Stoked For Travel

Mentawai Islands – The Complete Guide To Surfing In Paradise

Planning your dream surf trip? Here’s everything you need to know about the Mentawai Islands – from how to get there, the best surf spots and the best Mentawai surf camps…

The Mentawai Islands are one of the most stunning parts of the world I’ve ever visited and a Mentawai surf trip needs to be on everyones bucket list – honestly, there’s more palm trees than you could ever imagine!

The combination of remote, tropical islands, warm clear waters and pumping world class waves make it a dream surf destination and it’s home to some of the best surf spots in the world.

So if you’re planning on ticking it off your surfing bucket list here’s everything you need to know about the Mentawai Islands – from how to get there, the best surf spots and the best Mentawai surf camps…

Mentawai Islands – The Complete Guide

Where are the mentawai islands.

The Mentawai Islands are situated off the coast of West Sumatra in Indonesia. Geographically it’s in the Northern part of Indo, almost in line with Singapore. The islands themselves are situated around 150km off the coast and are made up of around 70 individual islands – most of which are uninhabited.

Do You Need A Visa?

mentawai surf camp surfing driftwood review

If you’re flying in from elsewhere in Indo (like Bali) you’ll be on the same visa so make sure you don’t overstay!

For those looking for a longer Indonesian adventure I can highly recommend the guys at Bali Visa to help sort out any longer terms visas, so you can spend even longer in paradise!

Drop Tanya a WhatsApp on +62 821 4670 4070 and she’ll take care of you – say I sent you her way!

How Do You Get To The Mentawai Islands?

So how do you get to the Mentawai Islands? It might seem like a bit of a mission the start off with but having done the trip myself it’s actually not that bad, so save yourself some stress and make sure you read through this bit and pick the best option for you Mentawai surf trip!

1. Step One = Fly To Padang

First off you’ll need to get to Padang (airport code PDG), which is the nearest major city to the islands – and the easiest way is to fly.

From Bali/Indonesia

If you’re already in Indonesia, most likely Bali if you’re heading this way for waves, there are a variety of internal flights that wont set you back too much.

My Bali to Padang flight went via Jakarta and cost me under £250 return, including surfboards with Lion Air.

2019 Update: Lion Air no longer includes luggage and is now charging 200,000IDR ($20) per board, PER sector, payable at the airport.

This means if you do the Bali > Jakarta > Padang route you get charged 400k per board! On the upside you dont need to buy luggage allowance on top of this (so I stuffed everything in my board bag) and also just said I had one board so saved some cash there too. That being said I’ve heard sometimes they check.

An alternative (and now well worth weighing up the comfort and convenience) is with Garuda, which includes a 23kg luggage allowance + free surfboard – but the flights are a bit more pricey.

Internationally

For those going internationally there are a few routing options.

From Australia you can fly into Kuala Lumpar or Singapore, grabbing a low cost airline from there down to Padang. Air Asia is a great example of this and on my last trip there my brother flew Gold Coast to Kuala Lumpur to Padang return with them for under $750AUD return.

Also if you get it on a single ticket Air Asia now has a free surfboard policy for flights to/from Australia of 15k – winning!

Another friend of mine opted to splash a little more cash and flew with Singapore Airlines to Singapore and then grabbed a separate ticket for the Singapore, Padang return. A little less fly time and a little more comfort.

Check out Skyscanner for a few options and be flexible with dates for the best deals.

2. Step Two = Padang Airport To The City

From Padang airport you’ll then need to make your way into Padang city itself – usually the day before your ferry, but more about that in a mo!

An airport taxi will set you back around 200,000IDR (approx $20AUD), however some hotel like Hotel Savali (one that I personally recommend) include a free airport pickup, which is pretty awesome!

If your hotel or guest-house doesnt offer this service (or it isn’t included in your surf camp/surf charter package) hit up my driver Marta via Whats App on +62 821-7441-1171 – he charges 150,000IDR for an airport pickup/dropoff including transfers to/from the ferry port too!

3. Step Three = Padang To The Mentawai Islands

From Padang you’ll head out to the islands on one of three options – the fast boat, the overnight ferry or speedboat.

Mentawai Fast Boat

The fast boat is a ferry which takes around 3-6 hours (depending on the day) and departs for Siberut – expect to pay around $22 one way + roughly the same for board bags (although this it tiered on weight and that’s up to 16kg).

Tuesday and Saturday departs Padang @ 7am, with a 6 hour journey

Thursday is departs Padang at 7am but only takes 3 hours as it goes direct – currently this option isn’t running

For the return journey it departs Siberut at 3pm on Tuesday and Saturday, arriving into Padang at 6:30pm

With that in mind it’s always best to arrive and depart Padang a day before/after your booked trip.

Overnight Boat

The overnight boat in theory cuts out the night spent in Padang before heading to the islands and takes a while longer (10-11 11 hours!) and will set you back $110 for the twin room or $195 for the quad share. However the company running it isn’t the most reliable and the schedule can change with little warning and can even be cancelled last minute so beware.

Departs Padang @ 7am on Wednesday and Friday, arriving in Siberut around 7am the following morning

For the return from Siberut it departs @ 4pm on Thursday or 7pm on Saturday – both arriving into Padang the next morning around 7am.

Private Speedboat

If you’ve got a group of you or have a bit more cash to splash you can also charter a private speedboat transfer – but it will set you back $1500USD one way!

Most people opt for the fast boat option (as it’s the easiest with timings) and most Mentwai Surf camps offer transfers direct from here included in their package costs.

4. Step Four = Siberut To Your Surf Camp/Charter

Once you arrive at Siberut (the gateway to the rest of the Mentawai Islands) it’s usually about a 1 hour local speedboat transfer to most of the main surf camps in the area.

Surf camps will usually include this transfer in your package (so they’ll meet you off your boat) and surf charter will either meet you there or in Padang too.

If you don’t have one included in your package or you’re staying at a homestay or local guest-house instead expect to shell out around $150-200 each way for a private transfer!

Where To Stay In Padang

Due to the ferry times the chances are you’re going to need to do a night pre and post Mentawai surf trip in the city of Padang. Luckily there’s a huge range of guesthouses and hotels to choose from – with everything from 5* hotel chains to quaint little gatehouses and even hostels.

A couple of my personal favourites and ones I’ve been recommended include;

  • Savali Hotel
  • Kokos Hostel
  • Mecure Hotel

Click on the links for the latest prices and availability

Mentawai Surf Tax

Where there’s tourism there’s always a way of trying to get even more money out of you and unfortunately Mentawais is no exception. At the end of 2016 the government introduced (and began to enforce) a Mentawais Surfer Tax.

The kicker here is it’s a pretty hefty 1,000,000IDR ($100!) per surfer and covers 15 days.

You pay for this in Padang before boarding the boat and get a wrist band as proof. I also recommend keeping hold of your receipt too.

I would love to say this is of huge benefit for the local community, but from what I’ve heard people in the Ments unfortunately don’t see the benefit of this extra tax – making it even more frustrating to hand over a solid wad of cash!

What’s Best Time To Visit The Mentawai Islands?

mentawai surf camp surfing driftwood review

That being said there is surf all year round, but not quite as consistent or world class.

I actually headed there in early March (shoulder season) and loved it. Not only was the surf a bit more manageable, but there were less crowds and the surf camps had much better deals on too – so if you’re not a pro and want to get the most bang for your buck shoulder season would be my top tip!

Weather wise the surf season also coincides with dry season too – happy days. If you want to avoid wet season Jan and February have the highest rainfall .

The Best Surf Spots In The Mentawai Islands – Playgrounds 

The biggest draw of the Mentawai Islands has to be the world class surf – and it’s certainly a bucket list destination to anyway who wants to score pumping tropical waves! Here are 10 waves that’ll get a huge range of surfers absolutely frothing for a Mentawai surf trip!

1. Bank Vaults

If you’re after draining barrels then Bank Vaults is the spot to head to. Handling some serious swell this spot isn’t for the faint hearted and if you mess up the section you’ll pay the price on the shallow reef – so for advanced surfers only!

2. Kanduis/Rifles

Also known as Kandui Right Riffles is another one of the more famous waves in the area due to it’s speed and size. It’s all about the barrels here and when it’s firing you’ll get some of the longer cover ups you could ever imagine. But due to this it can attract quite a crowd so wait your turn and avoid the dry reef in the end section on lower tides!

driftwood mentawais surf camp review

4. Macaronis

This will probably be one of your new favourite waves on the planet – and Macaronias (aka Macas) produces some of the most fun left handers in the Ments with perfect waves reeling in most conditions.  

5. Beng Bengs 

best mentawai surf spots guide mentawai islands indonesia

6. Burger World

This super fun, long right hand point break is probably one of the most picturesque waves I’ve ever surfed! The takeoff spot offers up some fun little barrels with the inside section a lush running wall which is heaps of fun. This spot is s swell magnet so if everywhere else is small this is the best spot to head. Suitable for all levels.

7. Pit Stops

mentawai surf camp surfing driftwood review

8. Good Times

The left hand version of Burger World, Good Times does exactly what it says on the tin! Suitable for all levels of surfer this fun wave has a mellow takeoff and long walls to play with. When the swell picks up it’s a great spot for advanced surfers looking for some carving sections.

Breaking over a fast, shallow right hand reef NiPussi is a favourite in the area as it’s one of the most consistent breaks. It’s also pretty sheltered when a lot of other spots are onshore or being messed up by the wind.

1o. Playgrounds

A favourite with long boarders and those wanting a forgiving wave Playgrounds is as its name suggests, lots of fun! Great for those looking to progress or of a beginner to intermediate level but more advanced surfers will also love it here too on a bigger swell.

Check out my full guide to the best Mentawai surf spots here

Surf Camp or Surf Charter?

When it comes to the style of Mentawai surf trip you go for there are a couple of big factors to consider – including comfort level, which waves you want to be surfing and of course budget. Here’s a rundown of how all the factors come together and whether you’ll end up opting for a Mentawai surf camp/surf resort experience or a full blown surf charter…

Mentawai Surf Camp

If you’re looking for the most budget friendly way to explore the Mentawais then a land based surf camp is the way to go. For those who are really on a budget camps like Beng Bengs offer pretty affordable package deals (although dont expect cheap, it is the Mentawais after all!) with comfortable accommodation and wave son your doorstep.

For those wanting luxury the Mentawais has some of the most luxurious surf resorts on the planet with spots like Kandui Resort including everything from a pool to nanny service.

If you’re travelling with a non surfer or family this is also the best way to go as well.

Pros: Budget friendly, extra space, caters for mixed levels of surfer, great for families

Cons: tied to the camp boat schedule, cant access more remote surf spots, mentawai surf charters.

For those wanting the ultimate surf trip you don’t have to look much further than a Mentawai surf charter! Hit up some of the more remote breaks, wake up with waves just off the boat boat and be the first to paddle out at dawn in true surfer style.

But this kind of adventure also comes with a hefty price tag and there are quite a few boats covering a wide range of budgets – so check out your options before deciding!

Pros: hit the more remote surf spots, first to paddle out each day

Cons: more expensive, not as much personal space, mentawai surf camps – our top picks.

There are plenty of Mentwai Surf Camps to choose from for all styles and budgets. They’re not all on the same island though – they’re spread across Masokut Island, southern Siberut Island and beyond – so if you’re wanting to surf certain breaks that might dictate which camp will be best for you!

That being said though most camps offers daily surf boats to a variety of spots, so it’s worth chatting with them beforehand.

Beng Bengs Surf Camp

This is where I personally stayed and I absolutely loved it! Run by two Italian surfers you’ll be well fed and taken care of. Hosting up to 16 surfers across two dorm rooms and two doubles it’s fully kitted out with A/C and hot showers and is right on the beach.

Slightly confusingly it’s not in front of Beng Beng surf spots, instead Ebays is right in front, with PitStops a short walk around the corner. They run 2 boats twice daily to surf spots, allowing them to cater for a variety of surf levels and find the best waves of the day for everyone at the camp.

Stay from: $669 (8 day stay, all inclusive)

Click here for more info and to book.

Driftwood Mentawais

A relatively new camp (it opened in late 2019) Driftwood Mentawais is where I headed for my second trip to the Ments. Situated just along beach from Beng Bengs Surf Camp and only 140m walk to Ebays this is a great option for those on a budget at from just 2 million IDR per night.

This then includes your return speedboat from Siberut, 3 daily meals, unlimited tea/coffee/coconuts and of course daily surf boats out to the surrounding breaks.

It has been recently expanded to sleep 6, including 2 new beachfront bungalows, so it’s also the perfect option for those wanting a smaller group vibe or even book the whole place out for a small group of friends surfing together!

Check out my full review of Driftwood here

Stay from: $200AUD Per Night (inc return speedboat, 3 meals a day and daily surf boats)

When it comes to surfing local knowledge goes a LONG way to scoring the best waves – and The Shadow is owned and operated by local surfers, so you can expect some truly expert and insider knowledge on the breaks from these guys!

The Shadow is actually based on it’s own private island – so its just 16 guests in tropical paradise! You would think that with the label of private island comes a premium price tag but at $150USD per night it’s not as out of reach as you might have thought. Especially when you consider that it includes everything you need – including return airport transfers and the fast ferry.

With a selection of A/C bungalows, mix of local and western cuisine and a selection of surf boats to take you to the best break for the conditions and your ability a stay at The Shadow will certainly have you scoring perfection!

Stay from: $150USD Per Night (all inclusive)

Kandui Resort

Located in front of Playgrounds this is a great base for those who want a super fun wave right on the doorstep and plenty of world class wave just a short boat ride away. This beautiful Mentawais surf resort offers all the luxuries you’d expect from a high end surf camp – including pool, spa, yoga classes, in house photographer and even a nanny service.

On elf the best rated surf camps not only in the Mentawais but also the world this is the place to head if you want the ultimate in surf luxury.

Stay from: $1,875 (8 day stay, all inclusive, low season)

Wave Park Resort

Along with Kanduis this is also one of the more premier surf resorts in the Mentawais, with a small collection of waterfront bungalows hosting up to 12 surfers and their families – it even has its own music studio!

With gorgeous sunsets from the hammocks amongst the palms, access to 26 world class waves and luxury accommodation this is another one to consider if your budget can handle it.

