Surf Spot : Simeulue Sumatra Indonesia

90NM west of Tapaktuan on Sumatra.

Part of Aceh Province, Simeulue and its satellite islets are as deep into frontier land as you can get. Essentially a volcanic island that is densely forested and surrounded by coral at varying depths, there isn't much 'civilization', and accommodation is minimal.

Baneng Beach Retreat on the southwest corner of Simeulue is the only surfing resort on the island and is by far the best option for those wanting to enjoy the Simeulue surfing experience by land.
Visitors to Baneng will almost certainly be surfing perfect waves with just a few friends as there are no local surfers in the area and there are virtually no other accommodation options. This is truly an uncrowded surf destination. The resort offers guided access to waves by boat and by land.

The island is characterized by Palm lined beaches and beautiful bays
with great diving. Smaller off-shore islands are accessed by boat. Air access is available from Medan. Once there, access to surf is harder than hard core. In addition, malaria is a serious problem here. If you want to go surf there, the only truly safe options are via established yacht charters or by prearrangement with the surf camp.

Surf Spot : Bingin Bali Indonesia

As for Padang, but take a R 2km before marked 'Surfing beach Bingin - Impossibles'. You can stay in the losmen at the bottom of the cliff, eat cheap, and even get your board carried back up the steep path.

Super-hollow, classic left shared with a tightly packed group. Everything is focussed on the tiny take-off point, and if you actually get a wave to yourself it's likely you'll have to dodge helmet-cams bobbing around. If successful, you can get square, perfect barrels even on a 2-3ft day. Advanced, but easier on high tide. Sharp coral. Beautiful spot for late p.m. Bintang and noodle soup.
Impossibles
Visible looking south from Bingin, with easy access from Padang Padang; the first peak is out the front to the right of the beach, where there's a good channel.
This is a mad, very long, fast left-hand coral point that barrels hard over a sharp shallow sea bottom, offering only a slender chance of making an exit. It needs a very large swell to get going (Ulus needs to be over 6ft), and isn't always the fairground ride it may appear from the top. The most usual scenario is take-off into barrel, get out-raced, start again. Lower tides best. Currents. Long paddle. Advanced.

Surf Spot : Uluwatu Bali Indonesia

As for Padang-Padang, then continue south for about 2k. First turnoff is now cut off by new resort, although you can park just inside the first gate and walk about a km. 2nd turnoff is best, and takes you straight to the cave via some concrete steps and the Rip Curl toilet.

The romance of Indonesia's first surf mecca was being strangled for years, and has now finally been killed off. The major development on the northern cliff, with the original warungs clinging desperately to the slopes underneath, is an omen for the whole peninsula. Access is still through the famous cave, but even this now has concrete steps to replace the old bamboo ladder. This all quickly forgotten once out in the line-up however, which still comprises some of the most consistently good lefts in Indonesia.

At high tide you enter the cave, paddle fast and accept the current which takes you over to the right but eases off on the outside. On low tide you have to hop off the edge of the exposed reef between sets. Essentially a series of left-handers breaking on quite sharp coral (reef boots a must) with many different personalities and take-off points depending on the tides and swell size. Ulus is essentially a dry season wave although it is one of the most consistent waves in Bali, and can be surfed on windless mornings all year round.

Moderate east to south-east trade-winds comb it into perfect shape, but conversely it can suffer from a lack of shape or 'morning sickness' on early mornings with no breeze. On smaller days and higher tides in those conditions, it can be a fun, even flaccid spot, and crowds are often much smaller because most arrive from Kuta later in the day.

Temples, out the back over on the far left-hand side, is your best chance of a peaceful surf. The longer paddle thins out the numbers although there is another, dangerous, access point. Fun on high tide (unless it is big), it is a nice left-hander away from the main area. Not usually as lined up as The Peak or Racetrack, but can get good and hollow on it's day. 3-12ft. Advanced. Needs bigger swells and low tide.

The Peak, in front of the cave and slightly to the left, is the most ridden peak, and best at mid tide. It features a punchy take-off and good opportunities for barrels. You will often need to kick out early or face a nasty shut down; the inside section is very shallow. When the reef outside the cave is fully coverde the sweep can be wicked. This means that to get back in you need to take a wave, straighten out and ride the foam as far back right as you can to avoid missing the entrance and having to start again. Lost boards at these times mean a swim to Padang, or clambering back up and across some evil, pointy rocks. 2-10ft. Advanced. On average swells and higher tides, intermediate peaks open up between here and Temples and the set-up is unpredictable. On big days, a small high tide can be good and line up.

Race-track, just right of the cave, is the last section of the wave. It work best on low tide to 2 hours either side. This is a super fast, bending, hollow speed ride, and once barreled you either blast out gloriously or get crushed as the sections increase in size. It gets super shallow as it wraps around the point towards Padang. Experts only. 2-8ft.

Outside Corner: On bigger days and lower tides, out the back to the right side of the set-up is this big-wave arena for experts. Outtside Corner: On bigger days and lower tides, out the back to the right side of the set-up is this big-ave arena for experts. Outside corner, when working, is a heavy, sucking left-hand barrel that can hold very solid swell. On dry season afternoons with 8-10ft+ swell, it'll assume Hawaiian proportions with harsh wind-driven spray pushing you off the back or forcing you to take off extremely late. 6-15ft. Big boards required. Experts.

Overall hazards include craggy reef at low tide, when reef boots are a must. Currents on higher tides although the reef is nice and deep at this time. Major crowds after 10a.m.

Buy a tee shirt or 3 from the lovely ladies at the cave car-park or in the warungs. Make a small contribution to have your gear looked after too and, finally, enjoy the afterglow over a Bintang and some healthy cheap food over looking the peak.

Surf Spot : Java Indonesia

The island of Java is a coastline of countless secret spots. While the waves of Grajagan, One Palm and Apocalypse of Panaitan Island are legendary breaks these days, the numerous breaks of Cimaja and Genteng are much less known and the high quality barrels of Central Java are only just starting to be talked about. The coastline of Java produces a wide variety of waves including short intense barrels, long winding ones, ones that are top to bottom when they’re double to triple head high as well as fun beachbreaks and playful points, both left and right.

There is a massive amount of surf in Java. And despite common assumptions, much of it is offshore in trade winds. But getting to it is another thing. Despite it being the most densely populated piece of land on the planet, there is still a massive amount of coastline that is not accessible by road. And even where there are roads and you know where you’re going, you can still spend 18 hours a day driving around from one break to the next. But this is something that’s not an issue for us aboard the very comfortable Lambo.

