Surf Trip to Indonesia, all you need to know about this destination

Dernière mise à jour le 4 August 2024

Indonesia in a nutshell

For a surferto talk about Indonesia is to talk about a paradise a real Mecca surfing, where different islands such as Bali, Java, Sumatra and Sumbawa, are just some of the spotlights that attract enthusiasts from the four corners of the globe.

In spite of this demographic influx, Indonesia offers escape routes lesser-known islands, where rainforests, deserted beaches and secret surf spots offer the chance to get away from it all on untouched islands.

Visit surf tourism is now an essential component of the local economy, and one that domestic industry that coexists harmoniously with the traditional backpacking and a growing openness to green tourism and sustainable.

When it comes to currencyThe Indonesian rupiah reigns supreme, although US and Australian dollars are accepted in major tourist resorts.

And what about the language? Visit Indonesian Bahasa is the common language of the country, but in reality there are more 300 dialects and local languages. Don't worry, the locals will always appreciate your efforts to communicate, even if you try your hand at Bahasa.

Indonesia and surf culture

Indonesia is the cradle of surf travel and also by boat dedicated to surfers, an invention that has revolutionized swell tracking for pros and amateurs alike.

Visit weather is a precious ally in Indonesia. A mild temperature of 27°C on average all year round, with colder temperatures from July to September/October (southern hemisphere).

Some spots, such as Bali, Lombok and Sumbawa, boast huge popularity, especially in the summer months. high season. This is where the savvy surfer's intelligence comes into play: getting up at the crack of dawn or elbowing your way to the top. line-up is not inevitable. The key is local knowledge - a guide, a friend, or your own sense of smell, as well as the satellite view on Google Map, can lead you to the right places. sessions away from the fray.

With a network of surf camps and resorts skilfully set up in front of the waves, it's often just a matter of paddling to the peak. Of course, some of the more remote spots require an approach by sea, with small fishing boats costing between 25,000 rupiah for a one-way trip and 200,000 rupiah for a dedicated boat to wait for you. But you can always row if you've got the arms!

To conclude, Indonesia is a bit like the grand buffet du surf There's something for every taste, every level, every budget, and above all, for every surfer in search of authenticity and pure sensations.

Why choose Indonesia for your Surf Trip

Visit variety of spots here, a wide range of breaks, reef breaks beach breaks to suit every taste. Families will find safe beaches for the little ones, while the more adventurous will find tubes and "World-class" waves.

Thanks to constant swells year-round, Indonesia is the ideal playground. Add to this winds ranging from steady and predictable to light and capricious, and you have a recipe for world-class waves. And even during the rainy season, pearls lurk for those who dare to go off the beaten track.

In the housing sector surf camp and guest-houses in surf resorts luxury, Indonesia welcomes guests of all budgets and levels.

Destinations such as the Mentawai Islands, North Sumatra, and the wild beauty of Sumba and Sumbawa are names that sound like promises of world-class waves.

As I said earlier, Indo is also about attractive prices for an unforgettable trip. Life here is not only good for the soul, but also for the wallet.

And safety? Crime is very lowespecially in areas far from the major urban centers where surfing is king. But you still need to be careful, as there are always the occasional opportunistic thefts.

Think about it: Indonesia is approximately 17,000 islands. This island abundance means that, even in a surfer's lifetime, you'll only explore a fraction of what Indonesia has to offer. It's an endless horizon of discovery, a new adventure behind every wave.

The reputation is not stolen: Indonesia is recognized as one of the world's leading surfing destinations. But beyond the waves, there are the activities Yoga, hiking, diving, waterfalls, temples or simply relaxing on picture-postcard beaches.

But beyond all these considerations, it's the kindness of people that makes the biggest impression on me. The smile and kindness of the Balinese people is simply a daily joy.

When should you go surfing in Indonesia?

Indonesia, with its tropical climateThe French Riviera is a sanctuary for surfers in search of warmth, sunshine and, of course, perfect waves. But when exactly should you don your lycra and wax your board and set out to conquer its legendary waves?

Visit dry seasonstretching fromApril to Octoberis the peak of popularity for surf trips. It's characterized by impeccably blue skies and winds that seem to conspire in surfers' favor. July stands out as the jewel of this period, offering near-perfect conditions with a dash of adventure.

The conditions swell are impetuous, with waves reaching up to 4 metersespecially in Sumatra and Bali. If you're looking for that thrill, the force of nature awaits you during the dry season.

