Want Uncrowded Uluwatu? Surf It at 15 Feet

Originally posted on SURFER | By August Howell | Last updated Oct 22, 2025 7:13 PM ET

It’s normally overrun. Uluwatu is Bali’s most well-known and popular wave; its caliber creates one of the world’s most (in)famous lineups. Beginners, kooks, vagabonds, locals, pros and average joes all rub shoulders and jostle to get one of those long, long lefts.

Uluwatu is a deceptively powerful wave on most days. A serious swell that brings Outside Corner to life, just outside the main spot, is another beast entirely. It's kinda like the inside sections at Uluwatu, except supercharged with long-period Indian Ocean energy. You’re not battling the crowds anymore when you paddle out here. It’s the double-overhead wave (at minimum) and current that demand full attention.

This part of the Bukit Peninsula demands foam. If it’s not the biggest step up in your quiver, it deserves gun material. And the hold downs will make you wish you’d put down the Bintang and started some breath work.

October 15, 2025, was one of those solid days at Outside Corner. Rio Waida, Indonesia’s first Championship Tour surfer, made hitting the lip backhand on a 10-foot wave look way too easy, and a hearty crew gave the reefbreak an honest crack. Was it worth the beatdowns? Maybe, maybe not, but I’d argue it beats sitting in a crowd.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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