How to get to the Mentawai Islands: Flights, Ferries and More!

The Ultimate Mentawai Travel Guide

If you’ve ever dreamt of surfing pristine and uncrowded waves, sinking cold beers on a remote white-sandy beach, and immersing yourself in a rich island culture far from the hustle and bustle of regular life, the Mentawai Islands MUST be on your surf travel radar!

Perched off the western coast of Sumatra in Indonesia, the Mentawais dish up some of the most consistent, world-class surf on this planet. With options perfect for those just finding their feet on a surfboard, through to those salty veterans ready to charge the biggest, hollowest barrels they can find here.

Sure…getting here can feel like an epic quest the first time around. But with a little ‘insider knowledge’, this seemingly intimidating journey can become surprisingly straightforward…dare I say, even adventurous and exciting!

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know to get from your home country to these Indonesian islands. We’ll cover flights, ferries, hotels, schedules, visa requirements, local transport, and tips on nabbing the best travel deals. Whether you’re flying in from Australia, America, or Europe, I’ve got you covered. So grab a Bintang (or a cold equivalent) – it’s time to plan your Mentawai Islands surfing adventure!

1. Why the Mentawai Islands?

Picture this: a remote island chain in the Indian Ocean that receives a near-constant supply of swell, serving up waves so perfect they look straight off a postcard. That’s the Mentawai Islands in a nutshell. Thanks to their unique geography off Sumatra’s west coast, these islands catch incoming swells from multiple directions, meaning it’s rare to find a flat day—no matter when you visit. While peak season (April to October) delivers some of the largest, most powerful waves, you can still score epic surf outside these months, often with fewer people in the lineup.

And it’s not just big barrels here. The Mentawais boast an impressive variety of breaks – some gentle peelers that are great for progressing beginners, others offering fast, hollow walls that advanced surfers dream about. Kanduis, Rifles, Hideaways…these names alone trigger goosebumps for seasoned surf travellers, but the region’s diversity means there’s something for every age, skill level, and wave-riding style.

You can also leave the wetsuit at home. Water temperatures hover around a blissful 27–29°C all year, and the tropical climate makes boardshorts or bikinis your go-to surf attire. Throw in the fact that the Mentawais remain relatively remote, and you’ve got fewer surfers competing for waves than you’d find in more accessible hotspots like Bali or Hawaii. Here, it’s still possible to paddle out at sunrise and share an epic break with just you and your mates!

Beyond surfing, the islands themselves are a tropical playground. The beaches are powdered sugar-soft, the reefs here still teem with marine life for diving and snorkelling, and there’s an intriguing local culture influenced by ancestral traditions. It’s this fusion of world-class waves, year-round consistency, idyllic climate, and vibrant island life that makes the Mentawai Islands an absolute must-visit for anyone serious about scoring unforgettable surf sessions (and having some serious fun in-between).

2. Travelling to Indonesia

Travelling from Australia

Getting from Australia to Padang (in Sumatra) isn’t a quick point-to-point trip. There are no direct flights. Fortunately, you’ve got three main gateway options to reach Indonesia (or Malaysia) before hopping onward to Padang:

1. Bali (Denpasar)
2. Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta)
3. Kuala Lumpur (KLIA)

Each has its own perks, whether you’re chasing the fastest route, the cheapest fares, or a mini holiday along the way.

1. Via Bali (Denpasar)
Why Bali? There’s a wide range of flights from major Australian cities—Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Cairns thanks to airlines like Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas, and AirAsia.
Bali can be a great place to break up the trip if you fancy catching some well-known waves, experiencing local nightlife, or simply chilling out on the beach for a few days before heading to Sumatra.
Onward Travel: Once you’re in Bali, you’ll still need to connect to Padang via another city (we’ll cover that in the next section). If you’re keen to explore more of Indonesia or just want a breather from travel, Bali’s your perfect layover spot.

