Where are you from and what’s the female surf community like there?
I’m from New Zealand, where the beaches are wild and the water’s usually pretty chilly. The female surf community back home feels really grassroots, laid-back, supportive, and all about having fun rather than taking it too seriously. It’s more about sharing waves and laughs than showing off.
You’re currently based in Bali – what’s daily life like for you there (work situ, surfing etc)?
Most mornings start with a gym session at Ulu Active, then I’ll swing by Thirst Trap for what I reckon are the best smoothies on the island. If the waves are looking friendly, I’ll try to sneak in a paddle. I’ve got a few projects on the go that keep things flexible, so I usually float between cafes or coworking spots that have a pool I can cool off in. Afternoons are for beach hangs, scooter missions, or chasing the sunset and a beer with mates. It’s a good mix of staying inspired and enjoying the island life.
If we came to visit you in Indo, where would you take us? What would we do? And where are the coldest beers at??
I’d take you on a day in the life of Niamh, starting with a smoothie from Thirst Trap, a wander through one of Bali’s thrift markets to score some vintage gems, and then a slow cruise down to Bingin Beach. Hopefully the waves are firing so we can jump between surfing and drinking coconuts, then settle in for the afternoon at Kelly’s Warung. We’d hang there until sunset, catch happy hour, and finish the day with a cold Island Brewing Pilsner overlooking the ocean. Life’s good.
Any big projects or trips lined up for 2025?
I really want to check out Batu Karas this year and just lock into surfing for at least a week straight. No distractions, just ocean time and a change of pace.
Style us out for the lineup, what would you have us wearing:
I’d be in a bikini top and surf shorts or boardies. Reef-safe sunscreen is a must and of course a bit of zinc on our faces. Keeping it all intact but still functional and comfortable for the warmer waters.
Favourite surf spot or destination:
Currently Balangan, it’s got a cruisey vibe and I find it’s the least crowded out of the usual suspects for longboarders. Easy paddle, fun waves, and room to move.
Words you live by:
Energy doesn’t lie.
Top 10 essential (surf) travel items:
4. My laptop/journal for post-surf work/chill time
5. Waterproof speaker
6. Isotonic drinks (Bali sun hits hard)
8. Sunnies
9. Snacks, snacks and more snacks
10. Reusable water bottle
Anything else we need to know / how can we support what you do:
Appreciate the support already, just stoked to be part of something that celebrates women doing their thing, whatever that looks like in and out of the water.
Instagram:
Niamh wears:
