🌴SOUTHERN MENTAWAI OUT SPOT
OVERVIEW
SMO (Southern Mentawai Outpost) is an all-inclusive, ecologically conscious surf resort located on the previously uninhabited island of Sibigau. Our island is home to the world-famous surf break Thunders, one of Indonesia’s most consistent high-quality left-handers.
Thunders delivers powerful, hollow waves that improve in intensity as they get smaller, producing long, deep barrels of 3 seconds or more for those willing to commit to the inside section. For less experienced surfers, the wider section offers a more forgiving take-off and long, open walls. At larger sizes, Thunders can hold up to 20ft faces for serious chargers.
In addition to Thunders, the surrounding area offers several world-class alternatives, including Roxy’s (also known as Coldsprings), which provides fun barrels and walls when conditions at Thunders become too heavy. Rag’s Right and Rag’s Left are located less than 3 miles away, and several lesser-known breaks nearby often offer empty lineups and exclusive sessions.
On days when Thunders and nearby spots are affected by onshore winds, Rag’s Right and another developing right-hand break known as Thunderbox can deliver some of the deepest and thickest barrels in the Mentawai Islands.
SMO owner/operator and guide Eric is an ISA Level 2 certified surf coach. Guests can request private coaching sessions, including video analysis, to improve their surfing techniques such as pop-ups, barrel riding, and tail control. Daily tips and guidance are always available at no extra cost.
The resort is located directly in front of Thunders and has been designed as a full eco-resort. Sustainability is at the core of SMO’s philosophy. The entire resort is powered by solar energy, with generators used only when absolutely necessary. Guests will enjoy a quiet, natural environment free from noise pollution.
Fresh water is sourced from on-site wells, and all buildings are constructed from bamboo, designed to maximize airflow and eliminate the need for air conditioning. The island offers a rare combination of comfort and untouched nature in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Safety is also a priority. Bamboo structures are highly resilient, and the resort is located near elevated terrain, providing a natural evacuation route in the unlikely event of a tsunami. Sibigau Island offers both elevation and open deep water access.
SMO accommodates a maximum of 10 guests, ensuring privacy, uncrowded lineups, and a highly personalized experience similar to a surf charter. Our staff provides full service assistance while still allowing guests complete space and freedom on the island.
Sibigau offers endless empty beaches, jungle trails, and rich wildlife. Guests are encouraged to explore, hike, and learn about local flora and fauna. Nighttime reef life is abundant, and activities such as lobster hunting, collecting sea snails (lamunan), and spear fishing are part of the experience.
Sustainability is strongly encouraged. Guests are asked to minimize plastic use and bring reusable items when possible. Each guest receives a metal SMO water bottle upon arrival.
There are no villages on the island, ensuring complete privacy and exclusive access to beaches and jungle. This is a destination designed for peace, nature, and surfing at the highest level.
All meals are included in your stay: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Guests are welcomed each morning with fresh tropical fruit, tea, and locally grown coffee. A variety of international dishes are served, with dietary needs fully accommodated.
Beverages such as beers and sodas are available at the bar, with guest tabs settled at the end of the stay. Surf transport is provided daily by dinghy, guided by experienced surf staff to ensure guests are always in the best possible waves.
Even in minimal swell conditions, SMO can produce rideable waves thanks to consistent wind swell and island exposure. The goal is simple: maximize your time in world-class surf while minimizing environmental impact.
Southern Mentawai Outpost is built for surfers seeking consistency, quality, and intensity in one of the most wave-rich regions on Earth. At the same time, it offers a low-impact, eco-conscious experience that preserves the natural environment.
We are confident that SMO provides one of the most sustainable surf resort experiences in Indonesia. If surfing matters to you as much as protecting the ocean, then this is your destination.
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📍 LOCATION
:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} is located in the remote and untouched islands of Indonesia, offering an exclusive surf experience in one of the most pristine surf zones in the world. The resort is positioned directly in front of a world-class surf break, giving guests immediate access to high-quality, uncrowded waves just steps from their accommodation.
