Study and Play

 

A surf trip to one of the land camps in mentawai surf camp is one good idea. The best reason is that they are generally cheaper than a boat trip. Further, a surf vacation to one of the land camps comes with great flexibility in the trip duration, budget and wave choice.

 

As things are, the main surfing regions are found in South Sumatra, an extensive archipelago 50 kilometers off the west coast of the mainland. These regions encompass Mentawai, Telo, Banyak islands and Simeulue.

 

mentawai surf camp

 

Every one of the mentawai surf camp represents a mix of the best options all throughout these regions. The best part is that it offers excellent value for money, your budget notwithstanding.

 

If you’re unsure of which surf zone you’re after, you can always check our destination pages for a detailed account of what to expect. Most areas require the surfers to be an intermediate or advanced level. (The camps, however, also cater to those wanting to learn to surf or wanting to have some skills progress.)

 

The camps also can cater for solo surfers, large or small groups and even travelling families.

 

Surf Conditions

 

If you decide to come over to Mentawai, you may do so from March to December. This is because their position in the Indian Ocean exposes the islands to the South-Southwest swells. From March to April the waves are smaller but consistent.

 

By May, they will become stronger. The same happens to the ending of October and the beginning of November: smaller waves but consistent again.

 

From April to October, there are strong swells from South Africa and Antarctica reaching the coral reefs. These swells carry with them amazing waves that roll into clean and perfect barrels.

 

Now, you have two alternatives for your vacation.

 

If your choice is NO crowded and easier surfing we suggest you to book in March, April, October and November. If you like to play rough, even with all the crowd over, you must book from May to September.

 

Another suggestion is that Mentawai in August becomes the Best Bet in the world. Another significant surf resort is the Macaronis all because the surf resort is open the whole year round.

 

April

In the Mentawai Island and Macaronis, October is regarded as the most consistent time for larger waves. This is when the Indian Ocean has regular storms and the swell is usually more intense from all directions. May – September will likely book out the quickest.

 

March / November

These two months are considered shoulder months, where world-class surf is still regularly scored with fewer people around. March offers a great opportunity, as warmer weather and optimal surf conditions keeps most surfers in the Southern hemisphere closer to home.

 

December

February is the Summer Season, with low crowds and occasional larger swells. Dominant South swells at this time are ideal for Macas and Greenbush (these are other spots). You can also book to take part in our annual Surf Coaching Clinics held in January and February, which include surf coaching and photography package.