The Best Water Sports in Bali to Soak Up Some Adventure
Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or just looking to unwind by the water, Bali has you covered.
From surfing world-renowned waves to exploring vibrant marine life, here's a list of the best water sports activities on the ‘Island of Gods’.
And don’t worry if you’re a newbie to the way of water - we’ve categorised our recommendations to suit every type of traveller.
So, what are you waiting for? Let's dive into Bali's best water sports activities:
For First Timers
If you're afraid of water, or just haven’t had a chance to explore your affinity for water sports, here are a few activities that you must try when you’re in Bali.
Check out Splash Water Park
Water parks are a great way to unwind and explore your comfort level with water. Splash Water Park at Finns Recreation Club in Canggu, which has water slides and a water playground, is the perfect way to spend the day with friends and family.
Address: 84QX+24 Tibubeneng, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia (map)
Timings: Open daily, 6am to 9pm
Head to Waterbom Bali
You can also book a day out at Waterbom, Bali’s most famous waterpark.
Brave the pride of the park, a 70 km/h ride called Climax, or chill on the Lazy River.
Enjoy a drink at the swim-up bar or explore the many water slides with your kids at this legendary and fun destination.
Address: Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia (map)
Timings: Open daily, 9am to 6pm
Surfing tales in Canggu and Seminyak
Riding the waves is even more fun than it looks.
If you want to learn how to surf like a pro, we recommend joining a beginner’s class on Batu Bolong Beach in Canggu that'll give you more confidence to chase the perfect waves in Bali.
The waves in Seminyak are also perfect for your first surf lesson.
Feel the thrill of standing up on a paddleboard and finding your rhythm with the right instructors guiding you all the way!
We promise you’ll have fun, and can catch a drink as the sun sets.
Odyssey Surf School in Kuta also offers incredible surfing classes by certified instructors.
You can book a private class or learn with many beginners to make the experience even more fun.
UP2U Surf School also offers customised surf lessons to include your whole family so that you can have fun together!
Discover Bali’s romantic side on a Boat Cruise in Ubud
If you’re not one to dip your feet in the water, serenade your partner with a romantic dinner on a boat cruise through a tropical lagoon, afresh with beautiful trees and mesmerising foliage.
You can also take your cruising adventure up a notch by booking a full-day cruise to the stunning Mushroom Bay in Nusa Lembongan.
Sunbathe on golden beaches, go snorkelling or simply lounge at a pool-side cabana as you soak in the sun. Another excellent choice is to explore Jimbaran Bay on a private sunset cruise for a truly luxurious experience.
Tame the waves by Jet Skiing in Kuta and Nusa Dua
There is little that matches the thrill of racing on the water.
And that adrenaline rush is exactly what jet skiing gives you. You don’t need any experience to do this - a trained instructor will take you on a two-hour ride to Kuta on a jet ski, coupled with a fun and informative conversation on the way.
If you’re more experienced, you can always take the jet ski out to the open sea, on your own for some unique me time!
You can also book a full day of water sports for beginners in Nusa Dua, one of Bali’s most popular and upscale destinations with stunning beaches.
Watching Dolphins Swim by in Lovina
Lovina Beach, located on the northern coast of Bali, is renowned for its unique dolphin-watching experience that lets travellers witness playful dolphins in their natural habitat as they gracefully swim and leap through the ocean waves.
Tour operators will take you out on traditional outrigger boats known as ‘jukung’ that can accommodate small groups.
Address: Lovina Beach, Bali (map)
For Adventure Junkies
If you're a pro when it comes to water activities, try your hand at these water sports when in Bali.
Snorkelling in Nusa Penida
Snorkelling offers you a great introduction to the azure waters of Bali and is a loved pastime for people who are water junkies too.
If you want to take it slow, sign up for a snorkelling boat tour that'll take you to the best locations of Nusa Penida.
Snorkel at Angel Billabong and Broken Beach, swim with Manta Rays and enjoy the serenity of the calm waters of Bali. Want it to be just you and your loved ones? You can also opt for a private tour!
