An island chain located about 150 kilometres off the Sumatran coast in Indonesia, the Mentawai islands are known most significantly for fishing and their indigenous inhabitants. Yet in recent years, Mentawai Islands surfing holidays have been garnering the island a reputation for a very different reason.
With stunning Indian Ocean waves and un-crowded waters, Mentawai is becoming one of the world’s most sought after surfing destinations – a place that combines everything you need for a great surfing adventure.
The scene
From May to October each year, the island experiences massive swells that are perfect for surfing. The smaller breaks are also a great place to learn your craft and can be found year round. Combine this with some great opportunities for fishing, trekking and diving, and you’re looking at an incredible adventure.
There are some dedicated surf camps where you can expect an ‘old school’ surfing getaway. Few mod cons or luxuries get in the way of the real reason you are here. Yet you can also expect a friendly welcome and the usual incredible Indonesian hospitality on Mentawai Islands surfing holidays, with amazing food to boot.
The best surfing spots
The best spots are spread across the four main islands, with the most northerly Siberut being a popular destination. However, there are great spots found all across the islands, including some of the smaller and lesser-known locations.
The southern island of Sipura is home to some world-class waves, and a little further south you’ll find North and South Pagai, home to even more amazing surfing spots you simply won’t have come across in many surfing magazines or guides.
Indonesia, largely Sumatra and the Mentawai Islands, offers some of the world’s most consistent surfing conditions. This is the cutting edge of surfing, and because it is so little known, it’s actually really affordable once you are there. That’s why Mentawai Islands surfing holidays are being talked about so much right now. Get there before everyone else does to see what all the fuss is about.