Stay from: $1,600 (8 day stay, all inclusive, low season)

Pitstop Hill

As the name might suggest this surf camp is situated right in front of Pitstops – with Ebays just a short walk around the corner. This stunning set of 3 bungalows, sleeping a max of 10 surfers overlooks the break and is set amongst some beautiful grounds.

It’s the perfect place to book out for a group of buddies and head out to sample some of the best waves in the area with some great hospitality.

Stay from: $249 per night (discounts for larger group sizes)

Slap in front of one of the funnest waves in the world Macaronis surf resort caters for up to 20 surfers and is another epic luxury option. With in room wifi, a choice of ocean, pool and lagoon views, bar, restaurant and spa it caters for those wanting some serious comfort alongside their days of surfing.

And if you want to stray away from the perfect left in front of your resort you can of course jump on one of the boats to sample even more of the best surf breaks the Mentawais has to offer.

Stay from: $1,170 (4 day stay, all inclusive, also nab 20% off all packages with their early bird specials!)

Alaia Mentawai

With super fun left hander Alaias right in front of this luxury surf resort you can even check the surf from the pool! With a max of 10 surfers this another awesome little boutique Mentawai surf resort.

The whole thing is built on the corner of the island too, making it perfect for some incredible sunrises AND sunsets – there’s not many spots in the area that can boast that!

As you’d expect from the price tag luxe is the order of the day with in-house wifi, pool and the rooms are an awesome luxury take on the traditional Indonesia style.

Stay from: $???  (currently waiting to hear back about rates!)

Hollow Tree Resort (aka HTs)

If you’ve been dreaming of an epic Mentawai surf trip during lockdown the chances are you’ve seen some of the beyond epic footage the crew of Hollow Tree Resort have been dropping on their YouTube channels and Insta stories!

With the likes of Josh Kerr, Asher Pacey, Jordy Smith and other surfing legend gracing their doors, HTs is firmly amongst the best Mentawai Surf Resort out there.

With high end accomodation, with some options even including their own beachfront pools, this is certainly one of the more exclusive and luxurious option available in the Ments.

And as if your epic accomodation wasn’t enough, Hollow Trees Resort sits right in front of HTs/Lances Right – one of the most consistent, barrelling right handers on the planet. Oh and Lances Left – and equally epic left hander – is just around the corner too.

Combine that with 10 other world class waves within a quick boat trip and you’ve got the receipt for an absolutely dreamy surf trip to the Mentawai Islands!

Stay from US$200 per night

Mentawai Surf Charters – Our Top Picks

Sola gracia (aka mentawai surf co).

A firm luxury favourite the Sola Gracia – run by the crew of Mentawai Surf Co) is a well established and reviewed Mentawai surf charter – and one look at their Instagram feed shows they score every trip with their experienced crew and surf guides!

With 3 cabins catering for up to 11 surfers the Sola Gracia is a good small group vibe – and you can even private charter it, choosing from a surf trip to either the Mentawais, Telos or Banyaks.

The Sola Gracia is also well known for its awesome onboard photographers too – so if you want to score that perfect barrel shot their photo packages are well worth it for the bragging rights!

Stay: from $245USD per day (11 day charter)

A relatively new comer to the Mentawais (launching in 2019) the Maki Boat is nothing short of beautiful to look at and all 3 decks of this luxury surf charter have all the creatures comforts of home and you’ll be surfing in style!

With A/C throughout and the master suite offering 270 degree views across the lineup you’ll be totally spoilt on this recently refurbished vessel which was original a luxury dive charter Komodo.

With a max of 12 surfers it’s another great charter size and again offers private bookings as well – you can even opt to include a jetski for your in water pickups at extra cost too!

Get in quick to save up to $700 on their early bird spots as well – making it incredible value

Stay: from $318USD per day (11 day charter)

Ratu Motu Charters

If you want to go ALL out for your Mentawai surf charter then Ratu Motu Charters is what you need to be booking – the boat even has it’s own help pad!

Not only will you be scoring world class waves but after a hard day in the surf you’ll be able to relax in pure luxury onboard the Ratu Motu. With en suites, wifi and even Apple TV this is more a floating surf hotel than charter boat – ideal for those who want that epic once in a lifetime experience or simply with the bank balance to afford it!

Stay from: $499 per night

This 80 foot, 6 cabin Mentawai surf charter is perfect for those with a mid range budget and caters for up to 12 surfers, with A/C twin share rooms and even includes a daily beer allowance too!

Departing from Padang this trip will either head to North Mentawais or South Mentawais depending on the group and surf forecast.

Stay from: $288 per night

Specifically designed for the Mentwai Islands this is another great mid range surf charter with plenty on space on board to relax. With a maximum occupancy of 14 (usually sailing at 8-10) there’s 4 twin bed cabins and a larger quad room to choose from. Again you’ll have A/C to keep you cool in the tropical nights.

Stay from: $290 per night

One of the more affordable mid range charters the Huey 1 has heaps of experience, operating in the area since 1999, so you’re in good hands! With a max surfer occupancy of 10 across twin and dorm rooms it’s great for solo surfers looking to join a small group.

Stay from: $??? Prices on request.

Great for larger groups or solo surfers wanting some new buddies in the lineup the Moon Palik offers a variety of sleeping options across 4 twin cabins and a larger cabin with 4 bunks and a double bed – so grab your surf crew along for the ride!

It’s also the most bundle friendly one of the list – ideal for those who want to score the waves of their lives in comfort without smashing their bank balance!

Stay from: $277 (8 day stay, all inclusive, low season)

Other awesome Mentawais boats include;

  • Barren Joey
  • The Bintang
  • King Mellenium II

For a full rundown guide of EVERY charter boat in the Mentawais check out this awesome guide .

Is There Wifi/Phone Signal?

Another pressing issue for the modern day surfer – oh the joys of technology hey?!

Bad news for all those tech addicts though, you wont be getting any phone signal in the Mentawai Islands, even with a local Indonesian SIM card.

That being said a number of surf camps (and some high end charters) now have access to wifi. They usually charger around $15AUD per 500MB or between $35-50AUD for your entire stay, but the prices do vary a bit. Also dont expect to be streaming Netflix whilst you’re out there as it’s not the strongest or most reliable connection on the planet.

At the end of the day though you’re in the Mentawai Islands – kick back, unwind, disconnect and enjoy paradise! My first trip there and I did a forced digital detox for 10 days…it was bliss!

Phewwwwww…that’s a lot of info hey? 

Hopefully it’ll help you plan your perfect trip to the mentawai islands, …and of course if you need help packing check out my post on the ultimate surf essentials for you next trip here, see you in the lineup, related posts.

review mctavish elveen mid length surfboard

REVIEW: McTavish Elveen Mid Length Surfboard

harley ingleby moe midlength thunderbolt surfboard review

REVIEW: Harley Ingleby Moe – An Epic All Round Midlength?

apple watch surf guide dawn patrol app apple watch series 9 apple watch ultra 2

The Apple Watch Surf Guide: Apple Watch Series 9 & Dawn Patrol App

best cheap surf travel destinations budget surfing spots

9 Cheap Surf Travel Destinations – Epic Waves On A Budget!

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Nice article. Just want to say about our place.. Hidden Bay Resort Mentawais . In the middle budget between surf camp and others surf resort, we offer one of the best cost benefits around. Here you will find a luxury type accommodation with the plus to stay in a pristine water exclusive bay just in the middle of the waves. And with a plus of the first and one high performance center with surf coaches and physic trainers that will help you to surf better and better. We have also a very family friendly place as I live with my family here. Just take a look if you knee to mentas. Wish you all great waves .

Thanks for the advice Alexandre, will have to check it out on my next visit!

Mentawai guide is very interesting and useful for me and my partner. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge about surfing.

Good writeup! I linked your blog on my Twitter. Hope that my readers would consider it useful also. Good luck for the future.

I couldn’t refrain from commenting. Exceptionally well written!

Hi, I would like to go surf at Mentawai islands over the Christmas period , due as this is when I have leave. Will their be any waves over this period or is this a bad idea.

Hey Dillon! Stoked to hear you’re thinking of heading to the Ments for some waves! It wont be as pumping or consistent over the xmas period but you should be able to find some fun surf there. Just be aware a lot of camps shut down over the off season (for refurbs or expansion) so plan ahead!

What have you been up to? I am fascinated about covid19. Can you talk about it? If the same thread is opened please redirect my post :). Thanks :). I wrote once again – i cant see answer:) PS: I don’t know any people with covid and you? rambo 😀

Indeed happy to chat! I was actually in Sri Lanka when it all kicked off and ended up bouncing back to Australia where my brother lives. Its been pretty chilled here to be honest (in a small town on the coast) so apart from the initial lockdown things have been all good! How about you?

Best Surf Destinations

A Guide to Surfing the Mentawai Islands

surfing mentawai islands

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. We may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through one of these links. Please read our Affiliate Disclosure  for more information.

Thinking about surfing the Mentawai Islands?

This is our complete surf travel guide. Read for everything you need to know about surfing in the Mentawai Islands.

Situated off the southern coast of Sumatra, you’ll find that the year-round, the conditions are pretty much optimum in the Mentawai Islands, thanks to the warm, relatively calm waters of the Indian ocean. Plus, you can be one of the few who has had the opportunity to explore these islands. If you’re worried about picking the right surf spot and resort for your trip, you needn’t fret. With our thorough guide to surfing the Mentawai Islands , you’ll enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

Read on to find out why the Mentawai Islands are often referred to as paradise for surfers…

How to get to the Mentawai Islands

Break it down to its simplest form, and all you need to do to reach the Mentawai Islands is to get to Padang. Considered the capital of the Indonesian island of Sumatra, it’s a bustling city with renowned surfing of its own. However, reaching Padang isn’t a walk in the park, although it’s not impossible either. The least stressful option is to fly to Jakarta. While Jakarta is on the island of Java, it’s one of the only cities that fly directly to Padang. From there, you can catch a connecting flight or jump on a speedboat.

You might not have the budget to fly everywhere, which means you will have to use boats. A possible alternative is to travel to Malaysia and hop on a bus to Melaka on the coast. Once on the Malaysian coastline, there are ferries that cross the water to Dumai, where you’ll need a bus to transit to Padang.

The Mentawai Islands are considerably easier to reach from Padang nowadays because there is a 200-seat speedboat that makes the crossing. Check on  this link  for the times.

Mentawai ‘Surfer’s Tax’

As of August 1, 2016, surfers visiting the Mentawai Islands must pay a “surfer’s tax” before riding the region’s legendary waves. With a significant growth in the number of surfers heading to the Mentawai Islands each year, the government uses this tax to protect against environmental damage.

The tax is 1,000,000 IDR (approx. 80 USD) per 15 day stay and can be paid with the Port Authorities at Padang Harbour.

Something else to bear in mind is that Indonesian customs allow a maximum of 3 surfboards for personal use. Any additional boards will be considered imports and you will be charged a fee of around $100 per board.

Mentawai Islands Surf Resorts

As you’d expect from a surf-centric destination, you won’t struggle to find a surf resort in the Mentawai Islands. However, choosing between the options on offer is never straightforward. An excellent rule, regardless of your location, is to research the various options.

Mentawai Surf Camp

If you prefer a hotel or surf camp that is tried and tested, there aren’t much better than  Mentawai Surf Camp  in Northern Mentawai. A beachfront villa-style accommodation located in the renowned Playgrounds area in the Mentawai Islands, Mentawai Surf Camp has been serving tourists and surfers for decades. You can book an all-inclusive package here, including airport transfers, daily boat trips to the nearest surf spots, and 3 meals a day starting from $159 per day.

surf resort in the mentawai islands

Located in the Southern Mentawai Islands you’ll find  Macaronis Resort , named for its proximity to the surf spot of the same name. Macaronis was voted by the pros as the ‘funnest’ wave to surf in the world, so you can’t really go wrong when it comes to the location of this resort. Families and non-surfers will love the fact that there is more to do than surfing, while surfers can enjoy the lack of a curfew that lets them surf as late as they want right out front.

where to stay mentawai islands

Another popular resort, located this time in Central Mentawai is  Hollow Tree’s . Hollow Tree’s, known locally as HT’s or Lance’s Right, is one of the best and most consistent fast, barreling right-handers in the world and Hollow Tree’s Resort looks straight out over it. The resort itself is made up of a collection of small blue and white beachfront villas, each with their own private plunge pool. Guests can book an all-inclusive package here from $200 per day.

If price is an issue, the great thing about surfing the Mentawai Islands is that even the budget hotels and resorts are clean and homely.  Lance’s Right Villas  is a prime example. At less than £50 per night, there is everything from scooter and bicycle hire to help you get to the surf spots, as well as airport transport.

Before booking accommodation, it’s essential to remember that lots of waves are only accessible by boat. Therefore, you will either need an off-shore hotel or one that provides a daily charter to the best surf spots.

Surfing Mentawai Islands

surfing in the mentawai islands

Mentawai is home to dozens of incredible surf spots that are worth checking out. The main surf season runs from March to October, similar to the rest of Indonesia. However, you’ll always find something to surf no matter the time of year.

Below, we’ll break down the most popular, as well as the ones that shouldn’t go under the radar, in Northern, Southern, and Central Mentawai.

Northern Mentawai Surf Spots

surf spots mentawai islands

Off the south coast of Siberut, you’ll find a group of waves that are referred to as ‘The Playgrounds.’ Among the most consistent in the southern Indian ocean, they offer something for everybody, even though the Mentawai Islands are best for intermediate and expert surfers.

Beng Bengs is close to the west coast, and it’s a fantastic place to start if you want to get comfortable with the conditions before trying something more advanced. A left-hander, it has plenty of give while simultaneously being fun and fast. There’s plenty of chances to rip without putting yourself in a tricky situation, so it’s an exciting combination of safe and enjoyable.

Short, sharp fast-hand waves don’t come much faster than Nipussi. East of another wave known as ‘Bank Vaults,’ it has a shallow break over a sharp reef. However, don’t let this feature put you off because it’s also sheltered from the wind. On top of that, Nipussi is pretty laid back as it doesn’t need a great deal of swell to work. Intermediate surfers should be at home here, and it’s a particularly cool spot when the wind is high. Other waves career off course, yet Nipussi stays true in the islands’ worst conditions.