The same period is also ideal for combining surfing and discovering the islands. However, this is the most touristic period; surf spots are busier, and the atmosphere is livelier.

Visit wet seasonoften overlooked, stretches from November to March. The swell is sometimes non-existent (from December to January) with days or even weeks of flat... But it can be favorable, especially for beginners and intermediate surfers. What's more, it doesn't rain more than a few days a month at most...

Visit seasonality in Indonesia dictates two distinct seasons influencing surfing. For optimum conditions, the dry season is unbeatable, with temperatures favorable winds from the south-southwest and prolonged periods of light to nil winds that flatter the waves.

Surfing in the wet season is full of surprises: pleasant, less crowded waves, especially on the east coast of Bali and in Sumatra, where the swell remains good and regular, promising memorable sessions without the crowds thanks to a westerly wind.

What budget for a Surf Trip to Indonesia?

Visit costs vary enormously. You can have fun with luxury surf springs and exclusive boats where overnight stays rise to over 400 euros. But Indo is also a mecca for good deals, where you can stay and spend adventurous days for around 20 euros per day all-inclusive.

One island follows another, but no two are alike. domestic flights are affordable, but not free either. Ferries, meanwhile, weave a web between the surf spots, making transfers easily accessible. While you're there, plan on a daily budget of between 30 and 500 eurosAll-inclusive, depending on whether you opt for simplicity or luxury.

Local catering : Indonesia will have you salivating with its local dishes based on exotic flavors. For just a few thousand rupees, you can enjoy a satay a tasty nasi campur (pronounced "Tchampur") or a gado-gado. A mie goreng(fried noodles) in a warung will cost you the equivalent of one to three euros.

Mid-range catering : if you take it up a notch, with approximately 5 €you can treat yourself to a meal in a more cosy restaurant, perhaps with a view of the ocean, some eggsand crêpesand a good tea to top it all off.

Expat restaurant : want to treat yourself and not eat rice again? More establishments foreign and high-end await you, with menus ranging from 10 and €20. Pizzas, Mexican cuisine, burgers, etc... You'll find everything to suit Western habits.

Drinks : for after-surfing, a local beer(Bintang, Singaraja, Bali Hai, etc.) will refresh you for around 2 An imported beer will cost you a little extra. As alcohol is taxed in Indonesia, beer will often cost you the same as the meal itself if you eat in a warung. And if you're curious, thearak local is an experience in itself, and its price is rather low compared with other imported spirits, which are very expensive.

Water : staying hydrated is crucial under the Indonesian sun, and a small bottle of water will only cost you about 0,20 €. But think green! Reusable bottles with filtered water are a must for reducing plastic pollution, and many accommodations are already equipped for this.

Travel insurance for your Surf Trip

When we talk about surf trips, we often think of the joy of riding the waves, but we forget that surfing is also a sport where the unexpected can happen. That's why good travel insurance is your best ally. And guess what? We've put together the most comprehensive guide to surf travel insurance.just for you! You're a lucky man 😉

If you want to find the perfect insurance policy to cover you in the event of a mishap, you need one that understands the specificities of surfing. Think about medical care in case of accident and unforeseen events that could spoil your stay (flight cancellation, bad weather, etc.).

Indonesia's top surfing spots and islands

While most surfers head for Bali, Lombok or the Mentawai Islands, there are still places where the waves break far from the crowds. You may discover these secret spots in a conversation with a local, or by venturing a little further afield than the others.

These spots are often more difficult to access, whether by trekking through the jungle, or by taking a traditional boat that takes you off the beaten track. But the rewards are well worth the effort.

Indonesia is the promise of your surfing Eden, whether you're looking for a barrel perfect or a wave Mellow "to perfect your skills. The key is to remain curious, respectful of the culture and environment, and of course, always ready to row into the unknown.

Bali: the island of gods and world-class waves

When it comes to Surf Trip in IndonesiaIt's often the image of Bali, the island of the gods, that first springs to mind for surfing enthusiasts. Bali, with its mythical aura, has succeeded in engraving itself in surf culture as a must-see, an almost obligatory passage for any self-respecting surfer. And for good reason, with its Hindu traditions and hospitality, it has everything to please.

Bali is a pearl for surfers thanks to the Bukit peninsula, famous for its enchanting reefs. left as Uluwatu and Padang Padangwhich have been attracting surfers since the 1970s with their winds. offshore constant.

