Airport Rights is a high-performance Airport Reef wave located just off the southern end of Bali’s airport runway, about 300 meters from Toro Toro. Known for its long, fast, and hollow right-hand waves, it consistently breaks about a foot bigger than Toro Toro thanks to its greater exposure to swell. Accessible only by boat—typically from Jimbaran or Kuta—it’s a favourite among advanced surfers looking for a powerful, challenging ride.
On smaller swells and with enough water on the reef, Airport Rights can be a good option for confident intermediate surfers. At high tide, the wave is more forgiving, offering open faces and long walls to work with. However, even in these conditions, it’s still faster and more critical than nearby alternatives, and Toro Toro generally remains the better pick for those still building confidence. Mid and low tides are best avoided, as the reef becomes dangerously shallow, increasing the risk of injury.
When the swell builds, Airport Rights reveals its true nature—a fast, barreling wave that breaks top to bottom with real power. The end section is particularly challenging due to the reef’s unique shape: as the lip throws over shallow water, the shoulder races ahead in deeper water, creating a slabby, draining bowl. This feature has earned comparisons to waves in Fiji and the Mentawais. Navigating it successfully requires precision and commitment, and it’s not uncommon for mistakes to lead to injuries on the reef. For that reason, this wave is best left to advanced and expert surfers.
Airport Rights is also famously one of Kelly Slater’s favourite waves in Bali. On the right day, with the right tide, it delivers a world-class session—but it demands respect, strong ocean knowledge, and proper preparation.
If you’re interested in surfing this break or other top breaks in the Uluwatu area, Nusa Dua, South Coast, and the Airport Reefs, get in touch with us today as a Resident or non-Resident.
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