Bank Vaults

Speaking of Bank Vaults, it’s well worth a visit if you’re in the intermediate to the advanced bracket. Among Indonesia’s surfers, it’s considered to be possibly the toughest and trickiest wave to overcome in the Mentawai Islands. Why? For one thing, it’s a lot more powerful than the other swells in Northern Mentawai, but more than that, it’s a drainer. Yes, the barrel drains, meaning it’s incredibly easy to get on the inside of the wave white out. Not for the meek, Bank Vaults offers huge swells and even bigger adrenaline shots for those brave enough to attempt to tame it.

No, not the eCommerce site that sells everything from old clothes to used cars. In Mentawai, all you can purchase from E-Bay is a selection of barrel sections at mid and high tide. A left-hander, it’s an excellent wave regarding performance, giving top surfers the chance to carve out their best moves and rip until their hearts are content.

Southern Mentawai Surf Spots

mentawai islands surf spots

As a rule, Southern Mentawai isn’t an ideal place for beginners or anybody who isn’t confident in the water.

Thunders is about as tame as it gets off the coast of Pagai. Not only does it race and break over a shallow reef with sharp coral underneath, but it’s unusually long and large. So, it provides you with more time to rip and run, as well as more opportunities to stack it! A cool feature of Thunders is that it has several take-off points for surfers. Therefore, it’s a brilliant spot to catch a wave regardless of the crowds, which are among the biggest in the Mentawais.

Another wave with potentially painful consequences, Greenbush is said to be for advanced surfers and people who don’t care about their wellbeing! And, it’s easy to see why when you go south of Macaronis. Scenery-wise, it doesn’t get much prettier than the tropical forests and mangroves that surround the coast. However, they also add to the hollowness of the waves, and it’s this feature that’s the most hazardous. Please proceed with caution, but with the understanding that the sense of satisfaction after finishing this swell is immense.

Although Greenbush is seen as more intense and harder to handle, Macaronis is undoubtedly the most fun surfing in the Mentawai Islands. What sets it apart from the rest is that it’s a rippable swell, so advanced surfers can pull as many tricks as they can attempt. More than that, the Macaronis work in most conditions and are accessible throughout the majority of the year. You can rely on these waves to have your back when the conditions are otherwise flat and have lost their edge. Intermediate surfers should be okay.

Central Mentawai Surf Spots

surfing the mentawai islands

While it’s true that the Mentawai Islands’ surfing is more varied in the North and South, the Central region has one wave in particular that shouldn’t be missed. To experience it, you’ll need to head to a town called Sipura. There, off the south coast, you’ll find Lance’s Right.

Lance’s Right

Also known as ‘Hollow Trees,’ or HT’s for short, Lance’s Right is unmissable due to its varying sections. All told, it’s an incredibly quick right-hander that twists and turns and shoots you into multiple barrels. However, two specific sections to look out for are: ‘The Office’ and ‘The Surgeon’s Table.’ The former is the fastest part of the wave that includes a big drop that instantly throws you into a barrel. The latter is the main peak, and it’s great fun because it’s an open peak with plenty of shallow coral reef underneath.

Surfboard Hire in the Mentawai Islands

Surf shops on the island are few and far between. You will find the odd, single entrepreneur trying to make a buck, but the gear is mostly sold by surf camps. With that in mind, you might already have it included in the cost of your accommodation. Always double-check before signing on the dotted line.

Another feature to factor in before leaving for Mentawai is that, of the camps and schools that do offer equipment, the majority of it is for beginners. Macaronis Resort, for instance, offers equipment hire, yet there are only six soft-top boards for learners.

So for the most part, we strongly recommend taking your stuff with you to enjoy surfing in the Mentawai Islands.

How Best Surf Destinations Can Help

You mean apart from giving you this helpful guide?! Of course, we have lots of articles and posts that you can use to aid you in researching your trip, and not only for the Mentawai Islands. Regardless of the location, we cover surfing hotspots and uncovered gems around the globe. We pride ourselves on our taste in accommodation, too. It’s the same routine: decide where you’re going and use our list of resorts and surf camps to make your stay more comfortable.

Enjoyed our Complete Guide to Surfing the Mentawai Islands ? Check out some of our other Surf Travel Guides here .

When is the Taghazout Surfing Season?

9 of the Best Surf Spots in Taghazout

9 of the Best Surf Spots in Taghazout

surfing taghazout in morocco

A Complete Guide to Surfing Taghazout

surfing imsouane

Surfing Imsouane in Morocco

Surf Towns in Costa Rica

The Best Surf Towns in Costa Rica

Surfing Tofino

A Complete Guide to Surfing Tofino on Vancouver Island

5 of the Best Surf Camps in Uluwatu

5 of the Best Surf Camps in Uluwatu

Surfing California

A Complete Guide to Surfing California

Surfing Mentawais – Where to Stay? When to go? What to pack?

How to get there when to go what to pack where to stay.

Photo of Troy

Surfing Mentawais – Surf Travel Guide For The First Time Ments-Traveler

  • The Mentawais is a legendary chain of large and small islands, about 150 kilometres off the coast of West Sumatra. It’s fabled for its uncrowded waves, exceptional fishing and warm tropical water year-round.
  • Hollow-trees, Thunders, Macaronis and Lances are just a few of the 25+ world-renowned left and right breaks available (as well as some secret ones).
  • Best Season is generally from April to November, however we’ve scored great waves during the wet season (December to March) as well.

How to get there? When to go? What to pack? Where to stay? Where to surf? – All your questions answered below.

Surfing Mentawais

What time of year is best to visit Mentawais?

Peak season is from March to October, with some of the best waves on record over the June/July periods. ‘Peak season’ still doesn’t necessarily mean crowded in Mentawais, be nice to your guide/camp owners as they know the secret spots!

Wet/off-season brings consistent northwesterly winds and generally lots of rain. While these winds aren’t favored for the majority of Mentawai breaks, there are plenty of breaks that thrive on this wind direction.

It’s Less consistent during this time of year, but if you get lucky you’ll more than likely have the surf of your lifetime with nobody out.

Surfing Mentawai

If i’m a beginner can i still go to Mentawais?

Absolutely! The variety of Mentawai surf breaks are endless. There’s long waves, short waves, shallow water, deep water, hollow and fat. No matter what skill level, you will find your dream wave in the Mentawais.

If you’re just starting out (learning to stand-up) one of the best places for you to stay is M.I.A Surf camp, based very close to the ‘Nipussi’ break. This break can be surfed on all tides and has a keyhole to paddle out from only 30 metres from the M.I.A surf camp, you can check pricing here .

As a beginner, If you’re intimidated by the thought of surfing over the reef. It’s still a breathtaking part of the world to see with so much to offer both culturally and visually.

You definitely won’t regret visiting the Mentawais, even if you end up taking it easy, snorkelling and exploring the islands.  

Surfing Mentawai

How much will a trip to the Mentawai cost?

  • Surf Charters: Usually 10-12 days and range from $1800 to $3000US per person with all meals and drinks provided. (Alcohol is extra)
  • Surf Resorts: For 10 days, you can expect to pay between $1700 – $3500US for accommodation, allow an additional $40US a day for meals (some resorts don’t include food and drink in the price).
  • Surf Camps: Staying with local camps is very basic (hut, fan and cold shower). These range from $40 – $70US per night. Allow an additional $10US for 3 basic meals per day of local nasi campur (rice, egg and various meats/fish). Bring insect repellent.
  • On-Island Travel Costs: To ensure you have an exceptional surf trip, we recommend allowing an additional $500USD for transport throughout the Mentawais if you’re on a Land camp/Surf resort.

Flight Costs:

  • From Brisbane, Australia you can expect to pay around $500-600USD return.
  • From Europe, you’ll find return flight for around $1,000USD.
  • From Los Angeles, California the average return rates are $900 – $1500USD

tlyndonmassey

How to get there? 

You will need to book flights to Padang (PDG) which is situated in West Sumatra. If you’re on a surf charter you will most likely commence your trip from Padang Harbour. Padang has international flights from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, but not from Bali.

If you’re heading to a Surf Camp or Resort, you can take the Ambu Ambu overnight ferry which will take approximately 10-11hrs and cost around $120 USD for a twin cabin. The other option is Mentawai fast ferry and costs approximately $40 USD per person each way but currently only runs to Sipora and the Pagai region.(see below image)  

mentawai surf trip blog

Ferry Schedule

  • Tuesday : M.FAST FERRY 15.00, gets Padang around 18.30pm
  • Thursday : M.FAST FERRY 13.00, gets Padang around 18.30pm
  • Saturday : M.FAST FERRY 15.00, gets Padang around 18.30pm
  • Saturday : GAMBOLO, 19.00, gets Padang on Sunday 6am.

source: http://www.theshadowmentawai.com/ferry-schedule.html

What are the Visa Requirements?

Visa requirements for countries are constantly changed or altered. Always check the latest conditions of entry when travelling at least a month prior. You can check for current Indonesian visa requirements here .  

Packing for Mentawais

When you pack for Mentawais keep in mind the isolation of this beautiful tropical archipelago. So besides the general essentials like a toothbrush, underwear, fireworks and a single bandaid; We thought we’d share what we take every time, as surfers that frequent the islands:

  • 2 Board minimum (3 Recommended) – If possible, invest in some new boards that are a couple more litres than your usual setup. You’ll appreciate the extra paddle power if it gets big. If you’re leaving from Bali, check Studio Repair or The Board Lab down in South Bali. (new boards are 4-5.5million rupiah/$280-350 USD).
  • New 7mm Surfboard Leashes + Tropical wax- Fresh, strong, thicker leashes. A cheap investment to prevent excessive, unnecessary swimming marathons when your old crappy leash breaks in 8ft Macaronis.
  • Full First Aid Kit – Almost all land camps and Surf Charters will have supplies, however, it’s always nice to have your own personal dressings and iodine if you do get injured.
  • Ciprofloxacin – This can be obtained once in Indonesia, it’s a MUST for those long trips. Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat skin infections, bone and joint infections and infectious diarrhea (bali belly). Trust me, you don’t want to be spraying the bowl while everyone else is sending spray off the lip. Grab yourself a pack for around 30k (2USD) rupiah.
  • Swiss Army Knife – This one sounds funny, but on long trips mine has kept my nails clipped, fixed boat engines, scaled fish, and much more. Just pack it.  
  • Mosquito Repellent – Different areas have them, worth packing.

Surf Charter vs. Resorts vs. Land Camp

Land camps, charter boats and Resorts all have their own unique benefits. No Matter what, you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.

Surf Charters

Surf Charters like the ‘ISMARI’  are an excellent choice for surfers wanting maximum leverage of good surf forecasts and locations.

The majority of mentawai boat captains share a great respect for one another. Always communicating to avoid overcrowding a surf spot. Even when there are a few boats anchored at a surf spot, there’s often a mutual respect and the spot will be shared.

For example: Once, another boats crew was out surfing when we arrived at thunders (Southern Mentawai). Our captain of the Ismari, served lunch on arrival. By the time we were ready the other crew were finished their session in the line-up.

A similar respect was shown to us later that day, when another boat and crew anchored and waited 40 minutes before paddling out into the line-up.

If you’re claustrophobic, you may find it challenging as it’s essentially similar to sharing an average single storey house with 15 to 20 people for upto 15 days without leaving the house.

Be prepared to blend-in while keeping an open mind with regards to others suggestions, opinions and beliefs.

Surfing Mentawais

Mentawai Surf Resorts

Togat Nusa and Wavepark , are two of our go-to resorts in the Mentawai. They both operate responsible and sustainable business practices.

At Togat Nusa you’ll find modern bungalows constructed from recycled timber and bamboo, bathrooms with hot water and fans fitted in your bungalow to stay cool at night. This resort style is perfect for couples or people wanting a ‘home-base’ feeling out there. See below for images of the ‘style’ of accommodation:

Mentawai Surf Resort

Wavepark is similar to Togat Nusa and equally as beautiful. Environmentally conscious as one another, both preserve water and are very meticulous regarding waste and trash which is refreshing to see. Preservation of these beautiful islands is important 🙂

Activities at Togat Nusa and Wavepark include:

  • Visiting local villages
  • Guided jungle tour
  • Yoga Classes
  • Hire local Sampan/Canoe  

The Surf breaks near Togat Nusa and Wavepark are:

Icelands – A left hander, this swell magnet almost always has a somewhat short wave for a couple turns and the occasional barrel. It holds large swell and has thick heaving barrels on its day.

Scarecrows – Another very long left hander with multiple barrel sections and open wall faces for turns. It’s one of the most consistent breaks in Mentawais. The reef is fairly deep at this location, safe to surf on all tides. There is however, a shallow end section called ‘curry bowls’ that will either take your skin or reward you with an amazing barrel if you commit.  

Suicides – Punchy right hander that barrels over very sharp, live reef. The take-off section is steep. When you make the drop, you’ll be rewarded with a barrel leading into a fatter wall section for a turn as it tapers into the channel. Best surfed on high tide.

Telescopes – This is a world-class left. When it turns on, it wraps around effortlessly into the bay at Mapadegat and peels perfectly along the reef for over 200m. While it isn’t the most consistent wave, it’s a beautiful spectacle when it comes alive. Expect long rides with lots of barrel sections as well as open faces for turns and hacks.

7 Palms – A good option for those smaller days. This Left hander is great for all skill levels and sometimes has a fast barrel section if you feel like paddling up further toward the top. When it gets bigger this wave tends to close-out so. A good, fun option for those quieter, slow days.

Surfing Mentawais

Perfect for those on a budget, ranging from $20 to $90USD per person, per night.

One of our favorite breaks to stay at is Hollow Trees on Sipura.

It’s a fast, barreling right hander with plenty of punch and a nice end section for turns before kicking out into the channel. There’s also a few other breaks including the fabled ‘Lances Left’ if you want to rent a scooter and check out the other side of the island.

Nearby, surf camps like ‘big mumma’s’ near the hollow trees surf break are local huts with a mattress and mosquito net for approximately $20USD/pp, per night (not listed online). For approximately $80USD/pp, per night, you’ll find something a little more modern like ‘ Lances Surf Camp Katiet ’.

For basic food and drink, don’t forget to allow at least $10USD a day.

If your on a tight budget for surfing the Mentawais, we recommend booking the first few nights at a listed camp and then exploring local camp options nearby upon arrival.

Keep in mind, on this kind of budget, most of these are hole-in-the-ground toilets/village style accommodations. 

