The call of its waters is so strong it lures even the most hard-core surfers from Australia and Hawaii, who already have fantastic waves within their home turf. For beginners, Kuta is the better choice in Bali. It is less crowded compared to equally popular Uluwatu. Additionally, the locals in Kuta often cheer those in the water, perfect for building morale. To get here, fly in to Denpasar Airport and take a taxi heading to Kuta.
But if you want the complete lifestyle, head to Mentawai Islands off the western coast of Sumatra and chase beautiful waves all day long. The best spots lie in the northern and southern points of Pagi plus Siberut. However, there is a catch. The only way to get intimate with these waves is by living on a boat and following the surf for a week or two. Before coming in from the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, take the extra effort to pre-arrange a boat charter with local companies on the island to host the surfing expedition of a lifetime.
Then, after wiping out in Indonesia, go to neighboring Philippines for a slice of paradise in Cloud Nine, Siargao Island. The ride is more intense, with a powerful reef break that can send you crashing into coral. Here, there is no shortage of death rides for surfers daring enough to try. A misstep can cost skin and bone shredded by the ocean bed but the experience is well-worth it, with the wave rising high enough to envelope surfers in a hypnotic water cocoon. Taste the thrill these waters have in store by catching a flight to Manila then taking a domestic one to Siargao.
Finally, there is Riyuewan, Sanya, Hainan, China. It may be hard to imagine China and surfing together but on its southern tip lies one of the country's best-kept secrets: tropical beaches untouched by crowds. Connect with local outfit Surfing Hainan while in the area to get the most of the place. Get here through Shanghai then catch a local flight to Sanya Airport and let all the fun begin.
Whether you are planning to rendezvous with the breaks of Kuta while chilling at The Tusita Hotel, or looking forward to crashing at a local place in Sanya, these surf spots satisfy that wipe-out craving nicely.
