Situated alongside the popular surf hubs of Bali and Lombok, Sumbawa is a spectacular isle in the Lesser Sunda chain. It’s renowned for its volcanic ridges, wild terrain and magnificent coral reefs, which deliver some of the best waves in Indonesia. Thanks to the island’s rugged topography and lack of large-scale development, there’s an adventurous element to the surf experience here.
With two coastlines that face the swell channels powering the region’s legendary breaks, Sumbawa boasts a diverse array of surf spots, from barrelling reef breaks to A-frame peaks. What sets this island apart is its relative obscurity compared to its more famous neighbours, though that’s not to say the secret isn’t out. While it's still possible to score uncrowded sessions, Sumbawa is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for the global surf community.
In this sustainable surf guide to Sumbawa, discover everything you need to know about exploring this magnificent island, from the best breaks to eco-friendly accommodation and tips for getting there and around.
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Surf spots in Sumbawa
Sumbawa’s breaks can be divided into two main zones - the west and the east. Those on the western side (facing the nearby island of Lombok) are renowned for their technical challenges, with names such as Scar Reef indicative of the coral shelves that lie just below the water’s surface. These breaks are predominantly suited for upper-intermediate to advanced surfers, although they’re manageable for less experienced surfers on high tides and smaller swells. While West Sumbawa’s surf coastline is less developed, there’s a great choice of eco-friendly resorts catering to the higher-end market.
In contrast, the waves on the eastern side of Sumbawa are generally considered a bit more forgiving, though it still boasts one of Indonesia's most sought-after waves - Lakey Peak. While challenging, this iconic break and its surrounding surf spots tend to be a bit more accessible to skilled intermediate surfers looking to push their limits in a slightly less punishing environment. As such, Sumbawa’s east coast has become the epicentre of surf tourism on the island, with a wider choice of surf camps, resorts and hotels.
Sustainable surf guide to Sumbawa
Surf spots in West Sumbawa
Scar Reef
This world-class left is a favourite amongst goofy-footers due to its powerful, barrelling waves that seemingly go on forever (when the conditions align). The danger lies in the sheer speed at which the wave pitches and then slams the door shut, leaving little room for error on the shallow reef. The best time to tackle this beast is during swells of between 5 and 12 feet and with minimal wind. If Scar Reef is looking too ferocious, check out Little Bingin just across the channel, which is often a little mellower.
Super Suck
As its name so aptly suggests, this wave has an uncanny ability to "suck" surfers in, with its narrow, lippy barrel forming over a shallow reef. It's the kind of wave that demands absolute commitment, with just the slightest misstep leading to brutal wipeouts. When a big southwest swell combines with an offshore easterly wind, Super Suck is at its best - some even describe it as the “Skeleton Bay of Indonesia”.
Tropicals
Offering both lefts and rights, this intermediate-level wave breaks just off a white sandy beach in the far southwest of Sumbawa. It has the potential to be a long and fast-paced ride but can quickly end up sloppy when influenced by onshore winds. The optimal conditions for Tropicals occur during mid to high tide when the reef below helps to shape the swell into clean, wall-like formations that peel beautifully.
Yo-Yos
Situated in the heart of Sekongkang Bay, Yo-Yos features both right and left-breaking waves that roll over a sandy bottom. The lack of reef makes it an ideal destination for beginners and intermediates to hone their skills and it can be surfed on virtually any tide. More experienced surfers can tackle the fast-forming rebound wave at The Wedge while The Hook offers hollowish right-handers that provide endless fun on shoulder-to-head-high swells.
Downtowns
When other nearby breaks like Scar Reef and Super Suck struggle to produce decent conditions, Downtowns often steps up and delivers the goods. While it may not have the most dramatic or hollow takeoff, the real magic happens once you're up and riding when the right-hand shoulder delivers a large barrelling section. Intermediate surfers tend to flock here, with the wave’s consistency and ability to deliver fun, rideable conditions making it a local favourite.
Sustainable surf guide to Sumbawa
Surf spots in East Sumbawa
Lakey Peak
Lakey Peak is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Sumbawa surf lineup, an absolute world-class wave that draws in experienced riders from across the globe. This A-frame starts with a dramatic drop into a deep channel, where the wave barrels over with incredible power. The left and right sides of the peak are nearly symmetrical in their initial formation, both offering that coveted "pipe" shape that surfers dream of. The left section tends to straighten out and narrow, allowing for powerful turns, while the right is generally shorter and faster.
Periscopes
Periscopes is all about having pure, unadulterated fun on the waves. It's a mellow, user-friendly break with a wedgy peak that offers a smooth, forgiving ride. On those classic southwest swells, it offers intermediate surfers a fantastic entry point to start tackling more challenging waves as they look to practice their turns and take their skills to the next level.
Eco-friendly hotels and resorts in Sumbawa
Sustainable places to stay in Sumbawa
Eco-friendly hotels and resorts in West Sumbawa
Designed with sustainability at the forefront, this eco-friendly resort in West Sumbawa features a collection of gorgeous bamboo villas. It boasts stunning views of Yo-Yos (you don’t even have to leave your bed) and the private plunge pools are an absolute treat. Once you’ve built up an appetite, the onsite restaurant serves an inspiring menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
"Best view onto Yo-Yos from the bed and terrace. Beautifully designed bungalows with private (and cool water) pool.” - Lena (read more reviews here)
With your choice of cabins, huts or a honeymoon suite, this eco-retreat in Sumbawa receives rave reviews for its paradisiacal setting. When you're not out surfing, you can stretch overlooking the ocean from the bamboo yoga shala, be pampered during a spa treatment or participate in the property’s turtle release program. Healthy salads, poke bowls and grilled fish are on the menu, together with delicious pizzas and desserts.
