levels from beginner to experienced
- Well-maintained equipment noted in student reviews
- Proven ability to deliver quality sessions at scale
Cons
- High popularity means advance booking is strongly recommended
- Large operations can occasionally feel less personal than smaller schools
Best for: Any level of surfer who wants to book a school with an extensively verified, high-volume review record
Website: dawavessurf.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
13. Tridatu Surf School Kuta Bali
Kuta-based surf school with a 5.0-star rating across 211 reviews
Tridatu Surf School operates out of Kuta, Bali’s most accessible and historically popular surf area for beginners. The school holds a 5.0-star rating from 211 reviews, a solid result for a Kuta-based operation serving the island’s highest-traffic beach zone.
Kuta’s beach break is long, consistent, and forgiving for learners, which makes it one of the best places in Bali to start surfing. Tridatu operates in that environment and its reviews suggest instructors are well-suited to the energy and variety of students that Kuta attracts, from package-holiday first-timers to travellers specifically visiting Bali for surf.
The school’s review count and perfect score give it credibility within its area. For visitors staying in or near Kuta who want a local school with a proven record rather than travelling to Canggu or Uluwatu for lessons, Tridatu is a practical and well-regarded option.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating from 211 reviews
- Located in Kuta, Bali’s most accessible surf area for beginners
- Experienced with the wide range of students that Kuta attracts
- Good option for visitors staying in the Kuta or Seminyak area
Cons
- No external website listed, which limits research options before booking
- Kuta’s popularity means the beach can be crowded, particularly in peak season
Best for: Beginners staying in the Kuta area who want a well-reviewed local school without needing to travel far
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
14. Mysurf School Bali
Bali surf school with a 4.9-star rating across 179 reviews
Mysurf School Bali holds a 4.9-star rating from 179 reviews, a strong result that places it solidly in the upper tier of surf schools on the island. The review count is meaningful enough to represent a genuine cross-section of student experiences rather than a sample that could be skewed by a small number of very positive or very negative sessions.
The school covers instruction across ability levels and draws positive feedback for the quality of communication between instructors and students. Reviews note that instructors explain wave timing, positioning, and pop-up technique in terms that students without any surfing background can follow and apply quickly.
For travellers who want a highly rated school with a decent review base and clear instructional quality, Mysurf School Bali delivers on both counts. The absence of an external website is worth noting for those who like to research thoroughly before booking, but the listing and review profile provide enough information for most visitors.
Pros
- 4.9-star rating from 179 reviews
- Clear, accessible instruction noted across student feedback
- Covers multiple ability levels
- Consistent positive feedback on instructor communication skills
Cons
- No external website available for pre-booking research
- Less publicly visible than schools with a dedicated web presence
Best for: Visitors who want a highly rated, communicative school and are comfortable booking without an external website to review
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
15. Nyangko Surf School
Canggu surf school with a 5.0-star rating across 70 reviews
Nyangko Surf School operates in Canggu and holds a 5.0-star rating from 70 reviews. As one of the smaller schools on this list by review count, the perfect score across 70 sessions still represents a consistent run of positive student outcomes rather than a handful of early reviews.
Canggu suits Nyangko’s profile well. The area attracts a mix of digital nomads, long-term travellers, and holidaymakers who often want surfing as part of a broader lifestyle experience rather than just a one-day tourist activity. Smaller schools in that environment tend to offer a more relaxed pace and more flexibility on session timing.
Students note that the school’s instructors are approachable and attentive, with sessions feeling personal rather than processed. For visitors to Canggu who want a smaller school with a clean rating and a local feel, Nyangko is worth including in the shortlist alongside the larger operations in the area.
Pros
- 5.0-star rating from 70 reviews
- Based in Canggu, a popular and well-serviced surf area
- Personal, attentive session style noted in reviews
- Suitable for the relaxed, flexible pace that Canggu visitors often prefer
Cons
- Smaller review base than most other schools on this list
- Website URL includes tracking parameters, which may affect the browsing experience
Best for: Canggu-based travellers who want a smaller, more personal school with a clean review record
Website: nyangkosurfschool.com
Full listing: View on Best in Bali
Who is the best surf schools in Bali?
Based on review scores and volume, UP2U Surf School Bali, Froggy Surf School Bali, and Bali Da Waves Surf School stand out for combining high ratings with large numbers of verified student reviews. UP2U holds a 4.9-star score across nearly 1,400 reviews, while Froggy and Bali Da Waves both maintain 5.0 stars across 826 and close to 1,000 reviews respectively. For private instruction specifically, the Private Surf School Canggu Bali holds a 5.0-star score across 300 or more sessions. The best choice depends on your location in Bali, your ability level, and whether you prefer a group or private format.
How much does a surf school cost in Bali?
Surf lesson prices in Bali generally range from around IDR 200,000 to IDR 500,000 (approximately AUD 20 to AUD 50) for a group beginner lesson, with private lessons typically costing IDR 400,000 to IDR 800,000 or more depending on duration and the school. Prices vary by area, with Kuta tending to be more competitive and Uluwatu or private Canggu-based schools sitting at the higher end. Multi-session packages usually offer better value per lesson than single bookings. Always confirm whether equipment hire, such as board and rash vest, is included in the quoted price.
How do I choose a surf school in Bali?
Start by identifying where in Bali you are staying, since travelling across the island for lessons adds time and cost. Then consider your ability level: beginners need access to a forgiving beach break with patient instructors, while intermediate surfers benefit from schools that can place them on the right waves for their stage. Check review counts as well as scores, since a 5.0 rating across 20 reviews carries less weight than a 4.9 across 500. Confirm what is included in the price, how many students share an instructor, and whether the school holds any formal certification or operates with water safety protocols in place.
What should I look for in a surf school?
Key factors include instructor-to-student ratio, water safety practices, the quality and condition of equipment provided, and whether the school teaches on a break suited to your level. A good surf school will assess your ability before placing you in the water rather than sending every student to the same spot regardless of experience. Check that instructors are in the water with you rather than watching from the beach, and look for schools that provide feedback after each wave rather than just positioning you and waiting. Reviews that mention specific instructors by name are often a sign of a school where staff take individual attention seriously.
Are there good surf schools for small businesses in Bali?
This question most likely refers to small group bookings rather than commercial services for businesses. Most schools on this list accommodate small groups of two to four people, and several offer private sessions that work well for couples or friends travelling together. For corporate team activity bookings or group trips involving larger numbers, schools such as UP2U and Froggy, given their operational scale and high review volumes, are better placed to manage the logistics of bigger groups without compromising on session quality. Contact schools directly to ask about group rates and whether they can accommodate specific scheduling requirements.
Bali’s surf schools range from small personal operations run by local instructors to larger establishments serving hundreds of students each month. The 15 schools on this list all carry strong verified review records, which makes them a reliable starting point for anyone planning surf lessons on the island. Your final choice should come down to location, format preference, and budget. Booking in advance is advisable during peak travel periods, particularly for private lessons and the higher-demand schools that consistently appear in traveller recommendations.
