Surfing in Northern Mentawai Islands
Surfing guide to Northern Mentawai Islands, Mentawais, West Sumatra, Indonesia
Northern Mentawai Islands has 10 surf spots . Go explore!
Overview of surfing in Northern Mentawai Islands
The Mentawai Islands are legendary in surf culture, considered by many to be the most wave-rich chain of islands on Earth. Sitting off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, the Mentawais are home to more than 70 world-class surf breaks. While the central and southern regions are more famous for heavy reef barrels like HT’s and Macaronis, the northern Mentawai Islands bring their own magic. Known for their mix of consistent reef breaks, long rights, playful lefts, and less-crowded lineups, the northern zone is a dream destination for surfers chasing quality with variety.
The northern Mentawai Islands include spots around Siberut and Masokut Islands, and feature iconic waves like Rifles, Bankvaults, and E-Bay. Here, you’ll find mechanical right-handers, barreling lefts, and fun reef setups that work across different swell directions. The region offers something for advanced chargers as well as intermediates looking to step up.
Life in the Mentawais is pure island mode. Days revolve around boat rides, tides, and swells. Accommodations range from luxury surf resorts with speedboats to basic homestays in local villages. Unlike Bali, there are no cities, nightclubs, or traffic—just waves, palm trees, and crystal-clear water. The Mentawais are expensive and remote, but the payoff is endless perfection.
Surf Regions in the Northern Mentawai Islands
Playgrounds (Masokut Island region)
The most famous surf zone in the north, Playgrounds is a wave dense region and surfing area, with more than 20 waves accessible within a short distance. This cluster of breaks is located close together around Masokut Island. Within a short boat ride, you’ll find Bank Vaults—a heavy, barrel-rich surf spot renowned for its size, quality, and photographic appeal—along with E-Bay, Nipussi, Pitstops, and Beng Bengs. This makes it one of the most convenient surf areas in the Mentawais, with options for all conditions.
Siberut Island
The largest island in the Mentawais, Siberut has waves scattered along its reefs and points. It’s less developed than Playgrounds but offers a more raw, traditional Mentawai vibe. Many boat trips explore both Siberut and Playgrounds on the same itinerary.
Outer reefs and smaller islands
Beyond Playgrounds and Siberut, there are smaller islands and reef passes with lesser-known waves. The Mentawai archipelago is an island chain consisting of seventy islands, offering a variety of lesser-known surf spots. These are often empty and explored mainly by surf charters and surf charter boats, providing access to these remote waves and the chance for truly uncrowded sessions.
The Good
- World-class reef breaks with mechanical perfection and quality waves
- Consistency year-round, especially April–October, thanks to consistent swells
- Playgrounds area offers multiple waves within easy boat access
- Variety: heavy barrels, rippable walls, and fun intermediates spots—home to some of the best waves in the world
- Pure island lifestyle, far from crowds and chaos, and a great location for surf photography
The Bad
- Expensive logistics—boats, resorts, and charters aren’t cheap
- Remote location, requiring long travel days
- Most waves break over sharp reef—reef cuts are common
- Limited medical facilities outside Padang (mainland Sumatra)
- Not beginner-friendly—best suited for intermediate to expert surfers
- Crowded conditions at popular breaks during peak season, with more surfers in the water
Getting there
Most surfers begin their Mentawai surf trip by reaching Padang, which is located on the west coast of Sumatra. From Padang, high-speed ferries and overnight boats connect to Siberut or other northern islands. The Mentawai fast ferry is a key transportation option, especially popular among surfers and travelers for its morning departures and efficient service compared to slower ferries. Pre-booking the Mentawai fast ferry is highly recommended during peak season to secure your spot. Resorts and surf camps typically arrange transfers, which often include private speedboats to get you directly into the Playgrounds area.
The typical route: Fly to Padang (many international travelers connect through Kuala Lumpur) → transfer to ferry or fast boat (such as the fast ferry, which is faster than traditional overnight ferries) → arrive at Siberut/Masokut → small boats to surf camps.
Travel times from Padang to the northern Mentawais are 6–12 hours depending on transport choice. Some charter boats depart directly from Padang and cruise overnight, offering a boat trip to the islands.
Crowds
Compared to Bali or the southern Mentawais, the northern zone is slightly less crowded, but popular spots like Bankvaults and Rifles can still see multiple boats anchor up when swells hit. The Playgrounds area concentrates a lot of waves close together, so surfers spread out across the different breaks. When popular spots are crowded, surfers often seek out other breaks that remain surfable under challenging conditions. Resorts and charters often coordinate to avoid overcrowding. At lesser-known reefs, it’s possible to score sessions with only a handful of people.
