The 4 best surf spots in Indonesia

The exotic beaches, fantastic weather, hospitality and great food are just some of the main features of Indonesia. Indonesia hosts some of the top surf spots in the world and is probably at the top when it comes to Asia surf travel. The archipelago with its 245 million inhabitants has more than 17 thousand islands and 54 thousand kilometers of coastline. This makes it the largest island nation in the world.

General information about surfing in Indonesia

There are two seasons in Indonesia, the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which lasts from April to October, is considered the best time for waves. This is because the winter storms in the Indian Ocean create consistent swells that are hit by the southeast trade winds. These trade winds are offshore on all the coasts facing the swells, including waves like Uluwatu, G-Land and Desert Point.

The weather is also consistent with water temperatures above 27°C and average air temperatures of 30°C. However, the rainy season, which lasts from November to March, still has a lot to offer. Many experienced Indo travelers visit Bali and the Mentawai now in the rainy season (also known as the low season), as there are fewer crowds and incredible waves.

In short, the most important and popular regions for surfing are Sumatra, Java, Bali and the Mentawai. Of course, there are also many unknown surf spots and remote small islands throughout the country.

Timor and reds

As the popular surfing regions in Indonesia like Bali, the Mentawai and Sumatra become more and more crowded, more and more surfers are looking for alternatives. Timor and Rote are destinations where adventurers can find real quality without the crowds. Most surfers are drawn to Rote, a small island off the southwest coast or West Timor, which has a great mix of offshore island reef breaks to offer, including the mile-long left-hand reef at T-Land. Other beaches and breaks include Boa, Suckies and Do'o.

Best time: The region lies above Australia and has a narrow swell window, with only the southwest corner directly facing Indian Ocean swells. However, there are numerous high quality setups that come to life during southwest swells, most commonly from March to November. This is also the time when offshore southeast trade winds prevail. And unlike some other islands in the archipelago, the locals are friendly to the few surfers in their waters.

Nias

Considered the best seven-second wave in surfing, Lagundri Bay on Nias Island became the poster child for Indonesia's blend of perfection and adventure nearly 40 years ago. More recently, it was one of the few waves to survive the deadly 2005 earthquake unscathed. In fact, the wave has improved. And although Lagundri Bay is the jewel with its perfect barrel wave and dry paddle-out, there are many other great waves on Nias.

The waves of Asu and Bawa on the nearby Hinako Islands are also within easy reach. The fastest connection to Nias is a daily domestic flight from Medan to the capital Gunungsitoli. However, if you have more time than money, there are weekly ferries from Padang. 

Best time: Traditionally, the Indonesian surf season peaks during the Indonesian dry season from May to September, when the southwestern swells that wave work best are most consistent. However, word is starting to spread that Nias can produce decent waves almost any time of year. The waves are smaller, so perfect for the inner sections of Lagrundi, and the crowds thin out noticeably.

Mentawai

Since the discovery of waves by hardy explorers in the 1990s, the Mentawai island chain has revolutionized surfing. The 70 or so islands off the west coast of Sumatra offer more perfect waves per square kilometer than any other surf destination. There are 50 recognized quality breaks, with Hollow Trees, Macaronis, Rifles and Green Bush known as some of the best in the world. Because the breaks are isolated and stretch over 100 miles, it was discovered early on that boats were the best way to get to the breaks.

Best time: The Mentawai are considered the most consistent surfing area in the world and offer surfing all year round. Low Season - From December to February the region is always deserted, the weather is fantastic and you have your choice of more small perfect waves than you can surf in a year. Mid Season - March, April, October and November are considered mid season but offer everything from solid swells to small fun days. High Season - If you want to get the barrel of a lifetime, and experience what real Indonesian surfing is like, the months between May and September are the ones for you.

Kite and windsurfing in Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the most popular destinations for surfers, but its potential for kitesurfers is somewhat underestimated. Many kitesurfers complain about the lack of steady winds in Indonesia. However, the country with more than 17,000 islands has many windy spots and perfect conditions for a kite and windsurf trip. Usually, the wind is stronger in the dry season from May to October. And although Indonesia is famous for its waves, you can also find flat spots. The islands of Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa, Sumatra and Sulawesi are the most famous Indonesian wind destinations.

Kitesurfing in Indonesia is always an adventure as riders discover exciting new spots. Pulau Tabuan, or Tabuhan Island, is a small atoll in East Java with flat water and winds up to 25 knots. A perfect place for freeriders with smooth water, fantastic scenery and trade winds has become a new destination for kite and windsurfers in Southeast Asia.

Best time: May-October

You want to see the breathtaking island scenery of Indonesia live?

Indonesia is incredibly versatile due to its geographical location and there is a lot to discover. To explore as many islands and nature as possible, or to surf the best wave, island hopping by boat is highly recommended! Do you want to experience more of Indonesia and besides the enchanting islands and magical surf adventures also make animal acquaintances and dive into the cultural history of Indonesia? Then check out our Indonesia trip more precisely and come with us on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure!

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