The Mentawai Islands, located off the western coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, have earned legendary status among surfers worldwide. This archipelago of approximately 70 islands and islets boasts some of the most consistent and perfect waves on the planet. With crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a wealth of world-class breaks, the Mentawais represent the ultimate surf destination for many wave hunters.
However, choosing the right surf camp in this remote paradise can be challenging. This comprehensive guide examines the best Mentawai surf camps based on authentic reviews, suitability for different groups, and seasonal considerations, with special attention to the Mojosurf versus Kandu comparison.
Understanding the Mentawai Surf Scene
Before diving into specific camps, it's essential to understand what makes the Mentawais special:
The region hosts over 25 named breaks, many considered "perfect" by surfing standards, including famous spots like Lance's Right (HT's), Macaronis, Greenbush, and Telescopes. Wave quality here is exceptional due to the islands' position facing the Indian Ocean, receiving consistent swells year-round. The tropical climate and relatively remote location create an immersive experience that combines world-class surfing with cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Seasonality: When to Visit the Mentawais
Timing significantly impacts your Mentawai surfing experience:
Prime Season (April to October): The dry season brings consistent south and southwest swells, offshore winds, and smaller crowds in shoulder months (April, May, October). This period offers the most reliable conditions but comes with higher prices and more crowded lineups.
Off-Season (November to March): The wet season brings inconsistent weather but still delivers quality waves, particularly in November and March. You'll find significantly reduced rates, fewer crowds, and occasional perfect days, though planning requires more flexibility.
Sweet Spots: May and September offer an excellent balance of good conditions and slightly lower crowds than peak months (June-August).
Top-Rated Mentawai Surf Camps for Adults
Mojosurf Camp Mentawais
Location: Playground break, Katiet
What Reviews Highlight: Mojosurf consistently receives praise for its social atmosphere and value proposition. Guests repeatedly mention the camp's energetic vibe, with organised group activities, communal dining, and evening entertainment creating natural opportunities for solo travellers and groups to connect.
The camp's proximity to Playground—a fun, ripple wave suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers—means guests can surf multiple sessions daily without boat trips. Their boat schedule priorities flexibility, with daily trips to nearby breaks like Lance's Left, Beng-Beng, and E-Bay depending on conditions.
Accommodation is described as "comfortable but not luxurious," with beachfront bungalows that emphasise location over opulence. Many reviews mention the quality of food as surprisingly good given the remote location, with fresh seafood and Indonesian specialties featured prominently.
Best For: Solo travelers, groups of friends, and social surfers looking for quality waves without the premium price tag of boat charters. The camp attracts a younger demographic (predominantly 25-40), though guests of all ages report feeling welcome.
Notable Review: "Mojosurf offered everything I wanted—great waves, instant friends, knowledgeable guides, and enough comfort without the pretentiousness I've found at other high-end operations. Perfect for my solo trip." —Mark R., Australia
Kandui Resort
Location: Kandui Left, Karangmajat Island
What Reviews Highlight: Kandui Resort has established itself as the premium land-based operation in the region. Reviews consistently praise its strategic location with access to 20+ world-class breaks within a 30-minute boat ride, including exclusive access to Kandui Left (widely regarded as one of the world's most perfect left-handers).
The resort's luxurious accommodations receive high marks, with spacious traditional-style "umas" featuring modern amenities. The dining experience is frequently highlighted as exceptional, with a chef-prepared menu combining Western and Indonesian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
While more expensive than other options, reviews indicate guests feel the value is justified through the combination of wave access, comfort, and service. The resort's photography services and video analysis sessions are mentioned as valuable additions for improving technique.
Best For: Serious surfers with higher budgets who prioritise wave quality and comfort. The resort attracts professionals, executives, and dedicated surfers willing to invest in a premium experience.
Notable Review: "Kandui delivers on every level—the accommodation is first-class, the food exceptional, and the wave access unbeatable. Worth every penny for serious surfers who want quality without roughing it." —James T., California
Family-Friendly Mentawai Surf Camps
Kandui Villas (Kandu)
Location: Kandui Right, Karangmajat Island
What Makes It Family-Friendly: Kandui Villas stands out as the premier family-friendly option in the Mentawais. The property features spacious two and three-bedroom villas designed specifically to accommodate families, with childproofed options available upon request.
