Surfing in Sumbawa
Surfing guide to Sumbawa, Indonesia
Sumbawa has 2 main surf areas. There are 10 surf spots and 7 surf holidays. Go explore!
Overview of surfing in Sumbawa
Sumbawa is the wild child of Indonesia’s surf destinations. Sitting east of Lombok and west of Flores, this rugged island offers some of the most perfect waves in the archipelago, without the chaos and over-tourism of Bali. Sumbawa is less developed, less crowded, and more adventurous, with world-class reef breaks that attract dedicated surfers willing to put in the extra travel miles.
The island is split into two main surf zones: West Sumbawa and East Sumbawa. West Sumbawa is easier to reach and home to famous waves like Scar Reef, Supersuck, and Yoyos. East Sumbawa, especially the Lakey Peak region, is legendary for its consistency, barrels, and variety of waves breaking over coral reefs.
Sumbawa isn’t just about surf—it’s about raw adventure. Think dirt roads, fishing villages, rice paddies, volcanic mountains, and simple surf camps where your days revolve entirely around tides and swells. Compared to Bali or even Lombok, there are fewer tourists, fewer distractions, and a stronger sense of connection to the ocean. If you’re after a surf trip that’s pure, uncrowded, and still has that frontier feeling, Sumbawa delivers.
Surf Regions in Sumbawa
West Sumbawa
This side of the island is home to a cluster of world-class lefts and rights, all breaking over shallow reef. Western Sumbawa is renowned for its best breaks and famous surf spots in the West Nusa Tenggara region. The waves here are heavy and mechanical, attracting experienced surfers chasing barrels, with Scar Reef and Supersuck offering hollow waves, perfect barrels, and steep wave sections that challenge even advanced riders. Scar Reef, Supersuck, and Yoyos are the big names—these surf spots deliver some of the best waves and great waves in Indonesia, attracting surfers on a surf trip seeking world-class experiences—but there are plenty of lesser-known waves if you’re willing to explore.
East Sumbawa (Lakey Peak Region)
Lakey Peak is the crown jewel of Sumbawa’s surf scene and one of the most consistent waves in Indonesia. Sumbawa surfing and surfing in Sumbawa are defined by the diversity of surf breaks and the quality of long reef setups found here. The area is packed with reef breaks within walking or paddling distance—Lakey Peak, Lakey Pipe, Nungas, and Periscopes. Lakey Peak and its neighboring surf spot are considered among the famous surf spots for their perfect barrels and hollow waves. The region has developed into a proper surf hub, with camps, warungs, and a laid-back surf-town vibe.
The Good
- World-class waves with incredible consistency
- Fewer crowds than Bali, Mentawai, or Lombok
- Affordable surf camps, food, and travel
- Mix of heavy barrels and fun reef waves for all skill levels (intermediate to expert)
- Authentic Indonesian culture and scenery
- Wide range of accommodation options available across the whole island
- Sumbawa is becoming a popular destination for surfers seeking beautiful beaches and a unique culture
The Bad
- Access is long and logistically challenging
- Many waves break over shallow, sharp reef
- Medical facilities are limited outside major towns
- Electricity and Wi-Fi can be unreliable in remote areas
- Air conditioning is often unavailable or unreliable in many accommodations
- Gas stations can be scarce in remote regions, so travelers should plan fuel stops carefully
- Not many options for beginners—reef breaks dominate
Getting there
Reaching Sumbawa takes effort. Most surfers fly into Bali or Lombok first. Most international travelers arrive via Lombok International Airport before transferring to Sumbawa. From Bali, you can connect to Sumbawa Besar or Bima by domestic flight. From Lombok, ferries run to Sumbawa, though travel times are long. Sumbawa is located two islands east of Bali, within the West Nusa Tenggara province.
For West Sumbawa, most travellers fly to Lombok, then ferry across and drive west. Travel time is around 6–8 hours.
For East Sumbawa (Lakey Peak), fly to Bima (1-hour flight from Bali), then drive 3–4 hours to Lakey. The roads are rough, but the journey is part of the adventure.
On the ground, scooters and motorbikes with board racks are common, but long drives between surf regions often require cars or local transport. Local boats are often used to reach remote surf spots.
Remember, driving is on the left side of the road in Sumbawa.
