Surfing in Mentawai: The Ultimate Mentawai Surf Trip Guide!

Planning a Mentawai surf trip, but not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place! In this article we have outlined everything you need to know about surfing in Mentawai!

If you’ve ever wondered what the best surf destination in the world is, or where the best waves in the world are, this article will show you what it’s like to surf in one of the best places in the world.

The Mentawai Islands in Indonesia, and specifically the Macaronis Wave, is one of those places.

Imagine a desert island with pristine white sand beaches lined with palm trees, crystal clear water, a thriving coral reef, and perfect surfing waves.

In this article we give you an overview of what a surf trip in this wonderful archipelago is like, how to get to the Mentawais, the best season to visit, what surf level you need to surf in the Mentawai Islands, and more.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive, and start planning your epic Mentawai Islands surf trip!

What are the Mentawais

The Mentawai Islands are an archipelago of approximately 70 islands in the province of West Sumatra in Indonesia. They are known as one of the meccas for surfers.

Even if you’re not a surfer, in the Mentawais you will find tranquility within pure and simple nature, with paradisiacal beaches without tourists or tourist infrastructure.

It’s pretty magical, but I’d say only suitable for more adventurous travellers.

In the Mentawais you will find seabeds of living coral reefs and crystal clear waters, with sea currents that come directly from the Indian Ocean with a force that, when colliding with these coral bottoms, creates the most perfect surf waves we have ever seen.

It’s where surfers go when they want to go surfing the biggest waves in the world, as well as the most perfect, clean and glassy waves.

Regardless of their size, in Mentawai the waves come with such a force that you can spend some super surf fun days even in small waves.

When the more serious swells come in, you can catch the most perfect barrels of your life.

Basically the Mentawai Islands can be the best surf trip of your life, not only if you like surfing, but also if you love being in direct contact with nature.

In the Mentawais you can do things like fishing, snorkeling, diving, diving from cliffs, and stand up paddle boarding, as well as many other things always related to the sea and the jungle that prevails on the islands.

For many years I (Alejandro) have dreamed of Mentawai and its waves. It’s the sort of destination that has always appeared in famous surf videos and magazines.

Professional surfers would be shown surfing these secret, perfect waves that are difficult or almost impossible to access. So of course, as soon as the opportunity presented itself, we just had to plan a surf trip to Mentawai.

How to get to Mentawai Islands

The first thing you should know before a Mentawai surf trip is how to get there, how long the journey will be and what the different means of transportation will be like.

The Mentawai Islands are quite far from common civilisation and difficult to access, which makes it an exclusive and heavenly place not only for us surfers.

You will first have to fly into either Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, or Jakarta the capital of indonesia. Depending on where you’re travelling from, this could be a short flight or a long international one.

These are the only two cities from which you can then fly to Padang, Indonesia, where the ferries for Mentawai then set off. You will either fly with Garuda Indonesia from Jakarta or AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur.

You will most likely have to sleep one night in Padang, firstly to rest from your long international flight, and secondly because ferries to the Mentawais are usually early in the morning.

After one night to rest, early the next day you will have to take a bus or taxi to the port of Padang, and from there take a ferry.

The fast ferry can take anywhere between 4 to 6 hours, depending which harbour or island in Mentawai you’re visiting. There is also a slow overnight ferry, but we didn’t look into this option.

Once we arrived at the main closest to our surf resort, a private boat from our resort was waiting for us. This was a small speed boat that could accommodate between 15 and 20 people, and took another half hour to reach the resort.

You can arrange these various transfers alone, but it’s much easier to let your surf resort or surf charter handle it all.

For an extra fee they will send you a small bus to pick you up at your hotel in Padang, and from there on you no longer need to worry about your suitcase or surfboards.

When we finally arrived at Macaronis Resort we were welcomed with the best vibes, enthusiasm, cold coconuts and big smiles.

It’s worth mentioning that Macaronis Resort only does weekly packages, since the ferry to Siberut is once a week (on Fridays), so you will have to plan your vacation and flights around a strict schedule, you can’t just rock up whenever you want.

I don’t know if other surf resorts have the same schedule or are more flexible, so just make sure you check before booking.

When is the best Mentawai surf season?