Another spot recommended by snorkellers is Blue Lagoon in Padang Bai, believed to be one of the best snorkelling spots in Bali with its calm crystal clear waters.
Here, you can take a dip to see beautiful corals and get some fantastic pictures for your Instagram.
Address: Nusa Penida (map)
White Water Rafting on Ayung River
The longest river in Bali, Ayung offers travellers a thrilling adventure in the form of river rafting on its rapids.
The organisers provide all safety gear, so you're assured of a fun experience on your half-day tour.
Red Paddle offers the longest river rafting experience in Bali and some organisers also take you to hidden waterfalls, introducing you to the tropical forest and wildlife of the jungle.
You can also combine your rafting adventure with a quad bike tour that takes you through lush jungles and bamboo fields.
There are also also white water rafting experiences in Eastern Bali where the Telaga River brims with water.
Scuba Diving Adventure in Tulamben
If you take to water like a fish, then nothing beats the transformative experience of scuba diving.
And in Bali, you can dive deep to see a sunken US cargo ship named Liberty, which lies not too far from Tulamben Beach, making it one of the most visited shipwreck sites in the country.
Sink to the depths and explore the wreck while being surrounded by corals and marine life.
But if you don’t want to go all the way to the wreck, you can also opt for a snorkelling tour that still lets you glimpse at the wreck from the surface.
Address: PHGV+867, Tulamben, Kubu, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80852, Indonesia (map)
Touching the Sky in Kuta with Parasailing
Tanjung Benoa beach is a hit with travellers for its pristine white sand beaches and water activities for you and your family.
Here, you can strap on a parachute and go parasailing over the blue waters of Bali. You can wrap up your day with banana boat rides or rolling donuts over the open waters.
Address: Tanjung Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali (map)
Underwater Scooter Ride in Kuta
Benoa Beach lets travellers immerse themselves in a unique activity - riding a scooter underwater.
Perfect for both beginners and adventure junkies, this activity allows you to explore the ocean depths without the need for diving equipment.
Enjoy the company of colourful fish and marine life as you ride the scooter at a comfortable depth.
Address: Tanjung Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali (Map)
Perfect Duo: Sanur’s Calm Shores and Canoeing/Kayaking
The calm waters of Sanur Beach are perfect for water sports like canoeing and kayaking, which lets you chart your way into the open waters.
You can rent a canoe and make it an intimate experience with your partner, or get an instructor to teach you the ropes of canoeing.
Address: 87G7+G9 Sanur, Denpasar City, Bali, Indonesia (Map)
Racing Against the Water in Sanur with Kitesurfing
With its consistent winds, shallow waters, and stunning beachfront, Sanur provides the perfect setting for an exhilarating kite surfing experience.
If you're new to kite surfing, many schools in Sanur provide comprehensive beginner courses that cover kite control, safety procedures, and body-dragging techniques. If you’re a pro, all you need to do is rent a kite and ride the waves.
Address: 87G7+G9 Sanur, Denpasar City, Bali, Indonesia (Map)
Cave Diving: Going Deep in Sanur
If scuba is a piece of cake for you, give cave diving a go.
This underwater activity in Bali lets you explore an underwater cave using breathing equipment.
But this one is only for the certified diving pros since you will be diving to greater depths and tolerating low temperatures.
The best place to go underwater caving is Sanur, which has Shark Cave and Gili Biaha as the most popular destinations.
Chase the Thrilling Water Sports in Bali
Bali's water sports satisfy every traveller's desire for adventure, relaxation, and exploration.
Before embarking on any water sports activity, prioritise safety, respect the environment, and choose reputable operators.
So, whether you're a seasoned water enthusiast or a first-timer, Bali will leave you spellbound!
Commonly Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to swim to do water sports?
While some sports require swimming skills, activities like parasailing and jet skiing don’t need them.
What should I carry to Bali for water sports?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes.
Can I book water sports activities online?
Yes, you can book your water sports activities online.
Which time of the year is best for water sports in Bali?
You can enjoy watersports in Bali year-round, but the best time is during the dry season from April to October. This period offers sunny and dry weather, creating calm waters for a more enjoyable experience.