If you’re reading this, chances are your life is about to change because you’re planning your very first surf vacation! Are you already dreaming of sun-kissed skin, salty beach hair, epic photos, and getting to know the surf culture while catching your very first waves? With this article, you can keep dreaming while staying calm, with no stress about planning your trip. Here’s your guide to a stress-free surf vacation planning experience, from picking your destination to what to pack. Let’s dive in!
1. Do your Surf Trip homework (when and where)
Time and place are everything – especially for beginner surfers. When planning your first surf trip, it’s important to look for beginner-friendly surf spots and be careful with Google searches like “best surfing spots,” which often highlight advanced breaks that might be too challenging for your first experience. As a beginner, you want small, gentle waves, and those conditions can vary depending on the season. In general, summer brings smaller swells, which are ideal for learning, while winter tends to produce bigger waves that are better left to more experienced surfers.
If you’re staying with us at HT’s Resort in the Mentawai Islands, you’re in luck: we have perfect beginner beach breaks like Mini HT’s, Baby Bintangs, and Sandy Shore, just a 5–10 minute ride from the resort. These mellow waves are ideal for learning in a safe and relaxed environment. Even if the swell picks up, there’s usually a friendly spot nearby. And you won’t be left to figure it out on your own—your surf instructor will take you to the best beach for your level, so all you have to worry about is standing up and having fun! Watch beginner surfers catch their first waves in the Mentawais at our HT’s Resort.
> Always double-check the swell seasons before booking one of these destinations!
2. Travel Insurance
Yes, you need it. We know, it’s not the most exciting part of planning your trip, but surf travel insurance is a must, especially if you’ll be out in the water every day. Think of it as a wetsuit for your peace of mind.
3. Plan your stay (Surf Resort)
Where you stay can completely shape your surf trip – and at HT’s Mentawai Resorts, we offer the perfect blend of comfort, relaxation, and surf. If you’re looking for a peaceful, luxurious escape ideal for unwinding with friends or family, this is the place to be. Just steps from the beach, you can enjoy the laid-back island vibe while we take care of organizing your surf lessons whenever it suits you.
4. Surfboard packing (or rent one here!)
Now, here’s the million-dollar question: Should you travel with your surfboard? If you’ve got a favorite board and don’t mind lugging it through the airport (plus paying those extra fees), go for it. But if you’re a beginner or just want to keep things simple, renting a board at your destination is a smart move.
HT’s Resort now offers a full surfboard rental service with a variety of boards suited to all levels. Save yourself the hassle and travel light.
5. Surf travel checklist
Here’s your mini surf travel checklist:
- Rash guard or surf bikini that stays on
- Reusable water bottle
- Zinc to protect your face (trust us, tropical sun bites).
- Oil to remove your zinc
- waterproof bag
- Surf hat or cap (for those longer sessions)
6. Basic vacation items
Don’t forget the basics: a swimsuit, sandals, reef-friendly sunscreen, lightweight clothes, bug spray, a good book, and maybe a travel journal to capture the magic.
To ensure you don’t forget anything important, we’ve put together a general checklist.
Essential and fun things to pack for your surf trip:
- GoPro or Waterproof Phone Case
- Portable Charger
- Bluetooth Speaker
- Books or E-reader
7. Do your cultural homework
From greeting locals to following surf etiquette, a little cultural awareness goes a long way. Take some time to learn about the local customs, language, and way of life at your surf destination. It’s not only respectful – it also helps you fit in and makes it more likely that locals will share waves with you and be more forgiving if you accidentally drop in.
Time to Start Planning!
Planning your first surf vacation doesn’t have to be stressful; just remember the key points: choose the right destination, check the swell seasons, get travel insurance, book a surf-friendly stay, decide whether to bring or rent a board, pack smart, and show respect for local culture. With these essentials covered, you’re all set for an unforgettable trip full of sun and surf.
Ready to make your bookings, reserve your all-inclusive stay at HT’s Resort. We also regularly offer group deals and low-season packages, making your dream Mentawai surf experience more accessible than ever.