Lineup Lowdown
Lineups in the northern Mentawais are made up of surf travellers from around the world. Etiquette is essential—priority, respect, and patience are expected. Experienced surf guides often set the tone, helping organise rotations and ensuring safety. The vibe is stoked and international, but waves are precious, and competition can heat up on the best swells.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Northern Mentawai Islands
Surf Seasons and When to Go
The Mentawai surf season runs from April to October, when strong Indian Ocean swells deliver consistent surf and dry season trade winds keep conditions clean. During this period, waves are often head high to double overhead, making it ideal for experienced surfers. June to September are the peak months, offering the biggest swells and best barrels.
November to March is the wet season, with fewer charter boats operating, but the waves are still fun, smaller, and less crowded. Shoulder season (March–April, October–November) often delivers glassy conditions with moderate swell and lighter crowds.
Overall, Mentawai surf offers year-round appeal, with world-class waves and a variety of conditions to suit different skill levels and preferences.
Water Temperatures and Weather
Water is a warm 27–29°C year-round, perfect for boardshorts and bikinis. Air temperatures average 28–32°C, with high humidity. Dry season brings clearer skies, while wet season means daily showers and occasional storms. Sun protection is essential—long surf sessions in tropical heat demand rash vests, sunscreen, and hydration.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
The Mentawai Islands are renowned for their abundance of world-class surf breaks and consistent quality waves, attracting surfers from around the globe. The region offers a diverse range of waves suitable for all levels, from beginner surfers to the most advanced, making it a true paradise for wave riders.
Rifles
One of the best right-handers in the world, Rifles is a mechanical reef break that offers barrels, long walls, and rides stretching up to 600 metres. It needs a solid swell and the right winds, but when it turns on, it’s perfection. Best for experienced surfers.
Bankvaults
A heavy right-hander known for its thick barrels, Bankvaults is powerful, fast, and unforgiving. Named because it “locks you in and takes everything,” this wave is for experts only. On the right day, it’s one of the most photogenic barrels in the Mentawais.
E-Bay
A hollow left-hander that breaks over shallow reef, E-Bay offers perfect barrels and heavy takeoffs. Best at 4–6 feet with light winds, it’s a challenging but rewarding wave. Advanced surfers flock here when conditions align.
Nipussi
A user-friendly right-hander that’s perfect for intermediates. Nipussi doesn’t barrel as much as other waves but offers long, playful walls for carves and turns. It’s one of the best spots for building confidence before tackling heavier reefs, making it suitable for both beginner surfers and the intermediate surfer.
Pitstops
A short, fun left-hander that breaks close to shore in front of some surf camps. Pitstops is less intimidating than Bankvaults or E-Bay, making it a favorite for intermediates. It’s playful, fast, and photogenic, especially at sunset. Pitstop Hill provides a scenic vantage point overlooking the wave and the surrounding tropical jungle.
Beng Bengs
A fun, consistent left-hander that works on a wide range of swells and tides. Beng Bengs is one of the more forgiving waves in the Playgrounds area, offering long, rippable walls and fewer crowds. This spot is also a great choice for beginner surfers and the intermediate surfer looking for mellow conditions.
Hollow Trees
Hollow Trees, also known as HT’s, is a renowned, powerful right-hander famous for its perfect barrels and shifty reef. This world-class surf break is considered one of the top waves globally, offering challenging, tube-like conditions best suited for advanced surfers.
Green Bush
Green Bush is an iconic hollow reef break in the Mentawai Islands, known for its challenging, heavy waves and deep barrels. It’s a favourite among experienced surfers seeking a thrilling ride on one of the region’s most famous surf breaks.
Burger World
Burger World is a notable surf spot characterised by its long point breaks and reliable waves, especially during small to mid-sized south swells. It’s a popular destination for surfers looking for consistent conditions and quality waves, particularly in the off-season.
Kandui Left
Kandui Left is a premier, high-speed, and hollow reef wave that stands out as one of the most challenging surf breaks in the Mentawai Islands. Its fast, heavy barrels demand technical skill and are best tackled by advanced surfers seeking a serious adrenaline rush.
Fish Fingers
Fish Fingers is a beginner-friendly surf spot located in the Macaronis area of North Pagai. With its sand bottom and soft, approachable waves, it’s ideal for learners and those on soft-tops. The gentle peak and easy access from a nearby resort make it a convenient choice for those just starting out.
