Surf Indonesia Top 3 Breaks in West Sumbawa
Longing for a surf trip where you can enjoy world-class surf spots without the lineup? Surf Indonesia’s best breaks at Kini Resort, West Sumbawa.
Top 3 Breaks in West Sumbawa
01
Yo-Yos
Two epic waves: 'The Wedge' for steep, fast rides and aerials, and 'The Hook' for a top-notch hollow right—best with AM offshores.
02
Scar Reef
Fast, hollow waves over shallow reefs. Ideal at 5-12 feet, no wind, and SW swells. Not for the faint-hearted.
03
Super suck
West Sumbawa's longest barrel, best at low tide for pros and bodyboarders. Needs a solid swell, less regular but worth it.
Find your perfect wave
Yo-Yos
Yo-Yos has two breaks. Famed for its unwavering consistency, The Hook is a wave machine, even when it is flat everywhere, you will get a decent wave here. This right-hander can be surfed at all tides and all seasons, small and glassy in the rainy season, big and punchy in the dry season.
Tucked in against the cliff, the Wedge will be smaller than the Hook with nice long rides. Often barreling on bigger days, it can hold up to 10 foot swell. On smaller days this consistent right-hander shines under a gentle swell.
Scar Reef
A beautiful left hander that has been claimed by many famous surfers. It works well with medium to large south west swells.
A deep takeoff will send you down the line in a stand up barrel with a shallow end section that can catch the unprepared. Best at mid to low tide for the thrill seekers.
Little Bingin is a wave just north of Scars across the channel. It is a smaller A-frame the breaks both left and right. Best at mid to high tide.
Super Suck
Gracing the covers of surf mags, Supersucks is legendary. Prepare for the barrel of a lifetime, a thrilling left that unfurls with big westerly swells and offshore winds.
Only to be surfed from mid to high tide as it sucks hard over the shallow slab reef and breaks onto a bed of fire coral.
Most surfers will choose to wear neoprene to protect themselves from the reef.
It can also be good practice on midsize swells.
Bamboo Eco Lodges
Come and experience a serene, one-of-a-kind getaway. Crafted from sustainable resources our seven Bamboo eco lodges offer luxury for the ultimate romantic escape or adventurous surfing experience.
Become mesmerised by nature’s beauty with panoramic sea and sky views. Lounge atop your private balcony and watch the waves as they curtsey at your feet. Enjoy moments of stillness as you dip your toes in your private infinity pool. Shower under the stars with a loved one and toast to perfect sunsets.
Hear from other surfers
Questions about surfing
What makes a destination truly surf-centric in Indonesia?
Indonesia has become one of the best surf destinations in the world. With thousands of islands offering perfect surf adventures for solo travellers and groups of surfers alike.
Coming onto the mainstream surf scene in Bali and Lombok guarantees overcrowded waves that’ll have you waiting in lineups for most of your holiday.
When you’re looking for a surf-centric spot in Indo, you want a place that lives and breathes surfing like Sumba or Java. It’s not just about having waves; it’s about the luxury surf culture surrounding them.
A true surf destination offers knowledgeable local surf guides who can tell you about the best surf breaks, like the best left-hand breaks at Desert Point or the consistent swells at Lakey Peak.
It’s about eco-friendly hotels and surf resorts that understand and respect both the sea and the local traditions. Places where the staff doesn’t just hand you a key, they share the secret spots and the best times to hit the waves, considering the trade winds and the swell coming in from the Indian Ocean.
How can I find the best surf spots that match my skill level without being overcrowded?
It’s all about timing and local intel. Generally, the dry season in Indonesia brings the best waves, and spots like Uluwatu or G-Land can get packed.
But if you’re willing to travel a bit further, say to the less-visited coasts of Sumatra or the reefs off Sumbawa, you can find your sweet spot.
Talk to local surf guides — they’re the ones who can take you to those secret spots where the waves match your ability, and the crowds are thin.
A good surf camp will offer lessons or guidance for all levels, ensuring you’re not paddling out into a lineup that’s out of your league.
How can I find reliable information on the best times to surf in different Indonesian locations?
The ultimate guide to surfing in Indonesia is a blend of local knowledge and comprehensive surf forecasts.
Apps and websites can give you a good idea of the swell and wind conditions, but they can’t tell you about the nuances of a local break.
For that, you’ll need to chat with the locals or find a surf guide.
