Mondo Surf Village: The Best Surf Camp in Bali

This blog post is all about my review of Mondo Surf Village.

If you’re heading to Australia, there’s a good chance you’ve got surfing on your bucket list.

In fact, if you’re passing through Bali on your way (like I did) it might just be the perfect place to catch your very first wave.

Bali is practically synonymous with surfing; its warm waters, consistent swells, and vibrant surf culture make it a prime destination for both beginners and seasoned pros.

On my journey through Asia, before settling down in Australia, I decided to give surfing a proper go in Bali. After all, learning to surf in a place known for its breaks seemed like a no-brainer.

This blog post is all about my review of Mondo Surf Village in Canggu, Bali.

Table of Contents

Mondo Surf Village, Canggu

I made my base at the Mondo Surf Village in Canggu, a spot that offers not only surfing lessons but a whole lifestyle experience.

In this post, I’ll share my personal experience of what it was like to learn to surf in Bali, especially at Mondo, and also give you some pointers on what to look for when choosing your own surf school or camp in this paradise.

If you’re after early-morning sessions, expert guidance, and a chilled-out vibe (with the potential for yoga and pool sessions in between), Bali’s got you covered.

Why Choose Bali for Your First Surfing Experience

Bali isn’t just another surfing destination; it’s often considered one of the world’s premier surf spots. Here’s why it’s such a great place to start your surfing journey:

Consistent Waves Year-Round

Bali enjoys a warm climate and fairly consistent surf conditions, with something suitable for beginners almost any month you choose to visit.

Of course, certain seasons have bigger swells and more challenging waves, but there’s usually a beginner-friendly break somewhere close by.

Warm Water and Weather

Forget needing a wetsuit. Bali’s water is warm enough to surf in shorts and a rash guard all year. Being able to focus on learning without shivering is a huge plus.

Surf Culture is Alive and Well

The island is filled with surf shops, surf cafes, and friendly instructors. Whether you are completely new or looking to improve, there’s a wealth of knowledge on the island to tap into.

Affordability

Compared to learning to surf in Australia or the U.S., Bali can be more budget-friendly. Lessons, board rentals, and even accommodations can often be found at reasonable prices, especially when packaged together.

Beautiful Environment

Even if your arms are aching by midday, you’re still in Bali. Warm sunshine, lush rice paddies, vibrant beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere all contribute to making the learning process much more enjoyable.

Useful Links & Resources

✈️ SafetyWing Travel Insurance
Make sure you’re insured with travel insurance! SafetyWing offers great deals for digital nomads as well as travelers booking a backpacking trip.

🚌 12Go Asia
We booked all of our transport in Asia via 12Go. Use this to book sleeper buses, day buses, boats and more to your next destination in Indonesia.

📲 Airalo Travel eSIM
Access the internet with ease as soon as you land in Bali with an Airalo eSIM. Use code ORLAGH3 for $3 off your first Airalo eSIM.

Why I Chose Mondo Surf Village in Canggu

When I was researching where to stay in Bali, I wanted a place that offered more than just a bed and a board. I ended up choosing Mondo Surf Village in Canggu for a few reasons:

Integrated Surf Lessons

Mondo doesn’t just give you a surfboard and hope for the best. They have a structured program, taking you to different beaches depending on your skill level.

This flexibility ensures you’re not battling waves too big or, on the other hand, stuck with waves too small to get started.

Complete Lifestyle Experience

Beyond surfing, Mondo offers yoga classes, a pool, and even video analysis sessions. The idea is that you aren’t just taking a casual lesson. You’re immersing yourself in surf culture, relaxation, and personal development all at once.

Friendly Vibe and Sense of Community at Mondo Surf Village

Mondo has a laid-back, social atmosphere that makes it easy to meet other travellers, share stories, and bond over your surfing progress (or wipeouts).

It feels personal, not like you’re just a customer passing through.

Proximity to Canggu’s Highlights

Canggu is known for its trendy cafes, beach bars, and surf scene. Staying at Mondo puts you right in the heart of this culture.

