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Writer's picturePetra Eggenberger

Travel Tips to Prepare Your Nias Surf Trip

Are you planning a surfing adventure to the perfect waves of Nias? In this guide, we'll equip you with everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable surf trip. Whether you're an experienced surfer seeking the ultimate wave or a beginner eager to catch your first break, Nias offers the perfect blend of thrill and tranquility.


Best Time to Visit


Nias boasts the biggest swells between April and October. The conditions are optimal for surfers looking for bigger waves and barrels. For beginners looking to ride gentle swells, the period between November and March provides ideal learning conditions with smaller waves and less crowd.



Packing Essentials


When preparing for your surf adventure in Nias, be sure to pack essentials such as:


  • Surfboard : Choose a board that matches your skill level and the wave conditions you anticipate facing. We recommend to additionally bring a step up board for bigger days.

  • Spare Leash and Fins: Having backups can save your surf session. There is no surf shop in Nias.

  • Plenty of wax : choose tropical, the water temperature is 28 degrees. Surf wax is not or only limited available in Nias.

  • Zinc (not available in Nias)

  • Sunscreen (not available in Nias)

  • Rash Guard and Boardshorts / Surfleggins : Protect your skin from the sun and potential rashes while surfing.

  • A Surf-Hat for the surf sessions around lunch time with less crowds

  • Board repair kit : Essential for fixing minor damage to your surfboard. For bigger dings and broken boards, there are ding repair services available.

  • First Aid Kit : Be prepared for minor cuts and injuries. Pack things to clean and desinfect wounds and as well steri strips or special glue for cuts. Also recommendable are waterproof plasters to cover reef cuts.

  • For girls only : Bring your monthly feminine hygiene products, as you might not find them in Nias' shops.

  • Mosquito Repellent

  • Light clothes

  • Travel documents : Passport, visa, and any other necessary travel documentation.



Health Advice


  • Nias is free from Malaria, allowing you to enjoy your trip without this concern.

  • In case of any health issues and injuries, there are several clinics and hospitals nearby to provide medical assistance.

  • It is recommendable to make a travel insurance to ensure coverage for any unexpected medical emergencies.



Flight, Ferry and Transportation


To reach Nias, you can fly into Binaka Airport, Gunungsitoli or take the overnight ferry from Sibolga. Please note that there is no public transport available on Nias. However, we can arrange a pick up for you to ensure a smooth journey from the airport to our lodge.


  • Book your flight on www.traveloka.com . They offer a user-friendly platform where payment, support, rescheduling or asking for refund is easy.

  • Book your Ferry ticket on www.wjl-line.com/en


In a separate blog post about How to get to Nias you can go more indepth about the flight and ferry option, including some valuable tips about traveling to Nias with surfboards.



Budgeting Cash and Expenses


ATMs are available in Teluk Dalam (a 20-minute motorbike ride away). The maximum amount per withdrawal is 2.500.000 IDR . Several local shops in Sorake offer cash services for a small fee. After transferring the desired amount, the shop will provide you the cash.


While your stay at the lodge can be paid by cash, credit card (plus 3% fee) or transfer, you might need additional cash for some expenses. Here are some things to consider:

  • Eventual surf photos

  • optional activities and motorbike rental

  • Food and drinks outside the lodge

  • surfboard transport back to Medan (payable at the airport)


For international bank transfers we recommend WISE or Revolut. WISE is meanwhile used by most guests and is very easy, cheap and fast for international transfers.



Prepare Your Arrival in Indonesia: Online Visa and Customs Declaration


Completing essential formalities online in advance will save you time upon arrival, especially when you have a connecting flight to catch.


  • Arrange your visa in advance through the official Indonesian government website, evisa.imigrasi.go.id.

  • Additionally, fill out the customs declaration form online at ecd.beacukai.go.id/ to expedite the customs clearance process.


By taking these proactive steps, you'll be well-prepared for a seamless arrival to Indonesia. However, it's also possible to arrange the Visa on Arrival and fill in the customs declaration at the airport.



Conclusion


With this comprehensive guide in hand, you're equipped to tackle everything from packing the perfect surf essentials to navigating your arrival in Indonesia. Whether you're a seasoned surfer craving epic barrels or a first-timer eager to experience the magic of catching your first wave, Nias promises an unforgettable adventure.

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