EXPLORING THE WEST COAST
Nestled on Bali's west coast, Medewi is a surf town that’s still relatively under the radar. With its long, peeling left-handers, it offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative to Bali’s more famous surf spots.
A GLIMPSE INTO MEDEWI'S HISTORY - Medewi, unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Bali, has retained much of its traditional charm. This quaint fishing village has deep roots, with its origins tracing back to local fishermen and farmers who have lived off the land and sea for generations. The village remained relatively untouched until surfers discovered its perfect waves in the 1970s. Since then, Medewi has become a hidden gem, attracting those seeking a more serene surfing experience away from the crowded beaches of Kuta and Seminyak. Its appeal lies not just in its waves, but in its ability to maintain a sense of old Bali, where time moves slower and life is simpler.
We left Canggu early in the morning, the car packed with our surfboards and gear. The drive to Medewi, about two hours, took us through lush rice paddies and offered glimpses of the ocean, setting the tone for a perfect day.
For the next four hours, we surfed non-stop, catching endless waves with perfect tides and winds. Medewi's waves are great for both beginners and experienced surfers, offering long, smooth rides. The feeling of riding those waves, surrounded by girl friends who share the same passion, was incredible.
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Posted up at Gede's Warung, a spot known for it's laid back atmosphere and delicious food, in between waves we would come in for coconuts, cold beers and nasi goreng with tempe on the side. Surfing all day under the sun means that we have to stay hydrated!
MEDEWI TRAVEL GUIDE
Getting There: Medewi is about a two-hour drive from Canggu. An early start helps you avoid traffic and make the most of your day. We recommend driving in the car as it can be quite a dangerous road for the motorbike!
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Surf Conditions: The waves at Medewi are known for their consistency. Check the tide charts before you go for the best surf conditions, there are days suitable for more advanced and beginner surfers.
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Local Eats: Gede's Warung for good local food and a laid-back atmosphere. Bombora's Lefty Restaurant is another spot on the point that has a mix of Indonesian, Asian and Western food.
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What to Bring: Besides your surf gear, bring sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for the local shops and warungs. Medewi is pretty low-key, so you won’t need much else.
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Stay Longer: If you have time, consider staying overnight. Bombora is perfect if you're looking to stay at the point. Makai Medewi is another cozy surf cottage about 5 minutes away from the point, infront of another beautiful long beach. If you're looking for a beach that is more swimming friendly, the one infront of Makai Medewi would be the one for you! In addition to those two there are plenty home stays and hotels in the area.
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Medewi’s charm lies in its simplicity. Great waves, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a must-visit for any surfer. Our day there reminded us why we love surfing and the sense of community it brings.
