The Definitive Banyaks Surf Travel Guide

The Banyak Islands are one of Indonesia's last truly uncrowded surf frontiers.

While Bali and the Mentawais draw most surfers visiting Indonesia, Banyaks surfing remains quieter and far more pristine. These remote islands sit in the Indian Ocean off the coast of North Sumatra and offer world-class waves, stunning natural beauty and some of the most uncrowded waves in the region.

For intermediate surfers, beginner-level riders and experienced surfers wanting to escape busy lineups in South Sumatra or Bali, the Banyaks offer a dream surf trip.

The Bay of Plenty, the islands' most famous surfing zone, delivers perfect waves, a beautiful white sandy beach, crystal-clear waters and a range of surf spots suited to different levels.

Most surfers who make the journey arrive chasing perfect peaks, memorable sessions and the kind of wave quality that stays with you long after the trip ends. Because that's what it's all about, right?

We spoke with some of these surfers when putting together this guide. It now covers everything you need to know, from swell direction to surf charter boat options, so you can plan your own adventure across one of Indonesia's most remote islands.

Could the Banyaks be your next surf trip? Read on and make the call. Life's too short for crowded waves, anyway.

Why Should You Choose the Banyaks?

The Banyak Islands, also known as Pulau Banyak, lie off the west coast of North Sumatra in Aceh province.

This chain of remote islands has world-class surf spots, lengthy rides, shallow reef breaks and reef passes that turn into perfect barrels when southwest swells roll through. The entire bay lights up when consistent swells hit. Many spots become a swell magnet capable of delivering glassy surf for days.

If you're chasing surfer dreams without crowds, the Banyak Islands offer an experience that's getting harder to find.

Unlike Bali or the Mentawais, these islands remain mostly undeveloped. Many spots can only be reached by boat, and surf charter crews here specialize in guiding guests deep into the Indian Ocean, where they can explore reef breaks and enjoy the region's stunning natural beauty.

Where Are the Banyaks Located?

Set northwest of Nias and around 100 miles off mainland Sumatra, the Banyaks are pristine and sparsely populated. The coastline is dominated by jungle, reef and incredible marine life rather than development. Places like Pulau Bangkaru hold both surf potential and important conservation work.

This quiet cluster of 99 islands is a dream for surfers since they combine world-class waves with peaceful, uncrowded lineups.

When strong southwest swells arrive, the Banyaks offer some of their best waves of the year, producing perfect peaks and clean takeoff zones across many spots. And on smaller swells, the reefs soften just enough to welcome intermediates wanting fun, friendly conditions.

Who Are the Banyaks Best Suited For?

Beginner to Intermediate Surfers

Although the islands have powerful reef waves, Banyaks surfing isn't only for advanced surfers. Intermediates will find several forgiving options, especially when swell pulses are small or mid-range. And because there are fewer people in the water, you've got space to improve positioning, timing and confidence without pressure.

Surfers Who Want Fewer People in the Water

The region is known for its uncrowded waves. Even in peak season, boat operators move between breaks to avoid congestion. It makes sessions feel peaceful and unhurried.

Boat Trip Enthusiasts

The Banyaks are ideal for anyone who loves the freedom of a surf charter. A charter boat lets you move between breaks like Treasure Island, Lolok Point, Lizard's Nest and Toytown Left, depending on winds and swell direction. And that flexibility often leads to scoring the best waves of the trip.

Couples, Small Groups and Travelers Seeking Quiet

If you're after crystal-clear waters, glassy surf and a relaxed pace, North Sumatra delivers. There's no nightlife or commercial sprawl. Just fun waves, remote islands and time to breathe.

Overview of the Waves in the Banyaks

The region has many spots offering perfect waves for different skill levels. With consistent swells rolling through the Indian Ocean, the Banyaks produce reef waves comparable to world-class destinations like the Mentawais yet without the crowds.

