Why culture matters during a retreat
Have you ever wondered why so many people choose Bali among the thousands of other Indonesian islands? What makes Bali so special? Why does everyone speak about it? Bali has a long history and traditions, is the only hinduist island and for this reason it has always been called the “Island of gods” The moment you step into the island you will feel its magic, and that’s something I cannot explain in words, you have to experience yourself. That’s exactly why I strongly recommend you to explore the island and its culture during your trip. Bali is much more than surfing, yoga and nice cafes.
Here are 5 balinese experiences you shouldn’t miss during your surf and yoga retreat:
1. Witness a traditional balinese ceremony (Upacara)
One of the most fascinating things about Bali is the daily spirituality that surrounds you. Ceremonies here aren’t only reserved for special occasions, they are part of everyday routine, from the grand temple festivals to the quiet daily offerings, everyday feels like a celebration of gratitude and balance.
These are some of the most well-known balinese ceremonies:
- Galungan and Kuningan (Every 210 days): the most celebrated festival in Bali, symbolizing the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil). During these celebration days you will see the island full with tall bamboo poles called panjor, decorated with coconut leaves and flowers. The next Galungan it’s going to be on the 19th november 2025 and Kuningan right after on the 29th november 2025. Don’t miss it! Our best surf camp Bali is opening on the 20th of november, right on time!
- Nyepi – The day of silence: this is always happening in March, based on the Saka lunar calendar. This is a unique day when everything literally stops. No cars, no electricity, no flights (yep! don’t book a flight on that date, it’s not a good idea, the flight company will probably cancel it or reschedule it), the shops are closed, everything is in silence, for 24 hours. It’s a time for meditation, for reflection and complete stillness.
As I said, Bali is not only about big celebrations and festivals, Every morning families prepare canan sari, a small offering made of flowers, rice and incense to thank the gods and invite harmony. These offerings are placed everywhere: on altars, in temples, in front of the houses, the shops and even on vehicles. Be careful not to step on them 😀
When I moved to Bali I discovered that basically every object has to be celebrated. One day I joined a ceremony dedicated entirely to motorbikes and cars, yes even our scooters received a blessing!
Make sure to experience one of these ceremonies during your stay in Bali, even a little offering in the morning matters. In our surf and yoga camp we do that every morning and you are welcome to join us in sending gratitude to the gods.
2. Learn the art of Balinese offerings (Canang Sari)
As I said before this is a daily ritual balinese people do to send gratitude and ask for balance and harmony. I deeply recommend you to try to make your own, to understand the meaning behind it, every flower, every shape has a meaning and when I asked a balinese lady who was doing them, she told me this is their daily meditation. Every Canang Sari is different, unique and personal. At Kavo Maison Surf & Yoga Camp we offer this beautiful activity together with balinese people who will be happy to share with you this practice and their cultural story.
3. Experience a Balinese healing or sound journey
You probably heard already that “Bali is for healing” and that’s true, this island is not only for vacation, if you open through it, it will deeply change you, and heal you. Hey we all have our traumas, our difficulties, Bali is the right place to release them, and shine again. You could try a Reiki session or a sound healing, there are thousands of options. At our surf camp Bali we occasionally organise healing sessions and we also organise healing journeys to sacred waterfalls where you can wash away all the negative energy and cleanse yourself.
4. Visit a local temple and a ricefield
That’s the best way to experience the balinese culture. There are many beautiful temples near Canggu like the Tanah Lot temple, which is only a 10 minutes ride from our surfcamp . Make sure to choose an authentic temple, and not a touristic one, we will be happy to help you organise the visit! Ricefields are another symbol of Bali, and as for temples I suggest you look for the more authentic and hidden one. By the way, our surfcamp is literally surrounded by ricefield so you will see them everyday, without paying any ticket 😉 Want to see more? Jatiluwih ricefields are just about 1 hour ride from our surfcamp and are definitely less crowded than other options in Bali.
Have a look at all the activities and offers we organise here. If you’re here to learn, check out our amazing surf lessons Canggu package!
5. Journaling with Balinese inspiration
Yes, as simple as it may sound, as powerful as you can imagine. During your stay at Kavo Maison Surf & Yoga Camp I encourage you to journal and dedicate 5-10 minutes daily to write about your day, your experiences, your surf lesson, your yoga practice, your balinese learning, your first coconut on the beach, your beautiful canang sari, and your new friends. Journaling is a beautiful way for self-discovery. Consider our wellness and yoga package if you feel you want a more relaxed and mindfulness stay.
Have a look at our article about the hidden gems you cannot miss in Bali, and start planning your mindful and slow travel!
A surf and yoga retreat in Bali is much more than waves and movement, it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself through the island’s wisdom, rituals and calm rhythm of life.
Discover more about our surf and yoga camp where culture, community and connection meet the heart of Bali.
