Crowd‑Free Surfing: Hidden Gems in the Mentawai Islands
When most surfers dream about the Mentawais, names like Rifles, Kandui, and Lances Right immediately come to mind. They’re iconic for a reason — heavy barrels, machine-like consistency, and serious bragging rights. But here’s the deal: those spots are crowded. Very crowded. If you’re craving space, solitude, and the thrill of discovery, it’s time to dig deeper and explore the hidden surf spots Mentawai has tucked away in its remote corners.
Because while the big-name breaks are packed with boats and egos, the Mentawais are also home to a secret stash of uncrowded waves, perfect for intermediate chargers, strike missions, or digital nomads looking to quietly level up. Let’s dive into the hidden gems Mentawai surf has to offer — and how Driftwood can get you there.
*Disclaimer: This article is informative for off-the-beaten-track surf spots. We do not offer opportunities to surf these spots as they are too far away from our camp at Driftwood. Use this article to learn more about some of the lesser known spots in the greater Mentawai region*
Justin Sykes with an air during his last trip. Photo Credit: Clementine Bourke
Why Go Off the Beaten Path?
There’s a reason the same few Mentawai waves are in every surf video — they’re incredible. But they’re also magnets for the masses. Paddling out to twenty guys all chasing the same set isn’t always the dream.
Choosing lesser-known breaks means more time in the water, fewer drop-ins, and the chance to surf quality waves without the performance pressure of a crowded lineup. At the end of the day, isn’t that why we travel all this way?
By tapping into Mentawai’s less crowded surf, you not only score more waves — you also open yourself up to a whole new side of the islands, one that feels raw, remote, and uniquely your own.
Hidden Gems to Explore
Driftwood’s local guides have logged years of boat time mapping out these alternative breaks. Here are a few you probably haven’t heard about — but should.
Pitstops
A consistent right-hander tucked right in front of a handful of camps. Super fun on a mid-size swell, with opportunities to practice barrel riding or perfect that speed line. This spot is accessible from our camp at Driftwood.
G4’s
A fast-peeling left that sits quietly just around the bend from busier breaks. It often goes unridden while everyone battles at Kandui. This spot is not accessible from our camp at Driftwood as it is located near Sipura Island.
Scarecrows
Smooth, open-faced lefts on a clean S–SW swell. It’s gaining recognition, but still offers Mentawai uncrowded waves when timed right. This spot is not accessible from our camp at Driftwood as it is located near Sipura Island.
Image: Surf Indonesia
Tikus, Iceland, Hookers
Great options when conditions are smaller or inconsistent. These spots are less photogenic, sure — but highly surfable, and often completely empty. These spots are not accessible from our camp at Driftwood as they are located near Sipura Island.
Image: Indonesian Surf Guide (Tikus)
South Pagai Mini Breaks (Buddha’s Left, Roxy’s Right, Meat Locker)
Best accessed via charter missions. These ultra-remote setups serve up head-high perfection for anyone willing to go the extra mile (literally). These spots are not accessible from our camp at Driftwood.
Image: Indonesian Surf Guide (Buddha’s Left)
Every surfer dreams of finding the secret surf spots Mentawai offers— just you and your crew trading waves with no one else in sight. These are your best bets.
Best Times & Conditions
Timing is everything when it comes to finding Mentawai’s less crowded surf. The prime season (June–August) sees bigger swells but heavier crowds. Shoulder seasons — April–May and September–October — are golden if you're aiming for fewer people and more manageable waves.
Most of these hidden spots thrive on S–SW swells with light E–SE winds. Local conditions can shift quickly though, so rolling with experienced guides is key to scoring.
How to Access These Gems
Truth is, most of these breaks aren’t easy to reach. They’re not pinned on every surf map, and even if they are, conditions can change quickly, and misjudging access could mean wasting a day. If you are open to exploration, then these spots will be worth scoping.
That’s where Driftwood Mentawai comes in. Our guides live here. They know what the swell’s doing miles away, and how to get you there. Whether it’s a daily boat drop or a strike mission to the far south, we customize your plan based on live conditions, experience level, and crowd dynamics.
You won’t just surf more. You’ll surf smarter.
Why Ride Offbeat Waves?
Choosing offbeat waves isn’t just about dodging crowds — it’s about improving your surfing, experiencing the islands in a deeper way, and enjoying stress-free, high-stoke sessions with your crew.
Here’s what you gain:
More waves = more reps = more progression.
No pressure drop-ins = more freedom to try (and fail).
Authentic moments in untouched settings far from the Insta circus.
The hidden surf spots that the Mentawai’s offer aren’t just locations — they’re an opportunity to make more memorable sessions.
Hidden Spots, Maximum Stoke
You don’t need to queue for sets at Lances or brawl for position at Bankvaults to score in the Mentawais. The real magic? It’s out there in the empty corners — at G4’s, Pitstops, and beyond — where the only thing in your way is your own froth.
Ready to dodge the crowds and ride Mentawai’s hidden gems?
Discover your own private wave factory.