Treasure Island (Treasures)

• Treasure Island is the crown jewel of the Bay of Plenty
• It's a world-class right-hander known for lengthy rides and perfect barrels
• On smaller swells intermediates can really settle in, working on flow and burying the rail
• But when a large swell hits, experienced surfers line up for one of Indonesia's most iconic reef waves
• With rides over 200 meters long and three consistent tube sections, this wave lives up to the hype

Cobra (Cobras)

• A fast, hollow left-hander and one of the heaviest waves in the Banyak Islands
• Known for its thick, slabby barrels and shallow reef, this wave is not for the faint-hearted
• It turns on during medium to large south swells and works best on a pushing tide. The takeoff is critical... often straight into the barrel. This means that timing and positioning are everything
• When it's on, Cobra delivers powerful, draining barrels that rival some of Indo's more famous slabs but with far fewer people in the lineup
• Recommended only for experienced surfers confident in shallow, technical reef breaks and those who know the finer points of holding your breath underwater

Turtle Reef (Turtles)

• A mellow reef and sand break that's ideal for smaller swells
• Turtle Reef offers fun walls and friendly takeoffs and it's a great entry point for guests getting comfortable on reef
• This consistent and playful walling left is found amongst a popular turtle nesting area, which is pretty epic to witness

Lolok Point

• Lolok Point offers long left walls with plenty of room for carving and wiggling down the line
• It's great for intermediate surfers wanting a reliable wave that allows progression
• On bigger swells you'll feel a bit more push but it still holds its shape beautifully

Gunters (Joysticks)

• A playful right that works best under smaller swells
• Also known as Joysticks, this bowly wave produces a perfect tube on takeoff before peeling mechanically along the reef for numerous top turn sections and linking up to the inside bowl for a second tube
• It's one of the go-to options for anyone after fun, cruisy sessions without heavy power
• Perfect for intermediates on all but the biggest days

Toytown Left (Dindos)

• A fun and perfectly shaped left-hander found deep in the Bay of Plenty
• This top turn machine rolls along the reef at a rhythmic pace, delivering countless dreamy sections and even the occasional tube
• Everyone loves this wave and it's often compared to a softer version of Macaronis
• A regional classic for all abilities

Lizard's Nest and Other Lesser-Known Spots

• Lizard's Nest is a lesser-known but somewhat heroic right-hand reef break that packs a surprising punch
• Often overshadowed by nearby Cobra and Treasure Island, this undercover iconic wave throws hard over shallow coral with a steep takeoff and fast, hollow sections that can deliver draining barrels when conditions line up
• The Banyaks have many spots that don't appear on mainstream maps
• It's often these off-the-grid sessions that surfers remember most

Best Time of Year to Surf the Banyaks

March to October: Primary Surf Season

This is the main window for world-class conditions. Southwest swells and steady winds bring powerful lines across the bay.

April to June: Ideal for Intermediates

These months often deliver head-high surf, long clean walls and fewer charter boats. Perfect conditions and relatively uncrowded peaks are common.

June to August: Peak Season

This is when advanced surfers chase large swell and perfect barrels. Crowds are still light compared to other Indonesian zones.

November to February: Low Season

Weather shifts, winds become unpredictable and consistent swells ease. Still, smaller swells can offer fun waves for anyone wanting a quiet trip.

How Do the Banyaks Compare to Bali, Lombok and the Mentawais?

Compared to Bali and Lombok

The Banyaks put wave quality above convenience. You won't find nightlife or crowds. Instead, you get uncrowded waves, crystal-clear waters and breaks that feel untouched.

Compared to the Mentawais

Both regions have world-class waves but the Mentawais are far busier. The Banyaks offer similar quality with much more space, which many surfers prefer.

How to Get to the Banyaks

Step 1: Fly into Medan

Most travelers enter through Kuala Namu International Airport. Airlines like Lion Air offer connecting flights to Nias or Sibolga.

Step 2: Fly to Nias or Sibolga

These are the main departure points for surf charters and transport boats. From Medan, you can fly to Gunung Sitoli in Nias, then travel overland to the northern port area.

Step 3: Continue by Boat

A charter boat or transfer vessel takes you into the islands. Crews handle logistics so you can focus on the surf.

Accommodation: Boats vs Land Camps

Surf Charter Boats

A surf charter gives you the best chance of scoring waves. 

Crews monitor winds, swell direction and tides then take guests to the most promising breaks. It's the most flexible way to move across many spots in the bay.

