Suicides

Suicides

Quick Info

Overview of Location and Area

Suicides is a surf break located near Awera Island in the Central Mentawai region of West Sumatra, Indonesia. This area is part of the Mentawai archipelago, renowned for its world-class waves and vibrant surf culture. The region offers a tropical paradise with lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters, making it a sought-after destination for surfers seeking both adventure and natural beauty.​

About Suicides

Suicides is a high-performance right-hand reef break known for its fast, hollow waves that break over a shallow coral reef. The wave offers a thrilling ride with barrel sections, making it appealing to advanced surfers seeking a challenging experience. Due to the shallow reef, it is advisable to surf Suicides during mid to high tide to ensure sufficient water coverage over the reef. The break is less crowded compared to other spots in the Mentawai Islands, providing an opportunity for surfers to enjoy quality waves with minimal competition. ​

Best Conditions for Suicides

Swell Size: Optimal at shoulder-high to double overhead (3-10 ft).​
Swell Direction: Prefers south to southwest swells.​
Wind: Easterly to northeasterly winds provide ideal offshore conditions.​
Tide: Best surfed during mid to high tide to ensure adequate water depth over the reef.​
Season: The prime surfing season runs from March through October, aligning with consistent swell patterns in the Indian Ocean. ​

Getting in and out at Suicides

Access to Suicides is typically achieved by boat, with many surf camps and charters in the Mentawai Islands offering trips to this break. Given the shallow nature of the reef, it’s crucial to time your session with the tide, aiming for mid to high tide to reduce the risk of injury. Surfers should exercise caution during entry and exit, especially during lower tides when the reef is more exposed. Wearing reef booties can provide additional protection against sharp coral. ​

Getting to Suicides

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 Awera Island: Upon arrival in Tua Pejat, arrange for local boat transport to Awera Island, situated nearby. Many surf resorts and camps on Awera Island offer transfers from Tua Pejat as part of their service.​

Hazards to Look Out for at Suicides

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.​
Marine Life: As with many reef breaks, be mindful of sea urchins and other marine life that inhabit the reef area.​
In summary, Suicides offers a challenging and exhilarating experience for advanced surfers seeking to test their skills on a fast, hollow right-hander in the heart of the Mentawai Islands. With proper preparation and respect for the ocean