This chain of islands between Simeulue and Nias is known for dealing out a user-friendly dose of typical Indonesian perfection. The Indonesian dry season produces the best southwest swells that is the fuel for the mechanical perfection. The dreamy right at Treasure Island is the most loved, but the series of lefts and rights inside the aptly named Bay of Plenty is another favorite. Access to the Banyaks isn’t easy, so a charter boat is the best option and most leave from Simeulue, Sibolga or Nias. There’s a no small effort in getting there, but empty waves and a rare frontier feeling are worthy rewards.

What we love

Relatively uncrowded waves

Experienced boat operators

Long surf season

World-class wave options

When to go

Peak season is the Southern Hemisphere winter from June to September, which provides the most consistent swells and prevailing southeast winds that the best waves enjoy. Increasingly though the shoulder and off seasons are becoming popular with return visitors who enjoy the glassier conditions, smaller swells, and less crowds.

Attractions

The Banyak Islands, located off the coast of Sumatra in Indonesia, are known for their stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life. Some of the main attractions when visiting the Banyak Islands include: Scuba diving and snorkeling: The Banyak Islands are home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and sometimes even dolphins and whales. The clear waters make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Beaches: The Banyak Islands are home to several beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters, white sand, and palm trees. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Trekking: The Banyak Islands offer several hiking trails through the jungle, providing the opportunity to explore the island's natural beauty and learn about the local flora and fauna. Cultural experiences: The Banyak Islands have a rich cultural history, and visitors can learn about the local way of life by visiting traditional villages and interacting with the friendly locals. Waterfalls: There are several waterfalls on the Banyak Islands that are worth visiting, such as the Danau Kembar Waterfall and the Pantai Waterfall. These waterfalls offer a refreshing break from the hot and humid weather, and are a great place to take a dip in the cool waters. Overall, the Banyak Islands offer a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors, including opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

The Country

Indonesia is made up of more than 17,000 islands, located between the Indian and Pacific oceans. It is the world’s largest island country and the fourth most populous country on Earth, with a population of over 270 million people. Indonesia is known for its diverse culture, which is influenced by its long history and its position as a crossroads between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The country is home to a wide variety of languages, cultures, and religions, including Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism.

Indonesia is a tropical paradise, with beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and a rich array of flora and fauna. It is home to some of the world’s most famous and beautiful beaches, as well as a variety of national parks and wildlife reserves. The country is also known for its vibrant culture and rich history, with ancient temples and palaces, as well as modern cities and a thriving arts scene.

Overall, Indonesia is a vibrant and diverse country that offers a wide range of experiences for travelers, including adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re looking to surf the waves, explore the jungle, or learn about the local culture, Indonesia has something for everyone.

Getting There

Medan is the capital of the North Sumatra province in Indonesia and is easily accessible by air. There are several ways to get to Medan by air:
Flying directly to Medan: Medan is served by the Kuala Namu International Airport, which is located about 30 kilometers east of the city center. The airport is served by a number of domestic and international airlines, including Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and AirAsia.
Flying to a nearby city and taking a connecting flight: If there are no direct flights to Medan from your location, you may be able to fly to a nearby city, such as Jakarta or Singapore, and then take a connecting flight to Medan.

Travel Information

Time Zone

GMT +7

Currency

Indonesian Rupiah

Calling code

+62

Electric

230V -Plug type C, F