Surf Spot : Sumba Indonesia

A wild and remote island, Sumba's pristine extensive coastline is largely unexplored and unknown to most surfers. Sumba featured heavily in the Rob Machado film, Drifter and Nihiwatu, often referred to as Occy's left, is to most surfers, the only known break there. I have visited Sumba numerous times and know of 3 other world class lefts and 3 other world class rights as well as another area that has 5 high quality waves in one bay. And this is only what I know from my limited exploration of Sumba’s coastline. A big problem with looking for waves in Sumba is the lack of roads and access to the coast. On our way down to Timor while sailing through Sumba we passed by a stretch of very fun looking peaks and then moored for a few hours at the end of a long series of long right handers that I had not seen before. We only viewed Sumba’s east coast from a distance but the potential of this extensive string of beaches, points and bays is massive. With the Lambo and our scout boat we will be checking every potential nook and cranny with comfort and ease.

Surf Spot : Rote Indonesia

Rote has amazingly well formed reefs. I think the percentage of quality surfable reef here is higher than the Mentawais. Almost every bend in the reef has a wave. There are three reasonably well known waves: Nembrala, Boa and Sucky Mama’s. So far we've come across another left that was a soft version Grajagan's Speedies reef that produced 50 yard barrels, a 400 meter long right hander, a very fast and hollow Rags style right, a bombie style left, two more long Nembrala lefts, another world class right, numerous fun beachbreak style peaks and two left points, one that we moored at for a couple of weeks and scored daily perfection all to ourselves. We also sailed past three perfect right hand points in a very isolated area that due to the small swell only showed micro peelers as we sailed past but certainly looked like they would produce perfection on their day. Of all these, only three breaks were accessible by land.

Surf Spot : Jimbaran Bay Bali Indonesia

Nestled in between the airport and the beginning of the Bukit Peninsula.

If there's a very big southwest swell out there it can offer beginners waves across the strip at low tide, breaking on sand and getting bigger the further N you go. There is a very rare right reef off the Four seasons at the S end, and 2 left points in coves further round. Both need low tide and huge swell to show, with SE winds off-shore. A bombora right left combo works way off-shore in similar, and might make a good tow-in spot.

Surf Spot : Padang-Padang Bali Indonesia

Head S from Kuta through Jimbaran. At the end of Jimbaran is a 3-way split. Take middle road marked 'Uluwatu'. After 4km approx. Take R at shop down Jl Labuansait all the way to the bridge above Labuansait Beach. Park. Down steps through rock tunnel. The main take-off is around the point to the left. You can walk around on low, or use the deep channel.

Classic, extremely hollow, very shallow left-hand reef break for experts. Padang is Bali's most consequential wave, but it needs a major ground-swell to show; think minimum 6ft plus at Uluwatu. Being clearly visible from the road, easily accessible, and unchallenging in the paddle-out, this spot gets very crowded indeed. The small take-off zone exacerbates the situation, so you need to be skilled and tactful to get your share of waves here. Even on a small day, take-off is usually straight into a yawning, turquoise, oval barrel, just like Pipeline. Then it's a matter of maximum speed, sight your exit, and stand solid all the way to the deep channel. A fall here is punishing, with pointy, lava-based shallow coral forming holes and spikes.

Padang works through the tides although low is extremely serious and should be avoided by newcomers. Mid tides still toss up perfect barrels and there's a good channel from mid to high. It's worth wearing reef boots at all times so that you can put your feet down when wiping out. Some even wear spring-suits; ostensibly for nipple-rash, but usually to give a little protection from the pock-marked reef. Experts only. Fickle. 3-10ft. Heading on up the hill towards Uluwatu there's a right to 'Thomas Homestay'. The beach under this is also known as Padang-Padang, and can have waves away from the crowds. Buy a cold drink and enjoy the view.

Surf Spot : Sumatra Indonesia

Sumatra is the vast frontier of unexplored surf in Indonesia. Much of its coastline is inaccessible by road, extensive jungled covered mountain ranges run the length of the island and tigers still prowl the jungles and harass local villages. There are miles and miles of coastline that are still unexplored and some of the best surf in the world peels away in Sumatra, most of it still largely unridden. Despite the massive amount of well know surf of the Mentawais, Nias and Krui, I estimate that less than 50% of Sumatran surf is known. The are extensive areas that are pretty much completely untapped. Aceh, Enganno, South Sumatra, the Java Strait, the Banyaks and Telos islands. The fact is most of it is completely unaccessible, except by boat. I'm really looking forward to seeing what we find in Sumatra. The potential is massive.

Surf Spot : Airport Lefts Bali Indonesia

Off the end of the runway. Catch a Jukung from South Kuta unless you are training for an Ionman contest. Superb left-hand reef on the same coral base that was used to anchor the runway. Sections are more fun and bash-able than most Indo breaks. Usually less crowded and bigger than Kuta reef next door, but its still worth going early to get an easier session in before the crowds. A second peak absorbs the numbers. Suffers from strong cross-offshore winds on dry season afternoons.

Surf Spot : Kuta Reef Bali Indonesia

S end of Kuta Beach at Wana Segara Street. Get a Jukung and politely pay your fare, about 20'000RP each way.

This classy reef left-hander reels for long enough to fit in multiple bottom turns, and can feature very make able barrels. Needs solid swell to get going (Ulus will usually be several feet bigger), but is the best wave near Kuta. Extremely crowded unless you go very early, and these days that means a dawn raid. Afternoons get wind-blown (cross-off-shore) as it's far from the lee of the land. A few hundred meters south towards the airstrip, but further out to sea, is Middles. Generally less crowded, bigger, but not as barrel-rich, Middles is a straight-forward take-off into a long wall with a few turns possible before the close-out section. Sometimes it lines up further, but riding beyond and inside the reef-line leaves you fully exposed to multiple hold-downs. Below mid is a close-out. For both spots book a ride both ways as it's a 20 minute paddle home. 2-10ft. Intermediates plus.

Surf Spot : Kuta and Legian beach-breaks Bali Indonesia

For many, the brown-water-beach-breaks stretching from Kuta Beach up to Seminyak are the first waves they surf in Indonesia. Not an inspiring introduction to Indian Ocean power, but these fairly consistent black sand beach-breaks are a great warm-up and jet-lag reviver, close the action.

