How Female Surfers Are Making a Splash in Bali

I have talked about wanting to surf for years - usually as part of a vague bucket list of things I would like to try “one day.” It always felt like something cool and freeing, but also out of reach when all the people I would see surfing had glistening model-like bodies and seemed to be skimming through the waves as easily as dolphins.  

I finally took the plunge last year while travelling through Latin America, where I signed up for a few lessons in Peru. That was enough to realise: surfing is hard. Not just skill-wise but physically demanding in a way my body wasn’t quite prepared for. So, when I planned a trip to Bali - one of the world’s most iconic surf destinations - I decided to give it another proper go.

As a feminist writer and avid solo traveller, I’m drawn to exploring and supporting women-led initiatives around the world. Surfing, like many adventure sports, is still male-dominated - and Bali is no exception. Globally, women only make up about 35% of surfers, and fewer than 10% of certified surf instructors are female. Despite the growing number of women taking up surfing recreationally, the professional spaces still lack adequate representation. While researching this piece, I only found two female surf instructors operating independently in Bali’s popular areas like Kuta and Canggu. I booked a beginner’s lesson with Samara Waves - the first fully female-owned and led surf school in Bali.

Established in 2023 by three Indonesian women, Samara Waves emerged from deeply personal experiences. Co-founders Febi and Eka shared that they started the school after encountering male instructors who were either unprofessional or made them feel uneasy.

“Eka and I both come from different backgrounds, and we see that most Indonesian women do not have many opportunities to choose what they want to do with their lives. We built this with a mission to empower women and to give them opportunities to flourish - to have other options they can pursue with their lives,” says Febi.

I had a private session with Eka, who has been teaching for four years. It had been eight months since I last touched a surfboard - or did any kind of workout - so it felt like starting from scratch. Pair that with Bali’s tropical heat, and it’s a true full-body challenge.

Each instructor brings their own style to the waves. From what I have learned, difficulty depends not just on your instructor’s method, but also the board (foam vs fibreglass), and, of course, the swell and conditions that day.

With Eka, I felt at ease immediately. Her wide, bright smile helped. We were curious about each other, exchanging stories while bobbing in the warm sea, waiting for the right wave. If you have ever tried surfing, you know the mere act of standing up is a humbling test of balance and patience. Every time I stacked it (which was often), Eka met me with a calm voice and unwavering encouragement: “It’s okay, try again.”

Eka’s story is incredible. She moved from Java to Bali with the simple dream of learning English and overcame immense cultural and familial pressure to become a surf instructor. In many parts of Indonesia, there is a cultural stigma around women participating in sports, especially those perceived as "masculine" like surfing.

“People still don’t see surfing as a sport for women,” Febi explains. “In the future, we want to build a training centre for women - not just for surfing, but for professional athletics of any kind.”

“When I started surfing eight years ago, there were very few women in the water. But after COVID, that has started to shift,” Eka says. “Now, you can spot women learning to surf at most beaches in Bali - but the number of female instructors is still low.”

Running a start-up like Samara Waves hasn’t been without its challenges - from seasonal income (December to February is rainy season, with inconsistent surf) to struggles with investment and finding more qualified female instructors.

Still, Eka and Febi remain passionate about their vision and inspired as they look towards the future. Samara Waves is expanding into multi-day surf camps just for women - complete with lessons, accommodation, sound and yoga healing, and a supportive, all-female environment.

Samara Waves highlights the empowerment of women through surf and local entrepreneurship, and their success can pave the way for more women-led surf schools and increased representation of women in the sport.

Samara Waves is more than just a surf school - it’s a movement created by women, for women. They have carved out a space where women can not only learn to surf but also reclaim their confidence, independence, and joy through the power of sport.

Check out their amazing programs - https://www.samarawave.com/  

Accommodation recommendations

There is something to suit every budget and style when it comes to hotels in Bali. Here are some excellent options in Kuta – away from the chaotic vibrance yet still close to the beach and surf schools, including Samara Waves.

Simple: Jepun Bali Hotel

Jepun Bali Hotel is a peaceful little gem in the heart of Kuta. Locally owned and full of charm, it is set in a quiet lane away from the chaos but still walking distance from the beach. The classic Balinese wooden architecture and lush greenery make it feel like a calm oasis. There is a lovely pool, and a great breakfast each morning. A perfect mix of warmth, comfort, and convenience.

Mid-Range: Bali Garden Beach Resort

Entering Bali Garden Beach Resort feels like stepping into a forest right off the sidewalk, with huge gardens and beautiful Balinese design throughout. There are three pools to enjoy—one overlooking the ocean, perfect for sunset swims—and a pool bar for slow, sunny afternoons. The spa is excellent, breakfast offers plenty of variety, and the beds are super comfortable. The location is ideal—close to both the airport and Kuta Beach—offering a peaceful retreat right in the middle of everything.

Luxury: The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali

The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali is a luxurious beachfront hotel that feels grand from the moment you arrive. The resort is beautifully designed with expansive grounds and several pools, and they offer a range of rooms, suites, and private villas depending on how you like to travel. I really appreciated the small but smart details: a lounge with snacks and drinks if you arrive early, a comfortable departure room that lets you use the facilities even after check-out, and a free minibar that's restocked daily. If you are in the mood for complete indulgence, The Anvaya is a fantastic choice.  

Hero image 📸 Samara Wave