Spring and summer are considered the best times to visit the Mentawai Islands, as the months from March to October bring with them dry weather, consistent swells and powerful waves. 

However this is also high season, meaning you can expect bigger crowds and higher prices. 

We visited in February,  and although the waves were much smaller and we had the occasional thunderstorm, we surfed pretty much every day with just our little group from the resort, and for a much cheaper low season price!

While summer is objectively considered the best Mentawai surf season, as the waves and weather are better, you need to subjectively decide if you would rather have less crowds and a lower price tag, but risk smaller waves, or pay more for those epic summer swells and just accept the possible crowds in the line-up.

Best surf spots in the Mentawai Islands

Given that the Mentawai Archipelago is composed of over 70 islands, there are plenty of epic surf waves dotted all over the islands. Choosing what surf resort or island you stay at will obviously influence which Mentawai waves you surf.

Some of the most famous places to stay at, with perfect waves and paradisiacal resorts are:

Macaronis Resort

Known as the “most consistent and rippable” wave in the Mentawais, the Macaronis Wave (also known as Macas) is amongst the most famous not only in Indonesia, but probably the whole world. Located in Pagai Utara Island, it’s in the southern islands of the Mentawais

Kandui Resort & Kandui Villas

Both located on Karangmajat Island, these two resorts share some of the most epic waves in the Mentawais. Depending on your budget, you can opt for the resort or the villas. Both have beautiful huts on the beach, so it will be tough choosing one!

Awera Resort 

Here you will find world-class waves, paired with luxury villas with private pools. The perfect surf trip for those who want to escape to the Mentawais, but without giving up on their daily comforts.

Hollow Trees Mentawai

Located in Sipura Island, in the middle of the Mentawais, this resort is located right in front of one of the “finest right-handed waves in the world”.

Aloita resort

This resort is perfect for families and bigger groups, as they offer spacious beachfront villas with multiple bedrooms. And of course, insane surf waves right next door.

Drifwood Mentawai

This resort is located on Nyang Nyand Island in North Mentawai, also known as Palau Masokut, and often referred to as “Playgrounds”. And the name says it all, as here you will find super fun waves for a maximum of 12 guests.

Aura Resort

Located in Simeulue, this resort is actually in North Sumatra. Here you will find a wide selection of waves for all abilities.

And many more. We can’t say much about all these other resorts and waves, because we did not have the opportunity to surf there on this trip, but we will definitely head back for future trips.

Mentawai surf resort or surf charter?

When deciding where to stay in the Mentawais, surf resorts aren’t the only options available. You can also opt for a surf charter.

Surf charters are boats where you sleep and eat onboard, and which take you from island to island looking for the best wave of the day.

They are a pretty good option for those who just want to surf epic waves, and want to try the adventure of being on a boat 24/7.

Some of the most popular surf charters in Mentawai are:

Sibon Charters

This is the only charter boat we saw operating during our February trip, and I remember our surf coaches saying they track all the waves and tides across the seasons, so they always know the best surf spot for the days conditions.

They also have two catamarans, a luxury one and an affordable one, so they can fit the budget of all travellers.

King Millenium Boats

This charter also offers two boats, King I and King II, and depending on demand they can also surf beyond the Mentawais, and take you surfing all the way in North Sumatra.

The Dream Surf Charters

Carrying up to 12 guests, this charter will pick you up directly in Padang, so you don’t have to worry about local ferries, and then take you on an unforgettable boat trip searching for the best waves in the Mentawais.

Addiction Luxury Surf Charter

Despite the name, I’d say this charter doesn’t look particularly luxurious from the photos, but it’s still a great option for a Mentawai surf boat trip. With a small group of max 10 people, you’ll always have the best waves just for you.

A 105ft Indonesian Phinisi Surf Charter

If you’re looking for not only a Mentawai surf charter, but a whole experience, this traditional Indonesian boat is the perfect choice. This boat has spacious cabins and spacious communal areas.

Maki Mentawai Surf Charter

With its 5 cabins, this charter is ideal for groups of friends looking to share an unforgettable surf trip to Mentawai.

Mentawai Surf Charters

On the Mentawai Surf Charters website you will find a compilation of all the best charters, but the ones that most stood out to us were Moon Palikir and Star Koat. We’ll definitely be taking them into account for our next Mentawai surf trip!