2. Via Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta)
Why Jakarta? As Indonesia’s bustling capital, Jakarta has a higher volume of international flights direct from Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. You’ll often find competitive fares with Garuda Indonesia, Qantas, and Jetstar. There are plenty of hotels and amenities near the airport if you need a quick overnight stay.
Onward Travel: Once you touch down, you can connect to Padang with ease (details coming up soon). Jakarta is well-connected to the rest of Indonesia, making it the most straightforward gateway for many Australian travellers.

3. Via Kuala Lumpur (KLIA)
Why KL? Kuala Lumpur is a major hub for budget carriers—especially AirAsia—which frequently offers promo fares. You can often piece together cheaper itineraries if you’re flexible with dates (and you don’t mind adding an extra stop).
Onward Travel: From KL, direct flights to Padang exist (we’ll discuss the specifics in the next section). If you’re a savvy travel hacker, KL can be a fun city to explore or an easy launchpad to other Southeast Asian destinations.

Which Route Is Best?
Jakarta usually wins if you want the most direct and frequent onward connections. Bali is your go-to for a mini holiday or if you’d like to mix in some iconic Indonesian surf before the Mentawai mission. Kuala Lumpur can be the cheapest route if you catch the right promo fare. Just remember to budget for your surfboard baggage! No matter how you slice it, you’ll land in Indonesia (or Malaysia) first, then hop over to Padang – the essential departure point to the Mentawais. 

Travelling from America (the US)

If you’re coming from the United States, getting to Padang isn’t a single flight affair—there are no direct routes. Instead, you’ll likely transit through one of three major gateways: Bali (Denpasar), Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta), or Kuala Lumpur (KLIA). Each offers different flight options, layover possibilities, and price points.

1. Via Bali (Denpasar)
Why Bali? Bali is often top-of-mind for US travellers looking to combine their Mentawai trip with Indonesia’s most famous island escape. Major US airports—like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), or New York (JFK) connect to Bali with at least one layover (common stops include Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, or Doha). If you’ve got extra time, spend a few days exploring Bali’s beaches and nightlife before continuing on your Mentawai mission.

Keep in Mind: 
You can’t fly directly from Bali to Padang; you’ll need to connect again (which I’ll cover in the next section).
Bali’s the best layover choice if you want a slice of Indonesian tourism before heading somewhere more remote.

2. Via Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta)
Why Jakarta? As Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta typically has more flight options from major US hubs (via one or two stopovers). Carriers like Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Emirates often funnel through this route. Expect to stop in a major Middle Eastern or Asian city (e.g., Dubai, Doha, Taipei, Tokyo, or Singapore). Once you’re in Jakarta, connecting flights around Indonesia are plentiful, making it arguably the most straightforward jumping-off point.

Keep in Mind: 
You’ll likely land at Soekarno-Hatta (CGK), which is large and can be busy—factor in extra time to clear immigration, especially if you arrive at peak periods.

3. Via Kuala Lumpur (KLIA)
Why KL? Kuala Lumpur is a powerhouse hub in Southeast Asia, especially for budget travellers. AirAsia, for instance, often runs deals on US–KL routes (though typically with a stopover in a city like Tokyo or Seoul). If you’re comfortable piecing together multi-leg journeys, you might snag a bargain fare combining different airlines. KL is also a convenient gateway to other parts of Asia if you want to add another destination to your trip.

Keep in Mind:
You can connect onward from KL to Padang in a short flight (about 1 hour).
As with any multi-leg itinerary, watch out for surfboard baggage fees—they can add up quickly on budget airlines.

Which Route Is Best?
Bali (Denpasar) is your ticket if you want a taste of Indonesia’s most iconic holiday island first. Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta) usually has the highest frequency of connecting flights and a more direct onward path into Sumatra. Kuala Lumpur (KLIA) can be the most budget-friendly option, particularly if you’re flexible with dates and can pounce on sales.