Kuta Beach itself, the large strip centered around Jalan Pantai Kuta, can be the worlds worst close-out, especially at low-tide. At best, you can get fast cover-ups, and the up-side is the waves are usually super-hollow, and offshore in the southeast trades. At the west end of that street, you can jog up and check for the best peak.
Halfway, located level with Poppies Lane 2, often has the best peaks. You'll spot it from almost anywhere because there's always a solid group out there. It gets a bit more wind than spots down the beach but holds better shape thought the tides and is pretty consistent, and usually hollow. If its over 4 feet you will get thumped!
Padma, at the end of the street of the same name, is one of a number of well-frequented sections of beach running north from Kuta to Legian. If you're in a bemo, you might want to check the spots up and down Jalan Raya Kuta and find the best on the day. Body-boarders and a regular crew surf outside the Blue Ocean Hotel at the end of Jalan Putra, and there are plenty of peaks running across this area. The whole strip is often very murky, with plastic items floating in the water and washing up on the beach. Best avoided after rains.

Further up towards Seminyak are more low tide peaks, getting more consistent but messy as you head north. Best on morning glass or opportunistic NE winds. Of note is the beach-break called Petitenget, near the Legian Hotel.

Breaks from 1-6ft (more if lucky although often the bigger swells are a suicide mission involving heavy close-outs). Higher tides generally best. Ideal for beginners on most days. Can be used as an indicator for Ulu's and Bukit breaks; if its a genuine 4-6 feet here pack your gun and head south: Uluwatu could be 10 feet, Padang may well be breaking, and Green Ball will be too big by far.

Surf Spot : Canggu & Pererenan Bali Indonesia

Canggu: North from Kuta, through Seminyak and beyond. Just past Kerobokan and through many rice field, via Padang Linjong Village, you'll see signs to 'Canggu Surfing' & 'Echo Beach'. There are 3 access points.

Black lava sand beach with 2 areas to surf, over sand and lava rock. If you ever catch it with nobody out it can be eerie, but that is not likely. Canggu ('Changgoo') is the main escape route from Kuta beach breaks. Best surfed early morning before the trade winds, up to about 6-8ft. Waves tend to peak up out of nowhere here in the black water, and low tide can get sketchy on the inside. Low lying cliffs and steep beach at high are a hazard. Advanced. On moderate swells if Canggu is crowded, you can check the black sand beach-breaks at Brawa (Berawa) a kilometre south.

Pererenan: Right next door to Canggu and often considered part of the same spot. Road ends at Pondok Wisata Losmen right at the break. Quick way is via Kerobokan towards Tanah Lot, but Pererenan Village go left at 'Pantai Pererenan' sign.

Left and right peaks over sand and lava best on higher tides unless small. Both peaks shoulder out into a well defined channel although you can take the 'wrong way' on each depending on tides and size. There's sometimes a bit of a crew here but crowds are well absorbed by the shifting peaks. Afternoon breezes are side-onshore. All levels if small. Advanced when big. Consistent spot pulling more swell than Kuta beach-breaks.

Surf Spot : Balian Bali Indonesia

It's about a half way between Canggu and Medewi. Head north out of Kuta through Tabanan, to the T-junction at Antosari. Take a left down to Soka Beach and you'll rejoin the coast road which bends right to the north-west. After about 9km you are there; you'll see it down on the left from the bridge.

Consistent, well shaped river mouth/beach break (with a few cobblestones throw in). Generally gutless although can get hollow, but is more likely line up. If beaches at Kuta are 2ft, it might be 5 up here, but the trade-winds ruin it so get up early. Any tide can work. Crowds variable but rarely bad. All levels unless big. Water gets dirty. Soka Beach itself may be worth a look on the way although it's quality isn't as recognized as Balian. It's a pleasant spot for a re-fuelling at any of the warungs while you check the surf

Surf Spot: Aceh & The Northern Islands

Aceh Province - The Mainland
A separatist movement, recently lifted martial law, a press blackout, and a total ban on access by foreigners; not a recipe for casual surf travel. Indonesia's northernmost province has been wraps for several years although it seems that access will soon be granted again. Aceh west coast has makeable road that flirts with the coastline all the way from Banda Aceh to and beyond the port town of Meulaboh (250 km). Travellers along this road will see awesome forest and mountains, and get a glimpses of pristine beaches, some backed up by grade A surf. Beyond Meulaboh towards the ferry town of Susoh (for Simeulue), and Singkil (For the Banyaks), lies possibly the most uncharted surf territory in Indonesia.

The surf around the capital of Banda Aceh on the northern tip has been documented by stoked adventurers since the 1980. Surfers have even made their mark on Pulau Breueh and Pulau Weh, both accessible by ferry from Banda Aceh. Weh has some of the most beautiful palm fringed beaches and lagoons in Sumatra, with basic accommodation available. It is more famed for its diving (whale sharks and turtles) than its waves.

Easier access is at hand for Lhok Nga, a scenic spot about 15km south of Banda. In this area you can sniff out a beautiful little surfy village with a consistent, perfect frame reef break at its epicentre. A little further down, the very, very fickle hollow long rights of Pantai Camara can be worth the wait. Tides here are never a problem, but winds need to be right. Mami Dianas Losmen is a good base from which to find your own favorite spot. A ride further south still near Lamno, you might be lucky enough to glimpse good wet season rights at the river mouth, and a quality right point.

There are reef breaks all the way down the coast at and around Keudeunga, Babah Nipah, and all the way to Meulaboh, which has both long lefts and rights either side of a major headland. Serious travelers only. Medical help is far.


Simeulue
90NM west of Tapaktuan on Sumatra.

Part of Aceh Province, Simeulue and its satellite islets are as deep into frontier land as you can get. Essentially a volcanic island that is densely forested and sorrounded by coral at varying depths, there isn't much 'civilization', and accommodation is minimal (a new surf camp, Baneng Island, opens down on the southwest corner as we go to press).

Palm lined beaches and beautiful bays with great diving. Sketchy air access is available from Medan when politics allow, although once there, access to surf is harder than hard core. In addition, malaria is a serious problem here. If you want to go surf there, the only truly safe options are via established yacht charters or by prearrangement with the new surf camp, which has charter flights out of Medan, and which will no doubt be the first of several.


The Banyaks
declared off-limits to boat charters by the Indonesian government, the Banyaks lie 20 NM offshore from Singkil on mainland Sumatra Overland and ferry access from there if you are immensely patient. The only meaningful way to surf the islands is by yacht charter as and when the ban is lifted. What accommodation there is, is centred on Pulau Palambak Besar, consisting of leaf houses and home-stays. Prepare yourself for a low 'surf to hassle ratio'.

The 99 islands harbour a cache of surf spots that will one day be 'discovered' by the world at large. Treasure Island / Machine Gun Rights is perhaps the most talked about wave here. A superb lengthy right coral point that has been seen to form precise lines and almond barrels over hundreds of yards.

Hazards; very little accommodation. Malaria.