However when it comes to surf charters, you have to take into account that almost all of these boats work only in high season, outside of the rainy season.

This is to ensure that you will find the best and biggest waves, and especially won’t be encountering any tropical storms, which can be quite uncomfortable and dangerous when sailing.

Surf charters are a great option for an epic Mentawai surf trip. You will wake up every day in a different spot, surfing the best waves for the conditions of each day. However, bear in mind that they are a lot more spartan than the resorts.

A lot of the amenities that come with a surf resort like Macaronis, which has a pool, wi-fi, TVs in every room, a gym and massage station, simply aren’t available on a surf charter.

While epic, just remember it will be a more adventurous trip, without the comforts of a resort.

What surf level do you need to surf in Mentawai?

It’s important to know your surf level and how far you can go, so that your surf trip is truly amazing.

The waves in Mentawai are amongst the best and hardest waves to surf in the world, so it’s not the kind of place where you can just rock up and learn to surf as a beginner.

Your surf level will also influence what time of the year you will visit Mentawai.

The summer months, when the waves are particularly big and powerful, are best suited for advanced surfers, which are searching for those epic barrels, rippable waves and long waves to do plenty of manoeuvres on.

If, like Greta, you’re an intermediate surfer, you will feel much more confident visiting in low season, when the waves are smaller and not as powerful.

You can still get big waves in winter, but generally speaking, you’re more likely to have good waves for intermediate surfers.

By intermediate surfer we mean someone who can comfortably paddle up to the line-up, catch green waves and rip them somewhat. 

If you’re still at the white water and big foam surfboard of your surf journey, we don’t recommend travelling to Mentawai.

While most resorts will have a small baby wave on their doorstep where you can practice, it doesn’t make much sense to come here.

The journey to Mentawai is long and expensive, I wouldn’t recommend doing it until you feel confident in your surf level.

If you’re a complete beginner, I suggest doing a surf camp in Bali first (cheaper, fun and good vibes), and then taking a shot at Mentawai surfing when you’re more comfortable and can at least catch green waves.

What to pack for a Mentawai surf trip

Packing for a Mentawai Islands surf trip is hard. You will be on a remote island or surf charter in the middle of nowhere for at least one week.

If you forget something, it will be hard to buy a replacement once you’re in the Mentawais!

Besides the usual clothes you’d pack for a tropical trip (shorts, tank tops, breathable long sleeve shirts, long breathable trousers, sandals etc), here are some of the surf essentials I suggest you don’t forget!

Your surf board(s)! Most resorts will have surf boards on site that you can rent, but let’s be realistic, they’re often very basic, beaten up and might not fit your measurements.

If you have your own surf board that you’re already comfortable with, I highly recommend bringing it to Mentawai.

We actually ended up bringing four boards. Having several boards that you know you feel comfortable with is essential for a surf trip, since it ensures you have a good trip with always good waves regardless of the sea conditions.

Fins – You’ll have to bring fins for your board, and it’s always a good idea to pack a spare, just in case you break the first pair on the coral reef!

Leash – Similarly to the fins, I suggest packing an extra leash. You don’t want to end up breaking your leash on the first day and then not being able to surf for the rest of the trip! You also want the right size leash for your surfboard.

Surf wax – Most surfers travel with clean boards (if you don’t know how to do it, check out here how to remove wax from a surfboard!), so that it doesn’t make a mess of your quiver (a bag with several surfboards), so make sure to remember surf wax to wax your board once you arrive in Mentawai! 

Wax comb – This is probably the one thing you can forget, as it’s very likely someone else will have one they lend you. But if you can have your own and avoid having to ask, I’d say that’s much better!

Mosquito repellent – For the length of your surf trip you’ll be lost amongst mangroves, palm trees and lush green vegetation. Trust me when I say, you will need mosquito repellant!

Basic first aid kit – At Macaronis Resort they actually had an onsite nurse, but I don’t know if all resorts have this. It’s a good idea to bring with you a basic first aid kit, so that you can fix up any reef cuts or bruises you get while surfing in Mentawai.

Zinc sun stick – I cannot stress enough how much you will need this, especially my fellow blondies. Bring plenty of surfing sun stick, or the Indonesian sun will burn you mercilessly!

