Simeulue Surf Lodges; a surfers’ dream

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 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 right in front of the place, with maybe one or two locals on it on a busy day. Although accommodation is basic, everything you need is there. You will be spending most of your time in the water anyways.

During your stay at Simeulue Surf Lodges you will be taken great care off. Jenny cooks up the most delicious meals, cakes, treats and smoothies every single day. It really feels like you’re sitting at your mums kitchen table getting spoiled while she’s making sure you eat enough.

Uncrowded waves 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. Keep an eye on Alus Alus, One Thong or Dylan’s right, which are the most popular waves on this part of the island. 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 sun set behind the palmtrees 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.

For more info on Simeulue Surf Lodges or bookings, check out their website.

Marthe

Ps. Bring your own boards, preferably two or three, cause you might break one. With mostly reef breaks and a few killer beach breaks, bringing an extra board isn’t a luxury.

Photos by: M. Barends & J. Roeland©