Surrounded by white sand beaches, tropical jungle, and crystal-clear Indian Ocean waters, this hidden paradise delivers a true escape from crowds, cities, and modern distractions. It is designed for surfers and travelers seeking nature, privacy, and perfect waves in a natural island setting.
🌍 Getting There
- Fly into Padang International Airport (PDG), West Sumatra
- Transfer from airport to Padang harbor or departure point
- Continue by fast ferry or speedboat to the island region
- Resort transfer and boat pickup arranged by SMO Surf Resort
🌊 Nearby Surf Breaks
- Thunders (directly in front of the resort)
- Rags Right
- Rags Left
- Coldsprings
- Various reef and point breaks within boat distance
- Multiple uncrowded world-class waves across nearby islands
✨ Why This Location
- Direct access to one of Indonesia’s most consistent world-class waves
- Remote island setting with no crowds
- Multiple surf breaks within short boat rides
- Untouched natural environment and jungle surroundings
- Exclusive surf experience with high-quality waves year-round
WAVES
No verbal description of a wave can do it justice, each surfer will have their own personal take on what the wave is like for them. There’s every type of break in lefts and rights, there are waves for all wind directions, all swell sizes and directions. There is always something to surf around Southern Mentawai Outpost. We are located directly in front of Thunders, the most consistent swell magnet, possibly in all of Indonesia. Even in the Mentawais, there are more days of the year in between swells than there are days with swell. So for most trips, the best spot in the area is directly in front of your house! Another huge benefit to this is that we always know when the swell has hit, and what the direction is, just by looking out front to see how the wave is breaking. We aren’t governed by the guesswork involved in getting swell forecasts and crossing our fingers that the forecast was correct and the wave we travelled to that morning is working. When deciding where to surf we use our sight… Not a website. When a surfer is based at SMO, riding an hour in a boat to go surf is an OPTION. Most camps require a boat ride just to check and gauge what the swell is doing. That ultimately boils down to less time in the water for their guests. When variety is what a guest wants, we have it available in spades. Just like surfing anywhere else on the planet, the breaks that are working at any given moment, are determined by the conditions, but you can be sure that there is always a classic session to be had within reach of Southern Mentawai Outpost.
THUNDERS
Thunders is the most consistent high quality break in Indonesia. This lefthander stretches along more than 300 meters of reef and offers several different sections, each with its own personality. On smaller swells the wave hugs the reef producing hollow and mechanical barrels. Even on the smallest days head-high waves still roll through with quick barrels for surfers able to tuck under the lip. As the swell grows the wave shifts further off the reef. On the biggest swells it produces wave faces over 25ft, delivering one of the closest experiences to big wave surfing in the Mentawais. Southern Mentawai Outpost exists because Thunders never fails to deliver exciting waves for surfers of all levels.
THUNDERBOX
On the southern side of Sibigeu Island lies Thunderbox, one of the most powerful right hand barrels in the region. The wave begins with a wedging peak that can sometimes split into both a right and a left before opening into a wide hollow barrel. Thunderbox is famous for producing some of the widest barrels in the Mentawais. Although the ride is relatively short, the intensity and power of the wave make it legendary among experienced surfers. This wave works best on medium to large swells and can hold significant size when the swell direction is correct.
RAG'S RIGHT
Located on the southern side of Pitojat Island about 2.5 nautical miles away, Rag’s Right is an extremely fast and shallow barreling wave. From takeoff to finish the wave is a barrel. Surfers must position perfectly on the drop or risk being outrun by the section. Mistakes usually result in a quick encounter with the reef. When you make a wave here it can easily become the best barrel of your life. Rag’s Right gained worldwide attention after appearing in the surf film Innersection where both Kelly Slater and John Florence scored incredible rides here.
RAG'S LEFT
Rag’s Left is a long reef break offering multiple sections. After the 2007 earthquake that lifted reefs in southern Mentawai, the wave changed slightly and now behaves differently depending on swell direction and tide. Some days it offers heavy barreling takeoffs, while other days produce long open faces perfect for powerful carving turns. Each year the reef continues to settle and slowly the wave moves closer to its legendary form where riders could link multiple sections across a long reef.