Lycra shirt or spring suit – The water in the Mentawais is very warm, and you could easily surf just in a bikini or shorts. We’re used to surfing in Tenerife, where you have to surf in a wetsuit, so this was a dream for us!

However, the sun is very strong, so I highly recommend wearing a lycra shirt or spring suit. The one day I tried surfing just with a one piece swimsuit I ended up burning my back and arms, and then had to sleep face down for a few days.

Our experience surfing at Macaronis in Mentawai

For our Mentawai trip we decided to stay at Macaronis Resort, where we spent two weeks.

We had a great time at Macaronis. The resort in itself is lovely, with super friendly staff and an amazing natural playground just on its doorstep.

The first week we didn’t have much luck with the waves, but even though it was small it was still fun, as they often took us to another wave that was half an hour away by boat called Thunders.

It was still small for what this wave normally is, but it was a perfect line with strength and length where Greta caught the waves of her life, and Alejandro also had a lot of fun.

We were also able to surf a few days at the famous Macaronis wave, when it was small but fun. Even with a small swell, the Macaronis wave is incredible, with plenty of strength.

Thanks to the fact that we took a quiver with 4 boards, we were able to enjoy all the conditions that Mentawai offered us.

We took with us the following 4 boards:

Board 1: 6’0” in length, 20 1/4” in width,  2 3/4” in thickness and a volume of 37.5L (for Greta and Alejandro)

Board 2: 5’8” in length, 20 3/4” in width,  2 7/16” in thickness and a volume of 33L (for Greta)

Board 3: 5’11” in length, 20 3/2” in width,  2 1/2” in thickness and a volume of 33.3L (for Alejandro)

Board 4: 6’6” in length, 19 2/8” in width,  2 5/8” in thickness and a volume of 35L (for Alejandro)

The first board was good for us for all conditions, except when it became big and tubular, both for Greta and for me (I used it the most because of the volume it has for small waves).

Board two was only for Greta, since it has her measurements in height, width and volume for her level and all conditions.

Then there is board three which was just for Alejandro, because it was best suited for his size, and it helped him catch waves when the wave was not so small, but still not big enough, and especially when it came fast with force.

This board floats enough for a quick take off start, and at the same time gives me more manoeuvrability compared to board one, so it served me well on good days but without barrels.

Then board four is the jewel for the barrels, but it is not a board for all conditions.

Made only for large and tubular waves, it has a very fast exit in the take off and enough width to stick to the wall of the wave, as well as the length for powerful, large and fast waves, and a rocker for vertical exits and descents.

Our big quiver definitely saved our trip, as we were able to surf in all conditions.

Going beyond the waves, we had an incredible experience surfing in Mentawai also thanks to the Macaronis staff, the other guests, and the beauty of the islands in general. Plus, surfing in such a remote place means that there are very few other people present.

I (Greta) loved this aspect very much. Since I’m still an intermediate surfer, I don’t always have perfect control of my board, which makes me nervous in crowded peaks.

Regardless of whether we were at Macaronis or Thunders, we were only ever surfing with just the crowd from the resort.

And after two weeks, we became pretty close with them! So there was always a very friendly vibe at the peak, with no drop ins, which gave it a great atmosphere.

Final thoughts on surfing in Mentawai

That’s a wrap on our ultimate Mentawai surf travel guide! Have you been to the Mentawais before? How did you find it? Let us know in the comments below!

Surfing Mentawai islands has been a dream come true, not only because of its waves and the incredible surfing that you can have, but also the spectacular life in nature you can experience there.

Being on a desert island in the middle of the sea, with no one else but the resort guests, has been a unique experience.

For those of us who like marine life and tranquility, it is perfect, lots of surfing, underwater fishing, snorkelling, stand up paddle boarding and amazing sunsets every day.

In this guide we tried to include everything you need to know to plan the perfect Mentawai surf trips, including getting to Mentawai Islands, the best time to visit, what surf level you need to enjoy surfing in Mentawai, what to pack, tips on whether to choose a surf resort or charter, and much more.

For us it was a simply perfect and unique trip. It was also Ale’s birthday, and finally catching those barrels at Macaronis was the ultimate gift for a long time surfer like him.

We will definitely return to Mentawai, but this time to see another island and surf different waves. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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