Surf Spot : Banyak Island

The Banyaks

declared off-limits to boat charters by the Indonesian government, the Banyaks lie 20 NM offshore from Singkil on mainland Sumatra Overland and ferry access from there if you are immensely patient. The only meaningful way to surf the islands is by yacht charter as and when the ban is lifted. What accommodation there is,BANYAK ISLAND LODGE located in the Bay of Plenty surrounded by lush tropical rain forest the first land based surf-eco lodge in the banyaks that provides surfers and non-surfers alike with comfortable accommodation that sits directly in front of a unique 3 wave setup.The lodge is an exclusive 8 guest facility providing surf trips that give maximum surf time with all the comforts and freedom

The Banyaks offer a wide range of surf suitable for all levels, styles and ages.

Due to its northern hemisphere location the banyaks are blessed with year round surf.

Trade winds from October to march blow offshore in the bay of plenty. West swell that hits the bay of plenty directly are generated by a combination of tropical cyclones in the Indian ocean while being enhanced by lingering swells from the south. 2008/9 off season saw back to back swells that ranged from 2-6ft.

From April to October winds are variable and usually tend west to south/west late morning making a combination of bay of plenty in the mornings and treasure island in the afternoon the chosen spots for optimal surf time. Ground swells from south-africa generate waves that range from 2-10ft with the odd swell reaching 12. When the big swells hit theres no other place to be than the banyaks. 

Surf Spot : Bali Indonesia

Where

Right in the middle of the southern trade-wind belt, Bali lies between latitude 8 and 9 degrees south. It is the most tourist-ready place in Indonesia, with an international airport accepting direct flights from Europe and Australia, as well as good connections for the USA.

Background

Bali is a densely populated island of over 3 million inhabitants. Hindu religion and culture permeate all areas of life, noticeable in the many ceremonies and colourful processions. Tourism, the mainstay of the economy, has had a massive impact, yet the strength of the Balinese culture has somehow survived, as has the warmth of the people.

The Setup

There are varied topographical and bathymetric circumstances on Bali. The Bukit in the south is a dramatically steep limestone peninsula fringed by shallow tables of coral that drop away reasonably severely. Fast reef breaks predominate as a result. The neck of the island is hard-packed sand with a mix of volcanic and calcareous grains, so dumping beach-breaks are no surprise. The body of the island is dominated by enormous volcanoes that have created black-sand and lava reef breaks, punctuated by the occasional river mouth.

The Waves

Whilst it is often used as a jump-off for other Indonesian surf adventures, Bali is where the whole thing started in the early 70s. Its still the center of Indian Ocean surfing, and has at least 6 of the worlds top 100 waves. There is a smattering of beach-breaks and some very high quality river mouth and even cobblestone point-style waves. What attracts the world surfing community however, are the long, perfectly formed reef-breaks of the Bukit peninsula down south. Uluwatu, Padang-Padang and Bingin are 3 unbelievable and unique lefts, while Nusa Dua, Hyatt Reef and Sanur offer 3 complementary rights of equally immense quality.

Tides

As in many parts of Indonesia, the character of waves in Bali changes dramatically according to the depth of water over the bottom. What may have been a grinding barrel at low tide, can become a group of playful peaks on high, although every spot is different. You can either get a tide table from a local surf shop, or just turn up and enjoy the different moods of the spot. If you miss the optimal tide, bear in mind that you will probably still have a fun surf, and you may also have missed the crowds who like to descend on the place at just the right time.

Winds

Many surf spots really come into their own when trade-winds kick in and comb the faces into perfect lines. Unlike, say, Southern California, glassy conditions are not always best, and can give a spot a kind of shapeless lethargy, or morning sickness�. Uluwatu is a good example. With winds kicking in around 10 a.m. onwards in dry season, you may therefore find that some spots are less crowded in the early mornings and, whilst not necessarily at their almighty best, can offer you more waves per hour.

Season

Bali surfing is generally divided into 2 coasts and 2 seasons. In essence, the west coast is off-shore throughout the dry season, from around April to September (and later if you are lucky). Winds are predominantly east - southeast. This is also the major swell window for the Indian Oceans big south pulses. It is southern hemisphere winter, and therefore peak season due to Balis proximity to Australia. For these reasons, the west coast waves, which are predominantly lefts, are the most well known and busiest. You can still surf these spots on lucky days off-season, and early mornings, so goofy-footers do not despair.

Wet season, from mid October to mid April, brings northwest trade-winds and quite a bit of rain. Some lucky travelers will only get wet at night , others will arrive in time for a full week or torrential rain; its a lottery. The up-side is less crowds, and a selection of awesome right-handers up the east coast from Nusa Dua to Sanur. Whilst there is less swell during this season, the more consistent spots like Nusa Dua itself will still be firing, and there are super-hollow, extremely long waves like Hyatt Reef to look forward to. Another factor is less Australians. That isnt Xenophobia, its just that Aussies surf pretty well so its harder to get waves when they are there en masse. Wet season falls across the northern hemisphere winter so the flavor can be more European.

Transport

Hiring a Bemo (minibus or big car with driver) is by far the best way to maximize your surf time and avoid getting lost and frustrated. Even if you can find your way around alone, chances are you will get stopped and fined by the police for not having a proper international license (there is a notorious police station on the way to Uluwatu). You can arrange drivers through any hotel, or at Bemo Corner (or any street) in Kuta. They are not as expensive as you might think, especially when shared between mates, and the drivers are always interesting, friendly guys who will look after you, point you in the right direction, and enrich your stay more than you enrich their pockets. See the Surf trip Planner at the back.
Many surf spots require a boat to get to, and all of these are well serviced by Jukung (wooden canoe with outrigger and motor) owners who line the beaches at Kuta, Nusadua and other spots. Pay your small 2-way fare nicely, and enjoy the ride; it is all in a good cause and paddling 800 yards to land, alone in the dark is not worth the saving.

Crowds

You will not escape people in Bali, whenever you are here. Lucky it is a party island so you can get up early and avoid them.

Boards

As in most of Indo, your usual board plus 6 inches length, and 1/4 inch thickness, will cover most situations. Waves are hollow and straight, so the rhino chaser approach does not always pay off, tending to limit your position changes in the barrel, or even catch. If your short board is a 6, then the ideal plan might be to take it along plus a 68 and a 7�.

Hazards

Shallow reef means cuts are common. Sneaker sets on bigger days. Crime is not a big issue but be careful late at night anyway.

