Mentawai ain’t that scary - Top 5 waves for beginners & intermediate surfers
Rewind to October 2018. I was a total rookie when I came to the Mentawai Islands for the first time. Well, don’t get me wrong – I’m still far from a pro :)
Surely, I was intimidated, to say the least, by the fact I was going to volunteer at Mentawai Surf Retreat and give it a go on the world-class waves with all the surf guides and guests being already experienced surfers.
To give you a better idea of my level of surfing at that time: I arrived with my ‘big puppy’ – 7’0 fun board. My paddle wasn’t strong enough and I represented, what I like to call, a ‘wet noodle’ style. The guests and the MSR crew were giving me “the final push” so I could catch the knee-high wave. I was always the one getting smashed by the big sets (still happens occasionally). But one thing I’ve learnt from the start has been the golden rule – consistency is the key. Consistency in terms of my commitment and “don’t give up” attitude, but also practising in consistent surf conditions. And there’s no better place than Mentawai Islands, with a vast variety of breaks. As much as this surf mecca is known for throwing heavy barrels over a shallow reef, there are indeed waves perfect for the beginners.
So here are my top 5 waves in Mentawai Islands that have been ‘gentle’ enough to help me improve and build up my confidence, but also challenging enough to push my limits.
Pitstops
As the break is right out front of our resort, it is an absolute winner to practise from dawn till dusk. Marjolein will explain quickly where to sit so you not only catch the wave easily, but also you will get an inside tip how to read and avoid big sets. Personally, I prefer Pitstops mid to high tide, with more mellow waves, rather than low tide that becomes a bit faster and hollower.
2. Burgerworld
Perhaps the most underrated fun wave in Mentawais. The spot of my “first times”. First time riding a big wave (head-high, but bear in mind I’m 5’9), first time I switched from long to short board, also my first close encounter with a turtle♡.
My inside tip – there’s a second peak, way less crowded, mostly occupied by super chilled “seniors” and myself.
I coined it a “Jerry’s peak”.
Oh, and Burgerworld is by far most photogenic spot, so get your swimsuits ready for some memorable shots!
(on the wave: Andy
photo by: Lia)
3. McDonalds
Just around the corner from Burgerworld, there’s this gentle rolling left-hander with lots of different spots to sit and take off. It’s not on top of the list of the blokes who like to charge, so no crowds guaranteed!
(on the wave: Lina)
4. Good Times
There’s a reason for this name. Such a fun, easy to catch and endlessly rolling wave! Best part? Deep water so you can forget about the reef. It’s another left-hander, so for regulars like me, it’s a dream spot to practise your backhand.
5. Errets (right)
Perefct A-frame wave, a bit on the outskirts of the main Playgrounds area. With a solid south swell, it’s the place to push your limits and go for a slightly bigger and faster waves. Tip – don’t go left yet!