The Waves
Alaia Mentawai is surrounded by some of the worlds best waves.
With consistancy and variety that can't be matched,from perfect barrels,long walls, rippable peaks and even some waves for the less experienced. Our focus is on our guests and their experience in the Mentawais, not our own. With ultimate guest satisfaction in mind we only take small groups ,our boats are never an instant crowd and we find the waves that suit you!
EARLY SEASON
This period offers an ideal mix of playful sessions and the first pulses of solid Indian Ocean swell.
Winds and weather settle into true tropical perfection, and by late May the surf begins to show more power and size — a beautiful balance between mellow early-season conditions and the consistent energy of peak season.
Perfect for upper-intermediate surfers who enjoy variety and for longboarders comfortable switching to a shorter board when the swell builds.
You’ll find fun, consistent 4 ft+ surf with options from smooth points to powerful reef breaks — all within a short boat ride from Alaia.
Recommended Surf Level:
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Intermediate longboarders or above
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Early-intermediate shortboarders or above
Not sure about your surf level? Check here
JANUARY - MARCH
Spots: Burger World, Nipussy, Beng Beng, Good Times etc
Wave Consistency:
PRE SEASON
This period offers an ideal mix of playful sessions and the first pulses of solid Indian Ocean swell.
Winds and weather settle into true tropical perfection, and by late May the surf begins to show more power and size — a beautiful balance between mellow early-season conditions and the consistent energy of peak season.
Perfect for upper-intermediate surfers who enjoy variety and for longboarders comfortable switching to a shorter board when the swell builds.
You’ll find fun, consistent 4 ft+ surf with options from smooth points to powerful reef breaks — all within a short boat ride from Alaia.
Recommended Surf Level:
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Upper-intermediate surfers or above
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Longboarders with upper-intermediate ability who are comfortable switching to a shorter board when the waves get larger
Best for: Surfers seeking variety in both size and style, looking for the perfect transition into peak season.
APRIL - MAY
Wave Consistency:
Spots: Nipussy, Beng Beng, 4 bobs, Good Times,Bank Vaults, Rifles etc
PEAK SEASON
This is the heart of the Mentawai surf season — when the Indian Ocean comes alive with consistent, long-period swells and the Mentawai’s most iconic waves are at their best.
Expect powerful, clean 6ft+ surf, long barrels, and glassy reef walls — the ultimate playground for experienced riders chasing the full Mentawai experience.
Perfect for upper-intermediate to professional surfers who enjoy fast, technical, and powerful conditions. Confident intermediates can also join during this time, though we always group guests by surf level to ensure the best match in the water.
For longboarders, this period suits advanced or expert riders comfortable switching to a shorter board when the swell gets serious.
Best for: Experienced surfers or full groups seeking the most powerful and consistent conditions of the year.
JUNE - AUGUST
Wave Consistency:
Spots: Rifles, Bank Vaults, No Kandui, Hideaways — all the barrel spots light up during this time.
LATE SEASON
As the Indian Ocean’s energy starts to mellow, the Mentawais settle into a more relaxed rhythm — offering smaller, cleaner, and beautifully playful surf.
Early September can still deliver powerful, glassy days, while October typically brings smooth, friendly waves and lighter winds — a perfect mix for those who appreciate variety and fun sessions with fewer crowds.
This is an ideal period for upper-intermediate to advanced surfers seeking long, playful walls and for intermediate longboarders who enjoy smoother, less demanding conditions later in the year.
Recommended Surf Level:
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September: Upper-intermediate surfers or above
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October: Intermediate to advanced surfers looking for fun, clean conditions
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For Longboarders:
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September: Upper-intermediate or above
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October: Intermediate level — ideal for relaxed, stylish sessions
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Best for: Surfers seeking warmer weather, lighter vibes, and a more personal, uncrowded Mentawai experiencebefore the season winds down.
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
Wave Consistency:
Spots: Burger World, Good Times, Beng Beng, Pitstops, Ebay, Hideaways etc
WELLKNOWN WAVES AROUND ALAIA
F&Q
WHAT IS MY SURF ABILITY?
It’s a mix of technique, experience, fitness, mindset, and comfort surfing over reef.
From our experience, beginners usually don’t yet have the foundation to safely enjoy what the Mentawais are known for.
The waves can be powerful, fast, and sometimes unforgiving for those without reef experience.
If you’re an early-intermediate surfer or above, however, the Mentawais can be the best surf experience of your life.
So, where do you fit in?
Early Intermediate
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You can confidently paddle out and catch waves up to head-high.
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You can duck dive, go both left and right, and maintain good board control.
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You understand and respect surf etiquette — giving priority, not dropping in, waiting your turn, and keeping awareness of others in the lineup.
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You can read the flow of a session and surf safely and calmly even around more experienced surfers.