Surfing Mentawais

Read also, Staying with Locals in the Mentawais

Be Conscious when surfing Mentawais

mentawai surf trip blog

  • If you’re surfing with others, pay attention to the line-up and share the waves, It’s the Mentawais there’s plenty for everyone.
  • Of course, don’t litter rubbish, always place in bins or local burn-off piles.
  • As a separate practice, try to take a couple pieces of rubbish from the surf or beach each time you go surfing.
  • The Mentawais is one of the most beautiful surf locations in the world, ENJOY YOURSELF and don’t sweat the small things 🙂

Please share with us if you have any feedbacks to improve this Mentawai’s travel guide. Email [email protected]

Need help in planning your stay in the Mentawais? Fill in the form below.

Photo of Troy

A Mentawai Local with a World-Class wave in his Backyard

How to pack for your surf-trip in 2020 - sustainable surf travel checklist, related articles.

Photo of Waiting For Another Century Swell in the Ments

Waiting For Another Century Swell in the Ments

Photo of Learn to Surf in the Bukit, Bali

Learn to Surf in the Bukit, Bali

Photo of VW Surf Bus – Lombok and Sumbawa Surf-Trip

VW Surf Bus – Lombok and Sumbawa Surf-Trip

Photo of Our First Longboard Retreat in Indonesia

Our First Longboard Retreat in Indonesia

One comment.

This is a very informative article, thank you! It is very helpful for us who loves to plan our surfing travel adventures ahead. Mentawais is one of the places I have on my list to explore in the near future. I do have a list of sought-after surf beaches here as well. Do check it out: https://3dfins.com.au/blogs/media-spotlight/the-best-luxury-surf-resorts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Practice on Land. Repeat in the Water.

Tired of spending time in the water and repeating the same mistakes?

Sign up to receive tutorials video with land based surf techniques from Rodrigo Machado.

AWAVE Travel

Use the search bar below or click on the icons to visit our Social Media channels!

When did you last get AWAVE?

Contact our Expert Surf Travel Team for more information!

  •  French
  •  German
  •  Italian

The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in the Mentawai Islands

So, you’ve seen the photos, watched the surf films, and want to take a trip to surf the Mentawai Islands!

The Mentawai Islands in Indonesia are renowned worldwide among surfers for having the most perfect waves on Earth located in a picture-perfect tropical paradise. In this guide, you will find out where are the Mentawai Islands when is best to travel to the Menatawais, how to get to the Mentawai Islands, and some hints for packing for the perfect surf trip!

The many legendary world-class breaks around Mentawai can handle all different swell and wind combinations, which makes this area a year-round surfing destination for all surfing levels.

The Mentawai Islands are a chain of about seventy idyllic tropical islands located approximately 150 km off the western coast of Sumatra in Indonesia. They can be divided into three main surfing regions:

  • Northern Islands : The majority of the spots are located around the islets south of Siberut, in an area called Playgrounds. This is also the most crowded region, due to the presence of many camps and easier accessibility from Padang via public ferries, but the variety and quality of waves are excellent.
  • Central Islands : push yourself a bit more south and get lost in paradise. Sipura is the main island and home of legendary waves as Lance’s Left and HT. 
  • Southern Islands: What you come for is Macas, the only wave in the Mentawai with limited access to a certain amount of surfers. This area is still very untouched and not so developed. With very few land based options, if you are on a charter in this area, expect to surf with just you and your mates!

When to go:

When to travel to the Mentawai Islands? The Mentawais are a year-round surf destination due to their exposure and swell consistency. There isn’t a bad time to go! Every season has something to offer. The low swell season (December to March) offers many perfect fun-sized days of surf (head high) perfect for beginners – to advanced surfers looking to relax. This is also the quietest time of year with very few people in the water!

The peak swell months (May to September) are every chargers dream with average swells of 7ft with long periods and a high percentage of forecasted 5 stars rated days, this is the time of year to surf the Mentawais if you want big barrels and to challenge yourself. In between the seasons, the Shoulder Months are the best pick for intermediate to advanced surfers that want to stay away from the crowds and still score fantastic waves!

How to get there:

How do you get to the Mentawai Islands? Padang is the international airport where you would have to arrive. Daily flights land here from Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta. Garuda Indonesia is the best airline company based on reliability and they carry surfboards in your checked baggage for free! Surf charters depart from Padang harbour during the late afternoon to undertake the crossing during the night.  If you have chosen to stay in a land-based camp,   Fast ferry boats leave the city of Padang every day. If you choose public transfer ferries try to do it on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays to get the best rates. As the fast ferry leaves early in the morning, make sure to arrive in Padang the day before your Ferry departure day! AWAVE Travels Expert Surf Team will assist in the arranging of all your logistics when traveling to the Mentawais.

Charters vs Land-based – Which is best:

This really is a matter of personal preference! Although dozens of land camps have been established in the past few years and many more are planned, the best way to get around Mentawai is no doubt a charter boat. Long-distance traveling is mainly done at night to be able to be at the surf spot already at dawn. All charter boats have a dinghy to drop you on and off the surf spot. Surf Charters offer unrivaled flexibility to be in the right place at the right time and to surf from dawn to dusk.

The real downside of charters is the lack of space and privacy. This is where the Surf Resorts really excel, offering access to a smaller selection of world-class waves in one region but offering much high levels of comfort and privacy. These are perfect for those that don’t enjoy boat life as much and couples looking to have a bit more privacy. AWAVE Travels Surf Travel Experts can help advise you on the best charter or resort for you!

What is the Mentawai Tax:

To surf in the Mentawai you need to pay a Tax. The Mentawai Tax has been introduced by Mentawai’s governor to benefit the local community and it requires each surfer to pay 1 Million Rupiah (around US$75) upon visiting the region. The tax lasts for 15 days, but it’s extendable, in case you want to stay longer.  The Tax  has been thought to improve the management of carrying capacities of surfers in each region, reduce overcrowding, and improve the overall experience of visiting surfers.

AWAVE Travel’s Favourite Waves in the Mentawai Islands:

The island chain is home to an almost unlimited amount of waves with lefts, rights, a-frames, heavy reef breaks, playful pointbreaks, and everything in between. This region is a surfers playground and you can find waves for all levels on a trip to the islands. The AWAVE Travel team loves surfing in the region and has picked a few of their favourite waves!

South Mentawai – Voted the most rippable and funnest wave in the world, Macas Left is a machine, predictable, perfect, and challenging at the same time! Working on almost all swell directions, this world-class left can serve up perfect walls, heavy barrels and is even good onshore!

Central Mentawai – Hollow Tree or Lance’s Right is the classic Mentawai right barrel, mechanically perfect. Be careful in the inside, where the shallowness of the Surgeon Table awaits. On smaller swells, this can be a friendly right but with size becomes one of the best right-hand barrels in the world!

North Mentawai – Spectacular and barreling world-class left with a vertical drop and a race to the exit. A short but spice ride, the bigger the swell, the better it gets. Generally needs a good-sized SW swell to get going but is a beauty when it does! Watch out for the two rocks on the inside.

North Mentawai – Race on the most perfect rights in the Mentawai, or even the world. Rifles it’s all about hollow barrels and straight-line speed! Rifles is a rare gem that needs all the conditions to align to score it perfect but when it is on, this is a freight train barrel that races along a very shallow reef!

Central Mentawai – ruly one of the most underrated waves in the Mentawais, this classy right-hander produces a slabby, take-off barrel section followed by a fun bowly wall.

North Mentawai – Short right and playful left in a beautiful set-up right in front of an idyllic island. Usually uncrowded and overlooked by most charter boats. A great spot to get away from the crowds and enjoy fun waves with your mates!

North Mentawai – Fun right-hander for the less intrepid surfers, with a whackable wall and deep water. Although not as intense as the average Mentawai wave, everyone loves 4 Bobs. This super rippable right is perfect to lay some turns and get the occasional barrel. Kandui Resort even has a floating dock over locking the wave for afternoon beers!

AWAVE Travel’s TOP PICKS for surfing the MENTAWAI Islands

Kingfisher Mentawai

Kingfisher Resort is a beautiful boutique resort located in the heart of the Mentawai Islands, one of the most wave-rich areas in the world. The white sand beach looks out to turquoise waters and is backed by palm trees, with 10 high-quality waves within 10 minutes boat ride of the resort!

Aloita Resort

Imagine white-sand beaches, perfect reef breaks, and beautiful luxury accommodation and you’ll have a good idea of what to expect at Aloita Resort. Located on its own island off the Northern end of Sipora, this boutique resort offers an unparalleled experience for surfers wanting to surf the fabled waves of the Mentawais.

Awera Resort & Spa

Awera Resort sits on the shores of a pristine tropical island in the Mentawais. Located at the Northern end of the Central Mentawai Islands, Awera has easy boat access to 13 waves in the local area with others being reachable with longer boat trips. 

Macaronis Surf Resort

Macaronis has got an enviable reputation for being one of the best and most fun waves in the World! The resort has exclusive access to the wave, allowing only 2 charter boats to moor up during each day, to limit the crowd numbers and get more waves for the resort guests!

Hollow Tree’s Resort

Hollow Tree’s Resort is just a stone’s throw away from one of the Mentawais premier waves Hollow Tree’s (also known as Lance’s Right). Since it was first surfed by the pioneers of the Mentawais, Hollow Trees has been the poster child of the Mentawais, churning out perfect right-hand tubes for the lucky surfers that make the trip!

Driftwood Mentawai

Driftwood Mentawai is a slice of paradise on Nyang Nyang Island in the Northern Mentawai region. Located right in front of the world-class Ebay, the lodge has unbeatable views over the surf spot!

Maki is a 105ft liveaboard Phinisi built-in 2017 in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. This large luxury charter is built to cruise comfortably through the Indonesian archipelago.

Fast and Luxurious Purpose Built Surf Charter, the Sibon Jaya is the large and more luxurious big brother of the Sibon Baru.

Wave Hunter

Wave Hunter is a high-quality surf charter offering comfortable accommodation, reliability, and excellent value for money.

Moon Palikir

The Moon Palikir is a classic Mentawai surf charter, built to a high standard and measuring 100ft, this charter is a great option for exploring the Mentawais!

High-Quality Mentawai Catamaran Sibon Baru is one of two charters run by an experienced surf charter operator of the area.

Crystal Clear

High-end Mentawai Charter with Excellent Guiding, perfect choice for groups looking for comfort, reliability, and amazing food!

What to pack for your trip:

The Mentawais are a tropical year-round destination. Warm water, light winds, and sunny days are definitely the highlights of this region. Being very close to the equator you also expect some rain from time to time!

Due to its remote location and difficulties in finding even the most basic stuff, we recommend bringing with you the following items:

  • 2 or 3 surfboards
  • Spare legropes
  • Sunscreen (lots of it!)
  • first aid kit

Travel Insurance:

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance and safety advice to help you travel confidently. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families. It has been designed by travelers for travelers, with coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world..

Travel to Indonesia:

Although Visa requirements change depending on your nationality, the majority of nationalities can get a free visa on arrival for 30 days extendable until 60 days. At the moment tourist visas are suspended, but entry to the country is possible if you hold a Special Visa and after completing a 5 days quarantine in selected hotels in Jakarta. Get in touch with us to get more information about visa.

GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR SURF TRAVEL EXPERTS

Type of Trip Surf Resort Surf Charter Both

Destination Maldives Indonesia Sri Lanka Pacific Ocean Philippines Morocco Central America South America Mauritius/Seychelles

Number of Persons 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10+

You don't have permission to register

Omar aljammaz 03/07/23, nina ross 03/08/23, seb speck 25/06/23, tom ward 18/06/23, natasha gronski 06/08/23, david 05/29/23, alexandra franz 05/31/23, alex reuter 05/22/23, stewart cropp 05/19/23, diane 05/11/23.

[email protected] Ph: +62 851-7519-8146

mentawai surf trip blog

ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME

DO YOU HAVE THE CAJONES TO LOOK FEAR IN THE EYE…AND CHARGE?

MENTAWAISURFTRIPS transforms your surf daydreams into Mentawai magic with our curated surf trips to the mesmerizing Mentawai Islands.

WARNING: Do not book ANY trip to the Mentawais without reading this FREE report.

Destinations

Coverage and Support

Customer care

CAUTION: WATCHING THIS MIGHT MELT YOUR MIND

I know what you’re thinking.

You just finished peeling off your peed-in wetsuit after another freezing sesh at your local break with hundreds of kooks all fighting for knee high slop.

If only there was a place with perfect WAVES , no crowds, crystal clear tropical water so you don’t have to put on that dank neoprene that you wore the day before.

And then you remember that one guy in the line-up who kept raving about the Mentawai Islands…

So you Google it and BLAM…it’s like a tsunami of info with different islands, charter boats, surf resorts, ferries, baggage fees, so on and so on.

Somebody pull out all my butt hairs already!

Should I book a charter boat? Or a surf resort? Which one?? Do I bring my own board? What are the baggage fees??? Which island do I even go to? How do I even get there?? What do I bring?

Ohmygawddd, I just want to SURF already!!

Well we’ve got the sunscreen ready, wave riding answer for you to get you off your (boring) computer and into one of those (EPIC) Mentawai barrels . And all without having to pull out your butt hairs- you’re welcome. (Although the ladies might prefer that you do…just saying)

It all starts with “ choosing your own adventure ” below…

*cue angels singing*

TESTIMONIALS

The trip was perfect. We were looked after like kings. The Mentawai islands were everything I expected them to be and the surf was amazing. Double thumbs up to the crew and this amazing vessel.

MV Addiction

Surfer on a charter boat

The trip was unreal from start to end, organisation was spot on too. Plenty of food, lots of room for chilling and watching ya mates score some sick waves whilst sipping on Bintangs – does it get any better?!

Moon Palikir

Surfer in a perfect barrel in the Mentawai Islands

Luxurious rooms looking over the ocean, delicious food and of course great waves. If you want a local experience in a beautiful private island where you will leave with friends for life then this is the place.

Shadow Mentawai

Surfers on a speedboat at the Shadow Mentawai surf camp in the Mentawai Islands

CHARTER BOAT VS RESORT?

Top charter boats.

Congratulations wave warrior, you just unlocked legend status ! You will literally be sleeping in a floating fortress while you crew scours the Mentawai islands for the sickest waves. You will rise and shine right in the lineup and spend all day surfing your brains out . This is a wave-rider’s paradise, my surf amigo!