UluwatuThis is the Mecca of Balinese surfing. The wave here is a long left-hander, surfable along the cliffs, offering sections tubular waves. Famous thanks to the film "Morning of the Earth", Uluwatu may not be the most powerful of Indonesian waves, but it's certainly one of the best known. The famous "Outside Corner" section becomes a playground for big-wave enthusiasts when swells important.

Speaking of tubes, don't miss Padang Padangnicknamed the Balinese 'Pipeline'. This spot is reserved for experienced surfers ready to take on strong currents and a demanding left-hand tube. When the conditions are right, with big south-westerly swells and medium tides, Padang Padang shows its best face and can offer unforgettable rides.

But Bali isn't just for pros. Spots like Canggu offer accessible reef breaks with fast lefts, perfect for surfers of all levels, especially in the morning, before the wind picks up and the crowds arrive.

Kedungu, a little further north, offers waves that are perfect for beginners. longboarders and intermediate beginners.

With a variety of spots Suitable for every surfing style, warm water all year round and a nightlife as dynamic as its waves, Bali is without doubt one of the places on Earth where every surfer can find something to suit his or her tastes.

The Mentawai Islandsthe archipelago of hundreds of waves

Imagine for a moment 33 surf spots on coral reefsA place where every wave seems to have been sculpted by the surfing gods themselves. That's the Mentawai Islands. A place so emblematic that even the most seasoned surfers speak of it with passion.

Archipelago of Perfection

Discovered in the 1990s, the Mentawai Islands have become the epicenter of surfing in Indonesia. They attract thousands of surfers every year, each in search of that perfect wave, that moment of grace that only a surfer can understand. The archipelago offers high concentration of perfect wavesBut there are also advantages to coming in the off-season - fewer people in the water, that's not insignificant, is it?

And for those looking to experience the ultimate in luxury while chasing the perfect wave, luxury boat trips have been specially designed to criss-cross these crystal-clear waters. Imagine yourself on board, waking up each morning to a new spot, ready to dive into the salt water for an early morning session.

HTs: The Royal Tube

Hollow Trees (HTs)Better known as Lance's Right, it's a bit like the Holy Grail of surfing. This is the spot that really put Mentawai on the world surfing map. The straight tube it offers is a marvel of power and perfection, a wave that can reach double overhead size, rolling over a shallow reef. Beware, however, the inner section, nicknamed "Surgeon's Table", is known to be particularly dangerous.

HTs is often crowded, mainly due to its popularity with luxury boat tours and the nearby land camp. To really see what HTs has to offer, you need a big south-westerly swell and a north-easterly to easterly wind. That's when the spot reaches its full potential.

Kandui: The Ruthless Left

In the Mentawai Playgrounds region, you can find KanduiA spot that demands respect and mastery. It's a fast, hollow, shallow left, considered one of the best waves in the region. When I first heard of Kandui, it was through epic tales of tubes so intense and fast they were almost indescribable. Kandui, or "Nokandui" as some call it because of its intimidating speed, is the kind of wave that makes you feel alive.

The Mentawai spots, from HTs to Kandui, aren't just about surfing. It's an experience, a communion with the ocean. It's a dance with the elements, where each wave is a different melody.

Indonesia is famous for its perfect waves, and the Mentawai are the epitome of that perfection. It's not just the quality of the waves that makes this place magical, it's everything - the culture, the nature, the atmosphere. And believe me, once you've surfed here, no other spot in the world will seem quite like it.

Lombok

Lombok is the surf spot whispered about by insiders. More tranquil than Bali, it's the place where you can find a good wave balance 'straight linesand 'left. Whether you're a weekend surfer or a seasoned tube hunter, Lombok has something for everyone. Less populated, it offers a haven for those looking to get away from the crowds.

Between Reality and Fantasy

The magic of Desert Point is that it's rare and powerfulbecoming more hollow and demanding as it progresses. She's famous among surfers around the globe, but remains a capricious lover, revealing herself fully only under certain conditions: a big south-westerly swell and a low tide are her favorite dancing companions. Otherwise, she can remain surprisingly calm, serene, almost flat even with a strong swell if the tide doesn't suit her.

A Lesser-Known Paradise

But Lombok isn't just Desert Point. Around Kuta and towards the Gili Islands, you'll find a myriad of spots surrounded by reefs, perfect for all levels. These islands, close to Bali, are quickly accessible and offer equally remarkable waves for those looking to get away from the noise and bustle.

