If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave in Bali, this five-day surfing course at the Rip Curl School of Surf in Kuta offers a balanced blend of professional instruction, practical equipment, and the stunning scenery of Legian Beach. For around $250, you’ll get five 2-hour lessons, all gear included, plus door-to-door transfers from key south Bali locations.
What we genuinely appreciate about this experience is its focus on small group instruction—no more than five students per instructor—which ensures personalized attention. The second highlight? The thoughtful inclusion of all necessary gear, from surfboards to zinc sunscreen, making it easier for beginners to focus solely on learning and enjoying themselves.
One consideration? Early mornings are common for surf lessons, especially to catch the best waves, which might be a bit challenging for some. But if you’re an early riser or willing to embrace Bali’s breezy dawns, you’ll find the timing well worth it.
This course is best suited for beginners or those with little to no surfing experience who want a supportive yet comprehensive introduction to surfing’s fundamentals. Based on reviews, it’s perfect for families, teens, or solo travelers eager to learn in a safe environment.
Key Points

- Small Group Learning: Max 5 students per instructor ensures personalized guidance.
- All Equipment Included: Surfboard, rash guard, zinc, and even board shorts are provided.
- Door-to-Door Transfers: Convenient pickup and drop-off from popular Bali areas.
- Expert Instruction: Friendly, patient, and professional staff who prioritize safety.
- Comprehensive Approach: Lessons blend theory, practice, and safety, suitable for absolute beginners.
- Flexible Scheduling: Multiple daily start times, often early, for optimal wave conditions.
An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect
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Location and Setting
The Rip Curl School of Surf is situated at Rip Curl School of Surf, Hotel Prama Sanur Beach, with lessons taking place on Legian’s Double Six Beach. This stretch of Bali is famous for its consistent, manageable waves, making it an ideal spot for beginners. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the slick facilities, including changing rooms, lockers, private bathrooms, and showers, all designed to make your experience smooth and comfortable.
Daily Schedule and Lessons
The course spans five days, with lessons scheduled at 8 am, 10 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. The most popular times tend to be the early sessions, taking advantage of Bali’s best wave conditions—calm mornings with manageable swell and light wind.
Each 2-hour lesson is led by a dedicated instructor, with a student-to-instructor ratio of 5:1. This allows enough one-on-one coaching to help you improve your stance, learn to turn, and even better understand ocean safety.
The Curriculum
The program is designed specifically for beginners, focusing on building your confidence in the water and teaching the basics of standing on your surfboard, paddling, and understanding waves. Beginners will appreciate that the lessons start with theory and safety, covering ocean currents, rip tides, and how to paddle effectively. As you progress, you’ll get practical tips on how to catch your first green wave—an exhilarating milestone for any novice.
Equipment and Facilities
All essential gear is included—surfboards suitable for beginners, rash guards, and zinc sunscreen—so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything but your swimwear. The rash guards and leggings provided are designed for comfort and sun protection, while the zinc keeps your skin safe from Bali’s strong UV rays.
Plus, the school offers seaside photos taken during lessons, allowing you to relive your first wave moments and share them with friends.
Transfers and Convenience
One of the biggest perks is the door-to-door transfers from areas like Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud, Canggu, Jimbaran, and Nusa Dua. This hassle-free pickup means you can relax and focus solely on your surfing. The transfer service is included in the price, which brings excellent value considering the convenience, especially after an active morning.
Facilities and Atmosphere
The school’s chill-out area is perfect for relaxing post-lesson, with cold drinks, music, and comfortable seating. If you’re traveling with friends or family not interested in surfing, they can easily explore nearby restaurants and cafes—these are right next door—making it a fun, social outing for everyone.
Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback
The reviews reflect a broad consensus of satisfaction and enjoyment. Many praise the instructors for being professional, patient, and kind, emphasizing how they made beginners feel safe and supported. One reviewer noted, “The instructors are amazing and take the time to help each and every student, which is very helpful,” highlighting the personalized attention.
Others highlight the progression over the five days, with one comment stating, “Learning to surf here is amazing; it takes no time at all to catch a green wave.” This suggests that even absolute newbies will see tangible improvements in a short span, thanks to expert guidance.
Many reviews mention the well-organized nature of the program and the comprehensive equipment—all the essentials are covered, ensuring participants can focus on learning rather than logistics. The inclusion of water, towels, fresh fruits, and sunscreen shows a thoughtful approach to the comfort of students.
What Could Be Better?
While the overall experience gets high marks, some reviews allude to the early start times—which might not suit late risers or travelers with different schedules. Also, since conditions depend on tides and weather, the exact schedule might shift, so flexibility is a good idea.
The Value of a Five-Day Surf Course
At $250, this course offers exceptional value. When compared to private lessons or surf camps in Bali, the small group size, all-inclusive gear, and convenient transfers make it a smart choice for beginners wanting a smooth, hassle-free introduction to surfing.
You’re paying not just for the lessons but for a carefully curated experience—comprehensive coaching, top-notch facilities, and the scenic backdrop of Bali’s surf-friendly beaches. The inclusion of photos and study materials also helps reinforce what you learn, boosting confidence and skill.
Who Will Love This Course?
This program is ideal for first-time surfers, families, or solo travelers eager to learn in a safe environment. Its emphasis on safety and personalized attention makes it suitable for those nervous about trying water sports. The location on Legian Beach also appeals to those who want a lively atmosphere, with plenty of nearby eateries and shops.
If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and supportive introduction to surfing, this course will serve you well. It’s also perfect if you want to meet other travelers and share in the camaraderie that comes with learning something new in Bali.
FAQs
Is this course suitable for complete beginners? Yes, it’s designed specifically for beginners with no prior surfing experience. The curriculum focuses on foundational skills and ocean safety.
Are all necessary equipment provided? Absolutely. The course includes surfboards, rash guards, zinc, board shorts, towels, and water, so you only need to bring your swimwear.
What time are the lessons scheduled? Lessons are scheduled at 8 am, 10 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm each day. Early sessions often have the best wave conditions.
Does the price include transfers? Yes, door-to-door transfers from key south Bali locations (like Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud, and Canggu) are included in the price.
How long does each lesson last? Each session runs for about 2 hours, providing ample time for practice and instruction.
What is the group size? No more than five students per instructor, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to dip your toes into Bali’s surfing scene with a trusted, professional school, this five-day beginner course checks all the boxes. The small group size, all equipment included, and convenient transfers make it a stress-free way to learn a new skill in one of the world’s most iconic surf spots.
You’ll love how the instructors focus on safety and personal progress, and you’ll appreciate the breath-taking views of Legian Beach while you learn. It’s a fantastic option for those who want a hands-on introduction to surfing, especially if you enjoy a lively beach atmosphere and flexible scheduling.
This is a great fit for first-time surfers, families, or anyone wanting a well-organized, fun, and supportive surf experience in Bali. With many happy reviews backing the quality of instruction and facilities, it’s clear that your first wave in Bali will be one to remember.
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