Land-Based Surf Camps

More grounded and relaxed. Camps offer beach access and short boat rides to nearby breaks. They're ideal for surfers who prefer sleeping on land yet still want to explore. 

The Bay of Plenty has a couple of reef-anchored camps, including floating surf resorts built directly on the water.

What to Bring

Since these are remote islands, pack carefully.

• Two to three boards for different swell sizes
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Rash guards
• Spare fins, leashes and repair kits
• First aid supplies
• Cash
• Dry bags for boat travel
• Reef booties (optional but helpful for shallow sections)

Check out our packing guide for more information on which gear is suitable for Bali and surf trips to North Sumatra, Indonesia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What should surfers know about local culture in Aceh province?

The Banyaks sit within Aceh province, where villages are modest and traditions remain strong, so respect local customs off the beach. Dress modestly, stay polite and remember these remote islands aren't commercialized. The stunning natural beauty and marine life depend on low-impact behavior.

Q. How can visitors reduce environmental impact around the shallow reef?

Avoid stepping on shallow reef (if you can!) and minimize plastic waste since facilities are limited. Protecting marine life helps preserve wave quality, perfect peaks and the uncrowded waves the Banyak Islands offer.

Q. How do surf charter guests manage trash in these remote islands?

Most surf charter crews ask guests to separate trash and avoid single-use plastics. Bring reusable bottles and containers. Never throw waste from the boat into the Indian Ocean.

Q. What's a typical surf day like in the Banyaks?

Surfers wake at dawn, check the bay for clean lines and paddle out as winds settle. 

After surfing Treasure Island, Lolok Point or other spots in the Bay of Plenty, guests return to the boat for food and rest, then surf again if swell pulses and tides cooperate. Evenings are simple and quiet... unless the Bintangs start flowing post-epic session.

Q. How much can you surf in a day on a charter boat?

Usually two to three sessions. A surf charter boat lets the crew chase glassy surf, perfect barrels and head-high peaks by shifting between many spots as winds and swell direction change.

Q. Why do both intermediate surfers and experienced surfers enjoy the daily rhythm here?

Because it's pure surf and adventure. You're surrounded by crystal-clear waters, peeling perfect waves and memorable sessions without crowds. When southwest swells hit, the islands deliver some of the best waves in the North Sumatra region.

Q. Are the Banyaks suitable for beginners?

Yes. While some waves break over shallow reef, smaller swells offer approachable conditions at spots like Turtle Reef and Toytown Left. Intermediates often progress quickly thanks to the uncrowded waves. Check out our surfing tips for beginners before you go!

Q. How crowded are the waves?

The Banyaks are known for uncrowded lineups. Even during peak season, it's common to share waves with only a few surfers.

Q. Do I need travel insurance?

You do. Remote islands require coverage for surf injuries, evacuation and reef cuts.

Q. Are the reefs dangerous?

Some sections are shallow but many waves have manageable entry and exit points. Surf within your limits and follow local advice.

Q. Is Wi-Fi available?

It's limited. Most travelers expect minimal connectivity during their surf trip.

Q. What boards should I bring?

Bring a versatile shortboard for head-high days, a step-up for large swell and maybe something fun for smaller swells. Durability matters on a surf charter boat.

Q. How do I reach the Banyaks from overseas?

Fly into Kuala Namu International Airport, take a connecting flight with Lion Air or another carrier to Nias or Sibolga then board your charter boat.

Ready to Book a Banyaks Surfing Trip?

The Banyak Islands offer world-class waves, stunning natural beauty and consistent swells across a range of breaks.

Whether you're an intermediate surfer refining your skills or an advanced surfer chasing perfect barrels, the region delivers an adventure that feels far removed from mainstream Indonesian surf tourism. And with uncrowded waves, a friendly crew, reef passes that fire under the right conditions and the freedom to explore many spots, a trip to the Banyaks will stay with you for years.

Think about it... where else can you score barrels at Treasure Island in the morning, cruise playful walls at Gunters in the afternoon and watch the sunset from a floating resort with barely anyone else around?

That's the Banyak Islands experience. And it's second only to a stay on the Bukit with us!