Best Surf Spots in Mentawai for Intermediate Surfers
Everyone knows the Mentawai Islands are a mecca for surfing — endless reef breaks, warm water, and some of the most iconic waves on Earth. But here’s the thing: it’s not just a zone for pros and barrel-hunters.
If you’re an intermediate surfer looking to level up, score better waves, and build confidence in reefy lineups, you’re in the right place. There are a ton of Mentawai surf spots for intermediates — especially around the Playgrounds region — and we see surfers progress fast when they’re on the right wave with the right crew.
Here’s a guide to the friendlier side of Indo, straight from us here at Driftwood.
Why the Playgrounds Region is Perfect for Intermediates
You don’t need to surf 8-foot slabs to have the trip of a lifetime. In fact, most of the surfers we host are somewhere in the intermediate zone — solid on takeoffs, keen to improve, and ready for new conditions.
The Playgrounds Mentawai surf guide rule of thumb is simple: this area has options. You’ve got lefts and rights, cruisy and punchy, mellow or shallow — all within a short boat ride. Most waves break consistently and offer long walls for turns without being overly heavy.
Plus, the vibe in this part of the Mentawais tends to be more chilled — perfect if you’re looking to learn, experiment, and stack waves, not just survive them.
What makes it an ideal surf spot for intermediate surfers?
A mix of mellow, playful waves and more challenging, punchy sections to push your limits.
Reliable conditions from May to September.
Short paddle-outs and minimal crowds if you’re staying in the right spot (psst… we know a place).
And above all: variety. You’re not locked into one type of wave — you can test different techniques in a range of setups.
Mentawai Surf Spots for Intermediates: The Lineup
Here are our go-to intermediate surf breaks Mentawai surfers tend to love. We surf these often with our guests and can match the conditions to your level.
Beng Bengs
A super consistent left-hander with soft takeoffs and forgiving shoulders.
Perfect for linking turns, getting into rhythm, and building confidence on reef.
Pitstops
This playful right-hander breaks over a mix of sand and reef.
Easy entry, rippable walls, and a great wave to dial in your speed control and top-turn game.
Nipussi
A more challenging right with faster sections and the occasional barrel.
Still manageable for intermediates — especially those looking to flirt with more speed and power.
Playgrounds Left (Bikinis)
A long, cruisy left that’s as user-friendly as it gets.
Great for practicing backside flow and improving positioning.
4 Bobs
A short, rampy right-hander that feels more like a skate park than a surf break.
Quick takeoffs and plenty of room for fun, progressive turns.
Burgerworld
One of the best swell magnets in the area.
When everything else is flat, Burgerworld lights up with long, smooth rights perfect for trimming, carving, and logging miles on the face.
Baby Kandui
A mellow cousin to the more intense Kandui Left. Still long and beautiful, but far more forgiving — ideal for improving backside rail work without getting sent.
Pistols
A short right-hander that fires on smaller swells.
Fun mix of open-face and barrel sections, depending on tide and angle — great for building confidence in punchier surf.
Tips for Intermediate Surfers in the Mentawais
Bring the Right Quiver
You’ll want:
Something with extra volume for paddle power
A performance shortboard for the faster days
Twinny or fun shape if you’re into variety
You don’t need five boards, but having a backup and something for smaller surf helps.
Pack Smart
Don’t leave home without:
A spare leash
Backup board
Small DIY ding repair kit
Disinfectant and reef cut treatment
Tropical wax and sunscreen (trust us)
Stay With a Camp That Gets It
This part matters more than most people think.
Driftwood Mentawai is run by surfers, for surfers — and we’ve got years of local knowledge, tide timing insight, and a boat at the ready to get you to the right spot for your level.
The right wave at the wrong time = frustration.
The right wave with a bit of guidance = progress.
We’re not here to coach unless you want it — but we’ll always help you get the most out of each session.
Whether you're here to practice cutbacks or chase your first clean barrel, we’ll help you make it happen.
Why Driftwood Mentawai Is the Place to Progress
You don’t need to be charging 8-foot Rifles to enjoy the Mentawais. There are plenty of Mentawai surf spots for intermediates — and they’re some of the best waves you’ll ever ride.
With time, tide, and a few pointers, you’ll leave here surfing better than when you arrived. That’s the magic of this place — it’s beautiful and it pushes you.
And when you’re not surfing?
You’ll be eating like royalty, sleeping like a baby, and sharing beers and stories with a small crew of like-minded surfers. No stress. Just surf.
📆 June–August = peak season for swell and surf variety.
📍 Book your trip
Surf Better, Not Just Harder
If you’re looking for Mentawai surf spots for intermediates to push your limits in paradise, the Playgrounds area will deliver the goods. With mellow waves, challenge zones, and the support of a knowledgeable surf camp like Driftwood, you’ll progress faster than you thought possible.
Ready to get the wave of your life?
Discover the best waves for intermediate surfers at Driftwood Mentawai.