The best surf spots in Indonesia

To say you’ve surfed in Mentawai (also known as ‘The Ments’) is an achievement most surfers dream about. Strung along the west coast of Sumatra, this group of about 70 islands are renowned for constant waves all year round, especially between May and September. Mentawai offers a variety of wave types catering to different abilities, from calmer point breaks to impressive reef breaks. It’s tough to pick out the best spots, but the Macaronis, Hollow Trees (aka Lances Right), and The Hole never disappoint. Boat charters were the best way to do it once upon a time, but these days, many more accommodation options are cropping up on the islands, from simple homestays to luxury resorts.

Also known as Grajagan Bay or Plengkung Beach, G-Land is one of Java’s most famous surf spots, best for experienced surfers. Thanks to its location on the south coast and directly facing the Indian Ocean, the bay benefits from a constant southerly swell. Best known for its long left-handers, the waves are at their largest between April and September. Banyuwangi is the closest city to G-Land, and you can get here via ferry from Bali or train and plane from other cities in Java. If you’re willing to fork out though, it’s much faster to get a chartered boat from Bali directly to G-Land. Set within the Alas Purwo National Park, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the savannas and rainforests on the days when you’re not surfing too.

Bali is a bucket list destination for any keen surfer, with something for all abilities. If it’s your first time on a board, the iconic Kuta Beach is one of the best places to learn thanks to its sandy beach and mellow waves. Canggu is another great spot for beginners, while Padang Padang, Keramas, and Bingin Beach are best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. But to really experience Bali’s incredible surf, make a beeline for Uluwatu, arguably the island’s most legendary surf spot. Perched on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula, where picturesque limestone cliffs soar above the ocean, this area boasts a variety of breaks including The Peak, Outside Corner, Racetracks, and The Temple. Uluwatu’s many clifftop bars double as a viewing point for the action below.

Located off the coast of southeast Bali, the island of Nusa Lembongan has everything you need for the perfect surf trip. There is a huge selection of accommodation options and many cafés, restaurants, and bars. “But what about the waves?” you ask. Well, the island's western side has various breaks ranging from easy to challenging. Serving up right and left-hand breaks close to each other, these breaks include Playgrounds, Shipwrecks, Razors, and the challenging Lacerations. Nusa Lembongan gets very busy during peak season, so if you want to avoid the masses, consider visiting during the shoulder season (March, April, September, and October) when the crowds are thinner but the waves are still at their best.

Just next door to Bali, Lombok’s laid-back atmosphere and quiet beaches make it a surfer’s paradise. On the west coast, beginners can find easy waves and surf schools in the tourist areas of Senggigi and Mangsit. The south coast of Lombok is exposed to the Indian Ocean, making for some gnarly waves (especially between April and October), although there is the exception of Selong Belanak and Tanjung Aan with their newbie-friendly sandy bottoms and gentle waves. Seasoned pros can head to Mawi for some powerful breaks or Are Guling for a more secluded spot. On the very southwestern tip of Lombok is Bangko-Bangko, also known as Desert Point. This famous spot offers some of the longest barrels in Indonesia which can grow up to 300 metres.

The next island over from Lombok, Sumbawa also has some fantastic surf and even fewer crowds (and that’s really saying something). The west coast is for the pros – expect to find strong swells in breaks such as Scar Reef, Yo-Yos, and Super Suck. Meanwhile, the southeast coast is home to Lakey Peak, the island’s most well-known surf spot. Lakey Peak is best for left-hand reef breaks and the occasional right-hander, and is a must for any confident surfer. There are direct flights from Bali to Sumbawa, as well as a public ferry from Lombok. Once you’re in Sumbawa, the best way of getting around is by hiring a car or scooter – it’s a large island, and many of the surf spots are very remote.

If you really want to get off the beaten track, head further east to Sumba. It’s only in recent years that tourism has started to take off, so for the most part, you’ll still find dusty tracks and empty beaches. Right outside the famous luxury resort of Nihi Sumba is the perfect left tube of Occy’s Left, exclusive to those staying there. For those of you who aren’t willing to fork out thousands of dollars per night, there are plenty of other breaks to try. On the west coast, head to beaches such as Pero, Waingyapu, and Marosi, while on the southeastern coast of Sumba are Five-O, Miller’s Rights, and The Office. Sumba has a very distinct and unique culture, so make time to experience traditional ceremonies and visit local villages in between your surf sessions.