Bali, November 13, 2024, PowerNetizen.com – Bali has long been renowned as a paradise for surfers from around the world. With its exotic beaches and challenging waves, many tourists have flocked to the island to learn or hone their surfing skills. However, in recent times, more and more tourists are becoming reluctant to take surfing lessons in Bali. Several factors are driving this declining interest, and here are the key reasons.
1. Overcrowded Popular Beaches
One of the main reasons tourists are hesitant to take surfing lessons in Bali is the overcrowding of popular beaches. Beaches like Kuta, Legian, and Canggu, which are often hubs for surfing lessons, are now filled with surfers, both professionals and beginners. This overcrowding makes it difficult for tourists to find comfortable and safe space to practice.
“I came to learn surfing, but there were too many people on the beach, so I barely had space to stand on the board,” said Julia, a tourist from Australia. “It felt uncomfortable and somewhat dangerous, especially as a beginner.”
2. Rising Lesson Prices
As surfing grows in popularity in Bali, the cost of taking surfing lessons has also risen. Many local surf schools have increased their fees, which has led some tourists to feel that the prices no longer match the experience, especially with the crowded beach conditions.
“The cost keeps going up every year, but the learning experience isn’t as good as it used to be because of the crowds,” complained Ben, a backpacker from Germany. “I’d rather try learning in a quieter and more affordable place.”
3. Environmental Pollution
Environmental issues on some of Bali’s beaches, especially in busy areas, have become a growing concern for tourists. Plastic waste and litter are often visible on popular beaches, not only spoiling the natural beauty but also posing a hazard while surfing. Many tourists have complained about having to surf among trash, which ruins their learning experience.
“Every time I surf, I come across trash in the waves, and sometimes it hits my body. It really ruins the experience,” said Ella, a beginner surfer from the UK.
4. Lack of Privacy and Security
Some tourists also feel that they lack privacy and security while learning to surf in Bali. Many surfing lessons take place in open beach areas, meaning tourists often feel intimidated by the presence of onlookers or more experienced surfers.
In addition, reports of theft of personal belongings left on the beach have been on the rise. Tourists feel uncomfortable leaving their items unattended while they are in the water, adding an extra layer of concern when they should be focusing on learning to surf.
5. More Attractive Surfing Destinations
As Bali has become more popular, surfers are starting to seek alternative surfing destinations that offer a more peaceful and exclusive experience. Some tourists now prefer to learn to surf in less crowded places such as Lombok, Sumba, or the Mentawai Islands, which also have high-quality waves but quieter and more pristine beaches.
“Bali is beautiful, but I now prefer to go to places like Lombok, where I can learn without worrying about too many people or pollution,” said Michael, a tourist from New Zealand.
6. Unpredictable Waves
Global climate change has also affected the wave conditions in Bali. Some tourists and surf instructors have reported that waves at certain Bali beaches have become increasingly unpredictable. This makes surfing lessons for beginners more challenging and even dangerous, especially without proper guidance.
The unstable wave conditions leave many beginners feeling frustrated, as they struggle to learn the basics of surfing. “I want to learn to surf safely, but the waves are too strong for someone like me who’s just starting out,” said Sophie, a tourist from Canada.
Conclusion
Although Bali remains an iconic surfing destination, various factors such as overcrowded beaches, rising prices, environmental pollution, and unpredictable waves are diminishing its appeal as the ideal place to learn surfing. Tourists are increasingly considering other destinations that offer a more peaceful, clean, and safe surfing experience.
However, Bali still holds great potential if these challenges can be addressed, such as better waste management, fairer price regulations, and improved beach infrastructure to enhance the safety and comfort of surfers from around the world.
Sources: Bali Surfing Community, Tourism Experts, Tourist Interviews
Written by : Budi Gunawan
