Stand Up Paddle surfing in Bali, oftentimes referred to as ‘SUP’, or simply ‘paddle boarding’, is a fun way to ride the waves. The best thing about it is that you don’t need to ‘catch’ a wave as you would in regular surfing, or go through the hassle of hand paddling and waiting up in line for the perfect swell. Specially designed boards allow you to stand upright firmly due to their larger size, while a long paddle allows you to cruise along at your own desired speed, even over swells. You can try out or rent boards for Stand Up Paddle surfing at most surf schools in Bali. Start out with a flat water SUP then hone your skills as you get hooked with an intermediate lesson. If you choose to, you can even ride your Stand Up Paddle board while kneeling. Bali is a surfing mecca for riders from around the world, and this is one cool and immersive way to enjoy the view and thrills of the island’s beautiful coasts.
An increasingly popular offshoot of surfing as we known it, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding lets riders cruise over waves while standing up on their boards, maintain an upright stance throughout the activity, and propel themselves over the surface using a single paddle. SUP is great for those looking for a more recreational surfing activity, to enjoy sightseeing along the coastline, and have greater control and stability while on the water. You don’t need to purchase or bring your own board and gear as bulky luggage on your flight to Bali. There are many surf schools that rent out SUPs for experienced riders as well. Daily rentals start from only IDR 250,000 (USD 19) and some rentals also offer weekly rates. If you need to, you can generally fit your own gear on the plane within the normal 20kg luggage limit.
You could bring out your SUP board just about anywhere you like. Kuta beach, where surfing on the island pretty much started, remains a great place to SUP for its combinations of rideable swells and flat rides. Low tide at the beaches of Sanur and Nusa Dua are also great, with the nearer coastal waters cordoned by natural reef barriers, providing you with perfect flat water inside, and some exciting rides beyond. Beginners should stick to the former, to avoid the corals. The east-facing coasts, like Sanur, Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa, can be windier most of the times. Western coasts,like Kuta, and Jimbaran bay, are more favourable for flat wave riders. The crowd factor should also come into consideration. Rip Curl School of Surf has a school right on the quiet beachfront of the InterContinental Bali Resort in Jimbaran, which is a wonderful spot to learn and enjoy SUP.