Respect in the lineup is as important as ability — it’s what keeps Mentawai waves enjoyable for everyone.
Intermediate
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You’re comfortable in a variety of conditions and starting to surf more powerful waves.
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You’re beginning to link turns and experiment with maneuvers.
Upper Intermediate
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You surf confidently across a wide range of waves and conditions.
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You can perform advanced turns and are beginning to get barreled.
Advanced
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You are confident in heavy, barrelling waves and challenging reef breaks.
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You can execute advanced maneuvers — carves, all kind of turns, airs — with consistency.
Expert
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You’re at a professional or near-professional level — essentially a pro without the sponsors.
DO YOU OFFER SURF PHOTO PACKAGE?
Yes, we do!
You can purchase surf photo package at ALAIA.
We keep shooting your surf sessions.
You do not need to commit anything until end of your trip.
However if you are thinking about purchasing the package please bring your external hard drive or SSD for copy the files.
If you would like to see What kind of photos you get, Please check our instagram. These photos and clips were all by our photographer. (unless credited to others)
PRICE PER Package is start from US$250 per person for personal use.
HOW MANY TIMES CAN WE GO SURF PER DAY?
Our package is included "UNLIMITED BOAT USAGE".
So means you can surf whenever, wherever and as much as you want. We do not give you any limitation for going to surf as you are coming to Mentawai for chasing waves of your life time!
My FLIGHT DOESN'T LET ME BRING MY LOG. DO YOU HAVE RENTALS?
Yes, We do have rental longboards at resort. Size range from 9'0" - 9'6". Mostly single fin PU.
Rental fee is US$250 per trip.
This price not includes repair, replacement fees.
Pre-booking available 1 month before your trip. If you are interested in renting one of our longboards please contact us for availability.
We do not have mid-length or shortboard rentals.
*Please bring your own leash and wax.
Also in case you need extra Leashes and wax available for purchase.
CONTACT/ INFO@ALAIAMENTAWAI.COM
WILL A SURF GUIDE be ON THE BOAT?
Yes, One of our experienced surf guides will be on the boat to make sure find best waves for you.
We do not set a schedule to going to surf.
We discuss with you, and you can tell us what you feel like.
We will let you know what wave options are available.
We try our best to find perfect waves for you.
CAN FAMILIES AND ADULTS SURF GROUPS JOIN THE SAME TRIP?
To ensure every guest enjoys the right atmosphere and comfort, we schedule family trips and adult surf trips separately.
This helps keep each stay relaxed, balanced, and enjoyable for everyone — whether it’s a family holiday or a surf-focused group experience.
I'M A BEGGINER SURFER, CAN I JOIN THE TRIP??
The waves in the Mentawai Islands break mostly over shallow reef and are generally more powerful than what most surfers are used to elsewhere.
Even smaller waves often break close to the reef, which means they can still be shallow and challenging.
At Alaia, we believe in being honest and transparent — surfing here can be dangerous for those without enough experience.
For that reason, we don’t offer surf lessons or beginner programs, and we recommend that complete beginners choose a destination better suited for learning the basics.
It’s also important to note that having someone push you into waves within a proper lineup is unsafe — both for you and for others — and goes against established surf etiquette.
Respecting the flow of the lineup is essential in the Mentawais, where conditions and crowds demand awareness and skill.
::The exception::
If you’re traveling with an experienced surfer — such as a partner, parent, or friend — who can assist you in the water, we’ll always do our best to help you find the most mellow, safe spots available during your stay.
However, please keep in mind:
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Conditions in the Mentawais can sometimes be larger or more intense than expected.
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During such times, there may not be suitable beginner waves available.
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Since surf boats and guiding are shared among guests, we may not always be able to tailor surf spots to one person’s ability if the group is surfing at a higher level.
Minimum Surf Level Required: Intermediate
HOW MANY BOARDS SHOULD I BRING?
Mentawai islands does not have any surf shop to buy replacement boards or any of surf equipments.
We recommend you to bring one of your most favourite all-round boards, and 1 x back up all-round board.
Also you can check forecast before your departure.
If forecast shows some promising swell, you can add a step up or 2, if forecast shows some smaller day good to have a smaller condition board.
Majority of guests bring 3-4 boards to their trip, Also 2-4 extra regular leashes (please do not use comp leash), few fin sets, UV repair kit + repair tape for emergency. Couple of Warm to Tropical wax.
WHAT IS EXCLUSIVE USAGE OF THE ENTIRE TRIP?
Exclusive usage of the entire resort is our most popular package.
Experience the ultimate luxury and privacy with our exclusive usage of the entire resort booking. We offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for groups of 8-12 people to have the entire resort to themselves. This private resort is perfect for an unforgettable family vacation, private event, or corporate retreat. Don't miss out on this special offer!