BUDDHAS
Buddhas sits about four nautical miles away from Thunders and offers one of the most versatile waves in the area. On smaller swells it becomes a perfect beginner wave with a slow deep-water takeoff and a mellow wall that fades safely into deep water. Beginners can even ride straight without worrying about hitting the reef. When the swell increases Buddhas transforms into a powerful wave capable of producing beautiful barrels, but still with the comfort of deeper water beneath the rider.
COLDSPRINGS (ROXY'S)
Coldsprings is located about six nautical miles from Thunders and gets its name from cold freshwater flowing from nearby rivers into the lineup. When the swell is small the wave is often called Roxy’s, a fun and highly rippable right-hand wave with a quick takeoff and playful wall. When larger southwest swells arrive the wave becomes Coldsprings, producing powerful hollow waves with square barrels and wave faces reaching up to 8–10 feet or more. On the biggest days this spot can deliver some of the heaviest barrels in the region.
ROOMS
bamboo bungalows have 2 beds in each, with a shower behind each one. Two bathrooms are located centrally behind the main clubhouse.
Your own private bungalow. King bed on one side with bench and table on the other.$225 USD per person/ night (+10% tax)
Shared bungalow – 2 twin beds
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$350 USD per person/ night (+10% tax) or $400 per couple/ night (+10% tax)
Your own private bungalow. King bed on one side with bench and table on the other.
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FOOD AND DRINKS
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 large spacious terrace while indulging in a delicious and freshly prepared meal by chef. 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.
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SPEEDBOAT
SMO currently have 4 boats at SMO.
he pride of our fleet
new custom built 35-foot boat. Powered by twin 200hp Yamaha’s. Cruising speed: 27 knots!.5′ and 20′ boats are available for charter to explore the waves in our zone. We’ve moved to a fuel recovery system—no more fixed half- or full-day rates. You just pay for the miles you run, split between whoever’s on board. Life on the water isn’t fully lived without at least one fast and reliable boat. At SMO boats are more than transport—they’re part of the adventure. Whether you’re scoring perfect waves or headin’ out for a fishin’ mission. We keep it transparent and fair, so you only pay for what you use and always know what to expect. Dinghy Access – Included We include dinghy use for: Surf drop-offs to Thunders and other nearby breaks Fishing trips around the island Alternative surf access when conditions change Our surf guides will help you find the best way out—whether walking across the reef, paddling from the keyhole, or hopping in the dinghy. If you prefer not to paddle, our dinghy is standing by for drop-offs near the lineup When Thunders is too big, we offer included dinghy trips to: Buddhas – often more mellow, protected left The Rights on the bottom of our island. Custom 35′ Surf Strike Mission SpeedBoat Our new 35′ custom boat, powered by twin Yamaha 200hp engines, cruises at 27 knots and delivers you to surf in comfort and style, with all the boards on the roof. Our genius friend Mo build us the best board rack in existence. Custom built to easily hold 10 board coffins for ferry port transfers. When we are in strike mission attack mode we can hold 26 boards (13 with fins, 13 without). Everyone can bring at least 2 boards, 1 with fins, so you’re ready to rock as soon as we arrive. Direct transfers from the ferry port to the island (19nm) Ideal for surf missions to further locations, with extra comfort on the water. Fuel Recovery Pricing: We charge $10 per nautical mile, based on GPS-tracked routes. Mileage is recorded via chart plotter on boat, and the Navionics Boating app on crew phone. Activity is reviewed and logged at the end of each day, then transferred to the white board in the restaurant. Costs are split evenly between all guests on board. We only charge for boat trips you take. Sometimes Thunders is perfect everyday and guests don’t want to go anywhere else. We don’t want to charge you for something you don’t use.
