Are you craving an escape to crystal-clear waters, thrilling adventures, and a chance of epic surf conditions every day? To turn this imagination into reality, our thoughts automatically drift to tourist favorites like Bali or Jakarta. Yet as time has passed, Bali has witnessed a surge in popularity, drawing larger numbers of tourists each year. Unfortunately, this surge in popularity has led to issues such as overcrowding and an increase in littering. The commercialization has taken away the authenticity of these places to attract even more tourists.
Popular spots like Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta, once known for their surf culture, have now transformed into urban areas full of vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining scenes. While this can be attractive for some people, it is not for everyone. Particularly for surfers, we book our holidays, preferring calmness, good surf, and connecting with nature—a sense of escape from the urban lifestyle we may experience in our hometown.
Now, imagine pristine, soft-sand beaches and next-level tranquility, free from traffic, long lines, and littered shores. The less-explored Mentawai Islands, a true paradise, have it all. You can stay in a stunning, comfortable luxury villa surrounded by breathtaking nature and just a short walk away from one of the best surf breaks in Indonesia, and perhaps even the best in the world. If this sounds like your ideal getaway, the Mentawai Islands are calling.
1. Mentawai Islands Overview
LOCATION
The Mentawai Islands are located off the western coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, in the Indian Ocean. To get to the Mentawai Islands, you typically need to fly to Padang, the capital of West Sumatra province. From Padang, you can take a ferry or speedboat to reach the Mentawai Islands. The journey by Mentawai fast ferry usually takes around 3.30 – 4 hours. Once you arrive in the Mentawai Islands, local boats or ferries can transport you between the different islands within the archipelago. You now have the option to fly directly from Padang to Rokot airport (to Mentawai), a 40-minute flight. You can find the full details in our blog post – Rokot Airport: Your Gateway to the Mentawai Islands. We understand that the journey can be long, but we assure you that the stunning natural beauty of the Mentawai Islands and the comfort of our villa will make it all worth it!
CULTURE
Let’s dig a bit deeper and explore the beautiful culture of the Mentawai, also called the ‘flower people’, with their unique traditions and way of life. The Mentawai culture reminds us of the movie “Avatar” in the way they live in close harmony with nature. They never harvest a plant or take the life of an animal without asking for their spirit’s forgiveness first, as they believe every part of the environment has a spirit. They believe that everything in nature, like animals, plants, and even rocks, has its own spirit or soul, with ancestors playing a vital role in daily life. The Mentawai are also famous for their unique body art, including intricate tattoos that symbolize their connection to the spirit world.
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
The number one attraction is surfing, as the Mentawai Islands are known for their epic waves and have become a world-class surfing destination, with over 40 boats offering surf charters to international guests. Don’t let this scare you if you are not an advanced surfer; there are surf spots suitable for surfers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Beginner spots include Beng Bengs and E-Bay, intermediate spots are Burger-world and Pitstops, and advanced spots are Rifles and Telescopes. But these are just a few examples of surf spots in the Mentawai Islands, and there are many more to explore!
Or perhaps you are not a surfer or a sporty spice and are simply seeking relaxation and peace of mind to disconnect for a while. The Mentawai Islands provide several other attractions and activities to enjoy:
Beach Relaxation: Take off your watch and forget about time. Relax and unwind while you transform into a sun-kissed beach look and get rid of that winter tan. Read that book you always wanted to read but never had the time for, listen to the podcast you always wanted to hear or catch up on some sleep by having amazing beach naps at the Mentawai Islands
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Mentawai people by visiting traditional villages, observing their daily lives, stopping by local schools, and learning about their rituals and unique body art. Learn about the practices of the Mentawai culture, which include expertise in drying coconut husks to create coconut oil, cultivating rice fields, and growing cloves.
Snorkeling and Diving: Get swept away in crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant underwater world and its diverse marine life. The biodiversity of the Mentawai Islands’ marine life offers a stunning underwater experience. Some of the marine life you might see includes numerous fish species, sea turtles, and reef sharks frequently spotted around the reefs. Rays and dolphins are occasionally seen as well!
Trekking and Hiking: Feeling adventurous? Get ready for a rainforest adventure in the Mentawai Islands. Let local guides take you on hikes through the rainforest, where you can learn about the unique flora and fauna and discover, perfect for a refreshing dip after a long hike. Don’t worry about your level of hiking experience; the trails vary in difficulty and are suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. For a more extended adventure. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings and enjoy the jungle’s sights and sounds at night. For photography enthusiasts, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the vibrant greenery and diverse wildlife!
3. What you won’t get in Bali or Jakarta.
What sets the Mentawai Islands apart from the bustling cities of Bali and Jakarta? The Mentawai Islands offer a more isolated adventure compared to Bali and Jakarta, providing a sense of escape and disconnection from city life. The islands offer a quieter and more tranquil environment surrounded by remote and unspoiled nature, making them a paradise for nature lovers. This also applies to surf lovers. Crowded surf areas can not only be dangerous but also hinder your evolution in surfing! In contrast, Mentawai provides emptier lineups in a more peaceful, remote environment suitable for all levels of surfers. Advanced surfers can challenge themselves in some of the best waves on the planet.
Additionally, while Bali and Jakarta offer some adventure activities, the Mentawai Islands provide a more rugged and off-the-beaten-path experience. The untouched rainforests and diverse marine life make it outstanding.
(And let’s not forget traditional Mentawai cuisine. The food in the Mentawai Islands offers a unique culinary experience, often enjoyed in local villages or at accommodations that serve authentic Mentawai meals. The emphasis on fresh, natural ingredients and traditional cooking methods provides a memorable culinary experience.)
Overall, the Mentawai Islands offer a more pristine environment, with their unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure opportunities that set them apart from the more urban cities of Bali and Jakarta. While Bali and Jakarta also offer beautiful natural attractions, the Mentawai Islands still retain their authenticity, remaining remote and unspoiled.
4. Accommodation Highlight!
Bela Sulu Villas, located near Katiet Beach on South Sipora, nestled in the heart of the Mentawai Islands, is a dream house surrounded by stunning nature. Designed by a renowned European architect, the villa blends modern luxury with the raw beauty of its natural surroundings.
The architecture of Bela Sulu Villas embodies a vision of creating a harmonious living space that embraces the island’s tropical environment. The villa is equipped with modern amenities to make your stay comfortable, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a home entertainment system with Netflix. We also provide shower and beach towels to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation.
A centerpiece of the villa is its luxurious pool, an oasis of tranquility where guests can unwind and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Do you prefer preparing your meals in your own kitchen, giving you the freedom to select the dishes you like, or do you prefer to eat out? No problem, both options are possible! We also own Hollow Tree’s Resort, just 200 meters away from the villas, where you are welcome to dine at our Sago Restaurant. Our restaurant is renowned for its delicious local and international cuisine, served in a beautiful beachfront setting. With its proximity to the villas, you can easily walk to the restaurant or ride there using the bike provided by the villa.
In conclusion, Bela Sulu Villas in the Mentawai Islands is the perfect destination for those seeking a comfortable and unforgettable stay. With its stunning scenery, world-class waves, personalized service, and modern amenities, you will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience of luxury and relaxation in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Book your stay at Bela Sulu Villas today and start planning your dream vacation.
