Indonesia, and more specifically Bali, is a dream destination for lovers of fine sandy beaches, the tropics and breathtaking scenery. But Bali is also known for its exceptional waves and kitesurfing spots, especially between June and September. With winds between 15 and 20 knots, the ocean offers the perfect kite trip. Here are the best spots for kitesurfing in Bali.
Sanur spot ideal for beginners
The Sanur spot is located in the southeast of Bali. It is a shallow area with relatively good waves for beginner kitesurfers. It offers a great learning area with a calm lagoon and moderate winds averaging 15 knots. This spot will also appeal to more experienced kitesurfers as it allows them to test the reef waves along the reef. Note however that this spot is subject to tides. It is not recommended to kite during low tide. Many kitesurfing schools can rent equipment and give basic lessons.
The Gilimanuk spot
The Gilimanuk spot is an unspoilt natural setting. Many divers go there to explore the seascape. For kitesurfers, it is important to know that this area of Bali is subject to trade winds blowing from the east and southeast. It is recommended that you kitesurf here at low tide to take advantage of the shallow, flat terrain which is perfect for beginners. Be careful if you go during the tourist season as this area of the island is very busy. In addition, Gilimanuk offers a variety of restaurants, kitesurfing and windsurfing equipment rentals.
The spot of Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is the luxury spot on the island of Bali. Indeed, it is in this area, on the south-east side, that luxury resorts and palaces can be found. However, kitesurfers are welcome to glide in the lagoon during the rising tide or at high tide. For the more experienced, it is possible to do a downwind to the spot of Sanur, a little higher, 20 kilometres north of Nusa Dua. The Nusa Dua spot offers medium intensity waves. The beach is made up of fine sand and is supervised in season.
The Canggu spot
On the other side of the island is the Canggu spot, on the western side of southern Bali. The wind is stronger in this part of the island. This is due to a current flowing inland which increases the strength of the winds. Therefore, the spot is highly recommended for experienced kitesurfers. Indeed, the waves are more imposing and the rollers solid. It will be particularly pleasant to surf on the beaches of Batu Bolong Beach, Berawa Beach and Echo Beach for the most experienced surfers and kitesurfers.
Seminyak spot
Seminyak is a seaside resort located in the south of Bali. It is made up of villas, spas and luxury hotels. Seminyak beach is perfect for beginners. Surfing schools offer lessons for beginners and equipment rental for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Lined with small, typical restaurants, it’s a great place to go for a bite to eat after your surfing session. If you prefer to eat locally, the Warungs, a kind of small independent restaurant, will serve you all sorts of dishes such as Sate ayam, Nasi campur or for vegetarians a delicious Gado gado.
The Bali Kite Festival
The Bali Kite Festival is not a spotlight in itself, but an event not to be missed for lovers of the wind and the water. The Kite Bali Festival is a religious festival dedicated to the Indonesian gods in order to obtain abundant harvests. People fly kites and even compete in teams of 70 to 80 people. A gamelan band plays music throughout the festival. Take advantage of this timeless moment to discover the spots in the south of the island of Bukit in Uluwatu.