Crowds
Sumbawa is far less crowded than Bali or the Mentawai Islands, but it’s no longer a complete secret. Lakey Peak draws international surfers year-round, and popular waves like Supersuck and Scar Reef attract small but dedicated crowds during swell. Still, compared to Bali’s conveyor belt lineups, Sumbawa feels empty. Paddle out at the right time, and you might score a world-class reef break with fewer than a dozen surfers. For any surfer who has surfed these uncrowded, world-class waves, the thrill and sense of adventure is unforgettable.
Lineup Lowdown
The vibe in Sumbawa is laid-back, but respect is essential. The island’s unique culture, shaped by traditional villages and local customs, creates a friendly but respectful atmosphere in the lineup. Most surfers are travelling from overseas, so lineups are generally friendly. Local groms are stoked and talented, and sharing waves respectfully is the key to good sessions. Heavy waves like Supersuck and Scar Reef are not for beginners—locals expect surfers to know their limits.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Sumbawa
Surf Seasons and When to Go
Sumbawa’s prime surf season is the dry season, May to September, when strong Indian Ocean swells hit the reefs and offshore trade winds groom conditions. This is when waves like Supersuck, Lakey Peak, and Periscopes are at their best, especially during big swells and high tides, which produce optimal, barreling surf at these breaks.
The wet season, November to March, is less consistent but still produces fun waves with lighter winds. Crowds thin out significantly, and conditions can be surprisingly good in windows of glassy mornings. The rainy season can also offer good surf, with mellow waves that are ideal for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed session.
Water Temperatures and Weather
Water temperatures stay warm year-round at 26–29°C. Boardshorts or bikinis are all you need, though reef booties are smart for shallow breaks. Air temps average 27–32°C, with dry season offering clear skies and wet season bringing afternoon showers.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
Lakey Peak (East Sumbawa)
The jewel of Sumbawa, Lakey Peak is a world-class A-frame surf spot that breaks over coral reef, producing perfect barrels and hollow waves. The left side is longer, offering barrels and walls, while the right is shorter but punchy and hollow. Surfers of every skill level can enjoy the wave, with the left side providing longer rides. Palm trees line the beach, adding to the tropical vibe. It’s consistent year-round but best during the dry season when trade winds keep it offshore. Lakey Peak has a surf-town vibe with camps, rentals, and warungs lining the beach. Both the east coast and west coast of Sumbawa offer world-class surfing experiences.
Lakey Pipe (East Sumbawa)
Just next to Lakey Peak, Lakey Pipe is a hollow left that barrels hard over shallow reef. It’s heavier and more dangerous than Lakey Peak, best for experienced surfers chasing barrels. The wave is mechanical and photogenic, a favourite for surf photographers. Dirty Hippies is another nearby break known for its short, hollow lefts.
Periscopes (East Sumbawa)
One of Sumbawa’s most rippable waves, Periscopes is a fast right-hander that offers long barrels and open walls. It’s best on mid to high tides with a solid swell, making it a favorite for those bringing their own boards. When it’s firing, Periscopes is one of the best rights in Indonesia.
Nungas (East Sumbawa)
A long left-hander that peels for hundreds of metres, Nungas is perfect for surfers who love long rides and drawn-out carves. The wave breaks along a long reef and is best surfed from the eastern end. It’s less intense than Lakey Pipe but still breaks over shallow reef.
Scar Reef (West Sumbawa)
Located on the western side of Sumbawa, Scar Reef is a famous surf spot known for its steep wave and world-class surf breaks. A world-class left-hander that turns on with solid swell, Scar Reef is heavy, hollow, and long, offering multiple barrel sections. It’s not for beginners—the reef is sharp, and the wave is unforgiving—but in the right conditions, it’s one of Indo’s best. Kini Resort is a notable accommodation option for surfers in this area.
Super Sucks (West Sumbawa)
As the name suggests, Super Sucks is a freakish left that sucks dry over shallow water reef, creating one of the longest, hollowest barrels in Indonesia. It’s extremely tide-dependent and only works a handful of times each year, but when it does, it’s unforgettable. Super Sucks has a reputation as a world class wave, but it is only suitable for the experienced surfer due to the shallow water and powerful hollow waves.
Yo Yo’s (West Sumbawa)
A playful, fun right-hander that works in a range of conditions, Yo Yo’s (also known as Yo Yos) is a surf spot on the west coast with mellow waves during the wet season and more powerful surf during the dry season. It’s the most consistent wave in West Sumbawa and is great for intermediate surfers, with rippable walls, sections for turns, and the occasional barrel.