No matter which route you pick, you’ll still need to make a final hop to Padang—don’t sweat it, we’ll cover that in the next section. Once you’ve sorted your US-to-gateway leg, you’re well on your way to the sun, surf, and stoke of the Mentawai Islands!

Travelling from Europe

If you’re travelling from Europe, be prepared for a long-haul journey with no direct flights to Padang. Your best bet is to touch down in one of three major gateways first: Bali (Denpasar), Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta), or Kuala Lumpur (KLIA). Each gateway has its own advantages—whether you’re chasing the most direct route, a sweet deal, or just fancy a mini-stopover along the way.

1. Via Bali (Denpasar)
Why Bali? From major European hubs—like London (LHR), Paris (CDG), or Frankfurt (FRA)—you’ll commonly transit via Middle Eastern airports (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi) or major Asian cities (Singapore, Hong Kong) en route to Bali. Bali is an iconic holiday destination, so if you’d like to break up your trip and enjoy some island vibes before heading off to Sumatra, this is an attractive option.

Keep in Mind:
Bali doesn’t have direct flights to Padang, so you’ll need another hop (which we’ll detail in the next section).
If you’ve got the time, Bali is an amazing spot to shake off any jet lag and sneak in a few warm-up surfs.

2. Via Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta)
Why Jakarta? As Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta boasts numerous flight options from Europe, often with a single layover in a Middle Eastern hub. Carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, or Turkish Airlines might get you there with just one connection. The airport is a major domestic hub, so catching a short flight to Padang is a breeze once you arrive.

Keep in Mind:
If you land late or have a long layover, there are plenty of transit hotels and lounges at Soekarno-Hatta.
Jakarta is usually the most direct Indonesian gateway, especially if you’re aiming to minimise stops.

3. Via Kuala Lumpur (KLIA)
Why KL? Kuala Lumpur is a favourite among budget-savvy European travellers. Airlines like Malaysia Airlines and Turkish Airlines frequently offer competitive fares, plus you can find low-cost connections with AirAsia. KL is also well-situated for multi-city trips around Southeast Asia, if you’re keen to tack on another destination.

Keep in Mind:
Direct flights from KL to Padang exist, making this route quite streamlined once you reach Malaysia.
Budget carriers can entice with cheap base fares, but watch for extra fees on surfboard baggage.

Which Route Is Best?
Bali is ideal if you want that classic Indonesian holiday experience—spend a few days settling in, then island-hop onward. Jakarta typically offers the most straightforward onward connections to Sumatra. Kuala Lumpur is often the cheapest gateway, especially if you can snag a sale fare or use flight comparison sites to your advantage. Whichever path you choose, you’ll still need that final jump to Padang—no worries, we’ll get to that soon. The endgame? Arriving in Mentawai paradise.

3. Navigating Through Indonesia to Padang

So, you’ve landed in Bali, Jakarta, or Kuala Lumpur – congrats! You’re on the home stretch. The next mission? Making your way to Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang, gateway to the Mentawai Islands. Here’s how to do it without tearing your hair out (and, of course, keeping your surfboards in one piece).

1. Bali → Padang
No direct flights from Bali to Padang exist, which means you’ll have to transit through either Jakarta or Kuala Lumpur:

• Bali → Jakarta → Padang
  Flight Time: About 1.5 hours from Bali to Jakarta, then 1.5 hours onward to Padang.
  Airlines: Lion Air, Citilink, Batik Air, and Garuda Indonesia typically ply the Bali–Jakarta route. For Jakarta–Padang, you’ll see Lion Air, Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, and AirAsia.
  Pro Tip: If your layover in Jakarta is tight, factor in potential delays…especially if you fly with Citilink! In my experience, more than 50% of their flights seem to be delayed or adjusted at the last minute.
• Bali → Kuala Lumpur → Padang
  Flight Time: 3 hours (Bali to KL) + about 1 hour (KL to Padang).
  Airlines: AirAsia dominates this route, often with budget-friendly fares.

