Chasing Empty Barrels: The Ultimate Surf Guide to Indonesia
Published: May 16, 2024
Hey, wave riders! I'm Adam, and I just wrapped up an epic 5-month surf odyssey across Indonesia, exploring over 50 breaks from Sumatra to Timor. My mission was to uncover the best waves and hidden gems before my visa expired. Let me tell you, planning the perfect surf trip in this archipelago isn't easy, but I'm here to share my insider tips on routes, transportation, and secret spots (including budget-friendly stays) so you can maximize your stoke and minimize your stress.
What You'll Find in This Guide:
- Your Route Options (with Maps): Sumatra, Sumbawa/Sumba/Timor, and Java (coming soon)
- Transportation Breakdown: Details for each region
- Extra Tips and Secret Spots: Hidden gems and budget-friendly accommodations
- Conclusion and My Personal Take: What I learned and loved about surfing in Indonesia
Your Surf Trip Itinerary Options:
1. Sumatra:
My Indonesian surf adventure began in Medan, but you can easily reverse this route and start in Jakarta.
- **Option 1:** Take a bus to Sibolga, then another to Sinkil, and finally, hop on a ferry to Batu Island. It's a long journey, but you'll be rewarded with stunning scenery around Lake Toba and epic surf at the Banyak Islands.
- **Option 2:** Fly to Gunungsitoli and hit the legendary Lagundri Bay in Nias. Locals also offer trips to the Banyaks from here.
Nias is a must-visit, with world-class waves and budget-friendly accommodations. Spend at least a week here (longer if you can!). Next, head to the Telo Islands (not the cheapest, but Adilmundis Homestay is a great budget option). From there, a ferry to Siberut Island is possible, but the schedule is unpredictable. Flying to Padang is more reliable.
From Padang, you can access the Mentawai Islands, a surfer's paradise. Then, take a long bus ride to Benkulu (the water isn't the cleanest, but the surf can be fun when there's a big swell). Your final stop before Jakarta is Krui, a popular spot with decent waves, though it can get crowded.
2. Sumbawa/Sumba/Timor:
This journey begins in Bali, the surfing mecca. While Bali has its share of iconic breaks, it's overrun with surfers. If you're short on time, focus on Medewi (and maybe Balian). It's the longest left on the island and less crowded than other spots (except on weekends and big swells).
Next, hop over to Lombok, where the Desert Point offers challenging waves and a more local vibe. From there, it's on to West Sumbawa, a true hidden gem with world-class breaks like Supersuck, Scar Reef, and Yoyos. Save at least a week for this area – you won't regret it!
Lakey Peak is the next big-name spot on Sumbawa, but the neighboring Nungas offers a less crowded alternative. At this point, you could head back to Bali, but if you're chasing empty barrels, keep going.
Sumba is remote and expensive, with limited budget-friendly options near the breaks. But the reward is uncrowded waves in a stunning setting. From Waingapu, take a ferry to Kupang (with a stopover in Aemere) and then another ferry to Rote Island, home to T-Land, Boa, and O'Sally – three world-class breaks that are sure to leave you stoked.
3. Java: (Coming soon!)
Transportation Tips:
- Board or No Board?: For Sumatra, I recommend traveling without your board due to logistical challenges and cheap rentals. In Sumbawa/Sumba/Timor, it's doable with a board, especially if you skip Sumba and Rote. Renting or buying a motorbike in Bali can be a good option for flexibility and cost savings.
- Buses vs. Motorbikes: Buses are more comfortable for long distances, but motorbikes offer more freedom and access to remote spots.
- Booking Buses: Avoid online booking. Ask your hotel or hostel to book for you or go directly to the local bus station (see the list of bus station locations below).
Extra Tips and Secret Spots:
- Bargaining: Don't negotiate bus prices in advance. Pay attention to what locals pay and offer the same.
- Accommodation: Book only the first night in advance. Look for local homestays for the best deals.
- Secret Spots: Check out my map of secret surf spots in the Telo Islands!
Conclusion and My Personal Take:
Indonesia is a surfer's paradise, but these trips are not for the faint of heart. Be prepared for the backpacker lifestyle and embrace the unexpected. If you're a seasoned adventurer with a thirst for uncrowded waves, these journeys will leave you stoked.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags (and maybe your board), and get ready for the surf adventure of a lifetime!