While sharing the same ownership as Kandui Resort, Kandui Villas caters more explicitly to families with dedicated children's activities including snorkeling trips, beach games, and cultural experiences with local villages. Babysitting services allow parents to surf while children are supervised.
The protected lagoon in front of the property provides safe swimming for non-surfers, and the resort offers paddle-board and kayak rentals for family water activities. Medical facilities on-site include a registered nurse and evacuation protocols, providing peace of mind for parents.
What Reviews Highlight: Families consistently praise the staff's attention to dietary requirements and preferences for children. The ability to customise meal times around surf sessions and children's schedules receives particular appreciation. Many reviews mention the unexpected educational value of the cultural interactions arranged by the resort.
Best For: Surfing families with children aged 5+ who want a luxury experience without sacrificing wave quality. The significant investment is justified by the comprehensive amenities and family-specific services.
Notable Review: "As dedicated surfers with two young children, we'd almost given up on the Mentawais until discovering Kandui Villas. The staff made our children feel like royalty while my husband and I scored the best waves of our lives." —Sarah K., New Zealand
Aloita Resort & Spa
Location: Telescopes, Simakakang Island
What Makes It Family-Friendly: Aloita offers a more accessible price point for families while maintaining quality service. The resort features a sheltered bay perfect for children's water activities and swimming lessons. Family bungalows include connecting rooms, and the resort can arrange surf lessons specifically designed for younger surfers at nearby gentle breaks.
The resort's proximity to Telescopes—a wave that breaks with various sections suitable for different skill levels—means families with varied surfing abilities can enjoy the same location. Non-surfing activities receive as much attention as surf guiding, with fishing trips, island tours, and cultural visits regularly arranged.
What Reviews Highlight: Reviews frequently mention the balance Aloita achieves between a serious surf camp and a family-friendly resort. The children's menu options and willingness to accommodate picky eaters receive particular praise from parents. Many reviews note the friendships formed between children from different families during their stays.
Best For: Families with mixed surfing abilities looking for a balance between wave access and resort amenities at a mid-range price point.
Notable Review: "Aloita gave our family the perfect introduction to the Mentawais. My husband scored amazing waves while I enjoyed gentler spots, and our kids made friends they still talk to six months later." —Emily L., UK
Best Mentawai Surf Camps for Beginners
While the Mentawais are primarily known for intermediate to advanced waves, several camps cater to beginners with access to appropriate breaks and dedicated instruction.
Pitstop Hill Mentawai
Location: Lance's Left area, South Sipora
What Reviews Highlight for Beginners: Pitstop Hill receives consistently positive feedback for its beginner-friendly approach in an otherwise advanced destination. Their instructors are certified with extensive experience teaching in various conditions, and the camp maintains a strict 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio for safety and personalized attention.
The camp's location provides access to several protected breaks with sandy bottoms suitable for learning, while still being close enough to more challenging waves as skills progress. Reviews specifically mention the camp's progressive teaching methodology that breaks skills into manageable components.
Best For: True beginners who want to learn in paradise while their more experienced friends or partners surf challenging waves nearby.
Notable Review: "I started my week barely able to stand up and ended it riding green waves at Lance's Left. The instructors created a safe environment where I felt comfortable pushing my limits." —Jessica N., Germany
Mentawai Surf Retreat
Location: Katiet area, near Playground
What Reviews Highlight for Beginners: Mentawai Surf Retreat specialises in mixed-ability groups, making it ideal for beginners traveling with more experienced surfers. Their "Surf Academy" program offers structured progression with video analysis and theory sessions complementing water time.
The retreat's location provides access to several inside sections of famous breaks where beginners can practice in controlled conditions. Reviews frequently mention the quality of the surf coaches and their ability to match instruction to individual learning styles.
Best For: Beginner to intermediate surfers looking to progress rapidly with structured coaching rather than casual guidance.
