Shoulder Season Bali: Why It’s the Sweet Spot for Surfers

Thinking about when to hit Bali? The shoulder season might just be your perfect window.

It sits between the wet and dry seasons, offering less rain, fewer crowds, fun surf and better deals. And you know we love fewer crowds and fun surf!

Let’s dive into what you get, when to go and tips to make the most of it.

What is shoulder season in Bali?

“Shoulder season” refers to those transitional months between peak tourism and the rainy months.

Unlike the heavy downpours of the wet season or the relatively packed surf breaks of July and August, shoulder months are calmer, cheaper and often have the right conditions for surf, sun and exploring.

During shoulder season, the "Island of the Gods" slows down just enough to breathe.

There are still tourists, but you can find moments of quiet. You can score a front-row sunset seat, stroll iconic rice paddies without a crowd and surf lineups with half the usual people. 

Not bad, right?

Check out our detailed Bali surf season guide.

When is shoulder season in Bali?

The shoulder season in Bali falls between the main wet and dry periods, typically in late March, April and May and September to October.

These months strike a balance between sunshine and the occasional light rain. And with warm seas and consistent wave conditions, it’s a dream for surfers from around the world.

If you’re looking to surf Bali without the intensity of high season crowds or the unpredictability of the wet season, this is your window!

Winds shift gradually. And both coasts start to show off (south and east, that is). The trade winds aren’t as strong yet, but the Indian Ocean is already sending in perfect waves. Perfect waves we hope you'll be jumping into from the shore.

Why choose shoulder season Bali?

Fun surf (and fewer crowds)

From Kuta to the Bukit Peninsula, this is the time when the waves are still rolling in (but the crowds haven’t).

Popular beach and reef breaks like Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Dreamland work well without being too intense. You can score solid rides with more room to move, especially during the early mornings.

For beginner surfers, it’s the best time to paddle out without crowd pressure.

More value, less hassle

With many tourists waiting for high season, flights and hotels drop in price. You can land better deals, get into booked-out surf camps (like ours!) and even enjoy emptier beach clubs.

Some camps throw in bonuses: video coaching, airport transfers from Ngurah Rai International Airport or guided trips to famous surf spots. The vibe feels more personal, more relaxed… more like Bali from yesteryear, so to speak.

Surfing both coasts

The magic of shoulder season? 

You can chase waves on the south, south-west coast and east coast depending on daily wind and swell conditions.

The west coast (Uluwatu, Dreamland, Bingin, Balangan) still pumps with clean lefts and big swells. But the east coast starts working too (Sanur reef and Nusa Dua), alongside other lesser-known breaks that light up with early or late season shape.

Having access to both coasts means more options, more waves and fewer flat days. Which all translates to more time in the water and faster progression!

Learn more about which coast is best during the wet season.

What surf to expect in shoulder season

• West coast reef breaks keep firing: Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Bingin
• Beach breaks like Kuta or Canggu stay gentle (perfect for building in-water confidence)
• East coast opens up: check Sanur reef, Nusa Dua and Keramas
• Waves still breaking with clean faces and mellow sections
• Great for intermediate surfers and novice surfers ready for the next step
• Beautiful beaches and emptier lineups make it ideal for all-day surf missions
• Expert surfers might be slightly disappointed with the overall wave quality, but those who seek and have patience shall find!

Who benefits most from shoulder season

First time surfers

The waves are softer, the sun isn’t as fierce and instructors have more time to focus on you. It’s also easier for your typical absolute beginner surfer to snag their first surf lesson or catch their first wave without fighting for space.

Beginner surfers

With manageable size and more mellow conditions, shoulder season gives beginners space to learn how waves break, practice paddling and start catching waves confidently. Cue the boost in confidence that you need to go to the next level.

Intermediate surfers

Now’s your time. You get long rides, less wind and the chance to try more technical reef breaks without the stress of heavy crowds. Head down. Paddle hard. The next one's yours!

Experienced surfers

You know the deal... right conditions, shifting swells and the possibility of perfect waves with room to move. Grab your board and check both coasts. Don't spend all your time waiting for waves in the bar.

Bonus: What to pack for shoulder season

• Lightweight rain jacket (for quick tropical showers)
• Reef booties (especially if you plan to surf wide reef breaks at low tide)
• Sunscreen and zinc (clouds don’t block UV)
• Travel insurance that covers surfing in Bali
• A backup board or travel fin key (unless you're staying with us!)
• Reusable water bottle (many camps offer refills)

Tips to surf Bali in shoulder season

• Start early: Mornings are cleanest and less windy
• Check both coasts: Have a scooter or car ready to chase best conditions
• Know your tide: Some spots disappear or get dangerous at high tide
• Watch the reef: Exposed coral reefs mean shallower paddles
• Stay a little longer: A single day of rain can flip to perfect blue skies
• Read surf spot guides: Like this one! They point out where to find the best waves (even on weird days)
• Embrace your first visit: Soak it all up! Surfing is the priority, but there's so much on offer besides sand, waves and the shoreline in Indonesia

FAQs

Q. Is shoulder season better than dry season for surfing?

It depends on what you want. The dry season delivers peak swell but also big crowds. Shoulder season balances it out with more space and still very good waves.

Q. Can you surf Bali in September?

Yes. Clean swells, lighter winds and fewer surfers than August. Perfect for progression... so long as you don't mind sharing with the late season stragglers.

Q. What about October or November?

October still works. By November the wet season starts sneaking in. Surf shifts to the east coast and weather gets less predictable.

Q. Are reef breaks safe in shoulder season?

They’re safer than peak season because swells are often smaller. Still… reef is reef. Know your limits, wear booties and don’t go alone if you’re unsure.

Q. Do surf camps run during shoulder season?

Absolutely. Many offer better deals and flexible coaching suited to your skill level and the conditions.

Final thoughts

The shoulder season Bali experience is a special one. The balance between swell and sunshine, surf and stillness, ocean and adventure… it just works.

If you want to surf Bali, explore both coasts, hang with cool locals and catch waves that change your life (minus the chaos of high season), April to May and September to October is your window.

And when you get here, Kala Surf will be waiting.