Located in Unggasan village in Bali’s South Kuta district, Padang Padang is what tropical paradise looks like. This picturesque beach is surrounded by stone cliffs and dotted with lush green vegetation. Accessible via stairs descending from the cliff tops, the inviting white sand of Padang Padang is dotted with several large black volcanic boulders that stand like beacons in the shallows. A “double whammy” — perhaps that’s why they named it twice? — Padang Padang is as renowned for its surfing as it is for its beauty. On top if all that, this surf spot is perfect for beginners to get surf lessons as well as professional surfers.
Located just 3km north of the Uluwatu temple on the Bukit Peninsula, Padang Padang is but a 25-minute drive from Denpasar Airport. “The Bukit”, as it is commonly referred to, is a surfer’s dream and just far enough from the hustle and bustle of Denpasar, Bali’s regional capital, and the busy resort of Kuta. Other Bukit beaches within easy reach of Padang Padang include Uluwatu, Bingin, Impossibles, Balangan and Dreamland.
Surfing conditions are best at Padang Padang during Bali’s dry season, which lasts from June to September. Surfing can also be great as early as April and into October, which border the wet season, but are less crowded with tourists and other surfers.
You may remember Padang Padang from a couple of scenes in the Hollywood blockbuster “Eat, Pray, Love” starring Julia Roberts. Once you see the beach with it’s white sand, stunning setting and crystal clear waters, you’ll understand why it was chosen as a romantic setting for the film. But once you surf it you’ll have an even deeper perspective about what makes Padang Padang so special.
While sunbathers may value Padang Padang’s intimate 120-meter strip of beach, surfers will fall in love with its large offshore break. When people talk about Bali’s consistent and top-notch waves, Padang Padang is often used as an example. And best of all, it’s the home of Rapture Surfcamp, providing the best combination of comfort, convenience, and friendly rustic Balinese atmosphere.
