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Bali's Longest Wave: Medewi Point Break, A Beginner Friendly Longboard Wave

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    Shane Daugherty
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Girl surfing a longboard at Medewi Bali

Medewi, a tranquil haven located on Bali’s west coast, is an unspoiled gem for surfers. Known for its lengthy point break wave and serene atmosphere, Medewi is a less crowded alternative to other bustling surf destinations in Bali. Medewi's gentle, slow-rolling waves are ideal for beginner and intermediate surf enthusiasts looking to hone their skills.

Anchoring at Umadewi: Home Away From Home

I found my perfect base at Umadewi Surf & Suites, perched directly in front of the mesmerizing Medewi wave. This accommodation is an absolute gem, and the proximity to the surf is unbeatable. The friendly staff, delectable food, and cozy ambiance had me feeling right at home. Plus, the prices are more than reasonable for the high-quality experience.

Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean, grabbing your board, and jumping straight into the line-up. It’s as surreal as it sounds!

Medewi’s Claim to Fame: The Longest Point Break Wave in Bali

The long point break wave at Medewi as seen from Umadewi

What makes Medewi’s wave truly remarkable is its length. The point break unfurls along the coastline, offering a gentle, long ride that’s perfect for cruisy carves and stylish cutbacks. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a budding surfer, the forgiving nature of this left-hand point break is sure to leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Scooting Around: Renting Wheels

Medewi Scooter Rental

Exploring Medewi and its surroundings is best done on a scooter, and getting one for rent is a breeze. Just ask the concierge at Bombora Medewi Wavelodge (located right at the point) and they'll hook you up with a cheap and reliable scooter. I recommend getting a Stylish Scoopy, like the one in the photo, if they have one available. Keep in mind that the Scoopy usually doesn't have a surf board rack, so if you aren't staying right at the point you may want to consider another, less stylish option.

Explore Beyond the Waves: Things to Do in Medewi, Bali

Medewi's allure extends beyond its surf. Here's how you can immerse yourself in the Medewi experience:

Ride through the sacred tree

Riding through the tree near Medewi

Bunut Bolong, with its sacred tree that majestically arches over the road, is a must-visit spot near Medewi. The tree, a behemoth Ficus with a natural tunnel formed by its roots and branches, is believed to possess a spiritual aura. Riding through this natural archway is akin to passing through a portal into the serene and mystical landscape of Bali.

Embrace Spirituality at a Temple

Embark on a spiritual journey at the Rambut Siwi Temple, one of Bali’s largest Hindu temples. Absorb the panoramic coastal vistas as you explore this sacred site.

Savor Local and International Cuisine

Chicken Satay Kokos Kitchen & Bar

Medewi offers an array of culinary delights. From authentic Indonesian fare to international dishes, there’s something to satiate every appetite. Explore our comprehensive guide on where to eat and drink in Medewi.

Indulge in Durian

For the adventurous palate, durian, known as the ‘king of fruits,’ is a must-try in Southeast Asia. You can find Durian being sold on the main road in Medewi during most of the year. Whether you fall in love with its creamy texture or not, it’s an experience to remember. Delve into the world of this exotic fruit with our in-depth Durian guide.

Magical Sunsets

Sunset in Medewi from Umadewi resort

In Medewi, sunsets are a symphony of colors with the sky donning vibrant hues of orange and pink. Make sure to see at least one of these. The golden light dances on the waves as surfers carve through them. As the sun lowers, the silhouettes of distant volcanoes frame the horizon, adding a majestic backdrop to the setting sun. Standing on the shore, bathed in a gentle sea breeze, one feels embraced by serene beauty. It’s not just a sunset; it’s a moment of awe and deep connection with nature.

Medewi Spot Guide

Tides

Best on mid-tide. Low tide tends to make the wave a lot smaller, so if there isn't a huge swell happening, there might not be much to surf at low tide. High tide can be very good, but when there are big tide swings watch out, you will be surfing right on top of the rocks.

Size

This spot does max out with very big swells. If it's saying 10ft+ on Surfline, it might be too big for Medewi. 2-3ft is a great size for beginners to get their feet wet. 4-6+ft is perfect for longboarding and short boarding but the take-offs might be a little concerning for beginners.

Board type

My opinion is that Medewi is best for longboards. That's not to say that you won't see the locals ripping on short boards here. If you really know what you're doing, you can get some good ones here but you need to stay right in the pocket.

How long to stay

I stayed in Medewi for two weeks in my most recent trip. By the end I was ready for a change. I would say 1-2 weeks is the perfect length for a trip here.

Final Thoughts

Medewi’s enigmatic charm lies not just in its waves, but in the soul of the place. The tranquility, the welcoming locals, the mouth-watering food, and of course, the endless wave, create a harmony that resonates deep within.

If you find yourself in Bali, don’t let the opportunity to experience Medewi slip by. Pack your board, your adventurous spirit, and ride the wave that seems to go on forever.

Catch you on the next wave,

Shane Daugherty

Disclaimer: Always remember to be a responsible traveler. Respect the local culture, environment, and support local businesses.