As Ranked By Forbes – And Wholeheartedly Agreed By The Women And Waves Travel Team
The World’s Most Beautiful Country: Welcome to Indonesia
When Forbes recently crowned Indonesia as the most beautiful country in the world, it didn’t surprise those of us who’ve surfed its turquoise waters, wandered through its mystical jungles, and watched fiery sunsets fade over rice terraces and reef breaks. The place is stunning!
“Once you’ve sat with a cold drink on the beach front in Nusa Lembongan and watched the sun set over Bali, with white sand and perfect waves in the foreground, it’s a vision that will long stay in the memory.”– Hatty Baird, Women and Waves head of Partnerships and surf coach.
For surfers — especially women who crave adventure — Indonesia continues to be the number 1 bucket list destination. With more than 17,000 islands surrounded by world-class waves, vibrant marine life, and a warm, welcoming culture, it’s a destination that captures your heart the moment you arrive. The people are super welcoming and our Indonesian coaching team never stop smiling – so would you if you lived in paradise!
After Forbes voted Indonesia as the Most beautiful place on earth last month, we didn’t need much of an excuse to pull together a collection of our favourite photos from our Bali Island Retreat trips.
Why Indonesia is the Ultimate Surf Destination for Women
Indonesia offers something few other surf spots can: consistent waves, jaw-dropping beauty, and a safe, supportive environment for women to thrive in the water. We visit an area that has waves for all abilities, something for the experts and the newbies in one big, fun filled bay. Our local guides have grown up here and we work with them to ensure that we’re dialled in the right waves for our guests whether that is dawn, noon or an incredible sunset session!
Learn, improve, and connect — both with the ocean, the island people and a community of like-minded women.
Enjoy an island tour above and below the waves:
Surfing in Paradise: Bali and Nusa Lembongan
Indonesia’s islands each have their own rhythm charm and magic, but Bali and Nusa Lembongan – the two islands that we visit during the Women and Waves retreat – offer a uniquely rich experience that tick all the boxes for our guests.
Bali: The Island of the Gods
“To travel to Bali is to experience the soul of the ocean itself.” – Jacques Cousteau
And we couldn’t agree more. Bali is the heart of Indonesia’s surf culture – a place where spirituality meets the sea. Whether you’re leaping off our surf taxi at dawn in warm tropical water or sipping coconuts under palm trees on the beach at sunset, everything feels alive here.
Nusa Lembongan: A Slice of Island Bliss
Just a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Lembongan feels like another world – a smaller, quieter island where white sands meet crystal-clear lagoons. It’s the perfect place to unwind, surf reef breaks in turquoise water, and snorkel among colourful coral gardens.
“I’ve never seen ocean colours like that – it felt like surfing through glass.” – Ellie, 2023 Women and Waves Bali guest
In 2025 we had over 70% of guests re book for the following year after their first Bali Island Retreat. That stat alone sums up how much of a spell this island can cast on you. Many guests tell us Nusa Lembongan is where they fall completely in love with Indonesia.
10 Most Beautiful Places to See in Bali and Nusa Lembongan
We asked our guests to share their favourite beauty spots, they created a pretty epic bucket list:
- Uluwatu Cliffs – Watch surfers ride world-famous waves beneath ancient temples perched on towering cliffs. This place has a spiritual vibe as swell as a fast growing surf town feel.
- Nusa Lembongan’s Jungut Batu Beach – A calm, crystalline lagoon ideal for snorkelling. This is 10 metres away from the restaurant at our accommodation.
- Nusa Ceningan’s Blue Lagoon – Unreal turquoise waters perfect for a swim or cliff-top photo stop. You will never see more blue water, it’s mind bending!
- Balangan Beach – A golden stretch lined with palm trees and a mellow left-hand wave, a haven for visiting surfers.
- Nusa Penida’s Kelingking Beach – That iconic T-Rex cliff and one of the most photographed views in the world. Stats show this is the most instagram’d place on planet earth and for good reason!
- Ubud’s Rice Terraces –layered landscapes showcasing Bali’s peaceful inland beauty.
- Dream Beach, Nusa Lembongan – A picture-perfect cove with powdery white sand. It lives up to its name and overlooking the beach are some great restaurants.
- Tegal Wangi Sunset Point – Hidden caves and golden light that makes for unforgettable evenings. You will never forget the sunsets, this spot adds a special mystical feel to them!
- Crystal Bay – Snorkel with manta rays and turtles just a short boat ride from our accommodation.
- Seminyak Beach – End your trip watching the sun set into the Indian Ocean, coconut in hand. A staple of the backpackers route, there are some of the worlds premier beach clubs to visit along this stretch.
What our Bali Island Retreat Guests have to say;
“The trip was life-changing. The beaches were stunning, the surf coaching was amazing, and I met the most inspiring women. Bali’s beauty blew me away.” – Sophie, 2024 Women and Waves guest
“I never thought I’d feel so comfortable travelling solo in Indonesia. The Women and Waves team made it seamless, and the views, wow. It’s paradise.” – Hannah, 2023 guest
Hear what our previous guests have thought about our Bali Island Retreat;
Read more guest reviews on TripAdvisor
Explore More About Surfing in Bali and Indonesia
For more inspiration, check out these related reads on our Women and Waves Journal:
- “How to Prepare for Your First Surf Retreat in Bali”
- “Top 5 Things Every Female Surfer Should Know Before Visiting Indonesia”
- “Bali vs. Nusa Lembongan – Which Island Should You Surf First?”
Join a tour of our Bali Island Retreat accommodation:
Join Us in 2026 – Limited Spaces Available
Our Bali Island Retreat is more than a surf trip — it’s an unforgettable journey into Indonesia’s most beautiful landscapes and your own surf progression.
We’re running two trips in 2026 — one is already sold out, and the April 20–30 retreat still has limited availability.
Book your spot now before it sells out — and experience why Forbes calls Indonesia the most beautiful country in the world.