2. Jakarta → Padang
For many travellers—especially those who flew into Jakarta directly—this is the most straightforward option:

Flight Time: Around 1.5 hours.
Airlines: Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Citilink, Batik Air, and AirAsia.

3. Kuala Lumpur (KLIA) → Padang
If you opted to fly into KL first…especially popular with budget-savvy travellers, you’re in luck:

Flight Time: About 1 hour direct on AirAsia.
Airlines: AirAsia is the go-to. Malaysia Airlines sometimes has connecting routes, but they’re not always direct.

Booking Domestic/Regional Flights

When to Book:
Peak surf season (April–October) sees seats fill up fast – book at least 2–3 months ahead if you want a decent fare. Shoulder season can net some bargains, but swells might be less predictable.

Baggage & Surfboard Fees:
Policies vary wildly. Garuda Indonesia often includes a free surfboard allowance (check current terms), while budget airlines might charge hefty oversize fees.

Layover Tips:
Account for airport transfer time, flight delays, and potential terminal changes. Keep an eye on that surfboard bag—some carriers require pick-up and re-check-in if flights aren’t on a single ticket.

Arriving in Padang

After your final flight, you’ll land at Minangkabau International Airport, congratulations! You’re now just a ferry and speedboat ride away from the Mentawais. Your arrival time won’t match up with ferry schedules for the same day, so you’ll need to plan for an overnight in Padang. Decent hotels are only 30-minutes from the airport and range from basic guesthouses to high-end chains.

Bottom Line:
From whichever hub you’ve chosen: Bali, Jakarta, or KL – Padang is just one or two short flights away. Yes, it takes a bit of planning and patience, but the reward is well worth the extra legwork. The Mentawais’ dreamy, uncrowded lineups are waiting! 

4. Overnight in Padang

No matter where you’re flying in from – Australia, the US, or Europe, it’s essential to plan for an overnight stay in Padang. The ferry to the Mentawai Islands typically departs early in the morning, leaving little to no time for same-day transfers if you arrive later in the afternoon or evening.

Where to Stay

Padang is about a 30–40 minute drive from Minangkabau International Airport. You’ll find a range of options that suit various budgets and styles:

Mid-Range/Business Hotels:

• Santika Hotel
• Mercure Padang
• D’OxVille Hotel
• Grand Zuri Padang

Budget Stays & Guesthouses
If you’re looking to save or crave a more local experience, there are plenty of smaller guesthouses and homestays scattered throughout the city. They’re generally clean, affordable, and often brimming with Indonesian hospitality.

Getting to Your Hotel and the Ferry
Some of the better Mentawai surf resorts will organise airport pick-ups for their guests and arrange an early ride to the ferry terminal the next morning (Tuesdays; Thursdays; & Saturdays). In some cases, they’ll even sort out ferry tickets, saving you both time and hassle.

One example is Playground Surf Resort, which offers complimentary transport and ferry tickets to all guests. They have a Padang-based contact, Tika, who can help with any last-minute questions and make sure everyone is on the ferry well before it departs.

If your resort doesn’t provide these services, don’t stress. Getting from the airport to Padang city is straightforward. Taxis, rideshare apps (like Grab), and private hires are readily available. Just confirm an early morning transfer to the ferry port so you don’t miss the boat (literally!).

Why Arrive Early?
Spending the night in Padang lets you recover from a long flight, adjust to the tropical climate, and maybe even sample the city’s famous nasi Padang cuisine (think rich curries and spicy sambals). You’ll also sidestep the stress of rushing for an early ferry after an exhausting international journey. A good night’s rest sets the tone for an epic surf trip—and ensures you’re bright-eyed and ready for the speedy journey to the Mentawais at dawn.

