Surfing in Simeulue Island – An Indonesia Adventure Like Bali in the 80s
If you are looking for a surfing escape that feels authentic, far from today’s crowded Bali, then Simeulue Island in Aceh is the answer. Many surfers describe the vibe here as what Bali used to be in the 1980s and 1990s—raw, adventurous, and untouched. With over 70% of Indonesia covered by water, the country offers countless coastlines and world-class surf breaks for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.
The climate is like “forever summer”, with warm water, consistent sunshine, and waves that deliver barrels and long rides almost year-round. Simeulue is not just another surf trip, but a true Indonesia adventure. Below are some of the best surfing spots in Simeulue Island that every surfer should experience.
1. Dylan’s Right
This world-famous break sits right in front of Salt Surf Resort on the south coast of Simeulue. It’s one of the island’s most popular waves, breaking over a volcanic reef platform. Expect long, barreling rights with wave heights between 1–3 meters. Smaller swells are manageable for intermediates, but the bigger sets can be challenging, with fast sections and sharp reefs—so it’s not recommended for novices.
2. Thailand
Located on the southeast of Simeulue, Thailand offers a friendlier left reef break with a steep drop and plenty of shoulder for cutbacks. On the east side, however, you’ll find a heavier, shallow, and fast right-hander for advanced surfers. The coastline here stretches endlessly with bays, volcanic sand beaches, and reef breaks, though conditions can be tricky. Treacherous weather and limited anchorages make it a challenging spot for those arriving by boat.
3. Wontong
Found on the south coast near Busung Beach, Wontong has become one of Simeulue’s busiest surf spots. Thanks to its consistency and wave quality, it attracts surfers from all over. The take-off points break over a reef, offering a medium-speed left and a shorter but fun right. It’s a must-visit for those who love variety and reliability in their surf sessions.
4. Tea Bag (Teupah Island)
Often regarded as one of the best surf spots in Indonesia, Tea Bag is located on nearby Teupah Island, just off Simeulue. This right-hander peels over a volcanic ledge, offering long, barreling rides in shallow water. Swells can reach up to 4 meters, especially from April to October during high tide.
Although only accessible by boat, Tea Bag often draws crowds due to its quality. It’s one of the longest, most surfable rights in Simeulue, making it a bucket-list wave for intermediate and advanced surfers.
5. Alus-Alus Beach
On the southeastern coast lies Alus-Alus Beach, a year-round spot known for its consistent waves. Entering the water requires caution—never jump in directly from the reef. The waves here are powerful, with short, explosive sections breaking both left and right. Strong swells and steep drops make it better suited for experienced surfers.
However, on the northwest side of Alus-Alus, you’ll find a softer and more forgiving section. Its mellow, foamy waves make it a great all-year option for beginners and intermediates, though conditions can change quickly with the swell.
Why Simeulue Should Be on Every Surfer’s Bucket List
- Authentic atmosphere—like Bali in the 80s.
- Consistent waves of all types for different skill levels.
- Raw, untouched beauty far from mainstream tourist crowds.
- A great alternative when Nias, Banyak, or Mentawai get overcrowded.
Simeulue is a large island, and exploring east to west can take around 12 hours by road. That means endless opportunities to discover new breaks and hidden beaches. It’s the perfect place for those who want more than just surfing—it’s a complete Indonesia adventure.
Curated Tours in Simeulue Island
For surfers who want everything organized, joining a curated tour Indonesia package is highly recommended. Not only will you experience world-class waves, but you’ll also get the chance to explore local culture, wild tropical landscapes, and authentic island hospitality—all without the stress of planning.
👉 Ready to add a Simeulue Surf Trip to your surfing bucket list?
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