After your lessons, it’s easy to explore nearby spots, grab a smoothie bowl, or watch more experienced surfers tackle the evening waves.

My Experience: Surfing Lessons at Mondo Surf Village

I’ll be honest: I had never really surfed before, and my balance on a board was basically non-existent. But that’s exactly why I signed up for lessons.

Here’s what a typical day at Mondo looked like:

Early Morning Wake-Up at Mondo Surf Village

Surfing is best in the early morning hours when winds are lighter and the waves are more manageable for beginners.

At Mondo, each evening you let them know if you want to surf the next day. You also place your breakfast order for the following morning.

This simple step ensures everything runs smoothly, allowing you to maximize your time in the water.

Transportation to the Beach

Each morning, the staff arranges a shuttle to whichever beach you’ll be surfing at.

Depending on the surf conditions and your skill level, you might end up at different beaches throughout your stay.

For me, the experience started with a gentle beach break suitable for complete novices.

On-Beach Instruction

Before diving into the ocean, the instructors run through the basics on the sand. They teach you how to pop up on the board, find your balance, and maintain proper posture.

This beach session might feel a bit silly at first—imagine lying on a board on dry land—but it’s essential groundwork.

Don’t skip this part, as it sets the tone for what you’ll do in the water.

Hitting the Waves (With a Helping Hand)

Once in the water, the instructors are right there with you. They give you a little push when the right wave comes, shouting encouragement and guidance as you attempt to stand up.

I can’t stress enough how valuable it is to have that support in the water.

Even when I wiped out, they’d give pointers on what went wrong and how to correct it next time.

Progressive Learning

Don’t expect to become a pro overnight. Surfing is a skill that takes time, patience, and persistence.

I struggled initially. My first few attempts were more about staying afloat and avoiding total face-plants.

Yet, as the days went on, I started to get the hang of it. There’s something incredibly rewarding about feeling yourself improve, even if it’s just managing to stand up for a few seconds longer than the day before.

Relaxing Back at Mondo Surf Village

After a morning in the water, Mondo brings you back to their villas.

This is where the “Lifestyle” part of Mondo Surf & Lifestyle Village really shines:

Beautiful Accommodations

My room was stunning! A comfy bed, tropical decor, and plenty of space to unwind. After a salty surf session, having a comfortable, serene environment to return to felt like heaven.

Swimming Pool and Bar

If you’re not quite wiped out, you can relax by the pool with a smoothie, beer, or coconut.

There’s a communal vibe as other guests often gather here, swapping stories and laughing over each other’s surf attempts.

Yoga Classes and Other Amenities

Mondo offers yoga sessions that complement your surfing lessons perfectly. Stretching out sore muscles and learning to focus your mind really helps with balance and confidence in the surf.

They also offer video analysis sessions, where the instructors film you surfing and then break it down frame-by-frame so you can see exactly what you’re doing right. And what needs improvement.

Breakfast On-the-Go or At Leisure

I loved that every night I could decide what I wanted for breakfast.

If I wanted a few extra minutes of sleep, I could opt to have my breakfast waiting for me by the cars in the morning. If I was feeling energetic, I could get up early and eat at their breakfast area.

This flexibility ensured I started my day the way I wanted, whether that meant catching the sunrise or catching a few extra z’s.

Tailored Surf Experiences at Mondo Surf Village

One thing that really impressed me about Mondo was their approach to mixed skill levels.

They don’t just lump beginners and advanced surfers together. Instead, they organize you into different groups based on your ability.

If you’re brand new, you’ll start with the basics and gentle waves. If you’ve got some experience under your belt, they’ll take you to more challenging breaks where you can test and improve your technique.

This approach ensures that everyone gets the right type of instruction, at the right pace, and the right location.

For me, it meant I never felt rushed or pressured to ride waves I wasn’t ready for, and for others, it meant they weren’t held back by newbies like me!

