Mentawai surf holiday questions

The best-known reef breaks include Macaronis, Lance's Right and Left (HTs), Rifles, Telescopes and Greenbush. Most suit intermediate to advanced surfers, with gentler options such as Pitstops and Beng Beng in the Playgrounds zone.

Peak season runs April to October, when the dry season brings consistent, sizeable swell. July and August are the busiest. November to March is quieter, with smaller waves that suit less experienced surfers.

Some are, but many are shallow reef waves for intermediate surfers and above. Beginners do best in the quieter months, with a guide, at the friendlier spots.

Wear reef booties, surf with a buddy, check tides and forecasts, and carry insurance that covers surfing. A guide who knows each reef is the single best precaution.

For most visitors, yes. Guides read swell, wind and tide for each reef and decide which break works on the day and which one does not suit your level.

Reef booties, reef-safe sunscreen, a ding repair kit, spare fins and leashes, a basic first-aid kit, and at least one board you trust in hollow waves.