5. Padang to the Mentawai Islands

Once you’ve made it to Padang, it’s time for the real island adventure to begin! Most travellers heading to Playground Surf Resort will journey via fast ferry or speedboat. Here’s what to expect:

Mentawai Fast Ferry

Takes about 3–4 hours to reach the main Mentawai islands.
Only runs on certain days of the week (e.g., Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday).
The fast ferry is the preferred choice for most surfers (over the public ferry that takes 12hrs) as it cuts down on travel time and is a bit more comfortable (though “comfortable” is relative—seas can still be rough, so consider bringing seasickness tablets).

Private Speed Boat Services

If you’re travelling with a group or want direct transport, you can charter a speedboat directly to Playground Surf Resort. This option is costly, but if you’re splitting with multiple travellers, it might be worth it for the convenience. Expect to pay around $3,000, so split between 10 people, it’ll be $300 each.

Pro Tip: Always confirm your boat schedule in advance. Weather and sea conditions can force cancellations or delays. Keep your itinerary flexible by planning an extra day or two in case of unexpected changes.

Even if you’re not staying at Playground Surf Resort, several Mentawai surf camps and resorts offer some variation of these services. So be sure to ask what’s included when booking. It can save you both time and money, not to mention a heap of travel stress.

6. Final Leg: Siberut to Your Resort

Once you’ve stepped off the ferry in Siberut, you’ve just got one more leg to go: a speedboat ride out to your resort. Some Mentawai surf camps will handle this final transport for you, arranging everything from your luggage to your boards. Depending on the location of your resort and sea conditions, this leg typically takes 1–2 hours.

What to Expect:
Speedboat rides can get bumpy if the swell is running or the wind picks up—though it rarely gets windy in the Mentawais. Plan on getting a little wet if you’re sitting near the open sides.
Refreshments & Comfort: Many resorts provide basic snacks and water on board so you can recharge after the ferry crossing. Don’t hesitate to ask if you need anything.

If you’re staying at Playground Surf Resort, your speedboat journey will be roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes from Siberut—already included in the resort’s package price:

• All-Inclusive Transfer: Bags and surfboards are managed for you, so there’s no stressing about extra handling or fees.
• Food & Drinks: Refreshments are available on the boat to keep you fuelled up for the final stretch.
• Minor Splash Zone: You may catch a bit of spray, especially if the swell is kicking—come prepared with a waterproof bag for electronics and valuables.

Regardless of which resort you choose, this high-speed dash across clear Mentawai waters is often a highlight of the travel. You’ll get your first real taste of the islands’ pristine beauty, warm ocean breeze, and rugged shoreline vistas – an epic prelude to the world-class waves and laid-back surf vibe that await. Enjoy the ride!

7. Visa and Arrival Requirements for Indonesia

Before you jet off to chase perfect waves in the Mentawais, make sure you’re across the latest visa and arrival requirements. There are a few extra steps to complete before landing in Indonesia, but with a little pre-planning, you’ll breeze through the airport and be on your way to paradise in no time.

SATUSEHAT Health Pass

What Is It? An electronic health declaration form required by Indonesian authorities.
How to Complete: Fill out the form online before you check in for your flight to Indonesia.
Why You Need It: After submitting your details, you’ll receive a barcode/QR Code that contains your health and travel history. Indonesian authorities will scan this on arrival, so save the barcode to your phone or print it out in case of spotty internet access.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave this until the last minute – complete it as soon as you have your flight details confirmed.

Customs Declaration

Online Form: Head to ecd.beacukai.go.id to fill in your customs declaration.
Timing: You can do this up to three days before arriving in Bali (or any Indonesian entry point).
QR Code: Once done, you’ll receive a QR code. Save it to your phone or print it out to show customs officials.
One Per Family: If you’re travelling with family members, one form can cover everyone.
Why Bother? Skipping this step means you’ll have to queue at the airport to fill it out on-site, potentially delaying both yourself and fellow travellers.