Now onto step #2, navigating the zillions of charter boats. But fear not, fellow wave wanderer! We’ve sifted through the wavey options and present to you the TOP 3 most EPIC charter boats in the Mentawai Islands . Get ready for a ride on the stoke express!

MV Addition surf charter boat cruising in the mentawai islands look for waves.

439US$ PP/NIGHT from 325US$

Surfers celebrating on the Star Koat 2 surf charter boat in the Mentawai Islands at sunset

Star Koat II

300US$ PP/NIGHT from 258US$

The Moon Palikir surf charter boat in the background and a perfect wave in the Mentawai Islands in the foreground

300US$ PP/NIGHT from 240US$

The luxurious interior of the Sibon Jaya surf charter boat in the Mentawai Islands

396US$ PP/NIGHT

The Sibon Baru surf charter boat cruising in the Mentawai Islands while hunting for perfect waves and barrels

250US$ PP/NIGHT from 220US$

The Surya surf charter boat cruising in the Mentawai Islands while hunting for perfect waves and barrels

from 237US$ PP/NIGHT

The Crystal Clear surf charter boat cruising in the Mentawai Islands while hunting for perfect waves and barrels

Crystal Clear

317US$ PP/NIGHT from 300US$

The Saraina surf charter boat cruising in the Mentawai Islands while hunting for perfect waves and barrels

from 205US$ PP/NIGHT

The Wild Cat surf charter boat cruising in the Mentawai Islands while hunting for perfect waves and barrels

286-300US$ PP/NIGHT from 200US$

TOP SURF RESORTS

Rad decision, surf sorcerer! Prepare for a dreamy journey where you can bask in 5 star luxury, ride the waves on your schedule, and kick back by the pool. And if you want to bring your wife, your kids, your wife’s annoying friends, your nosy neighbor, the homeless guy sleeping in your car, NO PROBLEMO! We’ve got room for the whole beach squad!

Now comes the tough part – choosing between the gazillion resorts. But no worries, we’ve got your back with our list of the TOP 3 resorts in the Mentawai Islands that are dreamier than finding the perfect wave. Get ready to pick your slice of paradise, where the only thing harder than catching a barrel is deciding which pool to cannonball into first!

Beautiful woman diving in front of the spectacular Macaronis Surf resort in the Mentawai Islands

Macaronis Resort

235-265US$ PP/NIGHT from 193US$

Stunning overhead drone photo of the Sabbit Surf Camp in the Mentawai Islands

125US$ PP/NIGHT from 90US$

Stunning overhead drone photo of the Hollow Tree's Surf Resort in the Mentawai Islands

Hollow Tree’s Resort

250-484US$ PP/NIGHT from 200US$

Stunning overhead drone photo of the Shadow Mentawai Surf Camp in the Mentawai Islands showing the resort with 3 of their amazing speed boats that can take surfers to the waves.

Shadow Surf Camp

206$ PP/NIGHT from 185US$

Villa Mentawai surf resort in the stunning Mentawai Islands

Villa Mentawai

225US$ PP/NIGHT from 200US$

Luxurious accommodations in the stunning Kaini Mentawai surf resort in the Mentawai Islands

Kaini Mentawai

286-300US$ PP/NIGHT from 190US$

DESTINATIONS

Yo, surf squad, the Mentawais isn’t just a dot on the map – it’s a full-blown cluster of EPIC islands. And guess what? ALL of them are rocking waves so perfect, they make your best ride look like a kook filled snoozefest. Get ready to ride dreamy barrels in a wave wonderland where perfection is just another day at the beach!

Stunning overhead photo of Hollow Tree's Surf Resort in the Mentawai Islands

PLAYGROUNDS N. SIPORA S. SIPORA PAGAI

3 charter boats anchored off a beautiful private island in the Telos islands near the Mentawai Islands

HIDDEN GEMS

Surfer catching a perfect barrel at Lance's Left in the Mentawai Islands

Lance’s Left

Prepare to be enchanted by this very long, perfectly shaped wave, renowned for its unmatched consistency.

Surfer catching a perfect barrel at Hollow Tree's in the Mentawai Islands

Hollow Tree’s

Known affectionately as “HT’s,” this world-class right-hander is a dream destination for surfers seeking the ultimate wave-riding experience.

Surfer catchign a perfect wave at Kandui while staying on the Star Koat 2 surf charter boat in the Mentawai Islands

This is an absolute world class, left hand coral reef break, suitable for advanced surfers.

Surfer catching a perfect barrel at Shadow Right in the Mentawai Islands

Shadow Right

This is a very good right hand coral reef break, suitable for advanced surfers and works best between April-October

Surfer catching a perfect barrel at Ebay in the Mentawai Islands

This is a fast, hollow, world class left hand coral reef break, suitable for intermediate-advanced surfers.

Surfer catching a perfect barrel at Greenbush in the Mentawai Islands

This uber-hollow left-hander is the stuff of surfer’s dreams, delivering some of the most epic barrels you’ll ever experience.

Girl standing on a cliff overlooking perfect waves at Hollow Tree's resort in the Mentawai Islands

SERIOUSLY… STOP FROTHING AND JUST HIT THE DAMN BUTTON ALREADY

Your happiness- guaranteed.

We are so dedicated to making the world a better place through the joy of surfing that we provide a HAPPINESS GUARANTEE . If you do not leave your Mentawai surf trip happier than you are today- we will refund all the profit we made from your trip. So we won’t make a single dime if you are not happy.

INSIDER GUIDE

Destinations Getting Here When To Go Surfing Ability and Etiquette Crowds Surfing Reef Breaks How to Choose a Charter Boat How to Choose Between Charter Boat vs Surf Resort Things to Do Packing List Internet Hazards Local Tips FAQ

PHOTOS TO DROOL OVER

Surfer surfing a perfect barrel at Hollow Tree's in the Mentawai Islands

DUDE I CAN SEE YOU DROOLING, BUT YOU STILL HAVEN’T HIT THE BUTTON?? WHAT ARE YOU? A KOOK OR SOMETHING?

Mentawai Surf Trip

How to get here, 1. fly to padang, 2. get to the resort.

  • Travel time: +/- 5 hours via Tuapejat to HT's Resort
  • Price roundtrip: $320 USD per person
  • Travel time: 3.30 hours
  • Roundtrip Prices:
  • $5,000 USD for up to 10 people
  • $6,500 USD for up to 16 people
  • Ferry from Padang to Tuapejat: 3.30 hrs
  • Speedboat from Tuapejat to HT's Resort: 1.15 - 1.30 hrs
  • Direct speedboat: 3.30 hrs

WHAT to BRING

General stuff.

  • Shaving kit
  • Nail clippers
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Moisturiser Allergy medication
  • Malaria medication
  • Long shirts & pants
  • Flash drives
  • Energy snacks
  • Visa (if necessary)
  • Flight tickets
  • Comb/brush & conditioner
  • Laptop or Tablet
  • Wax & wax comb
  • Snorkelling gear
  • Sunblock & zinc
  • Reef booties
  • Fins & fin key
  • Board shorts Surfboards & board bag

WHAT YOU SHOULDN’T BRING

Already provided.

  • Beach towels
  • Bath towels
  •  Shower gel

mentawai surf trip blog

The 6 Best Mentawai Surf Camps [Updated 2024]

This guide scours Indonesia’s most famous surf archipelago for Mentawai surf camps that will change your life with barrels you’ve never thought possible and wave quality you didn’t know existed, plus pro tuition and top-notch accommodation.

Sri Lanka surf camps

Here’s a hard truth – serious surfers don’t really mess around with Bali any longer. There are bigger – much, much bigger – fish to fry in Indo.

One such big fish goes by the name of Mentawai, a splattering of islands just off West Sumatra that’s basically unrivaled in the quality of its breaks. And we don’t mean unrivaled in Indonesia . We mean unrivaled anywhere on the globe. Seriously…that good.

Up until only a few years back, the best way to surf the Ments and make the most of the world-class breaks that abound was to do a very pricy live-aboard boat trip. Boat trips are still awesome here, and they’ve come down in price a lot. We even recommend a couple below.

But the islands are now speckled with a range of very high-quality surf camps that see you return to dry land and the comfort of swimming pools and spacious suites once the day is over.

They’re especially good if you’re not sure you want to dispense of all creature comforts. Plus, some are even within walking (read: paddling) distance of epic, epic waves.

We might use affiliate links in this post. Basically, you click em’ and we get a little something from your booking or purchase. They help us keep offering more and more in-depth surf guides to awesome places all around the globe. So, thanks for that!

This is just one part of our complete overall guide to surfing in Indonesia This is also a part of our complete  guide to surf camps

Quick-click links to our top surf camps in the Ments

  • The Shadow – The finest surf camp in the Ments right now
  • Hidden Bay Resort – A fantastic surf and fitness program
  • Beng Bengs Surf Camp – An old-school surf camp with three speedboats (yep, three!)
  • Kingfisher Mentawai Resort – The best surf camp in the uber-consistent central Ments
  • Southern Mentawai Outpost – The most eco friendly surf camp in the Mentawais
  • The Maki Boat – The best surf charter in the Ments

Want more inspo? Check out our complete guide to the very best boat charters in the Ments

The Shadow Mentawai

The Shadow Mentawai

  • Location: Private island off Siberut Island, Mentawai
  • Price: 14 days/13 nights starting at $2,526 (£2,101) per person

It’s not often we get to say this but The Shadow boasts its very own private island. Mhmm…come here to channel your inner Richard Branson, only with less in the way of premierCru champagne, more in the way of perfect barreling rights and lefts over pristine coral reefs.

Location? Think smack dab in the heart of the acclaimed Playgrounds area of the northern Ments, with 20 or so named breaks sat within easy boat ride (and, yep, don’t worry, these guys have their own boat!).

The Shadow is one deeeeelluxx surf resort. The rooms have a touch of the castaway about them but don’t let that fool you. They come with plush double beds and driftwood-built balconies, indoor-outdoor bathrooms and air conditioning throughout.

You’ll hangout with other guests and surf guides in the communal space, or pretty much anywhere along the beachfront that’s 100% deserted from tip to toe – did we mention that it’s a private island?

The surf program at The Shadow is, simply, exactly what you’re looking for from surf camps in the Ments. They’ve got local guides who know the archipelago like the back of their hand running the twice-daily sessions. You also get morning or evening yoga included, along with all three daily meals cooked by the fantastic in-house chef – think healthy, vegan-veggie-friendly, dishes that run the gamut from gado gado salads to avocado on toast.

We also love that they have a couple of packages aimed at different levels, from this two-week advanced odyssey to this 14-day beginner and intermediate option .

( 2024 update: We ummed and arred about whether to keep this at the top of this list for about 1 second. There’s no doubt in our mind that The Shadow remains one of the finest surf camps in the Mentawais right now. It’s got everything – great location, fantastic surf guides, and lovely, lovely rooms).

Check prices and availability at The Shadow

A note on why we partner with BookSurfCamps.com : Book Surf Camps are probably the biggest online aggregator of surf camps and surf-yoga packages in the world. We sounded out a quite a few potential partners before we affiliated with them. But, in the end, the abundance of choice for beginners, intermediates, and female-only surfing sealed it. We also love the simplicity of their booking system and the trusted brand name, along with the focus on connecting with homegrown local businesses on the ground.

Hidden Bay Resort

Hidden Bay Resort

  • Location: Masokut Island, Mentawai
  • Price: 8-day surf evolution program starting at $1,803 (£1,501) per person

Hidden Bay offer a very performance-focused itinerary that’s all about honing in on the technicals of your surfing. Guests get daily surf sessions on some of the finest breaks in the islands but they also get tailored fitness classes to maximize paddle power, yoga sessions that stretch out key surfing muscle sets, and in-depth theory and analysis. All that’s why we really recommend it for the confident intermediates and above. 

The location is perfect for getting out and about in what’s unquestionably the premier surf area of the Ments: Playgrounds. The folks at Hidden Bay have their very own speedboat for transport to and from the breaks, meaning you can whiz up to Beng Beng in 15 mins or cross to Kandui in 20. Barrel chasing hardly gets any easier.

The stay oozes authentic Indo charm, too. The rooms are all built in old-school Sumatran style, with thatched roofs and eco materials. They can sleep groups of three or couples, have big ensuite bathrooms, and open onto deck spaces that gaze at the Indian Ocean. We also love how everyone gathers at the resort’s own Restaurant Sikerei come evening, to dine on food that’s especially curated to up your energy levels on the surf.

Check prices at Hidden Bay Resort right now

Beng Bengs Surf Camp

Beng Bengs Surf Camp

  • Price: 10 days/9 nights starting at $1,390 (£1,158) per person

Poking out of the jungles of Nyang Nyang Island in the midst of the Playground area of northern Mentawai, Beng Bengs Surf Camp is one of the original on-land camps in the area. It looks over the iconic wave known as Ebay, a frothing left hander that offers more barrel sections than you can shake your morning pancakes at. They also have not one, not two, but three speedboats ready and waiting for when it’s time to explore the other waves in the region.

What we really like about Beng Beng is the fact that it has a bit more of a down-to-earth vibe than some of the five-star camps on this list. It’s built more like a classic surf stay, with palm-thatched ceilings and a mix of double and twin rooms, some with cold showers, most with hot. The fact that it’s limited to a max of 8-10 people each week helps to keep the whole thing feeling like a little community, not some factory line surf hotel that’s in it for the cash.

We recommend their 10-day camp package. That’s enough time to make the most of the best waves in the area, since you get 2x daily surf sessions on 8/10 of the days. And when we say surf sessions, we mean session that can last 4+ hours a pop.

Check prices at Beng Bengs Surf Camp right now

Kingfisher Mentawai Resort

Kingfisher Mentawai Resort

  • Location: Sipura Island, Mentawai
  • Price: 8 days/7 nights starting at $2,163 (£1,801) per person

The further south you head, the fewer Mentawai surf camps there are to choose from. That’s what makes the Kingfisher Mentawai Resort a bit of an outlier. It offers a rare chance to get stuck into the breaks of the central islands around Sipura, which host the breaks that first put the region on the map: Hollow Trees, Lance’s Left, Bintangs. These are spots that ooze quality from lip to reef, and they are WAY less busy than their compadres up in Playgorunds. 

