THUNDERS – MENTAWAI ISLANDS
User Rating 4/5 : four star
Type : reef
Reliability : Consistent
Best Swell : SW, Offshore Wind : N
Duration: BY REQUEST
Grade: CHALLENGE

Thunders in Sumatra (little island on the southern end of the Mentawai chain) is an exposed reef break that usually has waves. May-Oct (dry season) is the best time of year for waves. Offshore winds are from the north. Most of the surf here comes from groundswells and the best swell direction is from the southwest. It’s a top to bottom wave on the outside, that gets a bit mellower on the inside section. Another wave that usually has a lot of water moving, so a bigger board can come in handy. Thunders powerful lefts break so hard that it not only makes a booming sound, but it also creates a weird, sea foam that often has trouble clearing out before the next set. Bring a slightly bigger board, draw out your turns, and don't surf your wave too far to the inside and you should have a blast. Take care of rocks in the line up. The line-up is extremely complicated as waves seem to break everywhere around you; however, on a rising swell a solid, slabby wall offers a serious drop followed by a forceful shoulder.

It very rarely gets crowded here. The best way to access the surf is by charter boat from Padang. You can stay on-board and spend your leisure time by fishing, spear fishing, snorkeling, reading, drinking, cards, and staring at the ocean.

You will need to take everything with you that you think you may need. There are no surf shops in the islands or in Padang, so make sure you have a spare surfboard or two, along with extra fins, leashes, wax, etc. Board size is a personal thing, but it would be wise to bring an assortment for various conditions. Recommended quiver is 2 to 3 boards: A normal shortboard, a mid-range gun (6-6 to 6-10), and a larger gun for the bigger days (7-0 to 7-6) when there is a bit more water moving. It can get double or triple overhead during the larger swells during the peak month of July and August. The warm crystal blue waters make it possible to swim without a wetsuit, but a vest or long-sleeved rashguard is advised for protection from the sun. Booties are a necessity due to the sharp coral found at all of the reefs. A helmet is also recommended. Be sure to bring plenty of waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.