Bali Bomb post-script

Almost every Balinese person you meet, is deeply saddened, and strangely embarrassed by the events of October 2002. The devastating attacks left wounds that will take a generation to heal. It is extremely likely you will meet somebody whose lost a family member. On a materialistic level, the economy of the Island has been dealt a knockout blow and there are many families living close to the bread-line. Bear this in mind when negotiating the price of your ride or T-shirt, and think of it as a tribute to the Balinese people that they remain the most warmly welcoming bunch of guys you are ever likely to meet. Whilst it is natural to fear going to a place that has been the target of a major act of bastardy, it is impossible to ignore the fact that Bali is still today, a safer place to be than most western cities.

Surf Spot : Airport Rights Bali Indonesia

On the southern side of the airstrip, Jukungs can be hired from the top end of Jimbaran bay, where there is a large fishing fleet.

Right hand reef break over a double curve of coral reef, that can barrel from start to finish and will be, at very least, extremely sucky. Of all the Kuta area reefs, this one is the shallowest, and the most likely to cut you if you fall. When it's around 3 feet on middle tides, it is a racy open tube all the way across. When it gets bigger, it just breaks on another section of the reef, just as shallow and round, for the most gaping stand-up tubes a man can want. On a 5-6ft day of low-ish mid tides and gentle easterly wind, it can dish out the best barrels of your life, although the exits are not always guaranteed.

Airport rights requires more swell than Lefts or even Kuta Reef if it is to fire; Kuta beach-breaks have to be at least 6 genuine feet. If you catch it on day one of a swell it'll be relatively uncrowded, but once word gets out every natural footer in town will show up looking for a break from surfing back-side. Although a dry season break, it is best early in the day before the winds get onto it; strong southeast trades create heavy cross-chop in the afternoons; it'll still barrel but the bumps can be harsh. 3-12ft plus. Advanced.

Surf Spot : Nias Lagundri

Lagundri Bay

An arduous journey is required. From Telukdalam on Nias, get a truck ride or opelet (minibus). It's 13km west and well known. The main wave is at Pantai Sorake, which is littered with losmen accomodation.

One of the world's very best right-handers peels into Lagundri Bay. Once the ultimate surfari destination, Nias has lost it's forefront position in the collective urfer's conscious, but it's still a veritable surf hub, teeming with surfers from across the globe. There are still uncrowded days to be had outside of major European or Australian holiday periods. There is plenty of accommodation, with over 20 losmen, and a heap of watering holes and warungs. Despite all this modernisation, Nias is in a malaria zone, with resistant strains appearing in recent years. Major flooding is possible in wet season, with severely destructive deluges over the last few years. Rip-offs have been on the increase in and around the surf village at Sorake Beach, with attracts a few shady characters.

The Point: Opposite the tower on Sorake Beach, lies the perfect right-hander that we have salivated over in surf magazines since the late '70's. South to South-west swells wrap around the outer headland and unload onto the table reef, bulging and jacking up at the take-off zone. The wave is often an extended barrel from thereon to the finish, and works from 3 to about 12 ft plus. There's a good deep paddle-out channel to the right of the take off-zone. On the inside, smaller forgiving peaks are good for warming up and getting your bearings; this fun wave with few consequences is sometimes reffered to as Kiddieland.

Ihe Machine: Right inside the bay is a perfect left-hand barrel machine requiring very large swell from the south. It's the spot to check when The Point is too big. Most tides OK although full moon high is the most likely to yield quality.

Indicators: Way out the back to the right of The Point is a heavy, current affected, hollow right-hand reef break that's often more exposed to winds. On lower tides this is a dangerous spot, but whatever the conditions, it's for the experienced only. On high tide it is more makeable but still for hell-men.

Hazards; Reef cuts, urchins, malaria, rip-offs. Roads go quite a long way up both coasts, enabling some excellents exploration expeditions. To the west, spots such as Sobatu (for pros only), Northern Secrets, or Lantana Lefts, can be sniffed out with the help of local guides. Telukdalam itself has a couple of valid waves in it's vicinity, including a good right-hander. The locations of these waves is best left vague, in order to sweeten the thrill of finding them.


Hilisataro Village
You can check this area out from Lagundri, hiring a local guide or renting a bike and heading east past Telukdalam.

If there's a solid south swell, a couple of good waves can be found here, notably a right-hand reef/point that get good when winds are either zero or northwesterly. Middle tides best. Not the most consistently big spot, but will often have a wave of sorts.


Afulu Beach
In the northwest sector of Nias. An hour's boat ride from Asu, which is your best approach; you can arrange it from Hinako's Hideway or Patrick's on that island.

Surf Spot : Sumbawa Surf Spot

The Location is between Lombok and Flores to the east, Sumbawas 300km length twists west to east and lies in the epicenter of the southern trade-wind belt.

Background

If you are nostalgic about olden day Bali then the step back in time encountered on Sumbawa is for you. Its a rugged land, in part sparsely populated, with arid scrub and volcanoes as a backdrop.

Transport

Transport is nonexistent outside the centers of Poto Tano (where the Lombok Ferry lands), and the airport towns of Sumbawa Besar and Bima. Horse drawn carts are common. One main road runs from the west (Taliwang) to the East, through the 2 main towns of Sumbawa Besar and Bima. The west coast and its rich surf zones, is well serviced by road from Poto Tano to Sejorong, where it narrows then stops abruptly, leaving much of the south coast in a time warp.

East of Cempi Bay, there are pretty good roads servicing Huu and the Lakey peak area via Dompu. A road from Sumbawa Besar leads directly to Lunyuk, where you can take a gamble on some of the untapped surf resources around.

The Setup

The land mass is heavily influenced by volcanoes, and the coastline is mostly a series of large inlets and bays. Shallow lying coral flats, exposed at low tide, are the predominant sea bottom.

The two established areas are the west coast around Taliwang, and the Huu area, which also faces west out of the dry season trade winds. The swell window is just south of due west, to just west of due south, with the most penetrating swell coming from the southwest.
The Waves

Sumbawa surfing was put on the map when west coast breaks like Scar Reef and Supersucks were discovered and heavily surfed by boat. The waves here are fast, shallow reef-breaks with several well known lefts and some surprising rights. Lakey beach near Huu is the other hot spot, with luminaries like Periscopes, Lakey Peak and Lakey Pipe. These are busy waves during the season, with a host of accommodation options right on the spot. Again, mostly reef breaks of an advanced, though some would say slightly less intimidating nature. In between the two, horrendous road conditions (or no roads at all) have kept surf invasion at bay for now.