Visa on Arrival (VoA)

Most travellers heading to Indonesia (including for tourism or surf adventures) will need a Visa on Arrival, also referred to as a Visit Visa (code B1):
Cost: 500,000 IDR (approximately AUD 50).
How to Get It:
Online (eVOA): Recommended to purchase before you arrive. It saves time and hassle at the airport.
On Arrival: You can still obtain it once you land at the airport or harbour if you haven’t sorted it out online beforehand.
Validity: Typically 30 days, which can often be extended once if you plan on staying longer.
Why Online? Even though the name implies “on arrival,” applying in advance can save you from standing in multiple queues and filling out paperwork while jetlagged.
Pro Tip: Always check the latest official information for any changes to visa regulations or fees. Policies can shift quickly, and it’s best to have up-to-date intel.

Final Thoughts on Arrival
Between the SATUSEHAT Health Pass, the online Customs Declaration, and the Visa on Arrival, there’s a bit more admin than you might be used to. However, a little prep work makes your actual arrival in Indonesia much smoother. Once you’ve cleared immigration and customs, collected your boards, and breathed in that warm tropical air, you’ll be on the fast track to catching your first Mentawai barrel—no extra lines or stress required. Safe travels and enjoy the ride!

8. Making the Most of the Mentawais

So you’ve made it through the flights, ferries, and check-in lines – time to relax and enjoy! Here’s how to get the most out of your stay at Playground Surf Resort and the Mentawai Islands:

1. Surf, Surf, Surf: The biggest draw to the Mentawais is its legendary waves. Some breaks are just minutes away from the resort by boat. Even if you’re a beginner, guides can show you gentler waves, but if you’re advanced, you’ll have a field day with reeling barrels.
2. Explore Local Culture: Try to visit a nearby village. Mentawaians are known for their distinctive tribal tattoos, communal lifestyles, and warm hospitality. Interact respectfully, learn a few Indonesian phrases (or the local Mentawai dialect if you’re feeling adventurous!), and bring a curious, open mind.
3. Snorkelling & Diving: The coral reefs around the Mentawais are teeming with life—think colourful fish, turtles, and healthy coral gardens. If you’re not a surfer, or simply want a break from the lineup, grab a mask and fins!
4. Pack Essentials:
   Reef-safe sunscreen (the sun is fierce, and coral-friendly products are best for the environment).
   Tropical clothing (it’s humid, so lightweight, breathable fabrics).
   First-aid kit (especially if you have personal medications, as options on the islands are limited).
   Mosquito repellent (especially for dawn and dusk).
5. Respect the Environment: The Mentawais’ natural beauty is one of its greatest assets. Dispose of rubbish properly, support local conservation efforts, and tread lightly on the reefs.
6. Relax & Disconnect: Wi-Fi might be spotty or slow in most resort, although some such as Playground Surf resort have Starlink meaning super-fast connections. Consider this a blessing! Switch off your phone, bask in nature, and truly unwind. You’ll come back more refreshed than ever.

9. Final Thoughts

The Mentawai Islands are a surfer’s paradise, but the journey to the Mentawais is as much a part of the adventure as the waves themselves. Yes, you’ll take multiple flights, sleep in Padang for a night or two, and brave ferry schedules – but once you’re there, the effort is beyond worth it. Between perfect barrels, palm-fringed beaches, and laid-back island vibes, you’ll quickly forget the long flights and hours at sea.

Key Takeaways:

• Plan Early: Book flights 2–3 months out, especially if you’re aiming for peak surf season (May–September).
• Check Ferry Schedules: They’re prone to changes, so always confirm times a day or two before you travel.
• Have All Your Documents: Ensure your passport is valid, you’ve got your visa requirements sorted, and you carry any proof of onward travel you might need.
• Pack Smart: Surfboards, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent are essentials.
• Embrace Island-Time: Delays happen. Embrace the slow pace, and you’ll find the journey just as rewarding as the destination.

Remember, the Mentawais are still relatively remote, meaning they’ve preserved much of their natural beauty and cultural heritage. Treat the islands with respect, soak up every moment, and you’ll leave with memories (and hopefully waves) that will last a lifetime.