Lombok, Sumba and Sumbawa Surf Trips
Lombok, Sumba and Sumbawa Surf Trips
LOMBOK
Indonesia is the world renowned surf destination - swell wraps itself around thousands of islands and atolls, producing a staggering variety of world class waves. The islands of Lombok and Sumbawa are no exception! It's not all ultra challenging stuff either - the surf is suitable for all standards especially in these islands....not only that, but Lombok & Sumbawa are what Bali was like in the 1970's - still relatively untouched by tourism and offering some great surf for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas of Bali. As with other areas of Indonesia, the best surf seasons occur between the months of April and October. The best known surf break in Lombok is Desert Point, but there are plenty of other options with nine major surfing destinations around Lombok. Sumbawa has its best surf between June and August, with Lakey's Beach being a haven for surfers. Lakey Peak and Periscopes are just two of the many quality waves in this region.
SUMBA
Close to Bali, Sumba provides some excellent waves in beautiful surroundings.
With an exciting local culture and a relatively small population, Sumba is one of the more pristine, unspoilt, undeveloped and least crowded regions of Indonesia.
There are good waves all over the island providing options for surfers of all levels - from beginners right through to advanced surfers. The lack of infrastructure on Sumba means transport can be slow and difficult so time is required to explore the many breaks around the island - ultimately its worthwhile given you’ll be surfing perfect uncrowded waves.
On top of perfect tropical surf, the island is also great for fishing, snorkelling, bird watching, beach combing and relaxing.
Uncrowded waves, laidback living and spectacular sights - Sumba is the spirit of surf travel.
SUMBAWA
Sumbawa offers some classic tropical surfing with two main surfing areas: West Sumbawa and the Lakai area.
West Sumbawa is mostly made up of hollow lefts that are best accessed by boat charter. The charters will pull up and anchor at the best breaks for easy access to the surf. This area has many steep cliffs that offer scenic backdrops to the epic surf.
The Lakai area can be accessed by charter, as well as by ferry and overland transfers, or flights from Bali. Merpati Airlines flies direct to Sumbawa although current reports indicate that they do not transport surfboards due to size limitations. The ferry from Sanur to Bima is probably the best transport option for surfers but it can take up to 10 hours to reach Bima and then another 2 hours by Bimo taxi to the Lakai area. There are some hotels and surf camps in the Lakai area located right in front of the main breaks of Lakai Peak and Lakai Pipe, with other waves within walking distance. Reef booties are recommended as most waves are a long paddle or walk across the reef depending on the tide.
During the dry season (May – October), the trade winds blow from the southeast offering offshore winds to the lefts of West Sumbawa. Alternately, the winds in the wet season (November – April), blow from the southwest which results in more right breaks with offshore conditions like Yo-Yo’s. Water temperatures are in the mid 70’s, but a vest or spring suit can come in handy on windy days. The sun is directly overhead this close to the equator so lots of sunscreen and rash vests are highly recommended.