Lombok is a symphony, where each spot plays a different note, but all together they create a melody that resonates in surfers' hearts. It's a destination that deserves to be known, that deserves to be explored, and that promises indelible memories on the canvas of your surfing life.

In conclusion, whether you're looking for tranquility or thrills, the perfect wave or just a place to escape the routine, Lombok is the place to be. Indonesia continues to surprise us, from Bali to Java, from Sumatra to the Mentawai Islands, but Lombok remains in a class of its own - lesser-known, just as magnificent, and with waves that will mark you for life.

Sumba, la Belle Sauvage

Perhaps less well known than its archipelagic sisters, Sumba is the antithesis of the overcrowded surf spot. With its dry tropical climate, traditional villages where time seems to stand still, and coastline just waiting for you, Sumba is a surfer's best-kept secret.

This is where you'll find Nihi SumbaThis eco-luxury resort not only offers unrivalled comfort, but also access to "Occy's Left", an exclusive wave that will make your surfing heart beat to the rhythm of perfect sets.

Sumatra, the Surfers' Sanctuary

Then there's Sumatraan island as famous for its volcanoes and rainforests as it is for its waves. Here, the dry season welcomes you with swells of up to 4 metres and offshore winds ideal for endless carving, slashing and tubing.

For intermediate and advanced surfers, it's paradise on Earth, with quality waves close to Krui that will leave you with indelible memories.

The Banyak Islands, the jewels of the Indian Ocean

Sumbawa, the Call of Adventure

As for SumbawaIt remains a hidden gem for many. Less touristy, it is nevertheless famous among connoisseurs for spots such as Lakey Peak, Periscope and Scar Reef. These names conjure up visions of perfect waves, crystal-clear tubes and pure adrenalin. With a wave in " A-frame "Left and right, hollow and powerful, Sumbawa is the ideal playground for surfers looking for a challenge.

However, Sumbawa also has its quirks. It offers one of the most consistent waves in the region, but beware of overcrowding at moments of grace. What's more, the wind can pick up in the afternoon, making conditions less than ideal and sometimes impassable.

Nusa Lembogan

The waves aren't the only attraction: imagine stepping out of the water, skin still salty, and being absorbed by the vibrant culture and dreamy landscapes. That's what a surf trip to Indonesia is all about.

Nias & Asu

Let's sail further west, towards Nias & Asu. The bay of Lagundri in Nias is not just a wave, it's a living legend that was magnified after the 2005 earthquake - the lifted reef created a deeper wave, the promise of unforgettable barrels. The place has retained its authenticity, offering an almost mystical experience to those who glide over its water.

Java

Then there's Javawith G-landthe island's most famous wave. A point break on a lava reef that promises a memorable session in Grajagan Bay. And these sections - Kong's, Moneytreesuntil Speed Reef - every wave is a new challenge, every session an adventure. Not forgetting the small island of Panaitanwhere powerful right-handers meet a perfect left-hand point-break, all set against a backdrop of dense, wild jungle.

The Telo Islands

Then, let's get off the beaten track and head for the Telo Islands. Less crowded than the Mentawai, they offer ideal conditions for those looking for relaxed but equally captivating surf, with waves to suit all levels.

West Papua

Visit West Papua calls you for a surfing adventure far away from it all, amid dense jungle, pristine waters and uncrowded waves. This is the place where nature reigns supreme, and every wave caught is a privilege.

Timor & Rote

And finally, for those seeking authenticity away from the crowds, Rote and Timor are promising alternatives. With quality waves like the long left at T-Land On Rote, you'll discover desert landscapes bordered by deep blue waters and accessible waves that rival the more famous spots in beauty and pleasure.

Surfing in Indonesia is more than just a quest for the perfect wave - it's an immersion in a rich culture, a communion with nature and, of course, an unrivalled sporting adventure. Each island, each wave has its own character, its own history and its own promise of excitement. So, whether you're looking for the tube of a lifetime or a simple escape on the water, Indonesia has it all.

Surfing here isn't just a sport, it's a way of life. And every spot reminds you of that, whether you're embracing a wave at Sumbathe majesty of a sunrise over Sumatraor the solitude found in the middle of the ocean in Sumbawa. So get your board ready, book your ticket, and let yourself be carried away by the adventure of a Surf Trip in Indonesia.