Surfing Waves

Hi Guys, I am planning to go Bali for a week or 2. I'm still pretty much a novice and have never surfed a reef. In fact I'm pretty confident that I will wipe out on around half the waves I try to catch. Furthermore I am trying to get my turns down and might be more likely to be riding straight to shore rather than along the face. Is it safe to attempt to practice on the reefs or should I stay completely clear of them? If its safe can you advice which are less shallow?

Hi thefatboy, welcome to Surfing Waves.

Many of Bali's reef breaks are live coral. A wipeout over a live coral reef could result in serious lacerations and infection. I'd advise that you stick to beach breaks for your trip, and leave the reefs for a future visit.

fall flat. Reef rash is gonna happen sooner or later but I would guess since you are still at the beginner stage the waves are not going to be that powerful thus tossing you about. Unfortunately the shallow water and the reef are vital parts of quality waves so the ability to not fall becomes even more important. Know your limits and fall flat and dont try to stand up after falling - rather swim shallow to the board and avoid the sea erchint like the plague!

Hi and welcome thefatboy , Bali is a bit of a challenge if there is any swell running that is above learner heights the beach breaks of Kuta are hard as is the fine grey coral sand.

On small days there are individual banks but be warned genuinely there are savage rips and the surf can pum up in less than an hour, my suggestion hang around near (but not too near a surf school) better yet enroll in one of the more advanced ones.

Bali is a great destination but each year some learners or swimmers drown along the Kuta stretch, usually because they think they can handle it.

Take care and know your limits

Thanks so much for the advice guys. I've decided to go with a surf school given I'm traveling alone. Will be good if someone knows where I am in the water

I agree with the surf school! Good luck!