My tropical surf tales: A Sumatran adventure.

When you don't make plans for your next holiday, but then a destination just comes to your mind and it all feels right.

April 2024

I have heard a lot of times about this place called Krui,in Sumatra. I kept saying this destination is on my list, until one day I just decided to go for it.

I booked the flight directly from Bali to Lampung (approximately 2 hours flight). And the cost was around 200 euros with return.The airline Air Asia charges 280K rupiah for your board bag for each flight and you pay at the airport upon check.

But the hard part starts after the flight arrives in Lampung. The car ride is approximately 6 hours, without counting any breaks in between. The cost for the ride is approximately 70euros. The most difficult part is the last 2 hours driving through the jungle, as there are lots of up and downs, as well as a lot of turns. All through the mountains, with a spectacular view.

I chose to stay at the area called Jung Bocur, which is around 40 minutes south from Krui. Therefore the drive is a bit shorter to get there, rather than if you go all the way to Krui.

While on the road, you can enjoy the views and observe the different life and cultural differences.

Accommodation

I booked my stay at the hotel called Coco Chill. It has a few different bungalows, a beautiful garden and it is next to an empty land with palm trees. It is located behind one of the restaurants called Leafy's (your best and one of the few options for food) and it is only a 3 minute walk from the surf spot, known as The point.

If you are in an adventurous mood, you can rent a motorbike with daily rate 3-4euros and explore other areas too. Especially if the surf is not the best (either too small or too big).

A nearby beach break that you can surf, it is called Mandiri. It takes you 20 minutes by scooter to arrive there. Mandiri usually picks more swell, therefore it is good for smaller days.

What to wear

Personally, I would advise any women traveling to Sumatra, to pack with them more respectful outfits. For example, a longer skirt (midi), t-shirts etc. Avoid wearing crop tops and too revealing outfits. As well as bikinis on the beach or on the surf. If you plan to surf, bring with you long sleeve tops or one piece surf suits. Ideally, if you have shorts or anything similar, it would be the best. Photo with an example below. Moreover, if you do have reef boots, it is advisable to bring them with you. The reef can get pretty sharp.

Waves and tides.

The spot called the Point at Ujung Bocur, it is a long left point break. The reef is pretty sharp, so make sure you surf only mid to high tide. Depends on the conditions, if small it may be a bit too fast. But when it has a bit more size, it can give a very long left hander ride. Please, make sure you are at least intermediate level for this spot. If you are not confident about your skills, hire a local surf instructor who will be able to help you familiarise yourself with the spot. Current can get pretty strong and on bigger days, it gets difficult to paddle out. Moreover, the size depends on the season. Smaller waves : November- April (rainy season). Bigger waves: May-October (dry season).

I hope you enjoyed reading my blog. Leave a comment if you liked it and share the link to a friend. Wishing you Ombak Bagus= Good wave.

Cheers,

Rallou

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