Surfing Waves

Hi everyone,
My partner and I are planning a surf trip through Indonesia from March through to May.
Our skill level is beginner to intermediate, comfortable to surf waves ranging up to 4-5 ft.
We are trying to plan an itinerary and would appreciate any suggestions. We know Bali fairly well so would like to widen our horizon and try different islands of Indonesia.
Trying to do this on a budget, and therefore not looking at boat trips or surf tours.
Any advise or input would be highly appreciated.
Thanks in advance to all those who respond.
Cheers

Huskie.. are you from the south coast of NSW?

You might consider heading across to Lombok and using Kuta Lombok as a base. The whole south coast of Lombok has opportunities and one area you could explore the Gerupuk area.

Be aware that the further you go away from the main beaches the more self reliant you have to be in your own surf safety.

Not quite Bali crowded but somewhat busy.
There are homestays and cheaper surf camps that aren’t too horrid.

There is a spot I can recommend that comes in at AUD $150 per day, with your level surf, but is really a one break spot ( left hander and a minor break inshore!
Have fun!

That is the start of the season....good surfing weather around here. Waves will most likely be averaging a bit over your comfort level......a good thing since shoulder high days are a morass of bodies and boards.

Thanks guys. We have been to gerupuk and Kuta Lombok before a couple of years ago, and yes it is a lovely area, but was pretty crowded when we went. Also went to heaven on a planet at Ekas as well some time before and were lucky with some waves.
Do you know anything about Krui in Sumatra or Batu Keras in Java ?
Also Red island, Java ? Or Lakey peak sambawa?
Thanks for the comments so far.
Cheers

Red Island, Java is a beach break, and whilst I'm sure it gets good at times (perhaps often), if the conditions don't align then you'll be surfing relatively poor waves with no other options close by. On the plus side, when I was there in 2013, the surf was empty other than myself and my friend. If you're beginners then it'd be better surfing lower quality uncrowded surf than mixing it with 100's of other people at a popular spot (assuming you can handle yourselves and won't get into trouble).

I was there during some kind of public holiday which meant that the beach was packed with Javanese (surf was still empty). My friend was like a minor celebrity on the beach with his blonde hair.

There are a few places to eat and stay, but no nightlife that we saw. There is a surf camp that operates in that region if you wanted to mix with other travellers. I think the prices are pretty western though.

Ive spent a lot of time in Sumatra and if youre on a budget then South Sumatra / Krui is a good call. I have to say though its NOT ideal for beginner-intermediates. There are some spots that you'll be ok at. The beach break packs a punch (Mandiri) but at least its not reef. So thats always a good starting point. And if the surf gets bigger, then cruise around in to krui town and surf "Krui left" which is a super fun wave. You'll be fine surfing there on the high tide no worries. When its small (most the time) it really isnt crowded. It just gets busy when it gets head high or bigger (on a solid swell). Cheers, Dave

+1 for batu karas. If you want a relaxed right hander (longboards go good there) and cheap accomadation close to the beach