WHEN?

I joined Cari Surf Bali in October 2024 and I have to say the weather was just perfect (yes warm, but we all also come to Bali for the sun!) and the surf conditions were great, even too good! Some days it was even too big to go in.

WHERE?

The surf camp is located in the Padang-Padang / Bingin Area. The location is super practical for going surfing all along the west coast of the peninsula (Uluwatu / Padang / Impossible / Bingin / Dreamland / Balangan etc

You are within walking distance of one of the main streets with restaurants, shops, massages, the famous Drifters, etc

WHAT TO PACK?

Let’s focus on what you would need at the camp or to chill around the Uluwatu area. This is not a list for a full trip to Bali and its surroundings.

Surfboard/leash or you can rent at the camp
Sun protection for when you go surfing! Super important. Hat, zinc, sunscreen, long sleeves, etc. The surf camp can also provide a long-sleeve lycra (you can also buy their branded one, it looks great!)
In general, anything to protect yourself from the sun
Beach/pool outfits
Light clothes for the day
Long light clothes for the evening (mosquitoes) or AC places or the sun
Anti-mosquitoes sprays, cream, etc
Anything vitamins/supplements is expensive in Bali so bring your own
The general pharmacy kit and add extra against the “Bali Belly”. Almost everyone I know got tit after 4-6 days

THE VIBE AT THE CAMP

It is a beautiful, quiet and relaxing camp. You are not on the main road so you feel like in a little bubble. The pool area is a perfect place to relax, tan, read, train, or nap!

The rooms are spacious, I really like the decoration touches, the beds are SO comfy, and the bathroom is super nice. I could have stayed hours in those rooms. I was staying in a private room but I also only heard good things about the shared ones and the dorm area.

Since the pricing of the surf camp is not mid/high-level, the age group would range mainly between 30-40yo so I have to say it was perfect for me because I did not want to end up in a huge surf camp where the main vibe was partying. The room was a great space to remote work and when I needed some “social” time I could just go by the pool or at the restaurant.

A minute for the food!
There is a restaurant in the surf camp and you can order all day long. If you have a package (lessons or guiding), the breakfast is included and it’s delicious! I would usually take it once back from surfing or in between sessions and it’s a lot! You can choose between a main plate, then yogurt/fruits or veggies/hummus as a side, and juice. I love it all to be honest! There are a lot of veggie options and they can adapt those options for vegan.

THE SURFING

On their website, they have a surf-level guide. Choose yours, and then just follow the team ;) That’s what I love about surf camps: not having to worry about the conditions, the spots, the transport, and not to surf alone.

I was level 3 and we had some AMAZING at Middles / Second Middles / Uluwatu and Temple. We went to so many spots in a week, it was great for me to discover new places with the guidances of the coaches.

During the week you also have review video sessions and once a week, a surf technique session.

THE ACTIVITIES:

All week long, the team organizes activities: yoga (the teacher, Tammie, is GREAT) Sunday sunset night at Uluwatu, barbecue (vegan/veggie options available), sunset drinks, and family dinner! It helps to create great cohesion between all the surf groups. I know some of them also went partying after some of the activities, so you can also find this vibe if you want a rest day from surfing haha.