Discover the surf
LowPressure Stormrider Surf Guide says
In a very short period of time, this wild and remote chain of islands, lying about 90k’s (55mi) off the Sumatran mainland, have become the most sought after destination for surfers looking to ride “the best waves in the world”. This bold claim is rarely disputed, as those who score a solid SW swell will testify and few return from the Mentawais disappointed with the wave quality and quantity. The key to this rapid ascension to the pinnacle of world surfing lies in the sheer concentration of truly world-class breaks and an unmatched flexibility when it comes to handling different swell and wind combinations. Being a degree or three below the equator helps massively, as the light, flukey winds provide a variety of directions unseen in other parts of Indonesia and it often transpires that proper glassy conditions bookend the day. Furthermore, the geomorphology of this seismically active region seems to cause unusual swell refraction and diffraction, creating unexpected waves round the back of islands and islets where none should normally exist. These coral encrusted lava reefs fringe a still relatively untouched rainforest and many of the tribal inhabitants of the remoter regions still cling to a traditional subsistence lifestyle, maintaining little contact with the outside world. Progress is unavoidable though and whereas 15 years ago, yacht charters were the only way to go, now a half dozen land camps have been established at the banner waves and many more are planned. This has led to Silabu Village installing 2 buoys in Pasongan harbour next to Macaronis, requiring boats to book in a week before arrival and pay a $30 mooring fee plus the $1.50 per head surfer fee, which are used for community projects. This limits the numbers to around 36 maximum, shared evenly between the resort and charters and stops anchor damage in the bay. This precedent may expand across the region if resorts can obtain the various government licenses. Threats to revoke charter licenses for boats not registered in Indonesia have been rumoured and would drastically reduce surf fleet numbers if implemented.
The hulking mass of Siberut presents a primal vista, with the hardwood forest shrouded in mist and it exudes an air of power and mystery, emanating from the mountainous interior. This largest island in the Mentawai chain has only been lightly surfed by long-range charter crews grabbing an opportunistic wave on the way to the Nias area. That means spots on the backside are more often seen from the northern tip at Tanjung Sigep, down to the impossibly sheltered Teluk Tabekat and out to the headland at Sikabaluan, but most will pass by like ships in the night. A good deal of the SW-facing coast is straight line reefs, exposed and messed up by wind and swell, but a few obvious jinks in the coast could produce a left or two at Tanjungs Sakaladat, Sataerataera and Simasuket. Many captains will have a few spots sussed for certain conditions and there are some mellow breaks in the playgrounds area that get ridden like Taileleo, a fun mal slide facing south, Pearlers peak nestled behind Masokut and a righthander round the backside near the Muara harbour. It is important to recognise that while there are 40-60 named breaks, many more are out there, being surfed by experienced captains who know the deal.
Find more general info about when to go and statistics on the Low Pressure’s Stormrider Guide website.
Condition descriptions provided by the Operator
From your bungalow you will be greeted by the impressive sight of Lances Left, arguably the most consistent world class wave in the mentawai archipelago. The resort is located in an extremely wave rich region with 10 different waves within 20 minutes via boat. With such an extensive selection to choose from; fun beach breaks, long lefts and rights, barrel perfection and heavy slabs, whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced surfer all levels and appetites are catered for here at Kingfisher Bay Resort.
Waves
Lance’s Left
Lances is the epitome of the classic Indo wave, a very long, superbly shaped wave that is renowned for being one of the most consistent locations in the Mentawai islands. Several take off zones mean this place rarely feels crowded, and with a relatively easy entry during take off it’s little wonder Lances is such a regular crowd pleaser. At three feet expect long, peeling, lined up walls perfect for pushing the limits on your turns, but also be on the lookout for two distinct barrel sections depending on swell direction. At six feet and above be prepared for corduroy lines stacked to the horizon. The wave transforms into a steep, deepwater takeoff with big open faces down the line.
Although not the most prolific barrel producing wave in the Mentawai, it’s length and variations through different sections mean all levels of ability can enjoy Lances. Also a great place for intermediate surfers to push themselves into bigger waves.