Aside from helping you escape the growing crowds of surfers in the Ments, a stay at the Kingfisher Mentawai Resort also promises to be a proper tropical island experience. The rooms are bungalow-style lodges with bamboo balconies that overlook coconut groves and bird-stalked wetlands. Guests get three meals included each day. And there’s lots for non-surfers, including snorkeling reefs and SUP lessons. 

The 8-day package with these guys means you’ll get access to 15+ surf spots in the surrounding area, which you can access through unlimited use of the resort’s private speedboat. The trip also includes all your transfers from the airport on Sumatra, which is not to be sniffed at – reaching the Ments is half the battle!

Check prices and availability at Kingfisher Mentawai

Southern Mentawai Outpost

Southern Mentawai Outpost

  • Location: Sibigau Island, Mentawai
  • Price: 11 days/10 nights starting at $2,089 (£1,740) per person

Last but most certainly not least is one of the sole Mentawai surf camps to offer a ticket to the less-trodden southern islands around Pagai. It beckons on the northern side of little Sibigau island, some 2.8 miles to the west of Pagai itself. That puts it quite far from the iconic wave of Macaronis and closer to a whole host of pretty unknown breaks. The upshot? This stay lends itself to the true surf adventurers out there.

That’s backed up by the very nature of the 11-day package here. The Outpost employs a very hands-off approach to their surfing. It’s really about giving you a base to explore the waves and reefs at your own pace. There’s no dedicated surf guiding, just a whole theme park of different waves that aren’t in the magazines yet. We’re talking the likes of swell-magnet Thunders and hollowish Rag’s Left, which cap off a selection that really lends itself to very good intermediates and up.

There’s also one more USP of the Southern Mentawai Outpost : It’s among the most eco-conscious surf resorts we’ve encountered anywhere on the planet. The whole place was built specifically to reduce the carbon footprint of the building. The rooms are made from sustainable bamboo, they’re orientated to have strong sea breezes for cooling instead of aircon, and guests all get a branded refill water bottle when they arrive. Nice touch.

Check prices and availability at Southern Mentawai Outpost

The Maki Boat

Southern Mentawai Outpost

  • Location: All over!
  • Price: 12 days starting at $3,300 (2,609) per person

No guide to the best Mentawai surf camps could possibly miss out on a surf charter option. For a long time, boat charters were the ONLY way you could surf the Ments. It makes sense. You live on board and just sail from break to break. In a region with literally hundreds of spots that work on different swells, tides, and winds, it means you can be quick to the top breaks.

There are quite a few to pick from, but we think the Maki Boat is a sure-fire bet for a good time. We’ll get to what the package entails below, but first, let’s take a look at the vessel. A former luxury diving vessel that was used in the Komodo National Park, Maki is a traditional Phinisi boat from Sulawesi. It’s been refitted to suit surfers over bubble blowers, and now hosts five cabins (three of which are ensuite), plus room for up to 50 surfboards and extras like SUPs and sea kayaks.

The deal here is a 12-day surf package that includes all your accomodation (ensuites are a little extra), meals, and even beers for just a little over $3,000. That’s pretty incredible, espeically when you factor in that a surf day on a boat charter isn’t limited to like 2 hours on a single break. It can easily be three, four, five, six+ hours and involve multiple stops in a single day.

One thing to remember if you do plump for a boat charter over an on-land surf camp: These are very much catered towards the more advanced end of the spectrum. Good intermediates and up should be fine, but the Maki package involves A LOT of surfing and you’re likely to be sharing the boat with similarly advanced riders.

Check prices and availability on The Maki Boat

' src=

Joseph Richard Francis

Joe “Rich” Francis has been surfing for the best part of 15 years. He’s nowhere near as good as he should be at the end of all that, but hey ho. Born and bred in Swansea, South Wales (the current base of The Surf Atlas), Joe is a seasoned adventure travel writer with completed publications in the surf-travel and adventure-travel sphere for major publications like Lonely Planet and The Culture Trip.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Novali Mentawai Surf Retreat

Authentic surf retreat located in the Southern Mentawai islands

Novali is a unique destination with affordable accommodation for surfers built by surfers. We offer more than just a surf trip experience, giving you insight into the local Mentawai’s people, the culture and world class waves that wrapped around the picturesque island surrounding us giving you the waves that you dreamed of.

Novali Mentawai Surf Retreat is a family friendly operated business, located a short ride from the port of Sikakap. Whether you opt for the fast or slow ferry we will have you out surfing in no time. Being located in the Southern Mentawai’s region it’s far less crowded than the rest of the Mentawai Island chain with less than a handful of resorts and homestays in the region.

View Accommodation

mentawai surf trip blog

With over 11 surf breaks, a few secret ones and 7 other waves on long trips, Novali Mentawai Surf Retreat will deliver you an amazing experience.

Experience Mentawai

If you are surfed out you can go exploring the reefs snorkelling, swimming or fishing while staying with us at Novali Mentawai Surf Retreat. You can also visit the local school, and fish and produce market, trek to the nearby waterfall, or take a motorbike ride through to the jungle exploring nearby villages visualising and hearing raw stories of the rebuild from those effected by the 2010 tsunami.

Novali Mentawai Surf Retreat is strategically located to keep you safe from tsunamis. During the 2010 tsunami Sikakap was used as a ‘safe place’ to treat affected people and provide necessary medical needs and travel back to Padang.

With the hospital and bank 5 minutes away it gives you a peace of mind whilst staying at Novali Mentawai Surf Retreat.

Come stay with us!

mentawai surf trip blog

Surfcamp Mentawai Islands

ANAI LEUK ITA!

Welcome to aleikoat surfcamp mentawai.

Surf the world’s best waves in the Mentawai Islands with us. The surf camp is located close to some of the most world-classed surf breaks only a few minutes by boat away. Staying with us means living on a small island in the Northern Mentawais without having another surf camp around and living the dream in paradise. This means you will wake up between coconut trees and a beautiful view straight to the ocean.

The surf camp is designed by authenticity of the Mentawaian Uma style bungalows, to combine comfort of Western standard and the experience of Mentawaian culture. We will cover you with everything you need for an unforgettable surf vacation!

mentawai surf trip blog

GET THE PERFECT WAVE

What‘s included.

mentawai surf trip blog

2 BOAT TRIPS

mentawai surf trip blog

WATER & COFFEE

mentawai surf trip blog

FRESH COCONUT

mentawai surf trip blog

PICK UP & DROP OFF

mentawai surf trip blog

We will take you to the best surf spots here, twice a day, every day during your stay! But insecure if you can surf the spots alone? No worries! We will come with you and guide you in the water, if you would like some help (extra charges may apply for surf instruction).

Your stay includes 3 delicious meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) per day and unlimited local coffee, water, and if wished fresh young coconut. Our kitchen will serve you a large selection of heartwarming food including local Mentawaian, Indonesian and Western dishes. All of them are made using fresh ingredients from the local market, our own coconuts or what we catch fresh from the sea.

mentawai surf trip blog

20 % OPENING DISCOUNT

Sumatran Surfariis Logo

Let us show you how amazing a boat trip can be…

This amazing…, since 1998, we have continually provided surfers from around the world with the adventures of their lives..

Sumatran Surfariis is one of the longest-running independent surf charter operators for the islands of Mentawais and Northern Sumatra. Our boat trips cover any and all nooks of the Mentawais, Telos, Nias, Hinakos, and Banyaks, and we’ve recently begun custom trips that travel even further north or south. Our experience and willingness to look around every bend is what sets us apart from the competition. There are still many places you can surf out here alone if you have the knowledge, ambition to travel further, and ability to think outside the box. There are places for chargers, places for carvers, and places that won’t cut you up when you go over the falls. There are also many chances to slip into those well-known and rightfully famous waves for a quiet session or two if you know how to plan it right.

We have taken this knowledge and hard work and built it into our boats, our crews, our office, and our service. We are proud to have an extensive family of long-term return guests that continually help make Sumatran Surfariis what it is today. But there are a few other things that set us apart from charter operators as well:

  • We are all dedicated surfers.
  • We, too, want to surf alone.
  • We want to see you happy, stoked, and improve your surfing.
  • And, most important, we want you to have fun on your vacation. It’s all bagus!

Regardless of your age or skill level, we can tailor a surf trip to your specific needs and desires. Please take a look around our website, and feel free to contact one of our experienced sales representatives at any time if you have questions.

Terima kasih!!

Check out our boats…

We are the sole operators and owners of three charter boats: Southern Cross, Budyadahri, and Mahogany. Our boats are built in traditional Indonesian style, which adds to the authenticity of your adventure. All our boats are large and spacious, offering lots of covered deck space, and they come equipped with all the modern amenities. You’ll be very comfortable and very well taken care of by our crew who have many years of experience running trips in these waters.

What our guest are saying…

“Chris and Danny… thank you guys so much for this awesome experience and time on an incredible adventure. Unbelievable boat, crew, captain and best guide!!! And the vibe… loved surfing with you and meeting you Chris. Loved jamming on the boat… loved that I was only one of two people that did not get seasick or have stomach issues… ha!! Really hope to see you again Chris and buy you dinner or be on the Mahogany again!!! out there doing what I’ve always loved and dreamed of doing for 35 years.  Thanks for celebrating my 51st birthday and making me a cake as well…  Truly Dr. evil and Maurice are people to look up to and realize you can do this even after heart issues!! life-changing experience I had. amazing waves surfed the funnest waves of my life with my best friend and great people. Thank you!!!”
“Hey Danny, What a trip! As Bones (Campbell) put it – ‘this trip will age well’. It was by far the best trip I’ve done out of 4, Bones has done 5 and it’s the best he’s done. Expectations were through the roof and Scuzz, Sugud and the crew, and the Hog smashed them. Didn’t get anything massive, but we had pretty consistent head/overhead lined up swell with good winds. Scuzz had us on the right spots at the right times and we really picked the eyes out of it. I can’t thank Scuzz enough for his efforts on our trip, from his forecasting to his secret spots and everything in between it was just epic. And his engagement – after doing this for 25 years you’d think he’d be jaded by it, but he was a stoked grom like the rest of us. I’d rate it as the best surf trip I’ve done in 35 years of surfing. Big call! Thanks for organising for us Danny, and thanks again to you and Scuzz for agreeing to Derek being on the trip. I’ll let the dust settle at home for a little bit then book in the 2024 Hog trip. A bunch of us will be turning 50, as will Scuzz and Sugud. Cheers!”
“I hope you are doing well. I just wanted to drop you an email to close the loop with you about our trip. Everything was very positive! • Crew: Super friendly and very supportive. You can feel that by spending a couple more days with them, they become more than just the crew, but friends. • Food: Exceptional. No more comments. The chef always had a smile on his face and asked if we wanted more. • Guide: Manu is a legend. He managed to take us to un-crowded lineups. Also, our group had a big range of surfing levels, he understood that perfectly and made the right decisions for us all to surf and enjoy the trip. Moreover, he ended up being one more of the group, increasing the positivity and good vibes of the trip. Thank you again for your support and for making the trip possible even with covid hitting us all. See you soon mate!”
“Just a quick mail to let you know that we are back in France, in our homes after spending the best surf trip of our lives!  We were so relieved to finally get to the Mentawais after expecting this for over two years… We’ve had a blast, the boat and the crew were great! None of us would change a thing. Special thank-you to Yu, he has made some bold but smart choices, 4 of us got the ride of their lives during this trip. We are still buzzing… The last day, I was waiting for my prio at Lance’s and heard a guy who was saying to another: “I leave tomorrow, I’m a bit disappointed I didn’t get the chance to surf Greenbush, we haven’t had enought swell during the trip”.  I didn’t say anything but couldn’t help thinking that their guide blew it because we’ve had plenty of swell, we surfed Greenbush and Rag’s on the same day and it was pumping. We are so grateful for Yu.  And other than his skills as a guide, he is a wonderful human being, very respectful, funny and sweet, he has become a part of group. Concerning the crew now… well, we miss them, they were so nice and helpful. Sabar is the best cook ever and there’s nothing Willy can’t do… So, again, thanks for the organisation. We will be back in a couple of years… Cheers.”
“Hi Danny, I just had ts say after more than a dozen trips with Sumatran Surfariis over the past 15 years the trips keep getting better the new super fit Scuzz was more motivating and enthusiastic than ever ( I didn’t think it was possible ) he lead by example we surfed 17 different breaks more often than not on our own from fun beach breaks to A grade world class waves Also paddle boarding through the mangroves ,fishing and food as always was excellent Thats why Sumatran Surfariis will always be my first choice for a boat trip ! I know all the other guys felt the same Keep up the good work. Regards.”

MORE TESTIMONIALS

Our destinations…

While our primary focus over the years has been the Mentawais and North Sumatra, we’ve explored everywhere from the very tip of Aceh down through mainland Java. Our travels have taken us around Panitan Island, through the Sunda Straits, along the points of Enganno and Southern Sumatra, up the mighty Sumatran mainland, past Simeulue and to the northernmost points of the island. We’ve seen it all, and we’ve have kept detailed logs of our travels along the way. We’ve also managed to maintain quite a few secrets over the years, and the only people we share them with are our guests. Many of these secrets are in our standard Mentawais and North Sumatran runs, but with enough time and planning, we can show you adventures you’ve likely never seen in magazines or video clips.

Our family…

We all love Sumatra, and this is our home. We aren’t a new crew just out to exploit this area to make a buck – we are all SURFERS with an extensive background in creating the most amazing trips to these areas while being respectful to everyone we come across. Our guides come several different parts of the world, including Australia, USA, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, and Brazil. Most of our all-Indo crewmates have many years, in some cases decades, of experiences in these waters and on our boats. Our cooks are outstanding and will provide you with a wide variety of nutritious and delicious meals. Each of our charters has a world class photographer/videographer who will document your dream trip for a very reasonable price. We will all look after you very well so all you need to focus on surfing and enjoying your beautiful surroundings.

mentawai surf trip blog

Check out our schedule and book you trip…

Sumatran Surfariis has always chosen to do longer trips so we can travel further and surf more than just the most popular waves. Our standard-length charter is typically 2- 3 full surf days longer than the most operators. Those extra days allow you to surf more waves than anyone, get the next swell, see the next point, the next island, reel in the wahoo, and get the backside pig dog wired. And we’re always excited to do even longer trips, as our schedule allows, so we can keep searching for that next secret around the corner.