Seasons

April to September is the best time to get off-shore conditions on most Sumbawa breaks, although mid season winds are heavy in the afternoon. There is also a trade-off between consistency and population; April and May can be inconsistent. From June onwards the swell is more likely to crank but the place is often overrun. Flat spells are never to be ruled out; its fair to say that some of the better spots here are less consistent than many Sumatra or Java breaks.

Crowds

As mentioned, mid season can be horribly crowded at Lakey. The west coast is more of a lottery because surfers often arrive by boat, meaning 1 day empty, the next full-on Californian summer.

Hazards

Bumpy roads. Some hassle near the mines at Maluk and around the west coast. It is common for groups of young men to carry machetes in Sumbawa, although not intended as an attack weapon. No major critters although the pythons are enormous, and Komodo Dragons intimidating. Most sharks are reef varieties that are harmless. Some malaria if rains are heavy. Usual reef cut advisory applies.

Boards

See Bali section; the same rules apply. You need something that can handle barrels. Board repair is available at Lakey although not exactly cheap or of good quality....bring spares if you can. Extra leashes are essential, as there are no surf shops although you might luck out with a block of wax etc. at your accommodation.

Surf Spot : Rote/Numberala

Rote has been on the surfers map for thirty years, and its star wave, Nemberala, an underground cult wave for most of that. Both Rote and Sabu are part of the Timor district, and are serviced by air from Kupang. There are also yacht charters (see section) out of Kupang, that take in Sabu and Rote and surrounding islands. Nemberala itself has a huddle of surfer accommodation, making it a great base for eastern surf adventures, with waves down at Boa and offshore islands. We will feature some discovered waves that are the tip of the iceberg in this region.

Seasons

Dry season (which is very dry in these parts) from April to September, is peak swell season and the name breaks are mostly off-shore. Afternoons can get extremely windy mid season. The region has a relatively narrow swell window and prolonged flat spells are possible. There are some fantastic right-handers that are offshore in northwest wet season winds although patience is required to catch them firing.

Hazards - Reef cuts. Lack of medical facilities. Some small-scale theft reported. Remote surf spots beyond medical help. Sabu and surrounds has a lack of food and accommodation.

Surf Spot: Medewi Beach in Bali

Where:

It takes more and less 2,5 hours drive from Kuta, small village with friendly of local people

The Waves
Medewi: A long left point break, rolling gently over round river stones,a bit like a reversed Malibu, perfect for long boards and learners. Can be a bit fat and slow, but still lots of fun.
Best at mid to high tide, from 4 to 8 foot.trade winds blow on - shore, so arrive at dawn, or stay at the beachside cotages.Swell here is usually larger than Kuta, smaller than Balian, There's a fun right around the southern point too

Balian: Left and right breaking over round river rocks, Chops heaps of swell, rarely under 4 foot, sometimes bigger than Uluwatu

Lombok Indonesia Surf Spot

A stones throw from Bali, Lombok rises majestically and suddenly out of the Indian Ocean. It sits between 8 and 9 degrees south, in the center of the southern tropical trade-wind belt. This western most island of Nusa Tenggara is the beginning of the dry side of Indonesia; you will notice that the forested landscapes give way to arid scrub. The whole deal is 80 by 80 km. Ferries and planes go from Bali, and the main airport, Mataram on the west coast, is well connected to most big Indonesian towns. It is in an ideal position for quick boat trips from Bali.

Background

Lombok is in some ways a flash-back to Bali in the 70s. It is considerably less developed for tourism, and has nothing like the volume of food and accommodation options. Apart from these obvious parallels, the comparisons falter. The population on Lombok is 90% Sasak, an ethno-cultural group sharing characteristics and beliefs with Javanese and Sumbawanese. People are very friendly, often surprising visitors with their generous hospitality, although you will not always find the universal openness to Westerners that sets Bali apart. The scenery is breathtaking; Mount Rinjani dominates the entire island, and the laid-back Gilis off the west coast have incredible diving and pristine beaches. The semi arid bays of the south coast, such as Selong Belanak, are an unforgettable backdrop to a surf session.

The Setup

Lomboks surf-rich south coast is a craggy stretch that offers enough angles to cater for both dry and wet-season wind directions. Whilst swell supply to some name breaks is not in ready supply, its unlikely you will go more than a few days without some form of ride able wave. Most breaks are coral reef based, and very much influenced by tide. Many of the best waves are in deeply recessed bays, requiring considerable refraction. A craggy bathymetry along the south coast results in waves funneling into unlikely places. The Lombok Strait, running up the west coast, is an extremely deep bottle-neck of water, which is why currents here can be extremely strong between tides. Full moon surfing at mid tide Desert Point for example, can be an Iron Mans challenge. Beaches are mostly white cal carious sand, and among the most beautiful in Indonesia.

The Waves

Indian Ocean power reaches Lomboks south coast with similar intensity to Balis southwest coast, yet there are waves here for all levels. Experiences vary from the hollow, critical and challenging Desert Point, to fat, fun Grupuk Bay rights. There are great waves on the east and west coasts too, but these are among the most fickle in the Indian Ocean. There is no predominance of lefts vs rights although the most famous wave here is the ultimate goofy foot experience.

Season

Typical trade-wind patterns prevail; east to southeast airflows in the dry season (May to September), and west to northwest in the wet (November to April). The south coast is most consistent in the dry season, but gets waves all year round. When wet season winds blow westerly, you will find an array of reefs and right-hand points that will be perfect. The huge volcano and mountains of Lombok also assist between seasons, by giving some morning off-shores as the cool night air drops down and fans out. Lombok is a true year-round surf zone.

Crowds

Good waves are always crowded, but Lombok has been out of fashion in recent years. The south coast area around Kuta is a fairly quiet corner at the moment; if you spend a week or more there you will get some lonely sessions in. High season, from June to August, will witness crowds, and certain spots will get a sudden influx of boats at a given moment; it pays to be mobile, and to get up early.
Boards

Generally, your usual board plus 6 inches length, and 1/4 inch thickness, will cover most Lombok situations. Waves are hollow and straight, so the rhino chaser approach does not always pay off, tending to limit your position changes in the barrel, or even catch. If your short board is a 6, then the ideal plan might be to take it along plus a 6.8 and a 7. Long boards are usable at many south Lombok breaks.

Hazards

Traveling around can be a challenge with, variable road quality around Bangko Bangko and the south coast. 4WD is a good option, and some roads are only passable by bike. Rip-offs are not uncommon around south coast surf spots. There have been episodes of aggressive behavior from some locals. Some of these reports are apocryphal, but street-wisdom, diplomacy and caution are a must. The usual reef cut advisory stands, particularly at Desert Point. The odd shark is seen but no recorded attacks. The drier climate reduces the presence of malaria bearing mosquitoes, but check with your doc about prophylaxis before you go.