"Best night's sleep I had in ages, with waves crashing through the night.” - Henry (read more reviews here)
Offering all-inclusive stays that include meals, accommodation and transport to the surf, this beachfront resort in Sumbawa looks out across one of the island’s best breaks. After a session at Scar Reef or Little Bingin, you can sink your feet into the sand while refuelling on the hearty menu or watch the sunset with a beer in hand. In addition to twin and double rooms, there are multi-bedroom villas for families and groups of surfers.
"The resort, location and property are incredible! You are immersed in nature with an almost private beach just steps from your room, that also has incredible surfing!” - Caitlin (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly hotels and resorts in East Sumbawa
Overlooking Lakey Peak, this Scandi-inspired boutique hotel is a surfer’s dream. All of the rooms boast sun-drenched balconies from where you can check the conditions and there are racks in the rooms for storing your boards. Several restaurants are within walking distance of this eco-conscious Sumbawa hotel and you can rent a scooter at the entrance to explore the area.
"Prime location. Great to wake up to Lakey Peak right in front of you.” - Luca (read more reviews here)
Featuring a handful of modern abodes, this highly rated Sumbawa hotel is ideal for surfers who want a home base for perhaps a week or more. Each is individually decorated, though they all boast terraces, lounges, air con and high-speed Wi-Fi. Within a few kilometres, you can access five different surf breaks, with Lakey Peak right out front.
“The property is a sweet little grouping of modern houses. It has parking for both cars and bikes, racks for surfboards, a kitchen and large deck and beautiful gardening.” - Lawrence (read more reviews here)
Getting to and around Sumbawa
Getting to and around Sumbawa
Getting to Sumbawa is relatively easy, with daily flights from Denpasar to Sumbawa Besar. If you’re coming from Lombok, you can fly from Praya to Sumbawa Besar or catch the ferry from Kayangan Harbour to Poto Tano. Most resorts and hotels can arrange pickup from the airport or harbour directly to the property.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s more convenient to fly to Sumbawa Besar if you’re heading to the eastern breaks, as the land transfer from the harbour is lengthy. This isn’t the case if you’re heading to the western breaks, which are closer to the harbour than the airport.
For accessing the breaks once you've settled in, it’s best to rent a scooter, though it’s important to drive slowly around Sumbawa due to the state of the roads. Some surf camps and resorts include boat transfers to the breaks located offshore, saving you a lengthy paddle.
Best time to surf in Sumbawa
The dry season from May through August is generally the best time to surf in Sumbawa, with the island’s breaks dependent on the arrival of clean, powerful southwest swells to really come alive. That being said, the ESE tradewinds can mess things up by mid-morning, so it’s usually best to get out early. The early dry season months of April and May often deliver the best conditions, with reduced winds that allow for longer morning sessions.
During the wet season, the surf can be inconsistent and subdued, although it does deliver some good rides for longboarders. With the trade winds backing off, you may be lucky enough to score glassy waves with hardly anyone else in the water. December and January tend to be the wettest months and this is the best time for longboarding in Sumbawa.
Best time to surf in Sumbawa
FAQs about surfing in Sumbawa
What other activities are there in Sumbawa besides surfing?
Beyond its renowned surf breaks, Sumbawa offers a diverse array of activities and experiences for lay days or for non-surfing family and friends. Firstly, the crystal-clear waters surrounding Sumbawa are teeming with marine life, making it an idyllic destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. Sumbawa is also an incredible place to swim and snorkel with whale sharks, which congregate in Saleh Bay (along the north coast of the island) around the new moon.
For a different perspective, the island's interior is dotted with cascading waterfalls that can be accessed via short hikes, some with pools at their base for a refreshing swim. The beaches that ring Sumbawa are also nothing short of gorgeous and embarking on a road trip to discover what sun-drenched bliss lies around the next corner is an adventure in itself.
Is the surf crowded in Sumbawa?
While you shouldn’t expect the crowds of Bali, the surf in Sumbawa is well and truly “discovered”. That being said, you can still score quiet sessions, particularly if you venture away from well-known spots like Lakey Peak. During the dry season when the waves are at their best, many expats living in Bali make the pilgrimage to Sumbawa, coinciding their trip with the best swell forecasts. If you’re willing to embark on a bit of an adventure around the island, you can easily find less crowded options just a short distance from the most popular surf hubs.
Swimming with whale sharks in Sumbawa
When is the surf season in Sumbawa?
The dry season, which runs from May to August, is typically the best time for surfing in Sumbawa. This is when the island's waves really shine, thanks to the strong southwest swells rolling in. However, the ESE trade winds can kick in by mid-morning, so it’s a good idea to hit the water early. The months of April and May (at the start of the dry season) often offer the best conditions, with lighter winds that make for longer morning surf sessions.
On the flip side, the wet season can be a bit hit or miss for surfing, but it still has its perks, especially for longboarders. With the trade winds easing up, you might find some smooth, glassy waves and a lot less people. December and January are usually the wettest months, making them the ideal time for longboarding in Sumbawa.
Where can you surf in Sumbawa?
Sumbawa's surf scene is split into two main areas: the west and the east. The western breaks, which face the nearby island of Lombok, are notable for their technical challenges. These waves are mostly for upper-intermediate to advanced surfers, but less experienced riders can still enjoy them during high tides and on smaller swells. Although West Sumbawa is less developed, there are some great eco-friendly resorts aimed at the upscale crowd.
On the flip side, the breaks in East Sumbawa are generally a bit easier to handle, yet they still feature one of Indonesia's top waves - Lakey Peak. This iconic spot can be challenging but is often more accessible for skilled intermediate surfers wanting to test their skills. Because of this, Sumbawa's east coast has become the hub of surf tourism on the island, offering a broader range of surf camps, resorts and hotels.
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