Icelands

Icelands

Quick Info

Overview of Location and Area

Icelands is a renowned surf break located on the northwest coast of Sipora Island, part of the Mentawai archipelago in West Sumatra, Indonesia. This region is celebrated for its consistent and powerful waves, attracting surfers from around the globe. The Mentawai Islands offer a tropical paradise with lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters, making it a premier destination for surf enthusiasts. ​

About Icelands

Icelands is a versatile left-hand reef break that offers two distinct personalities based on swell size. On smaller days, it provides a head-high, rippable wall suitable for intermediate surfers seeking a fun session. However, when a substantial west swell hits, Icelands transforms into a formidable big-wave spot, with barrels sizable enough to accommodate a speedboat. A deep ledge outside the typical takeoff zone causes the swell to jack up uniquely on larger days, allowing for a relatively straightforward drop. The wave then funnels into a horseshoe-shaped section where it bends onto itself, producing a substantial, thick barrel that frequently spits. This makes Icelands one of the premier big-wave spots in the Mentawais. ​

Best Conditions for Icelands

Swell Size: Head-high to triple overhead (3-15 ft)​
Swell Direction: Southwest to west swells are ideal​
Wind: Easterly to northeasterly winds provide optimal offshore conditions​
Tide: Performs best during mid to high tides​
Season: The prime surfing season spans from April to October, aligning with consistent swells and favorable winds​

Getting in and out at Icelands

Accessing Icelands is typically achieved by boat, with many surf camps and charters in the Mentawai Islands offering trips to this break. Given the wave’s transformation with swell size, it’s crucial to assess conditions accurately. On smaller days, the wave is more approachable, but as the swell increases, the wave’s power and the size of the barrels escalate, demanding higher skill levels. Surfers should exercise caution during entry and exit, especially during larger swells when the wave becomes more challenging. Wearing reef booties can provide additional protection against sharp coral.​

Getting to Icelands

Travel to Padang, West Sumatra: Begin your journey by flying into Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang, the primary gateway to the Mentawai Islands.​
Ferry to the Mentawai Islands: From Padang, take a ferry to Tua Pejat, the capital of the Mentawai Islands Regency located on Sipora Island. The Mentawai Fast Ferry operates regular services, with schedules varying depending on the day. ​
Local Transport to Icelands: Upon arrival in Tua Pejat, arrange for local boat transport to Icelands. Many surf resorts and camps offer transfers from Tua Pejat as part of their service.​

Hazards to Look Out for at Icelands

Shallow Reef: The wave breaks over a sharp, shallow coral reef, posing a significant risk of cuts and injuries, especially during lower tides.​
Strong Currents: Currents can be strong and unpredictable, requiring surfers to maintain awareness of their positioning relative to the reef and shoreline.​
Wave Transformation: The wave’s character changes significantly with swell size, becoming a formidable big-wave spot during large swells, which can be challenging even for experienced surfers.