- Overall rating: 8 / 10
- Best size: 3 to 6 feet.
- Consustency: 9 / 10
- Difficulty: 5 / 10
- Bottom: coral reef.
- Reef factor: 6 / 10
- Length: 50 to 150 meters.
- Level: intermediate to advanced.
- Best tide: medium to high.
- From resort: on your doorstep.
- Shore access: through keyhole.
T’s (Hollow Trees or Lance’s Right)
One of the worlds best waves, this premier righthander can produce the kind of ruler edge barrel perfection normally restricted to the imagination. When swells hit ‘The Office’ section of the wave, all there is to do is pull in and charge through one of the deepest, roundest and most perfect barrels you are ever likely to come across. One good wave at HT’s can make your trip, and one mistake could also prove disastrous. Breaking on a shallow reef, the end of the wave sucks even shallower when passing above the aptly named ‘Surgeons Table’. Still surfable on low tide, most people wait for mid to high tide to try their hand.
From 1 to 10 foot, HT’s will offer a barrel when combined with offshore winds.This wave can be fussy concerning swell direction, but when it turns on it really is a sight to behold, truly a freak of nature.
- Overall rating: 9 / 10
- Best size: 3 to 8 feet.
- Consustency: 8 / 10
- Difficulty: 9 / 10
- Bottom: coral reef.
- Reef factor: 9 / 10
- Length: 30 to 75 meters.
- Level: intermediate to advanced.
- Best tide: medium to high.
- From resort: 15 minutes by boat.
- Shore access: sand bottom beach.
Bintangs
Situated across the bay from Lances Left this classy righthander offers short but perfect, mechanically shaped walls and barrel sections. Although playful under 4 feet, a dramatic transformation takes place once overhead. Waves surge towards the A-frame shaped reef before breaking, then throwing out a perfectly round cavern along the entire length of the wave. What this wave lacks in length it certainly makes up for in quality.
A little temperamental concerning swell direction, Bintangs is often overlooked by visiting charter boats. However our close proximity and intimate local knowledge ensures we’ll never miss an opportunity to score a few kegs at Bintangs.
- Overall rating: 7 / 10
- Best size: 2 to 6 feet.
- Consustency: 6 / 10
- Difficulty: 7 / 10
- Bottom: coral reef.
- Reef factor: 7 / 10
- Length: 15 to 40 meters.
- Level: intermediate to advanced.
- Best tide: low to medium.
- From resort: 5 minutes by boat.
- Shore access: through keyhole.
The Cobra
hort punchy walls to heaving, square barrels are what you’ll usually find at the Cobra. This moody lefthander can really turn it on with the correct swell direction, located just 50 meters from Lances Left, can occasionally link up with it’s more famous neighbour for a 200+ meter ride! A very steep takeoff followed by a throwing backdoor section is not uncommon at the Cobra. Choose your waves carefully, as this wave has some serious venom with wider sets that will push unlucky punters across the reef.
Not the easiest takeoff and barrel to negotiate, but the rewards are plentiful for those willing to try their hand. An often uncrowded or empty lineup should be enough to lure even the most reef shy surfer to chase down a throwing Cobra pit.
- Overall rating: 7 / 10
- Best size: 2 to 6 feet.
- Consustency: 7 / 10
- Difficulty: 9 / 10
- Bottom: coral reef.
- Reef factor: 9 / 10
- Length: 20 to 50 meters.
- Level: advanced.
- Best tide: medium to high.
- From resort: on your doorstep.
- Shore access: through keyhole.
Sssshhhh 1
This rarely surfed righthander breaks like a point break with very long rides. The relatively deep water makes for long workable walls, although the odd tube has been known to show itself. Best during medium sized swells, this wave can be fickle with certain tidal influences punctuating the session with long lull periods, so some patience may be necessary, but a great option for a quiet session.
- Overall rating: 6 / 10
- Best size: 2 to 4 feet.
- Consustency: 6 / 10
- Difficulty: 5 / 10
- Bottom: coral reef.
- Reef factor: 6 / 10
- Length: 50 to 150 meters.
- Level: intermediate.
- Best tide: medium.