HOME OUR BOATS DESTINATIONS SCHEDULES OUR GUIDES OUR CREW SCUZZ’S STORIES PHOTO GALLERY VIDEOS TESTIMONIALS CONTACT US

IMPORTANT INFO

TRAVEL INFO & INSURANCE FAQ’s TRAVEL CHECKLIST TERMS & CONDITIONS

Copyright Sumartan Surfariis 1997-2022 | All rights reserved | Powered by 2483 Graphic & Web Design

Surf in Mentawais

Text or call us now!

Our experienced Australian team provides a knowledgable platform when visiting the wave filled wonderland, the Mentawai Islands.

With flexibility from our local knowledge and experience – having been there for over ten years with extended contacts and advice , we champion making your experience the absolute best it can be whether land or sea based.

mentawai surf trip blog

STAY WITH US

"From the time we arrived we were made so incredibly welcome by Diego (absolute legend), Lora and their amazing team of staff"-B.G TripAdvisor

ow including daily morning egg station breakfast with fruits and juices,  private Le Cordon Bleu Chef preparing three delicious meals, ten Mbps unlimited internet and access to our sustainable fleet of fast fibre-glass boats for daily surf expeditions.

Staying With Us

Equipped with plenty of ionized drinks, snacks, afternoon beers, a videographer, a surf guide and a professional photographer, your daily boat rides will create memorable video/photo shots of your trip. As the evening sets in, lay back on our upper deck rooftop bar, with expansive views of the area, to reminiscence the day's magic and fun moments through our 70-inch 4k tv.

mentawai surf trip blog

Other activities we engage in are free diving, spearfishing and soaking in the unique island Mentawai lifestyle with our luxury speedboat for picnics and excursions to some of our preferred beaches. We love engaging in Karaoke at night with our powerful sound system. Our unlimited internet connection will allow you to do any remote work, conference, downloading and movie nights with streaming services. We are also active yoga enthusiasts.

mentawai surf trip blog

Home Away From Home

Come and join our daily magical experiences of taste, adventure, beauty and natural perfection with a powerful fleet of sustainable boats.

"We dined with some of the staff, and Diego and Lora's beautiful family, and as the trip progressed we felt very much a part of their family"

mentawai surf trip blog

We offer all-inclusive transfers on all of our night rates any day of the week (minimum booking seven nights)

We also offer a private speedboat transfers that can save time and money by avoiding the Padang overnight and up to 7 hours of public stopovers. All our packages will collect and return you back to the airport when booking on specified dates (check the packages)

mentawai surf trip blog

Private Speedboat Transfer

Our speedboat goes directly from Padang to our camp in 3.5 hours or less. With 400HP, it is safe and comfortable even in rough weather. Dropping you at the resort without stopping at Sikabaluan or Siberut, the boat departs Padang anytime before 3 pm on your arrival day to Padang avoiding the initial overnight. It leaves the camp at 7 am or earlier on your last day at the camp to suit your afternoon flight out of Indonesia.

Speedboat Transfer Details

For any trip with 6 or more guest traveling together, we will upgrade to speedboat transfers at no extra charge.

Living the dream.

mentawai surf trip blog

Explore Our packages

mentawai surf trip blog

Enjoy our all-inclusive package options for solo travellers

mentawai surf trip blog

Experience our all inclusive packages for 2 people travelling together. Extra children and infants can be added at a discount

mentawai surf trip blog

Realize your dream team, Mentawai Surf trip for 4 - 14 surfers

mentawai surf trip blog

Go beyond any other surf camp limits. Experience and Live the ultimate complete Mentawai surf trip adventure! in Style!

other activities

mentawai surf trip blog

Amazing wildlife

mentawai surf trip blog

Dive and spearfish the lagoons!

mentawai surf trip blog

Great Trevali

Our Services

Contact front desk.

mentawai surf trip blog

comscore no script image

Mentawai Islands Surf Boat Charter Experience: Solo Travel Guide Released

soloNami.com, an online community for solo travelers and surfing enthusiasts, announces the release of its travel guide to the Mentawai Islands, highlighting the Sibon Surf Charter experience.

mentawai surf trip blog

Vancouver, Canada - February 21, 2024 —

As summer approaches, soloNami.com puts a spotlight on the Mentawai Islands, one of the world's premier surf locations, offering those in search of an adrenaline-fueled experience its latest travel guide to an all-inclusive surfing trip to Indonesia.

For more details, please visit https://solonami.com/discover-mentawai-magic-the-essential-sibon-surf-charters-guide

The travel guide has been created for adventurous solo travelers looking to experience the thrill of surfing in a far-flung destination, while still having access to the luxuries of a nearby surf camp or boat charter.

According to Surf Indonesia, the Mentawai Islands (also known as Mentawais or Ments) have been a preferred destination among surfers worldwide since 1992, when the first photos of its surf breaks were made public. Over time, the area's best surf spots, like Lance's Right and the Macaronis, became popular among travelers. soloNami.com's travel guide offers both new and seasoned surfers insights into this surfing mecca and the opportunities it provides to experience warm, glassy water and consistent Indian Ocean swell should they decide to join the Sibon Surf Charter adventure.

soloNami.com puts all essential travel information for the Mentawai Islands Sibon Surf Charter experience in one place, from travel costs, reservations, and transportation, to the island chain's peak surf season and suitable surf locations. The guide also highlights the Sibon Surf Charter's modern onboard amenities, personalized boat tour packages, and experienced crew with intimate knowledge of the Mentawai Islands' waters.

In addition to the surfing adventure, the travel guide addresses the rich, vibrant culture of the Mentawai Islands, encouraging travelers to respect the local customs and educate themselves on the importance of preserving the marine ecosystem.

About soloNami.com

soloNami.com is an online information hub dedicated to helping solo travelers learn more about their dream surf destination. Founded by Alexandre, a third-generation surfer with over 30 years of experience in the sport, the blog provides practical knowledge about the world's best surf locations, imbued with historical and cultural background.

“I have traveled and surfed on almost all continents, and have been through all kinds of situations for the thrill of seeking that perfect wave. I welcome you to our site where you will find the best advice on surf camps and solo traveling around the world,” says the blog founder and owner.

Interested parties can find more information at https://solonami.com

Contact Info: Name: Alexandre Email: Send Email Organization: Solonami.com Address: 1120 Barclay Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 1H2, Canada Website: https://solonami.com

Source: PressCable

Release ID: 89122184

Should there be any problems, inaccuracies, or doubts arising from the content provided in this press release that require attention or if a press release needs to be taken down, we urge you to notify us immediately by contacting [email protected] . Our efficient team will promptly address your concerns within 8 hours, taking necessary steps to rectify identified issues or assist with the removal process. Providing accurate and dependable information is central to our commitment.

mentawai surf trip blog

Elektrostal, Russia

Region: Moscow Oblast

Geographic coordinates: 55.783300, 38.466700, temperature range: -40.0°c to 30.0°c (-40°f to 86°f), climate: cold and snowy winters, mild summers with occasional heat waves., population: 158508, language: russian.

Elektrostal, Located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, Is a city known for its industrial heritage and diverse economy. With a population of around 150, 000 people, It lies approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow. Founded in 1916 as an industrial center for steel and metal production, Elektrostal’s most notable landmark is the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant (EMZ). The plant produces various steel products including railway wheels, Pipes, Wire rod, And sheet metal. Apart from its industrial significance, Elektrostal offers several cultural attractions that are worth visiting.

The Museum-Estate Kuskovo features an impressive collection of art and artifacts from the 18th century. Lake Senezh – a large freshwater lake outside Elektrostal’s city limits – provides opportunities for swimming, Boating or fishing during summer months. Elektrostal also has several parks where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling. Gorky Park features walking paths along with sports facilities like tennis courts and basketball courts. Public transport within Elektrostal itself is convenient with numerous bus routes connecting different parts within the city limits as well as nearby towns like Noginsk or Dmitrovskiy Districts in Moscow Region.

Overall Elektrostal offers visitors an interesting mix of industrial heritage, Cultural attractions and natural beauty making it definitely worth a visit whether you’re interested in learning about Russia’s steel industry or simply want to enjoy the outdoors.

mentawai surf trip blog

Important Landmarks

  • The Museum of Local Lore – it showcases the history and culture of the town.
  • The Church of St. Nicholas – a beautiful Orthodox church built in the 19th century.
  • Victory Park – a large park with several monuments dedicated to World War II heroes.
  • Ice Palace Vityaz – a modern ice arena that hosts various sports events and concerts.
  • Elektrostal Central Park – a popular spot for picnics, walking, and outdoor activities.
  • The Monument to Soviet Soldiers – located in Victory Square, it honors soldiers who died during World War II.
  • Elektrostal History Museum – displays artifacts from ancient times to present day including photographs, documents, paintings etc.,
  • Kuzminsky Park- A beautiful park with greenery all around perfect for spending some quality time with family or friends

mentawai surf trip blog

Primary Industries

  • Metallurgical Industry: Elektrostal is renowned for its steel production industry that involves the manufacturing of steel pipes, wires, sheets and other metal products.
  • Chemical Industry: The city boasts several chemical plants that produce chemicals such as ammonia, fertilizers and plastics.
  • Machinery Industry: Elektrostal has a significant machinery industry that produces machine tools, mining equipment and other industrial machinery.
  • Construction Materials Industry: There are several cement factories in the city producing cement and concrete products.
  • Food Processing Industry: Several food processing plants operate within the city producing dairy products, meat products and other food items.
  • Energy Sector: The city houses a thermal power plant which supplies electricity to the region.
  • Retail and Service Sector: Additionally, there is a well-developed retail sector with shopping centers, supermarkets and small shops catering to the local population’s needs.

mentawai surf trip blog

Noteable History

  • The city was founded in 1916 as a center for steel production during World War I.
  • During World War II, Elektrostal played a crucial role in supplying the Soviet army with weapons and ammunition.
  • In 1957, the first nuclear power plant in Russia was built near Elektrostal.
  • The city is known for producing high-quality steel that is used in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.
  • Notable people from Elektrostal include Olympic gold medalist figure skater Irina Slutskaya and former Russian Prime Minister Sergei Kiriyenko.
  • In recent years, the city has undergone significant modernization efforts to improve its infrastructure and attract new businesses to the area.

mentawai surf trip blog

Museums and Things To See

  • Museum of Local Lore: This museum showcases the history and culture of Elektrostal and the surrounding region.
  • Victory Park: A large park dedicated to the victory in World War II, with monuments, memorials, and a military museum.
  • Church of St. Nicholas: A beautiful Orthodox church with stunning frescoes and icons.
  • The House-Museum of V.V.Vorovsky: This museum is dedicated to the revolutionary leader Vorovsky who lived in Elektrostal for a time.
  • The Central Culture and Leisure Park: A popular park with various attractions like amusement rides, sports facilities, cafes etc.
  • The Monument to the First Builders of Elektrostal: This monument commemorates those who built the city’s first industrial complex.
  • Art Gallery Art-El: An art center featuring works by local artists as well as exhibitions from around Russia and beyond.
  • Museum Elektrosvet: A unique museum showcasing lighting equipment from various periods starting from 19th century till present day.

mentawai surf trip blog

mentawai surf trip blog

Cultural Events

  • City Day Celebration: This festival is held annually on the first weekend of September to celebrate the founding of Elektrostal.
  • International Festival The World of Dance: A dance festival featuring performances from various countries around the world.
  • Folklore Kaleidoscope Festival: A cultural event showcasing traditional folk music, dance, and costumes from different regions of Russia.
  • Art-Electro Festival: An art exhibition featuring works by local artists as well as artists from other parts of Russia.
  • Jazz Festivals: There are several jazz festivals held throughout the year in Elektrostal which feature performances by local and international jazz musicians.

mentawai surf trip blog

  • Shashlychnaya No. 1 – A restaurant specializing in shashlik (Russian kebabs) and other grilled meats.
  • Cafe U Dvukh Medvedey – A cozy cafe serving traditional Russian dishes like borscht, pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (pancakes).
  • Pivnaya Apteka – A beer bar with a wide selection of craft beers from Russia and around the world.
  • Kebab House – A fast-food chain offering various types of kebabs, falafel wraps, and salads.
  • Cafe Podkova – Another cozy cafe serving Russian dishes like beef stroganoff, chicken Kiev, and dumplings with different fillings.
  • Restaurant Kolbasny Dom – A meat lover’s paradise with various types of sausages, smoked meats, and steaks on the menu.
  • Sushi Master – For those who crave Japanese cuisine; this sushi restaurant offers fresh sushi rolls and sashimi plates.
  • Pizzeria Mama Mia!- If you’re in the mood for Italian food; this pizzeria offers delicious pizzas made from scratch using fresh ingredients.
  • Cafe Kamelot- A cozy café serving traditional Russian dishes such as borscht soup,pelmeni (dumplings),and vareniki(boiled dumplings).
  • Restaurant “Gagarin”- Named after Yuri Gagarin; this restaurant serves European cuisine including steaks,pasta,and salads along with exotic cocktails to choose from!

mentawai surf trip blog

Parks and Recreation

  • Central Park of Culture and Rest
  • Park of the 50th Anniversary of Victory
  • Park of the 300th Anniversary of Elektrostal
  • Sports and Recreation Complex Olympic
  • Ice Palace Elektrostal
  • Ski resort Krugloye Ozero
  • Beach complex Sunny Beach
  • Tennis club Elektrostal
  • Bowling club Strike
  • Paintball club Delta Force

Suitcase

Create Memories, Travel Often.

