Telo Islands South Surf Guide

Surfing in Southern Telos Ultimate Guide

The Southern Telos, a remote part of the Telo Islands off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, offers surfers a unique experience with consistent waves, warm waters, and a laid-back island vibe. Known for its secluded surf spots and pristine beaches, Southern Telos is home to some standout waves, with **Monkeys** and **Pastis** being the most notable. This region is perfect for surfers seeking both fun, approachable waves and more challenging, hollow rides in a peaceful and scenic setting. Southern Telos provides quality waves for a variety of skill levels, making it a hidden gem in the Indonesian surf scene.

The Waves of Southern Telos

Southern Telos offers a diverse mix of waves, with Monkeys and Pastis providing distinct experiences that appeal to intermediate and advanced surfers alike. These breaks are less crowded compared to other Indonesian spots, allowing surfers to enjoy high-quality waves in a relaxed environment.

• Monkeys: Monkeys is a playful, right-hand reef break that is approachable and enjoyable for intermediate surfers. This wave is known for its long, gentle rides and forgiving sections, making it perfect for those looking to progress their skills. On smaller days, Monkeys is ideal for relaxed sessions with plenty of room for turns and flow, while on bigger swells, it offers a bit more challenge without becoming overly intense. Monkeys works best on a mid to high tide, providing a consistent, fun option in Southern Telos.
• Pastis: Pastis is a more powerful right-hander that offers fast, hollow sections and thrilling barrels. Known for its quick, steep take-offs and barreling sections, Pastis is best suited for advanced surfers seeking high-performance waves. This wave breaks over a shallow reef, making it a technical, exciting ride that requires precision and confidence. Pastis performs best on a mid to low tide and delivers some of the most intense barrels in the region when the swell is right.

Surfing Ability in Southern Telos

Southern Telos caters to both intermediate and advanced surfers, offering approachable waves at Monkeys and more challenging conditions at Pastis. The diversity of waves here makes it a versatile surf destination for those looking to enjoy quality waves without large crowds.

• Intermediate Surfers: Monkeys is ideal for intermediate surfers, providing long, mellow rides that are perfect for practicing turns and building confidence on a reef break. Its forgiving sections make it accessible for those still honing their skills.
• Advanced Surfers: Pastis is best suited for advanced surfers looking for powerful, fast waves with steep drops and hollow sections. Its technical nature and shallow reef make it a thrilling wave for those comfortable with more challenging conditions.

Surf Equipment for Southern Telos

With both mellow and powerful waves, it’s beneficial to bring a well-rounded quiver to make the most of the conditions in Southern Telos.

• Performance Shortboard: A performance shortboard is ideal for Pastis, where quick maneuvers and control are necessary for navigating fast, hollow sections.
• Funboard or Fish: For Monkeys, a funboard or fish works well, offering speed and stability on its playful, rolling waves.
• Reef Boots: Reef boots are recommended, especially for Pastis, where the shallow reef can be sharp and poses a risk on lower tides.
• Spare Gear: Given the remote location, it’s wise to bring spare leashes, fins, and wax, as replacements may not be easily accessible in Southern Telos.

Surfing Seasons in Southern Telos

Southern Telos benefits from consistent swell year-round, though the dry season generally offers the best conditions for surfing.

• Dry Season (April – October): The dry season is the optimal surf season in Southern Telos, with regular south and southwest swells creating consistent, clean waves. Offshore winds during this period provide ideal conditions for both Monkeys and Pastis, making them highly reliable for quality surf.
• Wet Season (November – March): During the wet season, smaller swells and variable winds can impact conditions, but early mornings often bring clean, glassy waves. This season is quieter, and intermediate surfers may enjoy the more forgiving waves at Monkeys during this period.

How to Get to Southern Telos

Getting to Southern Telos requires a combination of flights and boat transfers, as the area is in a remote part of the Mentawai chain.

1. Fly to Medan or Padang: Start by flying into either Kuala Namu International Airport (KNO) in Medan or Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang, Sumatra. Both cities serve as starting points for travel to the Telo Islands.
2. Charter Boat or Seaplane Transfer: From Medan or Padang, arrange a charter boat or seaplane transfer to Southern Telos. Many surf camps and resorts in the Telos offer transportation packages, making travel to the islands straightforward and convenient.

Hazards and Considerations for Surfing in Southern Telos

• Shallow Reefs: The waves at Pastis break over shallow reefs, so be cautious and aware of the reef, particularly during low tide.
• Powerful Waves: Pastis can be heavy and hollow, making it suitable for experienced surfers only. Exercise caution and respect the power of the wave.
• Remote Location: Southern Telos is remote, with limited medical facilities and surf shops. It’s advisable to bring a basic first-aid kit, spare gear, and any other essentials you may need.

How Much is Southern Telos

Accommodations in Southern Telos range from budget guesthouses to luxury surf resorts, giving visitors various options depending on their budget and preferences.

• Budget: Basic guesthouses and homestays start at around USD $20-30 per night, offering simple amenities and close access to surf spots like Monkeys.
• Mid-Range: Surf camps and mid-range lodges provide comfortable accommodations with meal packages and surf guiding, with prices ranging from USD $100-200 per night.
• High-End: All-inclusive surf resorts in Southern Telos offer premium accommodations, meals, and guided surf sessions, with rates starting around USD $300-500 per night.

Southern Telos is a hidden paradise for surfers seeking beautiful waves, fewer crowds, and a relaxed atmosphere. With fun, approachable waves at Monkeys and technical, hollow barrels at Pastis, Southern Telos provides a range of surf experiences suitable for both intermediate and advanced surfers. For those looking to escape to a remote Indonesian surf haven, Southern Telos offers consistent waves, scenic beauty, and a tranquil setting in one of Indonesia’s most idyllic surf destinations.