Sumba Indonesia Surf Spot

Some surfers say that the further east of Bali you travel, the more hard-core the set-up. In many ways Sumba bears this theory out. Years of isolation from Indonesias mainstream religions and culture are one reason why myth and folklore surround the islands people and their ancient culture. Religious systems include Islam and Christianity, but traditional beliefs revolve around marapu, the ancestors and gods whose influence pervades everyday life. A good illustration would be the death of the Queen in 2003, when her four hand-servants were voluntarily entombed alongside her in their efforts to reach paradise.

The ancient pasola rites, enacted each year before planting season, involve mock fights between machete toting men on horseback with the deliberate slashing of man and horse intended to fertilize the soil with blood. In parts of Sumba, tribal rule holds more sway than any centralized law, and like most of Nusa Tenggara, life throughout the island is centered around the kepala desa or village leader.

Transport

For the overland surfer, Sumba is an extremely challenging proposition. Roads and transport are rudimentary. Outside of the few main towns, vehicle hire is impossible, and the word taxi irrelevant. Intrepid travelers can use some nouse and diplomacy to advantage however, negotiating rides with locals (keep those mid-size rupiah notes handy). Accommodation near surf spots is extremely limited, with a few exceptions. In certain areas it can be possible to carefully negotiate home-stay accommodation. It is customary to offer betel nut and or cigarettes (a second best in some locales) to the kepala desa when arriving in a village. If you follow this protocol, you will improve your chances of finding a place to stay.

In short, overland Sumba trips need to be planned unless you are staying at one of a few established surf-spots. If you earn a seasoned traveler or prepared for adventure, either stay at one of the spots in the back of this book, on a pre-arranged basis, or go by boat. If you want to travel around Sumba looking for surf, you should at least arrange a guide. This can be done at the Hotel Merlin in Waingapu, or sometimes from the surf camp in Kallala. Negotiate your price clearly in advance to avoid a situation developing at the end of the trip.

The Setup & Waves

Sumba is out on its own in deep ocean between latitudes 8 and 9 degrees south. The south coast is extremely exposed to most available swell, offering few contortions that could offer shelter from the raw power. The Sumba coast is less craggy than, say Lombok, and there are few islets and inlets, which means that it will often be huge across the whole coast with no hidey hole to find an easy surf.

The Java Trench runs close to shore, so swell arrives with full intensity on the mostly reef break setups. Perhaps the heaviest reef is located on the eastern tip at Pero. A more approachable point-break is the relatively accessible Tarimbang. East Sumba has one of the few genuine big wave spots in Indonesia, and a brace of quality dry season lefts. There are beach breaks too however, such as Pantai Marosi, and some excellent river mouths.

With the Mentawais being the current favorite of magazines, quite a few waves are going unridden out east. Tough but rewarding.

Seasons

Dry season (March to November). Trade winds blow southeasterly at this time, but strong winds can prevail for four or five days and then just die. On an average day, these trades do not kick in until 11 a.m. or later, and the strongest trades occur June through August. These mid-season trades are sometimes a wrecking ball to any spot, so its generally a good idea to try to surf early morning at these times. Afternoon storms however, are not uncommon in the dry (or any) season, causing winds to veer to a new, potentially off-shore direction for a few hours and turning a break on for the lucky few who are there. With more chance of a solid southwest Indian Ocean ground-swell, this is the best season for waves on West Sumba.

Wet Season (November to March): Sumbas open ocean position means that swell is rarely is short supply for long. There are good wet season waves to be had in the southeast, as well as some out of the way gems off the small island of Mangkudu and its neighbors. Tarimbang can also get good at this time.

Hazards

Currents and sneaker sets. Heavy, remote big waves far from help. Again its a poor country so carry yourself well. Most potential situations can be avoided with careful diplomacy and common sense. Parts of West Sumba are pretty wild. Locals will be curious about you. Carry cigarettes and betel nut to help smooth your introductions to them. Whilst almost everybody you meet will be extremely friendly, and quite curious, situations can escalate quickly if you commit a faux pas. When traveling in remote areas, carry food and water supplies.

Canggu Surfing & Echo Beach Surf Spots

Canggu: North from Kuta, through Seminyak and beyond. Just past Kerobokan and through many rice field, via Padang Linjong Village, you'll see signs to 'Canggu Surfing' & 'Echo Beach'. There are 3 access points.

Black lava sand beach with 2 areas to surf, over sand and lava rock. If you ever catch it with nobody out it can be eerie, but that is not likely. Canggu ('Changgoo') is the main escape route from Kuta beach breaks. Best surfed early morning before the trade winds, up to about 6-8ft. Waves tend to peak up out of nowhere here in the black water, and low tide can get sketchy on the inside. Low lying cliffs and steep beach at high are a hazard. Advanced. On moderate swells if Canggu is crowded, you can check the black sand beach-breaks at Brawa (Berawa) a kilometer south.

Pererenan: Right next door to Canggu and often considered part of the same spot. Road ends at Pondok Wisata Losmen right at the break. Quick way is via Kerobokan towards Tanah Lot, but Pererenan Village go left at 'Pantai Pererenan' sign.

Left and right peaks over sand and lava best on higher tides unless small. Both peaks shoulder out into a well defined channel although you can take the 'wrong way' on each depending on tides and size. There's sometimes a bit of a crew here but crowds are well absorbed by the shifting peaks. Afternoon breezes are side-onshore. All levels if small. Advanced when big. Consistent spot pulling more swell than Kuta beach-breaks.

Southern Sumatra Surf Spots

Pulau Pisang (The Island)
You can get a boat here, either charter or public, from Krui harbour. The wave breaks off the eastern tip.

A heavy, jacking right rears up from deep water and wraps around an arc of shallow coral with undiluted energy. Not the longest wave, but the power per square inch is high, with challenging, spit-filled barrels common. The drop is usually a big one but makeable, and the paddle is easy. Mid-High tide best. 4-6ft plus. Advanced.

Krui
2 great waves break either side of the beach at Krui.

Krui Lefts: A high quality wave, this left is approachable yet laden with barrel potential. Any tide will work although the low tides expose some reef spikes. It is an intermediate wave, but hold-downs can still be severe. Offshore in southeast winds. Needs solid southwest swell to work.

Krui rights: Off the reef fringed northern point of Krui's long curved beach. Hollow reef point almost guaranteeing a barrel from take-off. A short wave, but not a moment is wasted from start to finish as it barrels right across. All tides are OK, and even low offers a generous covering of water over the reef. Intermediate plus. East southeast winds best. Requires large southwest swell.

