Ultimate Siberut Island Surf Guide

Siberut Island is the easiest to reach and surf island in the Mentawais.

It sits deep in the Mentawai chain off the west coast of Sumatra. And despite its accessibility, it feels far removed from other popular Indonesian surf zones like Bali, Lombok or even mainland Sumatra. 

You come here for empty lineups, real island culture and the kind of remote surf experience that still carries a sense of adventure. Surfing Siberut is different from other parts of Indonesia… and that’s exactly what makes it special.

This guide walks you through what the island is like, how to get there, the surf zones, where to stay and everything you need to know before planning a Siberut surf trip. 

If you want a surf mission that feels raw and unforgettable, hit us up! Our crew are always happy to share more tips in person.

Where is Siberut Island

Siberut is the largest island in the Mentawai archipelago. 

It’s also called “Playgrounds” for obvious reasons. Heaps of fun waves and a variety of options for different swells and winds. 

Here’s what you can expect when you go there:

• It sits northwest of Sipora and North Pagai and is covered in thick rainforest, winding rivers and small local villages
• Much of the island is undeveloped, which is a big part of its appeal
• You won’t find large towns or busy roads here. Instead, you’ll find dense jungle, quiet beaches and a slower way of life that draws adventurous surfers
• Siberut is the cultural heart of the Mentawai people, known for their traditional longhouses, forest knowledge and connection to the land

Ultimately, if you’re the kind of traveler who loves remote culture mixed with world-class surf, this island is the real deal.

Why surf Siberut Island

Most surfers hear about the Mentawais and think of the marquee breaks farther south. 

Rifles, Macaronis, HT’s and other famous waves sit hours away from Siberut. But surfing Siberut offers its own set of breaks that are less crowded with a vibe that feels closer to the early days of Indo surf travel.

You won’t find giant resort crowds here. 

You also won’t find boat charters dropping anchor beside every break. What you’ll get instead are reefs with fewer surfers, mellow takeoff zones, fast walls on the right day and a feeling that you’re surfing somewhere authentic.

Siberut also boasts a mix of rights and lefts that suit intermediates and advanced and even beginner surfers, depending on swell size. 

The waves aren’t as consistently perfect as the mid Mentawais islands, but many travelers prefer the tradeoff for more empty lineups and a deeper connection to the island. Here are some of the more popular waves:

• Nipussi: A forgiving right that stays playful and smooth, great for intermediates learning how to handle reef setups
• E-Bay: A left that reels over deep water before hitting the inside bowl, offering clean hollow sections when the swell lines up
• Pitstops: A fun right with an easy paddle-out and long rides that blend pockets, shoulders, and occasional barrels
• Bank Vaults: A heavy right known for late drops and thick barrels that only experienced surfers should take on. Best that you know how to hold your breath underwater before tackling this one
• Promises: A long fast right near the outer reefs that throws predictable barrels but needs solid skill and good timing
• Burgerworld: A super consistent right that attracts smaller swell and dishes out long carveable walls suited for almost any surfer

Why we love surfing Siberut

Playful reef breaks on the west coast

The west coast picks up open ocean swell and has reefs that range from soft rolling lefts to faster sections on bigger days. These breaks are ideal for surfers who want something fun without heavy Mentawai intensity.

More powerful waves farther offshore

Small outer reefs and exposed points can fire when the swell is right. These aren’t the famous names you see in surf films, but they’re often empty and punch much harder than they look from the boat.

Beginner-friendly and intermediate options

Siberut actually has more approachable waves than the southern Mentawais. If you’re progressing from beach breaks to reef breaks, this island is a less intimidating place to learn how Indo reef surfing works. You can also practice learning how to read a forecast here too

Best time for surfing Siberut

The main surf season in the Mentawais runs from April to October. 

During these months you’ll get the most consistent southwest swell and light winds that work well with the west facing reefs around Siberut. Shoulder seasons can bring fun surf too, although conditions get more variable.

Because Siberut is more exposed to wind and weather, the timing of swells matters. A local guide or surf camp can help pick the best spots day by day.

How to get to Siberut Island

Getting to Siberut is part of the adventure. The journey usually involves a mix of flights and ferries, and you’ll want to plan your route carefully.

1. Fly into Padang

Padang in West Sumatra is the main gateway to the Mentawais. 

You can fly into Minangkabau International Airport from Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Medan or other cities in Indonesia. Once you’re in Padang, your surf operators or accommodations can help arrange ferry tickets and transfers.

2. Take the fast ferry to Siberut

From Padang, you’ll board the fast ferry to the Mentawais. 

Ferries run on a schedule and make stops depending on the day. Siberut is one of the major stops, but always check the latest timetable because departures can change with weather or maintenance.

Traveling with surfboards on the ferry is common, but pack them properly because loading can be rough.

3. Local boats and transfers

Once you reach Siberut, small boats take you to surf camps or remote beaches.

 This is where the journey becomes more memorable. You’ll pass mangroves, forests and river mouths before reaching your spot. Oh… and probably some amazing reef setups too.

Where to stay on Siberut

Accommodation on Siberut is simpler than what you’ll find on Sipora or the southern islands. 

Expect traditional style houses, rustic surf camps, basic rooms near the coast and family run homestays. The charm is in the simplicity. You’re not coming here for luxury. You’re coming for surf, nature and a slower island rhythm.

Most surf travelers stay at camps that include meals, surf transportation and daily boat drops. 

This makes it easier to explore different breaks without guessing where to paddle out. Looking for a strictly beginner-friendly surf zone? These are the top beginner spots in the world right now.

What to expect on Siberut

True island culture

The Mentawai people have lived here for centuries and maintain strong connections to forest traditions. You’ll see traditional longhouses, hand-carved canoes and daily life shaped by the land and sea.

Quiet nights

Forget nightlife. Siberut is for early mornings, calm evenings and long conversations over simple meals… and maybe a few sneaky beers or cocktails.

Fewer crowds

This is a major reason people choose Siberut over the busier southern Mentawais. Some sessions feel like private surf missions.

Remote adventure

Because the island is large and wild, weather and ocean conditions matter. Flexibility is part of the trip.

Travel tips for surfing Siberut

• Bring extra surf gear because you can’t buy much once you arrive
• Pack reef booties if you want peace of mind
• Carry cash since ATMs are unreliable or nonexistent
• Expect limited WiFi and slow connections
• Use a guided surf camp to find the best waves each day

FAQ: Siberut surf travel

Is Siberut good for intermediate surfers

It is. Many reefs around Siberut are mellow by Mentawai standards which makes the island ideal for surfers who want Indo experience without heavy crowds.

What’s the difference between Siberut and the main Mentawai surf zones

Siberut is wilder and less developed. The waves aren’t as famous as the southern Mentawais but they’re less crowded and better suited for surfers who want a raw experience.

What board should I bring for surfing Siberut

Bring your everyday shortboard and a step up for bigger days. A spare board is smart because repairs are limited.

Are there surf charters around Siberut

Yes. Some boats visit the northern Mentawais and Siberut region, although fewer charters come this far compared to Sipora and Pagai.

How many days do I need on Siberut

Seven to ten days works well. You’ll have time to explore different reefs and adapt to changing conditions.

Ready for your Siberut surf trip

Siberut isn’t polished or predictable. It’s raw, forest covered and filled with waves that reward curiosity. 

If you want a Mentawai surf trip that feels like an adventure, this island should be on your list. Surfing Siberut gives you a chance to slow down, score empty waves and experience a part of Indonesia that still feels untouched. 

Hit us up for more information about planning your Siberut trip!