Ulu Watu, Bali | Surfing, Things To Do, Tips

Uluwatu, Bali Overview

Situated at the southwestern tip of Bukit in Bali, Uluwatu attracts surfers of all levels from around the world to its exciting shoreline. The waves comprise five world-class surf breaks, and the hotels and restaurants overlooking the Indian ocean provide a magnificent view. The Pura Luru Uluwatu temple is another important attraction in this area. Explore Uluwatu's dramatic clifftop views, white sand beaches, and epic surf breaks.

Situated at the south-western tip of Bukit in Bali, the short strip of beach called Uluwatu attracts surfers of all levels from around the world to its exciting shoreline. Uluwatu comes from the words "ulu" meaning 'land's end' and "watu" meaning rock. The waves here are composed of five world-class surf breaks, and the hotels and restaurants overlooking the Indian Ocean provide a magnificent view.

Uluwatu's beaches are incredibly beautiful, but it is ultimately a surfing destination because of its tricky waves. These are not suitable for swimming. So if you aren’t inclined to go surfing in Uluwatu, keep in mind that it’s mostly a destination to relax and there isn’t much to do around here.

Surfing in Ulu Watu

Nestled in the limestone cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is a must-visit site for surfers. The landscape is reminiscent of surfing postcards – clear blue water as far as the eye can see, warm sand under your feet, large waves that give every surfer a decent challenge, and laidback beach shacks to enjoy the overall scenery. You're almost never going to see anyone wearing pants or closed-toe shoes, because, at this surfing paradise, it's bathing suits and surfboards galore!

The reason that Uluwatu is so famous in the surfing community is its many breaks, all different but consistent. Depending on the tide and swell size, they can be enjoyed at different points during the day. When the larger swells arrive in Bali, Uluwatu becomes an amazing surfing venue featuring fantastic breaks: The Peak, The Racetrack, Temples, and outer reefs Bombie and Outside Corner. At some spots, these breaks can even be fifteen feet high! With surfers needing to know how to return to the beach with or without a surfboard when the breaks are competitive, Uluwatu is no place for learners.

1. The Bombie, the first break, is a powerful wave well known for breaking boards. On bigger swell days, it goes up to 20 feet. Temples are the second break, though it is not highly populated because of the effort in getting out of it. They can reach 15 feet in height and can make for a ride of almost 300 yards. It derives its name from the Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple on the cliff.

2. The Racetrack provides a fast grinder on low tides, getting its name from the big barrel at the end. Advanced surfers often enjoy this end section, especially during middle tides. During low tides, The Racetrack becomes a multi-section barrel and should be reserved for advanced surfers only, especially as the water becomes dangerously shallow here with the reef at the end of the ride.

3. The Peak breaks at the entry and exit point of Uluwatu: the cave. Best enjoyed at high tide, it had hollow barrelling waves aided by winds from the southeast. During these high tides, the Outsider Corner rumbles to life with sturdy pintails providing a challenge to even an expert surfer.

Cost of renting a surf board in Ulu Watu: 50,000 IDR an hour
Cost for level 1 surf lesson: 3,250,000 IDR (2hrs x 5 sessions)
Surf Operators:
1. Odessey Surf School:
Email: [email protected]
Website:https://www.odysseysurfschool.com/

2. RIP Curl School of Surf - International Surfing Association Certified School
Website:https://ripcurlschoolofsurf.com/

Because of deep-water channels along the Bukit Peninsula, swells are common here. Located in the southernmost tip of Bali, the dramatic cliffs, white beaches, and temple silhouettes make for a beautiful surf every time. It is located along a line of fantastic surf spots, such as Balangan, Bingin, Padang-Padang, and Suluban.

Uluwatu Temple: Pura Luhur Uluwatu

One of Bali's most magnificent temples, Pura Luhur Uluwatu is located in Uluwatu. While the surf break is down a dirt road from the Jalan Labuan Sait main road, the temple requires a left diversion much before the dirt path. It is one of nine directional temples in Bali. Locals believe that the temple blesses surfers at Uluwatu because of the divine waves, and protects the island against all evil. Until 1983, it was almost impossible to access Pura Uluwatu. Almost a decade later, a lightning strike set parts of the temple on fire. Allowing with covering up the damage, other restorations have been done to the temple since then.

The Traditional Kecak Dance Performed at Uluwatu Temple Bali (Source)

Uluwatu temple is renowned for its amazing location on the top of Bukit limestone cliffs, around 70m (230 feet) above sea level. Just like Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu temple promises picturesque sunsets overlooking the beautiful Indian Ocean. Because of archaeological remains found here, it is believed to date back to the 10th century. It has a north and south entrance, with a small forest in the front with monkeys, said to guard the temple. The locals believe that the divine trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, become one at Uluwatu, and so the temples is a place of worship of Rudra, the Balinese Hindu god of all elements and protector against evil sea spirits.

Things to Do at Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a place to chill. Aside from surfing, there's not much activity. Here are a few of the things to do in Ulu Watu:

1. There are plenty of places to kick back, relax, and merely enjoy the scenery.
2. From warungs (traditional food stalls) to cafes and luxury restaurants, you're bound to find plenty of options for meals. The seafood, in particular, is great.
3. If you're looking to go shopping, you'll find mostly souvenir stores selling items like seashell necklaces, t-shirts, corals, etc.
4. In terms of accommodation, there are plenty of villas and resorts available for rent. These beautiful properties are located on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, with first-class amenities like WiFi, satellite television, and spas. Uluwatu's exotic location creates the perfect setting for a resort getaway.

Best Time to Visit Uluwatu

The best time to visit Uluwatu beach and Uluwatu temple are before sunset. It's a fantastic view of orange, yellow, and red hues illuminating the sky while the ocean calmly flows below.

Tips on Visiting Uluwatu

1. Because Uluwatu is less than 2 hours away from other, more populated destinations, it might be a temptation to visit for a day trip only. However, the area's peaceful atmosphere, beach clubs, pristine beaches and amazing cliff views make for a great stay and would be a highlight of any Bali trip.

2. While visiting Pura Uluwatu, keep in mind that temple visits require appropriate attire like sarongs and a sash.

3. Shortly after sunset, an adjacent cliff-top stage hosts Kecak performance for an hour and a half. If you haven't been able to catch a traditional Balinese dance performance, this is a great opportunity!

4. The temple charges a nominal entrance fee. There's little to no public transportation to get there, and without prearranged cars or taxis, it will be difficult going back into the town.