Best Beaches in Bali for Beginner Surfers

While my experience was centered around Mondo’s chosen spots, Bali has quite a few beginner-friendly beaches that you might consider if you’re striking out on your own or looking at other surf schools:

Kuta Beach

Often considered the birthplace of surfing tourism in Bali, Kuta Beach has long, rolling waves that are so perfect for first-timers.

There are tons of surf schools along the shore, and the sandy bottom is more forgiving than a reef break.

Legian Beach

Slightly quieter than Kuta, Legian offers similarly gentle waves and plenty of instructors ready to help you get started.

So it’s a great spot if you’re looking for something a bit less crowded.

Seminyak Beach

Close to Kuta and Legian but slightly more upscale, Seminyak also provides manageable waves for beginners, with a range of surf schools and board rentals available right on the sand.

Canggu’s Batu Bolong Beach

While certain breaks in Canggu cater to intermediate or advanced surfers, Batu Bolong often has waves suitable for newcomers.

Surf camps like Mondo often use this spot for teaching lessons depending on conditions.

How to Choose the Right Surf School or Camp in Bali

There are plenty of surf camps and schools in Bali, so how do you pick the one that’s right for you?

Check Instructor Credentials

Make sure the instructors are certified and also experienced. Look up reviews online or ask other travellers for recommendations.

Consider Class Sizes

Smaller class sizes mean more one-on-one time with the instructor, which can also help you progress faster.

Look for Flexible Scheduling

Waves and weather are so unpredictable. A surf school that’s flexible with timing and location will ensure you get the best possible conditions for learning.

Extra Amenities and Programs

If you’re interested in yoga, video analysis, or also cultural trips, look for a camp that offers these extras. It can turn your surf trip into a more holistic experience.

Reviews and Word of Mouth

Before I booked Mondo, I read a ton of reviews and got recommendations from fellow travellers. Hearing firsthand accounts can give you confidence in your choice.

The Importance of Patience and Persistence

But surfing isn’t something that comes easily to everyone.

It might take a few tries (or more than a few tries if you’re like me) before you even manage to stand up on your board.

So don’t get discouraged. Even the pros had to start somewhere, and Bali is one of the most forgiving places to learn. The warm water, supportive community, and positive atmosphere all help keep you motivated.

So celebrate the small wins. Like managing to stand up for a second longer than yesterday. Embrace the wipeouts as a natural part of the learning curve.

Over time, you’ll see progress, and that moment when you finally glide down the face of a wave, fully standing and in control, will make all the effort worth it.

Embracing the Bali Lifestyle at Mondo Surf Village

Part of the reason surfing in Bali is such a joy is the island’s laid-back lifestyle.

After your lesson, you’re free to explore local cafes, devour fresh fruit, or also kick back and watch the sunset.

Bali encourages you to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and live a healthier, more mindful life. Values that blend so beautifully with the art of surfing.

Would I Recommend Mondo Surf Village?

Without hesitation, yes. Mondo offered me a comfortable environment, caring instructors, and a supportive community of fellow learners also.

The daily routine of early-morning surf, followed by relaxation, yoga, and socializing around the pool was a balance I didn’t know I needed.

The flexible approach, moving lessons to the best spots and times each day, showed me that they genuinely care about giving you the best possible surf experience.

Surfing in Bali gave me a newfound respect for the sport and a craving to continue once I settle into life in Australia.

If you’re looking to kickstart your surfing journey, I can’t think of a better place to do it than Bali, and I’d encourage you to consider staying at Mondo Surf & Lifestyle Village if you want a well-rounded, supportive, and also highly enjoyable learning experience.

Your Next Step: Book Mondo Surf Village and Catch a Wave

If you’re on your way to Australia or just passing through Asia, make sure to pencil in a few days—better yet, a week or two—in Bali to learn to surf.

You might be a total beginner like I was, or someone with a little more board experience under your belt, but either way, Bali’s shores are ready to welcome you.

So grab a board, trust the instructors, and embrace the slow, steady process of learning.

You’ll leave with not just a new skill, but great memories and maybe even a few new surf buddies.

RELATED Bali blog posts to read:

0 Shares