Playgrounds

Surfing at Playgrounds

Quick Info

Nusa Lembongan offers an amazing array of quality waves suiting all levels, all within a stone’s throw of each other, and on a stunning tropical island!

It is the only area in the east of Bali that is offshore in the dry season trade winds.

Access Nusa Lembongan by catching the ferry across from Sanur, there are plenty of tourist booths around that can offer you a ticket (be sure to negotiate on the price), or you can go directly to the office on Jalan Hang Tuah, next to Warung Nano’k.

About Playgrounds

Playgrounds is one the more user-friendly waves on Nusa Lembongan, as it is a little more protected in the bay so Doesn’t get as much swell as the other spots.

It gives the surfer options, with an a-frame peak going left and right from the same takeoff spot. The lefts tend to be more walled up, offering 3-4 sections great for little off-the-tops or cut-backs, a really fun wave, great to hone your skills. The right-hander has a bit of a more barrelling first section, offering a little cover-up, but will quickly pinch and turn into a short, slow, but workable wall.

A moderate or large south-west swell, with mid-tides, will offer the best conditions here, although the smaller days will give beginners a chance to hone their skills on top of the coral.

Best Conditions for Playgrounds

Playgrounds can be surfed on all tides.

It is offshore in the SE trade winds, and is sheltered by the cliffs at the south end of the bay so is a good clean option when the trade winds get strong.

Getting in and out at Playgrounds

Access Playgrounds by paddling from the shore, through the channels on either side of the reef. It can be a bit of a long paddle. You can negotiate with local boat drivers to take you out and pick you up if you want to save some energy.

Getting to Playgrounds

Access Nusa Lembongan by catching the ferry across from Sanur, there are plenty of tourist booths around that can offer you a ticket (be sure to negotiate on the price), or you can go directly to the office on Jalan Hang tuah, next to Warung Nano’k.

Once on the island, it is easy to get around, and if you are staying in the area you will most likely walk here along the beach. Playgrounds is the westernmost reef.

Hazards to look out for at Playgrounds

Be aware of currents running through the line-up, making it difficult to stay in position.

A very busy spot with all levels, so bring your manners and look out for fellow surfers.