As a surfing traveler, you have no shortage of options. All around the world, you can find exotic, laid-back surf destinations with incredible wave breaks. Even here in Indonesia, the amount of places to surf and enjoy the year-round sunshine is abundant.
The only problem with many of these destinations is that they have become too popular. Bali, for example, boasts some of the best surf in Southeast Asia. However, it’s also one of the most heavily touristed places in the world.
It’s hard to enjoy the waves when you have to share them with so many other people. If you want to experience some of the best waves in Asia, you need to travel to Rote Island without the crowds to go along with it.
Wondering what the top spots on the island are for surfers? Want to know why you should consider staying at a surf resort on Rote Island? Keep reading for some to discover the hidden surf treasures of Indonesia.
1. T-Land
Otherwise known as Besialu Reef, T-Land gets its nickname for closely resembling a famous Javanese surf spot known as G-Land.
A long coral reef produces a wave a few hundred meters long. In fact, it’s the longest shore break wave in the entire country.
It’s an easy-going wave when it’s four or five feet but becomes a real thrill once it reaches a size of six feet or more. It can reach upwards of 15 feet in the right conditions.
The wave requires a short paddle out but can be seen from the shore. Or, if you are heading out at low tide, a walk through the lagoon is all that is required. Of course, you can hire a boat to take you out as well.
2. The Bombie
Near the lagoon at Nemberal Beach, you’ll also find The Bombie. It’s a short wave, but it breaks both left and right. Because of a strong current, this wave isn’t too popular.
It takes a bit of effort to stay in position. But with waves upwards of 15 feet, it can be worth the effort.
3. Squealers
Are you bringing a friend or partner who isn’t a confident surfer yet? If so, you’ll probably be spending time at Squealers. This is the original surf spot on the island.
With waves no bigger than four feet, it’s the perfect spot for beginners to learn how to catch a wave. It’s a family-friendly area, as there are typically plenty of kids playing in the water nearby, leading to the name “squealers.”
This spot can be found at Nemberala Beach, near the eastern end, a short walk away from our resort.
4. Sukanamon
North of Nemebral Beach lies Sukanamon, which most surfers refer to as “Sucky Mamas.” The wave is short and hollow, making for a fast and thrilling ride up to eight feet high.
You can only get to it by boat. Expect to pay around RP 600,000 for the trip, which can take upwards of 15 minutes. When it’s breaking, you can barely see it from the shore.
With its location further from shore, the wave can vary greatly as the wind shifts. Do your best to make it here around mid-tide for the best results.
5. Dana
Dana is an island located off the shore of Nemberala. You’ll need to take a 30-minute boat ride to access it. The main wave breaks both left and right, producing an equally thrilling ride on each side.
6. Bo’a
A short drive to the south of Nemberal Beach is Boa. This wave can produce some of the best barrels, thanks to near-perfect conditions.
Most surfers prefer to surf this in the off-season when the wind has died down. It’s best for advanced surfers. Make sure not to miss this incredible spot.
7. Do’o
Do’o is a small, uninhabited island that can be seen off-shore from Nemberal Beach. A boat ride will take about 45 minutes, but with its beautiful location and hollow right break, it’ll be worth it.
The wave breaks on a sharp and shallow reef, making this a difficult spot to surf. But those willing to put in the work will likely get this wave to themselves.
Where is Rote Island?
Rote Island is home to some of the most beautiful wave breaks in the world. Rote Island is a small island, far off the beaten track, located within the Nusa Tenggara region of Indonesia. It’s the southernmost point in Indonesia and is actually closer to Australia than Jakarta’s capital city.
It’s far enough away from the overcrowded tourist destinations of Bali, Lombok, and Sumatra that you’ll escape the crowds. But it’s close enough that getting to Rote isn’t that difficult. In fact, these days, you can easily catch a flight from Bali.
When you arrive, you’ll feel like you are in a completely different world from the rest of Indonesia. With world-class surf spots, ancient Indonesian culture, and welcoming locals, you’ll never want to leave.
And when you are finished surfing for the day, which is hard to do since the waves are so good, there’s plenty of other activities to indulge in. Diving and snorkeling spots abound around the island, thanks to our extensive reef system.
And the fishing is top-notch as well. Whether you want to cast a line from shore or head out into deeper waters, catching your dinner is easy enough to do, thanks to our unpressured waters surrounding this quiet island.
Staying in Rote Island
Seed Resort is the best resort in Rote for surfers. We are located right on the shore of Nemberal Beach, home to many of the waves listed above.
When you wake up in the morning in your traditional bungalow, it’s just a short walk, or scooter ride, to many of the best surf spots the island has to offer. If you are looking for relaxing, comfortable, beach-side accommodation on the southernmost island in Indonesia, Seed Resort is the perfect place to stay.
Plan Your Visit to the Secluded Rote Island Wave Breaks Today
Seed Resort boasts nine beautiful, exclusive bungalows situated just a few steps away from the white sand beach and amazing wave breaks along the shore. With improved infrastructure, Rote Island has never been easier to reach. But it still lacks the crowds commonly found throughout Indonesia, making this the best place for a relaxing vacation.
Book your accommodation today so you can enjoy the surf trip of a lifetime.
