The Mentawai Islands sit at the top of every surfer’s dream list—and once you’ve been, you’ll know why. Imagine glassy turquoise waves peeling over coral reefs, palm-fringed islands untouched by mass tourism, and a rhythm of life that revolves entirely around the tides.
This isn’t just another surf destination—it’s a full-body reset for ocean lovers. The Mentawais remind you why you fell in love with surfing in the first place.
And yes, it takes a little extra effort to get there. But the adventure? So worth it.
To reach this surf paradise, you’ll first fly into Padang, a city on the west coast of Sumatra. From there, it’s a few hours by ferry or fast boat to the outer Mentawai Islands. Some spots require a boat transfer or even a tiny island hop by wooden canoe.
It’s not a quick trip—but that’s exactly what makes it special.
Every hour you travel peels you further away from crowded lineups and into a world of pristine reefs, empty waves, and the kind of wild beauty you don’t find on the beaten path. And when you finally arrive, salty and sun-kissed, it hits you: this is surfing in its purest form.
While peak surf season (April–October) gets most of the attention, the off-season (November–March) is a hidden gem—especially for surfers who want more waves and fewer crowds.
The swell is still consistent, the reefs are still firing, and you can score some of the best sessions of your life with only a handful of people out. It’s also the ideal time for intermediate surfers or those looking to push their skills in a relaxed, pressure-free setting.
This is when many surf coaches run intimate, high-performance retreats in the Mentawais. One of our favourites is Elite Surf Coaching, offering fully guided coaching trips designed to help you progress faster and surf more confidently. Think video analysis, expert feedback, and long, empty walls to practise everything you’ve learned.
And if you're really lucky? You might time your trip with Fede from Liquid Barrel—one of the best surf photographers and videographers in the game. Getting your surfing captured by Fede is the ultimate souvenir: cinematic footage in a dream location, shot by someone who understands both light and surfing. Trust us, you’ll want to frame it. (Fede took the above photo!)
Whether you want a luxury villa with AC or a rustic hut where you fall asleep to the sound of the reef, the Mentawais deliver.
If you’re chasing the ultimate surf experience with access to some of the most legendary waves in the Mentawais (think Rifles and Kandui Left), Kandui Resort delivers. This high-end, all-inclusive resort is nestled on its own island and offers speedboat access to multiple world-class breaks. It’s ideal for surfers who want a wave-rich, bucket-list trip without sacrificing comfort.
Tucked amongst coconut trees and just steps from the sea, La Isla Mentawai is a stylish boutique surf retreat with laid-back island energy. The atmosphere is warm, the setting is stunning, and the community is strong. It’s the kind of place where you’ll quickly feel at home—especially if you love surf, yoga, and shared sunset beers with new friends.
Boho dreamers, this one’s for you. Driftwood offers barefoot luxury with thoughtful details, beautiful decor, and a chill, creative vibe. Perfect for couples or solo surfers wanting downtime in between sessions.
A favourite for a reason—Hollow Tree’s sits right in front of world-class surf. Wake up, check the waves from your room, and paddle out. After your session, enjoy gourmet meals and a little indulgence between surfs.
For a more earthy experience, Mentawai Surf Retreat is where authenticity meets adventure. Wooden bungalows, epic sunsets, and surf just a short walk away. It’s remote, raw, and deeply rewarding.
One thing about the Mentawais—conditions change fast. So pack swimwear that works just as hard as you do.
Sunrise surfs can be breezy and reefy. Our 2.5mm limestone eco-neoprene spring suits are perfect for early starts, offering lightweight warmth, UV protection, and a little added comfort when paddling over reef.
Made from sustainable limestone-based neoprene and lined with recycled PET, they’re a planet-friendly choice that performs beautifully in the water.
When the sun is blazing and the water’s like a bath, swap into one of our long sleeve one piece swimsuits. They offer UPF50+ protection, sculpt your shape, and most importantly—stay on. These long sleeve one piece swimsuits are made for serious surf sessions with zero distractions.
Not every moment in the Mentawais is about performance. For laid-back swims, island hopping, or sunset beers on the beach, our seamless bikinis and surf bikinis are your go-to. They’re smooth, supportive, and built to stay put—without sacrificing style.
You might leave the Mentawais with a few reef tattoos, salt-burned lips, and sore arms—but you'll also leave with a clear mind, a stronger body, and memories that will stay with you for life.
It’s not just the waves (though those are next-level). It’s the simplicity. The oceanic rhythm. The feeling of being completely present.
In a world that pulls us in every direction, the Mentawais bring you back to your core: surf, eat, rest, repeat.
With world-class surf coaches, boutique stays, and even the chance to have your ride of the trip captured by Liquid Barrel—it’s an experience that keeps calling you back.
Space is limited on those tiny boats, so pack wisely:
One long sleeve swimsuit or spring suit for reefy mornings
A couple of seamless bikinis for surf and lounging
Reef friendly Zinc, reef booties, and a lightweight sarong
A journal—you’ll want to remember this one
And most importantly, take swimwear that won’t let you down in the water. At Ocean Soul Swimwear, our pieces are designed by and for women who live for the ocean. Every detail—from the high-quality stitching to the UPF50+ fabric—is tested for real conditions and built to last.
Want to see our other surf spots in Bali? Check it out here
There’s something about the ocean. Maybe it’s the rhythm. The way it mirrors your breath. Or the way it invites you to let go—of stress, of tension, of everything you thought you needed to carry.
If you’ve ever been out on the waves, you know that the right gear can make or break your surfing experience. While choosing the right surfboard or wetsuit is crucial, the importance of selecting the best swimsuit for surfing should not be overlooked.
There’s a unique kind of freedom that comes from boarding a plane with just your board bag, a few essentials, and a one-way ticket to somewhere warm and wave-rich. For many, that place is Bali—and for good reason.
