Where to learn in Indonesia

[Jigsawn]

Hi, I am in Indonesia and I want to get surfing lessons here. I would like to get cheap but good lessons, probably on Java, Bali or Lombock but I am open to suggestions. I will have 2-3 weeks dedicated to surfing. Ideally I would like to be based somewhere where there is stuff going on, but not too busy (I heard Kuta in Bali is far too busy for example). It is currently May.

Any suggestions appreciated!

[Lebowski]

My friend runs a business from Seminyak, Bali, called Santai surf school. From what I hear they are very good.

You can find them on facebook.

[dtc]

I only know Bali. Kuta itself is busy busy, but just outside it (eg Seminyak, which is just up the road) its much quieter; or you could try somewhere like Medewi. However, Kuta beach itself is probably the best learner beach, although its not actually that good for learners (in comparison to other places around the world) - there are some rips and it can be a bit messy. Most of the rest of the surfing spots in Bali are reef breaks and not for beginners. (you didnt mention your level but I am presuming not advanced)

If you want to devote yourself to surfing, find a surf resort that caters for beginners and stay there. I don't know if there are any on Bali itself but there are some in the Mentawais if you can get yourself there (but they are not cheap). But again the waves might be a bit advanced for a total beginner

If you just want to do a few lessons then there are heaps of surf schools run from Kuta - just walk down the beach and pick one. Or you can hire your own private teacher, who can pick you up and drive you to somewhere suitable, and then give you a lesson. A little more expensive than a group lesson but not much. I recommend this guy http://silversurfbali.com/

So - if you are on Bali - then you will end up at Kuta. Its not that busy surf wise, there are lots of people in the water but they are mostly beginners and not in the way. You dont need to stay in Kuta itself, there are plenty of places within 1/2 hr.

[IB_Surfer]

maybe it's just that I am not familiar with those breaks except for what I see in surf movies, but when you ask if there is a school to learn in indonesia for me it's like asking where the school to learn at pipeline is at LOL

[Aqualife]

Hi,
1) Java: a good option is Batu Keras, a protected bay that is perfect for learning. Not too busy and quite a nice spot. http://www.javacovebeachhotel.com/thesurf.php
You can always hire a local and a board and take you out there.
2) Bali: dtc's advice is good. The only real learner's break is Kuta Beach, the other place where people learn is Echo Beach in Canggu which is a lot less hectic than Kuta. Any surf school is ok to teach you the basics. Some take you to other breaks too but all you really need is a beach break, a board and the basics.
3) Lombok: there are some surf school at Senggiggi Beach (tiny surf mostly) in Lombok and also in Kuta (Lombok, same name as Kuta in Bali, confusing I know).

It really depends where you want to be generally, as you will be only spending 2-3 hours per day in the water as a beginner. So pick the island where you want to be the most. Indonesians are enterprising people. Wherever you have surf, you have someone to rent you a board and teach you the basics.

I personally think the surf camps with accommodation included for beginners are really only for people that need hand holding and haven't got any travel experience, a waste of money. A surf school where you pay for the day is fully sufficient which also gives you the option to opt out if you don't like it and find another course you like more.

May is the start of the season. By June you will see some big swells rolling through. Take care and enjoy!