Sumbawa surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Learning to Surf in Sumbawa
Sumbawa is not the easiest place to learn, as most waves break over sharp coral. Most surf breaks in Sumbawa require a higher skill level, making them better suited for intermediate or advanced surfers, but there are some spots suitable for beginners. However, Yoyos in West Sumbawa and smaller days at Lakey Peak offer safe, manageable waves for improving surfers. Local surf schools and camps in Lakey provide beginner lessons, though most travellers here already have some surf experience.
Safety and Etiquette
Sharp coral, strong currents, and heavy waves are part of the deal in Sumbawa. Reef cuts are common—bring a first aid kit and surf booties. Many surf spots have shallow water, increasing the risk of injury from the reef, so always check tides, as many breaks become dangerously shallow on low tide. Respect locals and visiting surfers alike, and never paddle into waves above your level. Medical care is limited outside of larger towns, so surf responsibly.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
Unlike Bali, Sumbawa doesn’t have many luxury retreats. Instead, it offers simple surf camps where the focus is on waves, community, and relaxation. A few camps now blend yoga and wellness into their programs, especially around Lakey Peak. Retreats cost around AU$700–1,500 per week, including accommodation, meals, and coaching.
Accommodation Options for Surfers
Accommodation options are available across the whole island, ranging from budget homestays to luxury eco-resorts.
- Lakey Peak: Surf camps and losmen AU$20–50 per night, mid-range guesthouses AU$60–100, villas AU$120+
- West Sumbawa (Scar Reef, Yoyos): Surf camps AU$30–80 per night, with basic amenities and meals included. Kini Resort is a unique beachfront accommodation popular with surfers.
- Budget travellers: Homestays in villages from AU$15–25 per night
- Luxury: Limited, but a few eco-resorts in Lakey and Yoyos cater to higher-end surfers AU$150–250 per night
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
Sumbawa feels like what Bali was decades ago—raw, uncrowded, and authentic. Unlike the Mentawais, which require expensive boat charters, Sumbawa is more accessible and affordable. Compared to Lombok, Sumbawa has heavier and more consistent waves but far fewer tourist facilities. It’s a destination for surfers chasing barrels and adventure, not nightlife or luxury.
A surf trip to Sumbawa offers a unique surfing experience compared to other Indonesian islands, with surfing in Sumbawa renowned for its adventure, world-class waves, and uncrowded lineups.
Expenses
- Accommodation: AU$20–250 per night
- Food: AU$3–10 for warung meals, AU$20–40 for western restaurants (where available)
- Transport: Motorbikes AU$10–15/day, private car hire AU$50–80/day
- Surf Costs: Rentals AU$10–20/day, lessons AU$30–50/session
- Retreats: AU$700–1,500 per week
Sumbawa is cheaper than Bali or the Mentawais, but costs add up due to transport and logistics.
Cultural Notes
Sumbawa is deeply traditional and more conservative than Bali. The island is known for its unique culture, with traditional villages, local customs, and ceremonies that offer an authentic Indonesian experience. Most locals are Muslim, so modest dress and cultural respect are important. Villages are welcoming but reserved, and English is less common than in Bali. Learning a few Indonesian phrases goes a long way. Respect for the ocean is high—locals depend on fishing and tourism for livelihoods.
Cell Coverage and Wi-Fi
Cell service is available in larger towns but patchy in remote surf regions. Wi-Fi exists in surf camps but can be slow and unreliable. Sumbawa is a place to disconnect and focus on waves.
Final Thoughts
Sumbawa is one of Indonesia’s last great frontier surf destinations. With waves like Lakey Peak, Supersuck, and Scar Reef, it offers barrels and walls that rival anywhere in the world. The mix of adventure, affordability, and raw natural beauty makes it a dream for surfers seeking more than just crowded Bali peaks. For a true adventure, make plans to visit Sumbawa and experience its world-class surf firsthand.
It’s not easy to get to, and it’s not beginner-friendly. But for surfers chasing perfection away from the crowds, Sumbawa is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Pack your boards, bring a repair kit, respect the reef, and prepare for the adventure of your surf life. Use this article as your ultimate guide to planning the perfect surf trip to Sumbawa.
