Surfing spots can be found anywhere in this archipelago. It is Mentawai Island, located in territorial of West Sumatra, Padang – Indonesia, one of the most fascinating and thrilling place for surfing challenger. It is in the mid of Indian Ocean, 150 km away from Padang that takes nine hours trip. Mentawai is a place for several natural habitats of 16 endemic species, and some of them are categorized as endangered species, such as Simakobu monkey (simias concolor-eat leaf as primary food).

The world surfers say that Mentawai is the best place to fill their demand for challenges and nature beauty at the same time. The highest wave in the word can be found at this place, about three to four meters. This hidden paradise island will give the visitor unforgettable surfing experience.

The life of Mentawai contains of Neolithic era (more about Neolithic) and the people have a strong faith in nature spirit, their lives are strongly affected by their environment and consider the nature as the center of life. That’s why the genuine attributes that are reflected on their traditional cloths, art, music, and the way of life, bring the island to be a perfect area on culture experiences for anyone. One of the uniqueness of the people is their tattoos crafted on their skins as a symbol of maturity, manhood and status. The body painting art were inherited from their ancestors. The tattoo ink is naturally made from leaves.

Existing four stupendous diving spots in Mentawai are Siberut, Sipora, Pagai Utara (north Pagai) and Pagai Selatan (south Pagai). The best time to visit is in dry season – March to October, will find the best waves here. The soul of a challenger is needed, to explore all those glassy waves.

How to get there

Start it from Jakarta - Sukarno Hatta Airport to Tabing Airport, Padang-West Sumatra. The flight is served everyday, more info about flight schedule please click here. After finding Teluk Bayur Port – Padang, take a ferry to Mentawai Island.

Accommodation: Based on the visitor experience, the local people’s housing is the best choice to stay. Having interactions with local people and staying in unique architectures give the visitors distinctive way to blend with the culture. But, there are also common accommodations available.

More info about Mentawai Island, please click here.

Photo Credits: Dicky Martiaz, a member at group of facebook for "home for travelers"