If your dream is to enjoy your passion in different corners of the world, chances are you’ve thought about surfing in the Mentawai Islands. It’s one of the top surfing destinations, offering incredible waves for at least eight months of the year, a variety of spots for different skill levels, stunning scenery, and a great vibe even off the beach. Plus, culturally, it’s a real surprise with the ancestral villages of the Mentawai tribe, which are open and welcoming to travelers.

Discover surfing in the Mentawai, the Indonesian islands 

Pristine islands, coral reefs, clear blue waters, and consistent swells throughout much of the year make Mentawai an increasingly sought-after surf destination. While it’s ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers, if you’re traveling with family or beginner friends, there are also suitable spots for them. Enjoy your favorite sport and explore the best surf destinations on surfintrip.com – today we’re featuring this one!

Mentawai islands: where they are and how to get there

The Mentawai Islands are located in the Indian Ocean, in the Indonesian province of West Sumatra, about 150 km off its western coast. The most common way to reach them is by ferry or speedboat from Padang, on Sumatra. You can get to Padang via direct flights from Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, or from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia).

Best waves and spots in Mentawai for beginners

While there are better destinations for beginners, if your more experienced friends are planning a surf trip to the Mentawais, there are options for you too. Surfing in Mentawai for beginners is possible in mellow wave zones like Tikus, where you’ll find friendly and safe waves ideal for longboards. Other beginner-friendly spots, especially with small swell, include 4 Bobs and Good Times.

Best waves and spots in Mentawai for intermediate surfers

If you’re an intermediate surfer, Mentawai will be a blast – there are tons of spots that are perfect for you. The famous area known as “Playgrounds” is one of the most renowned surf destinations in Indonesia, celebrated for its consistent world-class waves and incredible variety of breaks. Located in the northern part of Mentawai, Playgrounds features a dense concentration of waves for all levels, with both rights and lefts ranging from soft, accessible sections to powerful barrels suited for more advanced surfers.

This area has waves ideal for intermediate surfers. For example, on Masokut Island, there are spots like Pitstops, Bengbeng, and Nipussi that are great for those seeking fun, maneuverable waves. These waves are softer compared to other more powerful breaks in the area, offering lots of opportunities for carves and turns. What makes this zone unique is the easy access to spots, generally short paddle-outs, close proximity between waves, and a spectacular tropical setting. It’s a true paradise for anyone dreaming of a surf adventure in Mentawai. Want to surf at Playgrounds? Then don’t miss our Mentawai surf trip with surfintrip.com and live a dream experience!

Top waves and spots for advaanced and expert surfers in Mentawai

Surfing in Mentawai for advanced and expert surfers is fun, diverse, and challenging. If you’ve reached a high level, this is a memorable destination with everything you need to enjoy a wide range of waves. If you’re up for the challenge, there are many spots to surf.

Some of the best waves for advanced and expert surfers in Mentawai include:

  • Macaronis – Often considered the “best left in the world,” with perfect barrels and sections ideal for radical maneuvers.
  • Kandui Left – A dreamlike left that breaks over shallow water with several barreling sections. Powerful, fast, and tricky to read!
  • HT’s (Hollow Trees) or Lances Right – One of the most iconic waves in the Mentawai Islands, widely regarded as one of the best right-handers in the world. It delivers perfect, intense barrels.
  • Rifles – Another Mentawai iconic wave, a dreamy long right-hander with multiple barrel sections, allowing for several perfect tubes in one ride.
  • Bankvaults – A powerful and demanding right-hander with barreling sections, ideal for advanced surfers.
  • E-bay – A fast, powerful left with the potential to produce barrels along most of its ride.
  • Greenbush – A heavy, challenging left that breaks over a shallow reef and delivers some of the thickest barrels in the Mentawai Islands.

Rifles, Bankvaults, Kandui and E-Bay are located in the “Playgrounds” area, so if you join our Mentawai surf trip, you’ll definitely get a chance to surf them!

And let’s not forget the endlessly breaking left of Iceland, which works with east or northeast winds, or Promises, a challenging wave suitable only for the most skilled surfers.

What’s the best time of year to surf in Mentawai?

The best time for surfing in Mentawai is between March and October. To fine-tune your travel plans, aim for a trip between May and September, when storms in Antarctica and along the African coast generate powerful swell. During this time, the waves are stronger and the weather is typically dry and sunny.

What to do in Mentawai besides surfing? 

Beyond surfing, Mentawai offers many other attractions across these Indonesian islands. The surf zones have a relaxed, friendly, and fun vibe, with surfers from all around the world.

It’s also worth exploring the local culture and visiting the Mentawai tribe that gives the islands their name. You can go trekking and discover impressive waterfalls. There are many beautiful excursions across different areas and stunning boat trips through the islands. Another popular option is exploring the mangroves with a guide or joining group yoga sessions. Plus, you can enjoy other sports like snorkeling, diving, or kayaking. It’s an area full of adventure!