- From resort: sssshhhh.
- Shore access: tricky.
Sssshhhh 2
Breaking extremely close to shore this righthander is all about one thing; getting barrelled! Closeout sets are easily identified as swells approach, so try and be choosey and snag a perfectly cylindrical shaped tube from start to finish, before kicking out over a very shallow end section. Booties are recommended, even for those confident surfing coral reef set ups. As there is no channel to paddle back to the lineup, getting caught inside can be extremely hazardous!
- Overall rating: 7 / 10
- Best size: 3 to 6 feet.
- Consustency: 6 / 10
- Difficulty: 9 / 10
- Bottom: coral reef.
- Reef factor: 9 / 10
- Length: 25 to 50 meters.
- Level: advanced.
- Best tide: medium to high.
- From resort: sssshhhh.
- Shore access: dangerous.
Beach break
A one kilometer stretch of idyllic palm fringed, white sand beach is just a stones throw from Kingfisher Bay Resort. The turquoise coloured water is picture perfect, with a series of sandbars to choose from. Good sand banks can be fickle, but with the right conditions a satisfying session can be had by the patient surfer. Also a great spot for people learning to surf.
- Overall rating: 6 / 10
- Best size: 2 to 3 feet.
- Consustency: 5 / 10
- Difficulty: 2 / 10
- Bottom: sand.
- Reef factor: 1 / 10
- Length: 20 to 30 meters.
- Level: beginner to intermediate.
- Best tide: depends on sandbanks.
- From resort: 5 minutes by bike.
- Shore access: sand bottom.
- Guiding
- Equipment Rental
- Spot Transfers
- Airport Transfers
Your accommodation
- Solo Traveler
- Groups
- Longboarders
The Resort, located directly in front of world class wave Lance’s Left, is made up of three luxury beachfront bungalows all handmade by Mentawai craftsmen.
Set against a lush jungle backdrop, each private bungalow is positioned on the palm fringed white sand beachfront with panoramic views of the spectacular wave Lances Left. You can literally step from your bungalow terrace onto the sand and into the ocean within seconds. The design of our bungalows combines the best of the local look and feel with the rigor and comfort that most Western travelers enjoy. The result is an elegant yet strikingly exotic experience. The bungalows, designed for breathtaking views of the bay and wave, each have a big spacious terrace with comfortable lay back chairs that induce dozing off to the sound of the ocean and birds of the jungle. Maximum privacy is assured thanks to the natural landscape and property design. A fully furnished living room area inside the bungalow creates a homely feel.
Each private bungalow can accommodate up to four people. At any one time, there will only ever be a maximum of ten guests at the resort. The maximum guest limit guarantees each guest a luxurious and comfortable stay. The private experience also ensures that the surf never gets too crowded. Booking the whole resort to enjoy between yourself and some friends is an option we often accommodate.
What awaits you
There are only a handful of resorts lucky enough to be located in such a prime spot in front of the waves with no other accommodation close by. Kingfisher offers a range of activities and is perfect for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, surfers and non-surfer, yogis, freedivers and those into fishing. The resort is warm and welcoming making it ideal for solo travellers, couples and of course families. There is a fantastic beach break perfect for children and beginners during the shoulder season months.
5 reasons to choose Kingfisher Resort Mentawai.:
Uncrowded Waves
Located infront of Lance's Left
Small Quiet Private Resort
Sociable & Friendly Environment
- Activities Suitable for Everyone
At Kingfisher Resort we offer a wide range of activities, with an emphasis on utilising the natural resources and cultural aspects unique to the Mentawai Islands. Your time at Kingfisher is your own, whether you’re surfing, snorkeling, fishing, lounging, visiting local villages, or participating in one of our unique cultural tours – there is something for everyone.
Beach Bar and Swimming Pool
We are proud to announce the newest addition to our Resort, we now have a swimming pool and beach bar! Let us not forget to mention, a beach bar and swimming pool with the most incredible view of a world class wave!
Set amongst the palms on a white sand beach overlooking Lances Left, there is no better spot to watch your friends get barrelled while you relax with a beer in the pool! Yes we said in the pool! Our swimming pool features sunk in bar stools.