They’ll tell you that yes, November to March might be the wet season, but it also means empty line-ups and unexpected perfect waves at spots that are usually quiet.
Remember, the Indonesian chain of islands has thousands of surfable waves — each with its own rhythm and season.
What amenities should I expect from a genuinely surfer-friendly accommodation?
Surfer-friendly accommodations understand that a good surf trip involves more than just a bed close to the beach.
They’ll offer secure storage for your board, an area to dry your wetsuit, and maybe even a workstation with tools for those little ding repairs.
They’ll have information on the day’s surf conditions readily available and often include facilities like yoga spaces or fitness areas to help you warm up before hitting the waves.
The best ones usually have a few resident surfers who are more than happy to share their knowledge about everything from the best local eats to the top surf reef breaks within a short boat trip.
How can I connect with local surfers and not feel like an outsider?
Connecting with local surfers is about showing respect — to the people, the culture, and the waves.
Start by observing the lineup etiquette, be friendly, and if you’re taking surf lessons, ask for a local instructor.
Spend time at local eateries or join a community event. It’s about sharing a smile and a nod after a good wave as much as it’s about sharing the waves themselves.
You’ll find that many of the surf regions in Indonesia have a warm, welcoming vibe if you’re open and genuine.
Can you suggest eco-friendly surf destinations in Indonesia?
Indonesia is home to a growing number of eco-friendly surf destinations.
Look for resorts that utilise renewable energy, practice waste reduction, have turtle conservation programs and participate in beach clean-ups.
Places like Kirana Retreat, Kini Resort, Nias, and T-Land, are not just epic surf trips but also communities that are deeply connected to the environment.
Many resorts in these areas are built using sustainable materials and offer education on how to maintain the pristine nature of the Indonesian reefs and beaches.
Supporting these businesses doesn’t just give you a fantastic surfing experience; it helps preserve the beauty of Indonesia.
What should I do if I find my surf spot is too crowded?
If you hit the water and it’s more crowded than a city at rush hour, don’t worry. Sometimes, the best waves are the ones you didn’t come for.
Ask around or observe where the local surfers are heading — they often know the patterns of the crowds and can direct you to less crowded waves.
Consider a boat charter to more secluded breaks, or even better, plan your surf travel for the shoulder seasons when the waves are still great, but the crowds have thinned out.
How can I ensure my surfing doesn't negatively impact the local environment?
To surf with a clean conscience, choose surf camps and resorts that are proactive about their environmental impact.
These places often run conservation programs you can participate in.
Use reef-safe sunscreen, respect local wildlife, and take part in local beach clean-ups if they’re available.
It’s also about the little things — like reusing towels and avoiding single-use plastics.
Every small action helps protect the surf destinations in Indonesia we all love.
What's the best way to get around the Indonesian surf spots?
Getting from one epic surf spot to another in Indonesia can be an adventure in itself.
On islands like Bali, scooters are a popular way to zip around, with board racks making them surf-ready.
For farther-flung destinations like the Mentawai Islands or Sumbawa, domestic flights and boat charters become necessary.
Always consider the logistics of your surf gear when planning transport.
Some surfers prefer surf charters for the ultimate convenience, offering access to remote breaks and the luxury of chasing the best conditions.
Don’t forget to respect local customs and regulations while on the move.
How can I prepare for a surf trip to Indonesia?
Preparing for an Indonesian surf trip is all about balancing excitement with practical planning.
First, brush up on your fitness. Surfing in Indonesia can be demanding, and you’ll want to be in top shape to make the most of it.
Research the specific areas you’re visiting — each has its unique vibe and wave set.
Packing is crucial: include reef-safe sunscreen, a good-quality rashguard, and repair kits for your board.
And, of course, ensure your travel documents are in order, including any visas required.
Lastly, a basic understanding of Bahasa Indonesia can go a long way in enriching your experience.
How do I choose the right surfboard for the diverse Indonesian waves?
Picking the right board for Indonesia’s varied waves means considering the types of breaks you’ll be tackling.
For the powerful, world-class waves on the coast of Sumbawa or the epic barrels at places like G-Land, you’ll want a step-up board that can handle speed and power.
If your adventure is more about playful waves in Bali or Lombok, a shorter, more manoeuvrable board might be your pick.
When in doubt, chat with local surf shops or your surf resort’s in-house experts.
They can offer tailored advice based on the current conditions and your skills.
And remember, there’s no shame in having a quiver that includes a couple of options, especially in a surf paradise like Indonesia.
