What do I need to know?

Before your trip, we’ll guide you through everything — from how to get here and what to pack, to how the daily surf schedule works. We handle the logistics so you can focus on surfing and relaxing. If you have questions, we're just a message away.

Info/FAQ

FAQ

How far is the nearest town or shops?

Tua Pejat is just a short 5 minute boat ride from the villa. You’ll find grocery stores, ATMs, a hospital, local shops and warungs (restaurants).

When are meals served?

Whenever you’re hungry. You’ll have a private chef preparing three meals a day using fresh local ingredients. All dietary needs can be accommodated—just let us know in advance.

Are there waves for beginners and kids?

Yes. Our closest wave “Tikus” has a wide peak that is perfect for beginners & children, with an easy take off and a nice even pace it’s a great place to learn and have fun in the water. We also have soft top beginner boards available for rent to avoid the hassle of traveling with these bulky type of boards.

Are there mosquitos?

As with any tropical location, yes—but it’s usually minimal during the main surf season (April to October) thanks to the dry weather and SE trade winds. Bring repellent and cover up at dusk and dawn just in case. There haven’t been any malaria cases in this area in years.

Can I get a massage?

Yes. A short beach walk takes you to a nearby resort that offers massages, or we can help arrange a more traditional treatment in Tua Pejat (subject to availability).

Transport

How do I get to Villa Mentawai?

Fly into Padang (Sumatra), take the Mentawai Fast Ferry to Tua Pejat and we’ll pick you up for a short 5-minute speedboat ride to the villa. We also offer a Transfer Package to handle everything for you.

Where can I fly into Padang from?

You can fly to Padang from Jakarta (Garuda, Citilink, Pelita Air, Super air jet & Lion Air), Kuala Lumpur (AirAsia &  Super air jet), or Singapore (Scoot).

Does the ferry run every day?

No. Ferry departs from Padang on Mon, Wed, Fri at 7 AM, and Sun at 10 AM. Returns from Mentawai are on the same days at 3 PM.

Do I need to stay in Padang the night before?

Yes. Flights usually land after the ferry has left, so you’ll need to stay overnight.

Is Padang accommodation included?

No, but there are plenty of hotels to choose from. We recommend Santika Premiere ZWH Premiere, Mercure & Ibis Hotel’s

Are porters included in the Transfer Package?

Yes. If you book the Transfer Package, porters and ferry handling are included. If not, you may need to pay and negotiate on your own at the harbour.

What’s included in the Transfer Package?

All transport from Padang airport to Villa Mentawai and return, including privet car to your hotel in Padang and to the harbour the following morning, the Mentawai Fast ferry ticket with 15 kg luggage allowance and 1 surfboard bag up to 25kg (for surfers), porters, and our speed boat to/from Villa Mentawai.

Do I need to stay in Padang on the return?

Most likely, yes. The ferry arrives in Padang around 6:30 PM, after most flights have already departed.

Are there other travel options?

Yes. Susi Air operate a single prop lite plane flight to/from Mentawai airport located on our neighbouring Island Sipora, but it is rarely convenient as they do not take surfboards. You can also charter a private plane or speedboat (great for groups or flexible travellers). Ask us for details.

Do I need a visa?

Most visitors can get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, but we recommend applying online in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

Surf

Is surfing included?

Yes, as long as you’ve paid the Mentawai Surf Tax. All daily surf trips in our local area & surf guiding is included. Photography, videography and coaching are optional extras.

What’s the Mentawai Surf Tax?

Rp. 2,000,000 IDR (around $125 USD). We recommend pre-paying this to us so we can handle it in advance and get you surfing sooner.

Can I rent surfboards at the villa?

Yes, but stock is limited. Let us know in advance so we can check availability.

Is Villa Mentawai good for intermediate surfers?

Absolutely. We tailor surf sessions based on your level and the conditions. You can also book coaching with video analysis.

Is it beginner-friendly?

Yes. Our nearest wave “Tikus” has a wide peak that is perfect for beginners, with an easy take off and a nice even pace it’s a great place to learn and improve. We also have soft top beginner boards available for rent to avoid the hassle of traveling with these bulky type of boards and helpful guides to make it fun and safe.

Can I bring my own boards?

Yes, it’s recommended. You’re allowed up to 3 boards per person through customs. Bring your standard go-to “Daily driver”, something for better waves, and either a step-up or step-down depending on your skill level.

What other surf gear should I bring?

Reef-safe sunscreen and zinc, extra leashes, fins, tropical wax, rashie, booties and a surf hat. A dry bag is handy but not essential—our speedboat stays dry.

Health

Is travel insurance required?

Yes. You must have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Are medical services available nearby?

We have first-aid kits on our speedboat and at the villa and there’s a hospital in Tua Pejat about 20 minutes away, but bring any personal medications you need.

Is malaria a concern?

The risk is very low. We still recommend using repellent and wearing long sleeves around dusk just to be safe.

Payments & Booking

What’s the payment schedule?

A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due 60 days before arrival.

Can I pay by card?

No. We accept payment via Bank transfer, Wise or Cash (IDR, AUD or USD, but transfers are preferred)

What is your cancellation policy?

All payments are non-refundable. However, you can transfer your booking to a friend or family member if needed.

Inclusion

• Air-conditioned accommodation in large comfortable rooms (see villa page)
• Pickup from Mentawai ferry Tua Pejat to Villa Mentawai and return
• Three meals daily – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner plus unlimited snacks
• Unlimited tea, coffee, drinking & coconut water
• All surf trips within our local area aboard our comfortable speedboat (see speedboat page)
• Fishing equipment
• Snorkelling equipment
• SUP's
• Complementary WIFI

Exclusion

• Flights
• Padang - Mentawai return transfers• Padang hotels
• Mentawai government surfer tax: Rp. 2.000.000 IDR (approx. $120 USD)
• Surf photography/videography packages
• Surf coaching with video analysis

General info

• Fishing. We have a great range of trolling gear and lures, but feel free to throw in your luck lure if you wish
• Snorkelling. We have snorkelling equipment in most common sizes
• SUP. We have 4 stand up paddle boardsIsland-hopping and Beach, combing the countless kilometres of pristine coastline
• Bluetooth music speaker for Villa common areas
• Complementary WIFI
• Reliable 4G signal for global roaming or tourist eSIM (must be partnered with Telkomsel to work in Mentawai)