The pool is surrounded by a massive outdoor wooden deck which connects to the beach bar. The beach bar is open daily serving hot coffees, teas, iced coffees, healthy smoothies and fresh juices as well as ice cold beers. See the bar menu for fresh snacks.
An idyllic setup to read a book and laze under an umbrella while the kids splash around in the pool. Lounge on beanbags and mingle with other guests while relaxing in the shade. Expect a stylish coffee / wifi spot with relaxed music in the mornings, and a hot spot with a social atmosphere like no other in the afternoons.
Fishing
For the easy-going angler, the tropical waters of Sipora offers brillant conditions for fishing. Most of the surf breaks around the island are accessed via boat, so in between surf sessions our guests often drop a line and catch something for dinner. In the evenings especially, we trawl on the way home using two lures behind the boat to catch Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, Tuna, Wahoo, different kinds of Trevally and other exotic fish. Our team provides the boat and all fishing equipment. All fishing trips are included for free during your stay at Kingfisher. Grab the rods, load up the cooler box and go catch dinner!
Snorkeling & Spear Fishing
We are very fortunate to have a wide choice of fantastic snorkeling sites with warm, crystal clear water close to the resort. Directly in front of the resort is a key hole offering amazing sites of live coral and teeming wild life. Alternatively, you can take a short bike or boat ride to discover a diverse collection of hard and soft corals which provide a home and feeding ground for schools of vibrant reef fish, shellfish, anemones, giant clams and turtles.
SUP & Foil
At Kingfisher we have 2 SUPs and a foil board our guests are welcome to use. Get some exercise on the SUPs on the small days or just go for a mellow cruise through the beautiful mangroves. If you are feeling up for it, give the foil board a go. It is easier than it looks, and our guides will give you a helping hand along the way.
Trecking & Biking
Kingfisher Resort is situated on Sipora island, home to various wild jungle tracks. Go for a trek through the lush Mentawai greenery or take a bike ride and go discover your own private beach. A jungle trek will take you through the local villages, the closest one being about 5km from the resort. There you can immerse yourself in a completely unique culture, or test your skills in the volley ball court - the local kids are always keen for a game.
Restaurant and bar
In line with the Mentawai theme, our restaurant and bar are the centerpiece of the resort. Take in the phenomenal view of Lance’s Left from our large spacious terrace while indulging in a delicious and freshly prepared meal by our chef. Our in-house chef selects only the tastiest local and imported ingredients to prepare a variety of nutritious meals daily, leaving you feeling energized and ready for another day of adventure. Start your day off with a coffee, fresh fruits and eggs / bacon. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are considered a “set menu” yet tailored to your taste buds. Enjoy a spread of freshly caught fish tacos or load up on a colorful Greek salad for lunch. Even if it’s the burger and fries that you cannot resist, we will remind you to save space for dinner! Our large local seafood BBQ’s at night are a vibe. Got space for more? Our chef delights in serving something sweet when a mouthwatering treat is in order. Vegetarians, pescatarian’s and gluten free diets are catered for, simply let us know your preferences when booking your stay. All meals are prepared using fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and meats.
Kick back and sip on a coconut while you watch perfect wave, after perfect wave reel down the reef. Opt for an ice cold beer at the bar to celebrate the moment and cheers your friends to being in paradise. The shaded terrace is designed to take full advantage of natural light and to catch the ocean’s breeze while the tranquil atmosphere of our restaurant creates a space to relax while enjoying the incredible view of waves and exotic natural surroundings.
The Resort
Kingfisher Resort Mentawai gives you the opportunity to experience a strikingly original part of the world unlike anywhere you’ve ever been to or imagined; freakishly perfect waves, a completely unique and fascinating culture with a backdrop of idyllic palm fringed beaches and turquoise waters. As our name suggests, the resort is situated on the edge of an expansive bay, regularly frequented by stunning and acrobatic kingfisher birds, as well as a vast array of other wildlife including majestic sea eagles, large flying squirrels and pristine coral reefs teeming with sea life.
