Novali Surf Retreat

Novali Surf Retreat is an authentic, surfer-built getaway tucked into the Southern Mentawai Islands, a quieter corner of the chain with fewer crowds and real local charm. Just a short ferry hop from Sikakap, the retreat is run by Novi, a Mentawai local, and Micky, an Australian. Together they have created a place that feels like home, with genuine cultural touches, friendly staff, and surf right on the doorstep.

Guests stay in modern bungalows, one of which sits over the water, with air conditioning, hot showers, private bathrooms, and clean linens. Every stay includes daily boat trips to more than eleven nearby surf breaks along with a few secret spots, three hearty meals cooked by their chefs, plus tea, coffee, snacks, and fresh water available all day. There is also a spacious bar with a pool table, darts, karaoke, movies, free WiFi, fishing and snorkelling gear, and even a motorbike if you want to explore the village.

Beyond surfing, Novali offers plenty of ways to connect with the islands. You can snorkel reefs, fish with locals, hike to waterfalls, or visit schools and markets to see how the community is rebuilding after the 2010 tsunami. It is a surf retreat with heart, built by surfers, rooted in the culture of the islands, and designed for good waves, good people, and a true Mentawai experience.

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Accommodation

Novali Surf Retreat keeps it simple, clean, and comfortable with bungalows that open straight onto the ocean breeze. One of the bungalows even sits over the water for a unique island feel. All rooms come with air conditioning, hot showers, private bathrooms, fresh linens, and a relaxed vibe so you can rest and recharge between sessions. There are plenty of shaded spots and a communal area to hang out, share stories, or just watch the sunset over the water.

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Food & Drinks

At Novali you will be well-fed and looked after with three solid meals served each day. The food is a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes, cooked fresh with local ingredients and plenty of flavor. Coffee, tea, water, and light snacks are available throughout the day to keep you fueled between surfs. Meals are shared around the table, making it easy to meet other guests and feel at home. The bar is stocked and ready for a post-surf drink or a friendly game of pool or darts to round out the day.

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Why Choose Us?

Local Expertise

We’re surfers who grew up in these waters and know them like home. From swell patterns and island rhythms to the quieter corners beyond the crowds, we’ve spent our lives getting to know every detail. Indonesia’s surf scene is small and tight-knit, and over the years we’ve built genuine connections with local guides, surf businesses, and creatives across the islands. When you travel with us, you’re not just booking a trip. You’re joining a community.

Sustainable & Community-Driven

Surfing In Indonesia exists to make sure surf tourism gives back to the people who call these islands home. We work closely with local guides, families, and businesses — and with foreign-owned operations who share our values — to ensure every trip supports our communities in real and lasting ways. No greenwashing here. Just honest partnerships and a long-term commitment to protect our waves, cultures, and coastlines.

Tailored Experiences

No two surfers are the same, and neither are our trips. Whether you’re chasing hollow barrels in the Ments, cruising mellow points in Java, or linking up with a local surf photographer for the ride, we’ll craft a journey that fits your style. Every trip is shaped around your surf level, travel vibe, and dream lineup with guidance from people who actually live this life.