20′ Panga
For shorter trips or lighter missions, our 6-meter panga with Yamaha 40hp is available to surf the waves of, and around our island. We make sure you have the opportunity to surf the best waves of the day, based on your ability. If Thunders is too big we will bring you to more protected waves that are nearby. We have so many nooks and crannies we will get you waves. We include about a 3nm radius around our island. You can trust us to put you on the best waves nearby. If you would like to make a strike mission based on your own predictions, or ours to further distanced waves, we offer a 20′ panga to be chartered at: $2.50 per nautical mile Trip Planning & Settling Up Charts and maps are available to help you plan surf & fishin missions All boat fuel charges are tallied and settled at the end of your stay
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FERRY SCHEDULE
- Padang → Sikakap: Friday – 11:00 AM
- sikakap → Padang: Friday – 2:00 PM
- The fast ferry takes approximately 4–5 hours.
OPTION 2: PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT TRANSFER
A private speedboat is available directly from Padang to Kingfisher Resort. The private speedboat is exclusive to your group and can be tailored to suit your arrival / departure time in Padang.
- Maximum Capacity: 12 people
- Price: USD 4,000 return trip
NOTES
- Option 2 is at an additional cost and NOT INCLUDED in your quoted rates.
- Please let us know in advance if you would prefer this service.
How Long Does It Take to Get to SMO Resort?
Option 1 – Ferry + Speedboat
Travel from Padang to Sikakap by ferry takes approximately 4 hours.
Total travel time: ~4.5 hours
Option 2 – Direct Private Speedboat
Travel directly from Padang to SMO Resort by private speedboat takes approximately 3.5 hours.
SMO – All-Inclusive Holiday Experience
SMO Resort offers the ultimate all-inclusive holiday experience, which includes accommodation, three delicious daily meals, unlimited use of resort speedboats to go surfing, fishing and exploring, coffee, water and tea, and free use of all our Resort amenities.
Rates:
- Shared bungalow – 2 twin beds $225 USD per person/ night (+10% tax) Our bamboo bungalows have 2 beds in each, with a shower behind each one. Two bathrooms are located centrally behind the main clubhouse.
- Private Bungalow $350 USD per person/ night (+10% tax) or $400 per couple/ night (+10% tax) Your own private bungalow. King bed on one side with bench and table on the other.
Nightly Rate Includes
- Food: All meals included. 4 meals a day: Coffee & tea with cold breakfast before sunrise. Hot breakfast after surf. Lunch when you are ready. Dinner buffet, severed family style. Snacks. We are surfers, we know how important it is to re fuel. Food is always available.
- Bamboo House: Wave front bungalow. King bed or 2 twins. Private shade hut and hammocks.
- Drink: Water, tea and coffee always available. Beers are available for purchase.
- Wi-Fi: You can stay as connected to the world as you’d like. 24 hour electricity and Wi-Fi.
- Boat trips: To near by waves, with in 6nm. Fishing trips included as well.
- Surf Guide: The best surf guide in Mentawai! Eric has over 20 years experience living, working, guiding, surfing in Mentawai. He is also a certified surf coach. ISA Level II.
Nightly Rate Excludes
- Hotel in Padang. We can recommend hotels for any level of comfort.y r
- Transportation package: Round trip transportation from Airport > Hotel > Ferry (including tickets and board bags) > Boat transfer from Sikakap port to our island, Sibigau. $350 USD
- Ferry Tickets & board bag charges
- Mentawai Surf Tax: IDR 2.000.000/ about $125 USD For the new surf tourism tax. This will be paid to the office at ferry port, you will receive a wristband that is valid for 15 days. This is extendable
- Photo Package: Expect to pay around $200 for all photos. Depending on the photographer at the camp when you visit the price will vary. Also, some video and drone services may be available.
- VOA/ Visa On Arrival: 3o day Visa On Arrival is paid at immigration counter when you enter the country. Cost is 500.000 IDR / about $35.. If you want to stay longer we are happy to help arrange your visa.
- Travel Insurance
SMO SURFCAMP BOOKING NOW
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