Playgrounds
Playgrounds on Nusa Lembongan is a user-friendly A-frame reef break in stunning crystal-clear water, perfect for intermediate surfers looking for tropical waves without the intensity of nearby Shipwrecks. The wave offers both lefts and rights on a friendlier reef shelf, with consistent swell exposure during the dry season. It's one of the most photogenic surf spots in the Bali area, with turquoise water and white sand providing a picture-perfect backdrop.
Playgrounds surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (205°)
- Direction range
- 190° - 220°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 1.5m
- Ideal size
- 1m - 1.3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (135°)
- Offshore range
- 105° - 165°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.7m - 1.8m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
7/10
Access: Reach Nusa Lembongan by ferry from Bali, then short local transfer or boat access to the Playgrounds area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Playgrounds?
The Playgrounds profile favors mid to high tide, ideally between 0.7m and 1.8m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Playgrounds?
The Playgrounds profile uses wind from SE (135°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 105° to 165°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Playgrounds?
The Playgrounds scoring profile favors swell from SSW (190° to 220°), a swell-height range of 0.6m to 1.5m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Playgrounds?
The main season at Playgrounds is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. Best Apr-Oct (dry season, SE trades offshore). Swells year-round but wet season brings onshore winds.
How do I get to Playgrounds?
The spot profile lists DPS as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $15 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Reach Nusa Lembongan by ferry from Bali, then short local transfer or boat access to the Playgrounds area.
What kind of wave is Playgrounds?
Playgrounds is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Best Apr-Oct (dry season, SE trades offshore). Swells year-round but wet season brings onshore winds.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Shipwrecks
🌊 Lembongan barrels • Crystal-clear tubes • Easy access from Bali
Lacerations
🌊 Sharp reef, sharp waves • Both lefts and rights • Booties essential
Keramas
💡 WSL night surfing venue • East coast perfection • High-performance
Serangan
🌊 Turtle Island right • Hollow and consistent • Less crowds than Bukit
Nusa Dua
🌊 East Bukit right • Wet season performer • Less crowds than Bukit lefts
Green Bowl
🌊 Hidden Bukit left • Cliff staircase access • Wet season performer