Simeulue… have you ever heard of it? I certainly didn’t, that’s for sure. This tropical island is just off the northeast coast of Sumatra and has waves rolling in from almost every corner. The only way of getting to Simeulue Surf Lodges is by jumping on a tiny plane from Medan. In general jumping into tiny planes brings you to great places, so I got a very good feeling about this one.
Simeulue is everything you imagine of a tropical island. Palmtrees swaying in the wind, the smell of the ocean in the air, and pristine white beaches with not a single soul on them. There are not many cars on the island, nor a lot of people, let alone tourists. This really is paradise.
Beach huts are my favorite
The moment we arrive at Simeulue Surf Lodges I go from overly excited to becoming a bit silent because of so much beauty. I think I’ve never seen a place like this. We have a little beach hut right in front of the bright blue ocean, with an open shower where you can hear the waves and the crickets as if they are showering with you. There’s a right-hander (Dylan’s right) right in front of the place, with maybe one or two locals on it on a busy day. This might be one of the best waves on the island, at your doorstep. Although accommodation is basic, everything you need is there. You will be spending most of your time in the water anyways.
Feeding time
During your stay at Simeulue Surf Lodges, you will be taken great care of. Jenny cooks up the most delicious meals, cakes, treats, and smoothies every single day. It really feels like you’re sitting at your mum’s kitchen table getting spoiled while she’s making sure you eat enough. All meals are included in your stay, so that’s one thing less to worry about.
Uncrowded surf breaks near Simeulue Surf Lodges
There are more surf retreats on Simeulue, but on this side of the island, there are only a few. This means hardly any other surfers on the breaks close to Simeulue Surf Lodges, in contrast to for example the famous break “the Peak”. And there are quite a few good breaks near Simeulue Surf Lodge. With year-round swells and only light winds blowing, you are in for a treat. Keep an eye on Alus Alus, One Thong, or Dylan’s right, which are the most popular waves on this part of the island. Be aware that almost all breaks on the island are for intermediates and advanced only. With reef breaks almost everywhere, bringing some booties and extra fins/leashes/boards are recommended. While staying at Simeulue Surf Lodges you get your own scooter which you can use during your entire stay with them to cruise around and discover new spots.
Paradise boat trips
If you aren’t satisfied yet on the paradise meter, then definitely book a boat trip to Teabags. This boat trip will take you out to one of the best breaks around Simeulue where you can get your barrel fix. Honestly, I don’t do barrels (yet), so for me, it was just watching the big boys, but it was spectacular indeed. Since you got the boat for the whole day, Teabags doesn’t have to be your only destination. We went off to Pulau Mincau, an uninhabited island with the bluest water and whitest sand I’ve ever seen. Have a stroll around, snorkel a bit, encounter some strange animals and maybe even surf here.
Home sweet home
It’s funny how easy you feel at home at Simeulue Surf Lodges. Cruising around on the island on our scooters, searching for waves. Locals waving and smiling at you, children incredibly curious and cheeky using the five English words they know. Hey Mister! Even for us girls. Coming home to delicious food, watching the sunset behind the palm trees while you’re sipping on your coconut in the swimming pool. There’s not a lot you need in life and Simeulue Surf Lodges proves just that. Palmtrees, waves, great food, and good company. Check, check, double-check. Go experience it yourself and enjoy all those little things.
Love,
Marthe
For more info on Simeulue Surf Lodges or bookings, check out their website.
This post contains affiliate links. When you book through links in this post, we may earn a commission.
Photos by: M. Barends & J. Roeland©
Oh wat heerlijk!
This place looks like heaven! Wow! Have to see this with my own eyes :-).
You definitely got to! One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen..
Nice article Marthe!
I think you’ve written a really nice article about Simeulue and what surfers can expect. Its a beautiful place and is one of the most welcoming destinations in Sumatra. The surf is also excellent. The only discrepancy I would add is that the photos give the impression girls can wear bikinis on the beach which (unfortunately) they cant. I really don’t want this to be a negative comment! Its a welcoming and wonderful place and there is still opportunity for females to catch some rays in some privacy, but its also important to know before making the journey over. Keep up the good work…
Dave
Hi Dave! Thanks for reaching out to us! You’re absolutely right concerning the situation on the island. The Islam is an important part of daily live on Simeulue and we have lots of respect for that, which we think you should always have visiting a country as a tourist. Lucky for us we had the chance to walk around in bikini in a few places where we didn’t offend the local community. We absolutely loved the island, and I don’t think we’ve seen as many smiles anywhere else as we’ve seen in Simeulue. You’re a very lucky person living there! 🙂
Hi,
Awsome photos and it looks loke paradise!!!
So…you find a way to wear and walk in bikini in the island?
Some “private” beaches or just empty ones with respect to cover if someone apeears?
And just sunbathing only laying down in towel its possible?
HB
Hi!
Thanks so much for the sweet compliment! There are places where you can walk around in bikini, but those places are not public beaches. Simeulue is a Muslim island, with their own customs and values. When walking or driving around we can advice to cover up a bit as respect to the locals. We got to stay at this beautiful place, Simeulue Surf Lodges, where we had a swimming pool and where we were able to walk around in bikini on the property. We also visited a few deserted islands, where there was no one to offend.
Do always keep in mind that you are a visitor, and you have to adjust to local customs. It’s a beautiful place to visit, to surf and to explore, but not the place if you’d like to sunbathe on the beach.
Have loads of fun if you decide to visit!
Regards,
Marthe
Hi.awsome photos… looks like postacards!!
You say “Lucky for us we had the chance to walk around in bikini in a few places where we didn’t offend the local community” Is there a chance to sunbathing just laying in the towel in bikini in the island?