The natural beauty of the Mentawai islands is the stage for what has become a mecca for surfers around the world, and with our dream location in front of Lances Left on the southern tip of Sipora island, those tantalizing and seemingly out of reach fantasies of surfing breathtakingly perfect waves can become a reality! Fishing and snorkeling are catered for as well as a wide and varying range of activities on land. For the culturally curious, the local village provides a window into the lives of a race and people with a very different lifestyle to what most of us are familiar with. Get to know your friendly neighbours and hosts by joining in a woodcarving or weaving lesson under a palm tree or get involved in the daily volleyball match in the village. If all this sounds like too much activity, feel free to relax in a shaded hammock or catch the breeze in our open-planned restaurant, where drinks and food are available. Meals are prepared using fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and meats, cooked in a variety of styles including; Western, Indonesian, Chinese as well as barbeques. We consider great food and lots of it an integral part of an enjoyable experience, so meals are served buffet style to ensure even the most ravenous appetites will be satisfied.
Kingfisher Resort Mentawai is a gateway to a world of amazing waves, nature, culture and adventure. Let us and our ever helpful and smiling staff show you a truly memorable Mentawaian experience in all its remarkable diversity and uniqueness.
Getting to the resort
Getting to Padang
All Mentawai adventures begin in the city of Padang with a wide range of airlines and schedules to choose from.
Padang can be reached conveniently from the following transit cities:
- Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia (1 or 2 flights a day with www.airasia.com)
- Jakarta (daily flights with www.sriwijayaair.co.id, www.garuda-indonesia.com, www.lionair.co.id, www.batavia-air.co.id, www.mandalaair.com).
VISA on arrival
A 30 day tourist VISA will need to be purchased at your first port of landing in Indonesia. The cost is US$25, and we suggest travelers have this prepared before arriving in Indonesia, a good tip is to keep this money with your passport to avoid any delays.
Geographical legend :
Padang: the closest city to the Mentawai islands.
Padang airport: 40 minutes north of the city.
Padang harbour: 40 minutes south of the city.Mentawai islands: the islands west of Padang.
Sipora island: the resort is located at the southern end.
Tua Pejat: the ferry harbour in Sipora island.
Crossing options & prices
There are a few different options for crossing from Padang to Mentawai and most of them will take you to Sikakap where our private speed-boat will be waiting to complete your transfer. All of them are subject to weather conditions and number of passangers, although the most common and reliable is the ferry-boat.
Indonesian transport is renowned for being erratic, with this in mind delays and re-scheduling are an everyday reality concerning public transportation. We at Kingfisher Bay Resort will do our best to get you where you need to be a.s.a.p., but take no responsibility for delays or cancellations due to external circumstances.
Speed-boat Padang - Kingfisher Bay Resort
A great option for groups of 3 to 9 guests is a fast boat directly from Padang to the resort. This is the most reliable and time efficient option and can be tailored to suit any connecting flight schedules to/from Padang. The crossing can be reschedule due to extreme weather conditions.
The cost to charter the speedboat is US$ 2,000.00 one way. Please contact us for availability and more information.
Ferry-boat Padang - Mentawai
The overnight steel ferry that will take you from Padang to the capital harbor of the Mentawai Islands is both comfortable and safe. This large steel vessel features AC cooled cabins and is also used to transport cars and trucks to the Mentawai islands. From the Mentawai harbor you will be transfer by speedboat to Kingfisher resort which will take approximately 3 hours. The journey between Padang and the resort is an eye opening experience and offers a unique window to Indonesian culture and lifestyle.
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8. Visa, passport and travel regulations
The Traveller/Group leader shall pay attention to the special visa, passport and travel regulations for the Travellers and their country of destination. LUEX makes every effort to inform customers as comprehensively and accurately as possible. To the extent that LUEX draws attention to particular details, this can only be considered as non-binding information. Considering the high number and frequency of possible amendments to regulations, Travellers/Group leaders are requested to contact the relevant embassy/consulate for the particular destination. In this respect LUEX can assume no responsibility whatsoever for any assurance, guarantee, currency or accuracy of the information. The information provided by Travellers’ ministries of foreign affairs are a reliable source with respect to many travel destinations.
