Varun Tandjung’s Surf Stories
Sneak Peek into his surfing career
Varun Tandjung is the son of surf legend Rizal, one of Indonesia’s first professional surfers and yes, we can confirm that the legacy lives on. Kima Surf is incredibly proud to sponsor Varun as he continues to become a rising surf legend. With Varun’s natural talent for the sport alongside his respect for surf culture he will reach great heights.
Born and raised along the sunny coastlines of Bali, Varun has been immersed in surfing from a young age, shredding Bali’s iconic surf spots with his dad. He is recognised for his epic rail work; tube rides and precise pocket turns.
Varun and Bronson have been surfing alongside each other pursuing their professional surfing dreams together, they are constantly pushing each other’s limits in the water and together they are setting the bar high for Indonesian surfing. Read this exclusive interview with Varun to see the behind the scenes in his life as a professional surfer.
#1 When did you start surfing and who taught you?
“I started surfing, I don’t know I can’t even remember when I first started surfing, like I was so young, probably even before I could swim. Yeah, I grew up by the beach with my dad, he is a professional surfer, one of the first professional surfers in Indonesia so yeah, I had no choice growing up, had to learn how to surf, and I just fell in love with it.”
#2 Who were your biggest influences and inspirations when you started surfing and now?
“My biggest inspiration was my dad, he taught me everything and I learnt so much from him and seeing him travel the world and become successful was inspiring, I just want to be like him, learning from so many pros that come to Bali as well.”
#3 What board size and brand are you surfing?
“I am riding a JS surfboard, like some of the best surfboards in the world, I’d say. My favourite board right now is probably my 5’9 Carbotune. It’s just different material with the carbon, compared to the normal PU foam. I just feel like I have so much more speed and drive with this new type of board. And yeah, it’s just super addicting, the feeling I get.”
#4 What is your favourite surf spot in Bali?
“My favorite surf spot in Bali would probably be Uluwatu. It’s like where I grew up, where my home is. And yeah, it’s just a perfect. My favourite right hander is probably Keramas, it is a high-performance wave, airs, barrels, turns, probably everything and yeah, I love it.”
#5 Can you share a memorable experience or highlight from your surfing journey?
“It’s hard to pick. There’s so many great memories and moments from me surfing. I’d probably say one that comes to mind is when I got an excellent score in the Nias Pro 2024. I just remember it was like the biggest swell, probably that year. And they had the competition at one of the heaviest waves in the world. And it was my first round, and I remember just the first wave I got. It was just the biggest wave I ever had and the biggest barrel. So, I’ll probably never forget that. I came out of the barrel claiming it and just screaming. So yeah, that was an epic moment.”
#6 What has been the most challenging moment in your surfing career so far, and how did you overcome it?
“Probably the most challenging has been the competition. I mean, there’s so many good surfers out there. “
#7 What does a typical day look like for you, both in and out of the water?
“Probably just wake up early, go to the coffee shop, my favourite one in Uluwatu, and then meeting up with all my friends. We’ll go check the waves from there in Bukit area, see where’s the best options. And then we’ll probably surf for, yeah, pretty much almost all day, have a long surf session, and then get home, have a big feed, eat a lot of food, and then just play video games and fall asleep.”
#8 What are some of your other hobbies outside of surfing?
“My other hobbies outside of surfing would be, yeah, I’m a very athletic person, I would say, so I love to do sports. I love basketball. I love football. I grew up playing more football than surfing at one point, but yeah, I changed my mind, and I love surfing too much.”
#9 What is your favourite after-surf meal?
“Before surfing, I don’t really like to eat too heavy, probably just something light. Just like coffee or a smoothie bowl, but post-surf meal would probably be, I’d probably say my mom’s food. Just have like a big plate of food when I get home from surfing. It’s probably the best thing. Thanks, Mom.”
#10 How do you stay motivated and focused during tough times or when facing big waves?
“I just like to stay calm. Just be patient in the line-up also. I know it can be very intense surfing with crowds and big waves. So, I just like to stay patient. If you’re not a patient person, I don’t think surfing is for you. So that’s just a very big thing.”
#11 What are your 3 top tips for beginner surfers and surfers in general?
“Top three tips for beginners? I’d probably say don’t rush it. I know surfing is one of the hardest sports in the world, so take your time, learn, learn the ocean and try connect and be patient as well.”
#12 What are your goals and dreams for the future, both in surfing and beyond?
“My goal for the future is definitely do well in competing, get some good results and make my family proud and everyone back at home proud.”
Varun has continued the strong legacy of his father, Rizal, his passion for the sport is truly inspiring! Varun’s dedication, motivation and perseverance have all contributed to him making a name for himself in the surfing world.
So, lets use this inspiration in our own surf journeys! Varun's journey matches the spirit of Kima Surf, where we want to motivate guests to create their very own surfing stories. Just like Varun, your surf journey is waiting to be created—let’s ride the wave together!
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