Macaronis Resort
Macaronis Resort serves as a central base for surf trips in the Mentawai Islands, offering close proximity to several quality waves, including the famous Macaronis break. The resort provides easy access to a variety of surf breaks, making it a popular choice for surfers of all levels.
4 Bobs
4 Bobs is a playful reef break that becomes especially fun at low tide, when the barrels are at their best. It’s a great spot for high-performance maneuvers and is accessible from nearby land camp accommodations, which offer direct access to the local waves.
For those seeking convenience and direct access to the surf, staying at a land camp near the breaks is a popular option. Land camps provide comfortable accommodations right by the surf breaks, allowing surfers to maximise their time in the water and enjoy the variety of waves the Mentawai Islands have to offer.
Northern Mentawai Islands surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Learning to Surf in the Northern Mentawai Islands
The Mentawais aren’t ideal for beginner surfers, but the north is friendlier than the south and offers some options for the intermediate surfer. Nipussi, Pitstops, and Beng Bengs are suitable for improving surfers, offering playful waves with less risk than heavy slabs. Several Mentawai surf camps cater to intermediates, providing coaching and guided sessions. Absolute beginners are better off learning in Bali or Lombok before heading here.
Safety and Etiquette
Reef cuts are the most common hazard—sharp coral sits just below the surface at most breaks. Every surfer should bring reef booties as essential equipment, along with a first aid kit and plenty of zinc. Waves like Bankvaults and E-Bay demand respect—don’t paddle out unless you’re confident. Sharks are rare, but occasional sightings happen. Camps usually have basic medical supplies, but serious injuries require evacuation to Padang.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
Some Mentawai surf retreats in the Playgrounds area now combine surf, yoga, and wellness, offering a holistic experience influenced by the vibrant local surf culture. Retreat packages include daily surf guiding, yoga sessions overlooking the ocean, and meals with fresh local produce. Prices range from AU$1,500–3,000 per week depending on style and comfort level.
Accommodation Options for Surfers
- Surf camp and Mentawai surf camps in Playgrounds: AU$80–200 per night, often all-inclusive, offering proximity to prime surf spots, surfboard rentals, lessons, and amenities for surfers of all levels
- Charter boats: AU$2,000–5,000 per person for 10–12 day trips (all meals, guiding, and transfers included)
- Luxury surf resorts and Mentawai surf retreat: AU$300–600 per night, with private villas, speedboats, high-end service, and a range of surf and non-surf amenities for a premium experience
- Local homestays: AU$40–80 per night, basic but authentic, providing the opportunity to experience life in a local village
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
The northern Mentawais stand out as a premier surf destination, combining world-class waves with a more forgiving vibe than the south. Compared to Bali, this is a relatively quiet corner, offering far more consistency and fewer crowds, though at a higher cost. Versus Sumbawa or Lombok, the Mentawais have higher density and quality of waves, though less cultural immersion. For pure surf perfection, the northern zone ranks alongside the Maldives and Fiji as one of the best on Earth.
Expenses
- Accommodation: AU$40–600 per night depending on camp or resort
- Food: Usually included in camp packages; local meals cost AU$5–15 where available
- Transport: Ferry AU$50–80, speedboat AU$150–300, charter boat AU$2,000–5,000 per trip
- Surf Costs: Board rental AU$20–30/day, coaching AU$60–100/session
- Retreats: AU$1,500–3,000 per week
Cultural Notes
The Mentawais are home to the Mentawai people, who maintain traditional lifestyles in villages inland from the surf zones. Most surf camps are run by locals or in partnership with them. Respect for local customs is important—dress modestly when visiting villages, and support community initiatives where possible. English is limited outside surf camps, so learning some Bahasa Indonesia helps.
Cell Coverage and Wi-Fi
Coverage is limited and patchy. Some camps have Wi-Fi via satellite, but speeds are slow. Most boat charters and resorts encourage disconnecting from devices and focusing on the surf.
Final Thoughts
The northern Mentawai Islands are one of the greatest surf zones in the world. With waves like Rifles, Bankvaults, and E-Bay, alongside friendlier options like Nipussi and Beng Bengs, it offers something for a range of advanced and intermediate surfers. The setting is remote and pristine, the consistency is unmatched, and the island lifestyle is pure magic.
Yes, it’s expensive and logistically challenging. But if you’re chasing the surf trip of a lifetime—perfect barrels, warm water, and uncrowded reef breaks—the northern Mentawais should be at the very top of your list.