Notable Review: "The coaching at Mentawai Surf Retreat transformed my surfing. The video analysis helped me correct mistakes I'd been making for years, and having access to progressively challenging waves let me apply what I learned immediately." —Thomas B., Sweden
Mojosurf vs. Kandui: Why Mojosurf Wins for Non-Family Travellers
While both operations offer exceptional experiences, there are several key distinctions that make Mojosurf particularly appealing to travelers without families:
Social Atmosphere & Community
Mojosurf has cultivated a reputation for its vibrant social environment that particularly benefits solo travellers and friend groups. The camp's communal dining setup, shared activities, and evening gatherings create natural opportunities for connection. This community aspect repeatedly appears in reviews as a highlight, with many guests noting they arrived alone but left with new surfing friends from around the world.
By contrast, Kandui's family-oriented approach at their Villas property naturally creates a more subdued atmosphere. While still social, the private villa setup and focus on family activities results in less organic interaction between different groups.
Value Proposition
Perhaps the most significant differentiator is cost. Mojosurf typically operates at 40-60% of Kandui's price point, making it substantially more accessible for younger travellers or those prioritising wave time over luxury. This price difference allows longer stays—many Mojosurf guests book 14+ day packages compared to the standard 10-day Kandui trip.
Reviews consistently mention this extended time as crucial for wave consistency in a region where conditions can vary day to day. The probability of experiencing perfect conditions increases substantially with longer stays.
Flexibility and Spontaneity
Mojosurf embraces a more fluid approach to scheduling that appeals to independent travellers. While they maintain organised boat schedules, there's greater flexibility for last-minute changes based on conditions or group preferences. This adaptability contrasts with Kandui's more structured approach designed to accommodate family schedules and younger children's needs.
Many reviews from solo travelers specifically mention appreciating the "decide at sunset for tomorrow" approach that allows the camp to maximised the best conditions.
Authentic Experience
Mojosurf's simpler accommodations and closer integration with local communities provide what many reviewers describe as a more authentic experience. The camp employs a higher percentage of local Mentawai staff in visible roles, creating more cultural exchange opportunities.
Without the need to maintain the level of luxury required for family comfort, Mojosurf can focus resources on wave access and local experiences that many non-family travellers prioritise over amenities.
Party/Social Elements
For travellers seeking vibrant nightlife (by Mentawai standards), Mojosurf offers regular beach bonfires, occasional live music, and a more energetic evening atmosphere. While not a "party camp" by any means—surfing remains the priority—the social elements add value for many guests looking to celebrate good sessions.
This aspect particularly benefits solo travellers or friend groups, whereas Kandui's environment naturally caters to earlier evenings and family-appropriate activities.
Making Your Decision: Final Considerations
When choosing between Mentawai surf camps, consider these additional factors:
Budget Reality: Beyond published rates, factor in additional costs like transport to the islands (typically via Padang), board rentals if not bringing your own, and tips for guides and staff.
Surf Ability Assessment: Be honest about your actual abilities. The Mentawais' power and reef breaks demand respect, and under-estimating the challenge can lead to injury or frustration.
Booking Timeline: Prime season camps often fill 6-12 months in advance, particularly for specific date ranges. Last-minute bookings typically require more flexibility or premium pricing.
Medical Considerations: The remote nature of the Mentawais means limited access to advanced medical care. All reputable camps maintain basic medical supplies and evacuation protocols, but comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is essential.
Connectivity Expectations: While most camps now offer some form of WiFi or satellite internet, connections remain slower and less reliable than mainland standards. This isolation is part of the appeal for many but requires adjustment for those accustomed to constant connectivity.
Conclusion
The Mentawai Islands represent the pinnacle of surfing experiences, offering waves that feature in every serious surfer's dreams. While traditionally considered an experts-only destination, the growth of diverse surf camps now makes this paradise accessible to various groups and ability levels.
For those traveling without families, particularly solo adventurers or groups of friends, Mojosurf offers the ideal balance of quality waves, social atmosphere, and value that maximizes the Mentawai experience. Their focus on the essentials—wave access, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable but unfussy accommodation—creates an authentic experience that aligns perfectly with most surfers' priorities.
Families and those seeking luxury alongside their perfect waves will find Kandui's operations better suited to their needs, with the additional amenities and services justifying the premium pricing.
Whichever camp you choose, the Mentawais deliver a surfing experience that routinely exceeds expectations, creating memories and wave-riding experiences that will last a lifetime.
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