Ujung Bocur
AKA SLL (Sumatra's longest left), it's right out the front of Ombak Indah Losmen at Biha.

Quality long point reef in an idyclic setting. Orderly lines focus onto a predictable take-off, and then develop quickly into a barrel. Once you've pulled in, the wall usually tapers evenly and morphs into a fast but workable ride of up to 300 metres. South swell best, with E-SE winds. Low tide is fast and hard-breaking, mid perfect high fun to fat. All levels depending on conditions.


Way Jambu
one of the widest barrels you are ever likely to surf. A pitching take-off over shallow reef is the intro to a barrel of up to 200 metres before final release into a channel. This wave may section and throw up surprises, but it rarely shuts down totally, meaning those who hang on and sight the exit are likely to prevail. Low tide is extremely difficult and risky, although awesome to see, mid tide is perfect. High tide is full but still very high quality on a bigger day…and it is usually bigger than it looks courtesy of a very long paddle-out. 3-12ft, 4-8ft best. Advanced. Dirty beach.

Enggano Island
Enggano island is hard to get to (Some boats go from Bengkulu to its only port of Malakoni) without much except medieval agriculture, wild pigs and buffalo. There is little accommodation in the 5 villages, and the locals just about speak Bahasa Indonesian but certainly no English. It is sorrounded by beautiful white sand beaches, coral reef arcs, and a trio of stunning coral attols although the interior is pretty flat and malarial. Only a very basic track circumnavigates the 30 by 50km island, but this doesn't fully service the south and east shoreline. It certainly isn't well charted territory. Getting waves here requires real commitment, and the ability to tolerate the hardships endured.

Risks include malaria, and the total absence of medical help.

Grajagan G-Land East Java Surf Camps & Boat Charters

Located at Plengkung in the Alas Purwo Nature Reserve on the eastern tip of Java.
From Bali: Season 2006 is promising to be another one with a delayed start due to events at the end of season 2005, however as always will produce the same rewards that the jungle offers each season, after all this is G-Land.

With a super efficient FAST BOAT service being offered the trip is more comfortable or faster.

There is still the option of overland travel but why put yourself through the ordeal, when you can wake up early , jump on the FAST BOAT & be in camp for breakfast & as the waves clean up with the trades you are all set for your stay in G-Land [Grajagan]. 

We have possibly the most efficient & friendly service operating directly in the heart of Kuta so there is no hassles at all with last minute changes or simply just to call in & ask our friendly girls what the latest info is.


There are 3 surf camps in G-Land [Grajagan] G-Land Surf Camp , Bobbys and G-Land Jungle Camp
Superlatives have been used about "Grajagan" since it was first discovered in the early '70's, and it has consistently justified it's reputation ever since. G-Land offers the most reliably perfect and power-packed left-hand barrels found. Like Uluwatu, it has a perfect position facing due west out of the trade winds, but it has a more exposure to different swell directions, and is located adjacent to a 10km deep ocean trench so it has more power, and deeper, straighter, longer barrels.

Essentially 3 to 4 take-off zones.

Kong's, starting way outside on the outer point , where some big, often unruly walls form up. Kong's can be quite whackable and approachable on it's day but is generally best surfed on low tide, light winds and smaller swell. A 4 foot day with WSW swell in these conditions can see it barrel, but often it will be windy and uninviting. It's a fairly long walk and paddle or reef-hop, depending on tides.
Moneytrees, the main take-off point, is across a useful channel from Kong's. A fast, extended, split-filled barrel in anything from 2 to 10ft, it gets hairy on low tide with the coral table very close. Kicking out at the right time is essential as it is difficult, and the result of failure can be good skinning.Mid tide sessions can deliver the best tubes of your life
Launching Pads, is the next section which is an outside peak that can split the crowd. It can break a long way out the back and is generally firing if Money's is closing out. It is also the outer take-off for G-Land's most spectacular barrel provider SPEEDIES.

Speedies, Speed Reef is an appropriately named, shallow, heavy barrel for 150m or more at the end of the G-Land reef set-up. On a big south pulse (preferably over 6ft), it wedges on take-off and bends into an ever accelerating race for the exit. The barrel is often perfect for over 100yds, and has enormous energy and roundness. Lower tides are hazardous with the reef never far under fin.

All the sections change with the tide, and big days mean current and a permanent paddle. The reef is sharp, and there are coral snakes, urchins, even the odd shark (no recorded attacks).

G-Land other waves
On large days, Chickens, down the beach, can be a good warm up wave; it will be smaller and more fun with some low tide barrels possible. Further along still, 20/20's is a pretty good, quite left-hand reef pass with a wedgy right next door. Again not a classic. Tiger Tracks, way further down, is a short fun right off the rocks.

On a macking south swell, early morning, Tanjung Kucur has a set of quality, very rare long rights. Ask your camp host how to get there because this is a major trek through the national park, and will more often than not be unrewarded.

One Palm - Panaitan Island Boat Charters

Just Dreaming Boat will bring you surf the best barrels in the world with no crowds. West Java and Panaitan Island are located off Java’s south-west tip and home to the infamous One Palm Point and Apocalypse and various other world-class waves. While most of the surfing world is focused on the Mentawai's, West Java has numerous perfect waves with half the crowds.

A 50ft cutter-rigged ketch powered by a 98HP Ford diesel which can take up to a maximum of 8 surfers.

Boat Facilities:Tender with outboard, Radar, GPS and ploter, Depth sounder, 240V generator, VHF/HF/27MEG radios, Inflatable life jackets / MOB equipment, Life raft, EPIRB,
First aid kits

Features:Air conditioned dormitory sleeping up to 8 passengers ,TV , Refrigerator and freezer , Stereo (tape / radio / CD player) , VCR , Video CD player , Shower & toilet , Deck shower , Snorkeling gear ,Fishing gear

Boat Price is includes Surf Levy AUD10.00 per day per person

Mentawai Island Surf Charter Vessel Navistar

The Navistar have been customized to a surf charter vessel Navistar was built and launched in 1990 in Australia and started charters in the Mentawais in 1999. She is powered by a V8 300hp turbo charged Detroit diesel engine which will go any where any time.

The accommodation sleeps for 8 passengers quite comfortably and there are plenty of nice roomy areas to hag out at all over the vessel weather its inside or out. Navistar has 14 foot dingy to drop you off and pick ups to and from the Navistar and the surf.

There is also fishing gear on board from trolling rods ,spinning rods, hand lines to spear guns to catch those big fish for sport and fun, so you can sample the local or western cuisine cooked by the chef with 3 meals served daily after hard days of surfing