Shoulder Season: A Surfer’s Guide to The Most Underrated Season of the Year
The Mentawai shoulder season refers to the surf windows between peak and low season—specifically October–November and March–April. These months sit neatly between the heavy dry-season swells of June–September and the wetter off-season stretch.
While many surfers overlook it, the Mentawai shoulder season is a sweet spot: fewer boats, lighter crowds, and still plenty of swell in the water. For intermediates, digital nomads, and surf travelers looking for flexibility, this window is the perfect balance.
Surf Conditions & Wave Quality During Shoulder Season
Shoulder season doesn’t mean flat spells—it means variety. Expect anything from chest-high walls to overhead sets, though generally less relentless than peak season. Many reef passes in the Playgrounds zone stay offshore even when other regions of Indo get onshore winds, which makes it easier to score clean sessions.
Conditions are more “user-friendly,” making this an ideal shoulder season surf guide for intermediates who want to step up without the intimidation of double-overhead bombs. Fun, rippable, and forgiving—it’s all on the menu.
Crowd Factor & Overall Atmosphere
One of the biggest perks of shoulder season is the lineup. While peak months see charter boats stacked with pros and chargers, October–November and March–April are calmer. You’ll often find yourself with just a handful of surfers in the water—or sometimes none at all.
That means the vibe is more relaxed, less competitive, and far more about exploration. It’s why many consider this the underrated surf season in the Mentawais.
Weather, Rain & Wind Conditions
Weather during shoulder months is tropical and balanced. Expect:
Scattered rain showers (not full monsoon conditions)
Plenty of sunshine and high humidity
Winds that swing N/NW, which keep several reef passes offshore
Warm water—boardshorts and bikinis only, wetsuits not needed
It’s classic Indo, but with less intensity—and a reminder that this is the underrated season of Indonesian surf that people whisper about.
Best Spots & Board Recommendations
Not all spots are created equal during shoulder season, but here’s what to look for:
Waves with multiple take-off zones — like Pitstops, Beng Bengs, or lefts that mellow on smaller swells
Beng Bengs
Pitstops
Friendly reef passes that stay open and playful rather than heavy and shallow
Boards with volume — grovelers, fishes, or hybrids to carry speed when the waves soften
A trusty shortboard — for those surprise pulse days when conditions fire
The key is adaptability: choose waves and equipment that let you surf more, not less.
Why Shoulder Season Often Beats Peak
So why do seasoned travelers choose October or March instead of peak July? A few reasons:
Empty lineups: More waves, less stress
Exploration: You can venture to breaks often overlooked when it’s crowded
Better value: Fewer bookings mean more flexibility and often sharper rates
Progression: The Mentawai off-peak waves are perfect for improving skills without heavy pressure
In short, shoulder season is surfing’s best-kept secret.
Final Thoughts
The Mentawais will always be a dream destination, but knowing when to go is the real secret. For surfers seeking waves with soul, fewer crowds, and conditions that encourage progression, the Mentawai shoulder season is unbeatable. It’s the perfect blend of fun surf, flexible schedules, and island calm.
For deeper planning, check out our guide on the best seasons to surf the Mentawais or explore how to balance surf & remote work if you’re blending travel with productivity. And don’t forget to browse the Driftwood Journal for real stories that bring the island vibe to life.
And here’s the kicker: Driftwood is offering 30% off the remaining trips of 2025. That means you can tap into this underrated surf season and save while doing it.
Don’t wait for peak months — surf smarter, not harder. Book your Driftwood Mentawai trip for shoulder season and experience waves, solitude, and island life at its best.