It is the sole responsibility of the Traveller/Group leader to ensure that all Travellers are in possession of all requisite travel documents (passport, Visa, etc.) at the commencement of travel and that all Travellers fulfil the health requirements.
9. Insurance
To the extent that it is not expressly offered, insurance cover does not constitute part of the travel-related products and services offered. LUEX recommends that customers take out travel insurance, in particular travel cancellation cost insurance and in certain circumstances overseas travel insurance, including an overseas health cover component. LUEX names a reliable partner offering the relevant insurance policies to its customers at: http://www.luex.com/info/insurances.html.
10. Liability, responsibility
LUEX depends on the information provided to it by the Service providers with respect to the details of the travel-related goods and services. LUEX has only extremely limited opportunities to check such information with respect to their accuracy and completeness. Consequently, LUEX is unable to provide any guarantees or assurances with respect to the completeness, accuracy or currency of such information. The same applies for any other information made available by third parties.
LUEX is not liable for the availability of the travel-related product or service at the time of booking or for the performance of the booked travel-related product or service by the Service provider.
Within the scope of its performance obligations, LUEX is only liable for any losses that may result in the following cases, irrespective of legal grounds: The statutory regulations shall apply with the following restriction: Liability or minor negligence on the part of LUEX or its vicarious agents is excluded, provided that neither an essential contractual obligation was breached nor is there a case of initial incapacity, impossibility or default on the part of LUEX. Otherwise liability is limited to the value of the travel-related products and services booked, in any case however to predictable and typical losses. The exclusions of liability or facilitation shall apply in the same manner to the executive bodies of LUEX, as well as to their vicarious agents.
Travellers and Group leaders shall be liable to LUEX for each and every reservation/booking that is made in bad faith or with deceitful intent or with erroneous or incomplete personal data. The opportunity to book travel-related goods and services may only be utilised in order to make legal bookings as a Traveller or as a Group leader for a third party. At the same time, in utilising the offerings the Group leader guarantees that they are authorised and are permitted to act in the name of fellow travellers. In the event that there is a breach of these guarantee, the Group leader is liable without limitation to LUEX and their respective Service providers for the losses resulting from the aforesaid person’s actions.
In many countries there are safety standards that differ from those generally found in Europe, Australia or the USA. Travelers/Group leaders are strongly encouraged, also in their own interest, to access information once again immediately before commencing travel in accessible sources, such as the internet pages of the Foreign Office, with respect to changes in the travel regulations and safety warnings for the country of destination.
11. Final provisions
Should business terms and conditions or parts of the agreement be or become invalid, the validity of the remaining parts of the agreements shall not be affected.
Amendments or additions to all agreements, including a divergence from these general terms and conditions, are only possible in text form (written, by fax or e-mail). Oral agreements require written confirmation to be valid.
All communication between LUEX and a Traveller/Group leader is to be undertaken by e-mail if possible. The Traveller/Group leader therefore promises to receive and read e-mails and implement the information/instructions from LUEX accordingly. LUEX must be informed immediately of changes in contact details.
All contractual relations between LUEX, its customers and Service providers are subject exclusively to German law - with the exception of the UN Contract for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) convention. Köln shall be the mutually agreed place of jurisdiction for non-German Travellers.
Operator's address
Matahari TerbenamSipora Mentawai Padang
Indonesia
Operator's GT&C
- Deposits are non-refundable. Kindly note that no refunds will be given for early departures on the guests part due to unforeseen circumstances / personal matters. No refunds will be given due to force majeure (circumstances out of our control such as bad weather etc.)
Your personal expert for this trip
Nacho, our Argentinian surf expert at LUEX, has chased waves across Latin America, Indonesia, Fiji, and the Maldives. His business background comes in handy, but surfing is what drives him. When he's not helping clients plan their dream surf trips, you'll find him buzzing around the office, charged up on coffee. His favorite waves are in the Mentawais, where he found his definition of perfection. At LUEX, he uses his surf expertise to help others score epic waves, always ready to swap stories over a fresh brew.
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