How to Plan a Surf Trip to Indonesia: The Driftwood Mentawai Way

Indonesia is a dream destination for surfers, with warm water, consistent year-round swells, and tropical setups that cater to every level. From hollow barrels in the Mentawais to fun beach breaks in Bali and remote perfection in Sumbawa, it's no wonder Indo tops the list of the best surf destinations in Indonesia.

If you’re wondering how to plan a surf trip to Indonesia, this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through everything—from Mentawai surf trip planning and choosing the right surf camp in Mentawai, to packing tips, timing, and must-know logistics. Your ultimate surf travel guide to Indo starts here.

Why Indonesia is a Surfer’s Dream Destination

Indonesia is one of the most wave-rich zones on the planet—thanks to its prime location in the Indian Ocean, which delivers consistent swells all year round.

🏄‍♂ Best Indo Surf Regions:
✔ Bali – Great for beginners but crowded.
✔ Lombok & Sumbawa – Less crowded, solid waves for intermediates and up.
✔ Sumatra & Mentawai – The most consistent, high-quality waves in Indo.

📌 Why the Mentawai Islands?
✔ Uncrowded world-class reef setups.
✔ Year-round consistency, firing best from March – October.
✔ Variety of waves for beginners, intermediates, and pros.

If you’re looking for the best overall Indo surf experience, the Mentawais should be your #1 pick.

Choosing the Right Destination: Bali vs. Mentawai vs. Other Indo Surf Spots

📌 Takeaway: If you’re after perfect waves, fewer crowds, and top-tier surf, Mentawai is the ultimate Indo surf destination.

The Best Time to Go Surfing in Indonesia

📌 Indonesia has two main surf seasons:

✔ Dry Season (April – October) – Bigger, more powerful swells, best for advanced surfers.
✔ Wet Season (November – March) – Mellow waves, smaller crowds, best for beginners and intermediates.

🏄‍♂ Mentawai Islands? Consistent year-round, but March – October is peak surf season.

✅ Pro Tip: If you’re looking for big, technical waves, book May – September. If you want fun-sized, mellow surf, go for the off-season.

Booking Your Surf Accommodation & Travel Essentials

📌 Surf Camp vs. Boat Trip – What’s Best?

🏝 Surf Camps (like Driftwood Mentawai) → Best for comfort, community, and expert surf guidance.
⛵ Boat Charters → Best for advanced surfers chasing remote perfection.

📌 How to Get to the Mentawai Islands:
✈ Fly to Padang, Sumatra → 🚤 Take a ferry or private speedboat to the islands.

📌 Budget Breakdown:
💰 Budget-friendly: ~$1,200 for 10 days.
💰 Mid-range surf camp: ~$2,000 for 10 days.
💰 Luxury boat trip: ~$3,500+ for 10 days.

✅ Pro Tip: Book early—Mentawai surf camps fill up fast!

Essential Gear & Packing List for an Indo Surf Trip

✔ Board Selection:

Beginners: Funboard or longboard.

Intermediates: High-volume shortboard.

Advanced: Step-up board + backup.

✔ Surf Essentials:

Tropical wax, extra fins, leashes.

Reef booties (if you're not used to shallow reefs).

✔ Travel Must-Haves:

Waterproof bags, cash (no ATMs on small islands).

First aid kit, zinc, and reef-safe sunscreen.

📌 Pro Tip: Indo is remote—bring spare gear because replacing it isn’t easy!

Local Culture & Surf Etiquette in Indonesia

✔ Respect the locals – Don’t snake waves or drop in!
✔ Basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases:

"Terima kasih" = Thank you.

"Bagus ombak" = Good waves!

✔ Keep Indo clean – Reduce plastic waste and respect the environment.

📌 Pro Tip: Surfing Indo isn’t just about the waves—immerse yourself in the culture!

Why Driftwood Mentawai is the Best Surf Trip Base

📌 Why stay at Driftwood Mentawai?

✔ Prime location – Close to Kandui, Rifles, Nipussi, and other world-class waves.
✔ Expert surf guides – Local knowledge ensures you score the best waves every day.
✔ Epic community vibe – More than just a surf camp, it’s an experience.

📌 Example: Many surfers come for a week and end up extending their stay—it’s that good!

✅ Takeaway: Driftwood is the best place to experience Indo surfing at its finest.

Conclusion: Plan the Ultimate Indo Surf Trip with Driftwood Mentawai

Indonesia is a surfer’s paradise, but planning your trip right makes all the difference.

✔ Choose your ideal surf destination – Bali, Lombok, Mentawai.
✔ Book the best season for your skill level.
✔ Stay at a top surf camp like Driftwood Mentawai.

Ready to plan the ultimate Indo surf trip? Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, Driftwood Mentawai makes it easy. Check out our surf packages and lock in your dream trip today!