Explore more:.

mentawai surf trip blog

Toshima, Japan

Reading Time: 5 minutes Toshima, Japan Region: Toshima Geographic Coordinates: 35.726100, 139.717000 Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 35.0°C (14°F to 95°F) Climate: Seasonal. Population: 297954 Language: Japanese Toshima is a lively district located in the northern part of Tokyo, Japan. It’s known for its diverse

Al ‘Āshir min Ramaḑān, Egypt

Reading Time: 4 minutes Al ‘Āshir min Ramaḑān, Egypt Region: Al ‘Āshir min Ramaḑān, Egypt is located in the Cairo Governorate Geographic Coordinates: 30.306500, 31.741500 Population: 511987 Language: Arabic Al ‘Āshir min Ramaḑān is a small town located in the Sharkia Governorate of Egypt,

mentawai surf trip blog

Lokoja, Nigeria

Reading Time: 8 minutes Lokoja, Nigeria Region: Kogi Geographic Coordinates: 7.801900, 6.744200 Climate: Lokoja, Nigeria experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Population: 60579 Language: English Lokoja is a historic city located in north-central Nigeria, At the confluence of the Niger

mentawai surf trip blog

Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan

Reading Time: 9 minutes Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan Region: Jalal-Abad Geographic Coordinates: 40.933300, 73.000000 Climate: Seasonal climate and weather patterns in Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan. Population: 89004 Language: Kyrgyz Jalal-Abad, Located in the southwestern part of Kyrgyzstan, Is a city that offers a unique blend of history, Natural

mentawai surf trip blog

Matsue, Japan

Reading Time: 6 minutes Matsue, Japan Region: Shimane Geographic Coordinates: 35.470800, 133.052000 Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 35.0°C (14°F to 95°F) Climate: Seasonal. Population: 201802 Language: Japanese Matsue is a charming city situated in the Shimane prefecture of Japan. It sits on the banks of

mentawai surf trip blog

Bhadrāvati, India

Reading Time: 4 minutes Bhadrāvati, India Region: Karnataka Geographic Coordinates: 13.848500, 75.705000 Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F) Climate: Monsoon and tropical climate patterns are prevalent in Bhadrāvati, India throughout the year. Population: 212073 Language: Kannada Bhadrāvati is a small city in

web analytics

Daily Mail

Putin taunts the West with 'first ever' visit to remote ice-covered 'frontier region' just 55 miles from the US - as Zelensky tries to drum up war support in Lithuania

  • Chukotka is Russia's easternmost region, sharing a maritime border with Alaska

President Vladimir Putin  has arrived for his first-ever presidential visit to Chukotka in Russia 's Far East - just 55 miles from the US state of Alaska . 

Putin arrived in Anadyr, the local capital of the Chukotka region this morning after flying from Moscow some nine time zones away. 

Chukotka is the easternmost region of Russia, with a maritime border on the Bering Strait with Alaska.

The Russian president was met in Anadyr by a motorcade and was whisked away in a limousine amid frigid temperatures of -28C. 

It's the closest he has come to US soil since he met with President  Barack Obama in New York City in 2015.

Chukotka is so close to Alaska that Roman Abramovich - the ex-Chelsea FC owner - was reported to fly to Anchorage in Alaska for lunch when he was the governor of the region from 2001 - 2008.

Putin's visit comes at a time when US-Russian relations are at their lowest ebb in decades amid the war in Ukraine and a growing East-West divide. 

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky today landed in Lithuania as part of an unannounced trip to the Baltic states to drum up more support for the conflict. 

Global war for control of the ARCTIC: Climate change is unlocking untapped natural resources, new trade routes... and a new international conflict that RUSSIA is already winning  

The three Baltic states - all former Soviet republics which are now EU and NATO members - are among Ukraine's staunchest allies.

'Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are our reliable friends and principled partners. Today, I arrived in Vilnius before going to Tallinn and Riga,' Zelensky said on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

'Security, EU and NATO integration, cooperation on electronic warfare and drones, and further coordination of European support are all on the agenda,' he said.

The Baltic tour marks Zelensky's first official trip abroad this year.

In Lithuania, a key donor to Ukraine, Zelensky said he will hold talks with the president, prime minister and the speaker of parliament, and meet with the Ukrainian community.

The visit comes as other Kyiv allies waver on fresh aid, nearly two years into Russia's invasion.

Ukraine has come under intense Russian shelling in recent weeks, retaliating with strikes on Russia's border city of Belgorod.

Zelensky has urged allies to keep military support flowing and held in-person talks with officials from the United States, Germany and Norway last month.

But an EU aid package worth 50 billion euros ($55 billion) has been stuck in Brussels following a veto by Hungary, while the US Congress remains divided on sending additional aid to Ukraine.

Following his trip to Chukotka, Putin is expected to visit several regions in the Russian Far East to boost his re-election campaign amid the war with Ukraine, which has seen more than 300,000 Russians killed or maimed.

He is due to stand in March, seeking another six years in the Kremlin.

The only Kremlin leader ever to travel to Chukotka previously was Dmitry Medvedev in 2008.

Putin's trip sees him escape a wave of ugly protests in western Russia over hundreds of thousands of people scraping by in freezing conditions due to breakdowns in communal heating supplies.

In Elektrostal, Moscow region, desperate residents say they have had no communal heating - which Russians routinely expect the state to supply usually through piped hot water - for the entire winter so far.

'We have been without heating since [9 October],' one resident said in a video circulating on Telegram.

'It is impossible to be in our homes… We are freezing! We are freezing! We are freezing!' they said. 

MailOnline logo

  • Superstitions Russes pour tous les jours de la semaine
  • Learn Russian

Moscow Metro

Leave a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Recent Posts

  • Russian Figure Skating Dictionary
  • Email and Internet
  • How to say “Where is the restroom?” in Russian?
  • Rent and Real Estate in Russia
  • Calling a Taxi
  • Russian Customs
  • Dating a Russian girl
  • Culture Tips
  • Movies and cartoons
  • Russia Travel
  • Russian culture
  • Russian holidays
  • Russian Idioms
  • Russian music
  • Russian nouns and cases
  • Russian sports
  • Russian Verbs
  • Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics
  • Survival Russian
  • Uncategorized
  • Useful Russian phrases

© Copyright 2024 Master Russian Blog. All Rights Reserved

IMAGES

  1. Beng Bengs Surf Spot

    mentawai surf trip blog

  2. Mentawai Surf Trip: Best of 10 Days on a Private Island

    mentawai surf trip blog

  3. Mentawai Islands

    mentawai surf trip blog

  4. Mentawai Surf Trip: El mejor viaje de surf de tu vida

    mentawai surf trip blog

  5. Mentawai Islands

    mentawai surf trip blog

  6. mentawai surf boat charter maki ments guide 3

    mentawai surf trip blog

VIDEO

  1. Mentawai Surf Competion 2011 Part 1

  2. Mentawai surf trip with Wavehunter boat. July 2023

  3. Mentawai surf trip 02/24

  4. Surf trip to Alaia Mentawai with Crystal Dzigas

  5. journey to mentawai

  6. Part#5 BEST RIFLES WAVE TRIP IN MENTAWAI 2024 #mentawai

COMMENTS

  1. Mentawai Islands

    The Best Surf Spots In The Mentawai Islands - Playgrounds . The biggest draw of the Mentawai Islands has to be the world class surf - and it's certainly a bucket list destination to anyway who wants to score pumping tropical waves! Here are 10 waves that'll get a huge range of surfers absolutely frothing for a Mentawai surf trip! 1 ...

  2. The Ultimate Guide to Mentawai Surf

    11 Day Advanced Level Surf Camp in Mentawai @ Shadow Mentawai - The Shadow is a surf resort on a private island. It's a touch of luxury that's on the doorstep of the legendary Playgrounds region. They have speedboats at hand to ferry you to and from breaks and most participants do 4-6 hours of surfing per day.

  3. A Guide to Surfing the Mentawai Islands

    A beachfront villa-style accommodation located in the renowned Playgrounds area in the Mentawai Islands, Mentawai Surf Camp has been serving tourists and surfers for decades. You can book an all-inclusive package here, including airport transfers, daily boat trips to the nearest surf spots, and 3 meals a day starting from $159 per day.

  4. Mentawai Surf Travel Guide

    CALL +61 02 9939 0890. ENQUIRE. Since the discovery of waves by hard core explorers in the 1990s the Mentawai Island chain has revolutionised surf travel. The 70 or so islands off the West Coast of Sumatra pack more perfect waves per square mile than any other surf destination. There are 50 recognized quality breaks, with Hollow Trees ...

  5. Mentawais Surf Guide -Where to Stay? When to go? What to pack?

    On-Island Travel Costs: To ensure you have an exceptional surf trip, we recommend allowing an additional $500USD for transport throughout the Mentawais if you're on a Land camp/Surf resort. Flight Costs: From Brisbane, Australia you can expect to pay around $500-600USD return. From Europe, you'll find return flight for around $1,000USD.

  6. The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in the Mentawai Islands

    The Mentawai Islands are a chain of about seventy idyllic tropical islands located approximately 150 km off the western coast of Sumatra in Indonesia. They can be divided into three main surfing regions: Northern Islands: The majority of the spots are located around the islets south of Siberut, in an area called Playgrounds.

  7. Blog

    The Mentawais represent the holy grail of surf travel. The Mentawai Island chain consists of just over 70 islands that stretch out in the warm tropical waters off the western coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. The Ments face the open Indian Ocean to the west, meaning they are exposed to enormous amounts of swell all year […]

  8. Mentawai Surf Trips

    Mentawai Surf Guide. CALL +61 02 9939 0890. ENQUIRE. The 70 or so islands in the Mentawai chain off the West Coast of Sumatra pack more perfect waves per square mile than any other surf destination. There are 50 recognized quality breaks, with Hollow Trees, Macaronis, Rifles and Green Bush are known as some of the best in the world.

  9. Homepage

    TOP SURF RESORTS. Rad decision, surf sorcerer! Prepare for a dreamy journey where you can bask in 5 star luxury, ride the waves on your schedule, and kick back by the pool. And if you want to bring your wife, your kids, your wife's annoying friends, your nosy neighbor, the homeless guy sleeping in your car, NO PROBLEMO!

  10. Mentawai Surf Retreat

    The Mentawai Islands are regarded as the world's surf mecca and there's good reason why. We have the most consistent swells in the world. With our break Pitstops directly at your doorstep, over 25 waves nearby awaiting, and some forecast advice from our experienced surf guides, you'll get the most dollar value for your surf trip.

  11. Mentawai Surf Trip Itinerary and Checklist

    Option 2: Private speedboat service. Private speedboat service straight from Padang to the resort. Recommended for: Travelling in big groups. Travel time: 3.30 hours. Roundtrip Prices: $5,000 USD for up to 10 people. $6,500 USD for up to 16 people. Rate includes: transfers from/to airport & speedboat transfers.

  12. The 5 Best Mentawai Surf Camps For 2023

    Location: Masokut Island, Mentawai; Price: 10 days/9 nights starting at $1,390 (£1,158) per person; Poking out of the jungles of Nyang Nyang Island in the midst of the Playground area of northern Mentawai, Beng Bengs Surf Camp is one of the original on-land camps in the area. It looks over the iconic wave known as Ebay, a frothing left hander that offers more barrel sections than you can ...

  13. Mentawai Surf Trip

    On season. May - September. The on-season is the peak time for surfing, offering some of the best waves in the world. The weather is typically dry and sunny, and the surf conditions are optimal, with powerful and challenging waves that attract surfers from around the globe. With incredible surf spots and breathtaking scenery, the Mentawais is a ...

  14. Mentawai Surf Retreat

    Novali Mentawai Surf Retreat is strategically located to keep you safe from tsunamis. During the 2010 tsunami Sikakap was used as a 'safe place' to treat affected people and provide necessary medical needs and travel back to Padang. With the hospital and bank 5 minutes away it gives you a peace of mind whilst staying at Novali Mentawai Surf ...

  15. Surf in Paradise: Aleikoat Surfcamp Mentawai Islands

    Welcome to ALEIKOAT SURFCAMP Mentawai! Surf the world's best waves in the Mentawai Islands with us. The surf camp is located close to some of the most world-classed surf breaks only a few minutes by boat away. Staying with us means living on a small island in the Northern Mentawais without having another surf camp around and living the dream ...

  16. HOME

    Sumatran Surfariis is one of the longest-running independent surf charter operators for the islands of Mentawais and Northern Sumatra. Our boat trips cover any and all nooks of the Mentawais, Telos, Nias, Hinakos, and Banyaks, and we've recently begun custom trips that travel even further north or south. Our experience and willingness to look ...

  17. Surf In Mentawais

    Our experienced Australian team provides a knowledgable platform when visiting the wave filled wonderland, the Mentawai Islands. With flexibility from our local knowledge and experience - having been there for over ten years with extended contacts and advice, we champion making your experience the absolute best it can be whether land or sea ...

  18. SwitchFoot

    Get ya Froth On'. Now is the time to get your crew together and sail full steam ahead into a Mentawai surf trip of a lifetime - aboard the 52ft wave hunting machine "Switchfoot" from Sumatra Charters. The Mentawai Islands, situated 80 miles off West Sumatra, Indonesia, have an abundance of perfect, pumping, uncrowded waves to be surfed.

  19. Experience our Mentawai Islands Resort

    Ace 14 nights. Go beyond any other surf camp limits. Experience and Live the ultimate complete Mentawai surf trip adventure! in Style! A surf trip in the Mentawai is every surfer's dream! Vivid backgrounds, perfect waves are breaking over warm water, fully decorated reef, friends, beer, & paradise! Start your epic adventure.

  20. Watch: Top 10 Surf Wipeouts of the Year in the Mentawais

    For surfers, the Mentawai Islands are like Disneyland. The Indonesian archipelago, situated off the western coast of Sumatra, boasts a smorgasbord of waves, catering to varying skill levels, swell ...

  21. Mentawai Islands Surf Boat Charter Experience: Solo Travel Guide Released

    Vancouver, Canada - February 21, 2024 — . As summer approaches, soloNami.com puts a spotlight on the Mentawai Islands, one of the world's premier surf locations, offering those in search of an adrenaline-fueled experience its latest travel guide to an all-inclusive surfing trip to Indonesia.

  22. Randonaut Trip Report from Elektrostal', Moscow Oblast ...

    Posted by u/therealfatumbot - 1 vote and no comments

  23. Elektrostal, Russia

    Elektrostal, Located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, Is a city known for its industrial heritage and diverse economy. With a population of around 150, 000 people, It lies approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow. Founded in 1916 as an industrial center for steel and metal production, Elektrostal's most notable landmark is the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant (EMZ).

  24. Putin taunts the West with 'first ever' visit to remote ice ...

    Daily Mail. Putin taunts the West with 'first ever' visit to remote ice-covered 'frontier region' just 55 miles from the US - as Zelensky tries to drum up war support in Lithuania

  25. Moscow Metro

    Connect with us on any of our social profiles. Recent Posts. Russian Figure Skating Dictionary; Email and Internet; How to say "Where is the restroom?" in Russian?