Want to know more about traveling to Nias Island Indonesia? I got you!
Nias is a dream destination for surfers, where they often host World Surf League Qualifying Series (WSL QS) known as Nias Pro.
My husband and I spent five weeks there and surfed our hearts out every single day, it’s definitely part of the culture there.
Funny story: I surfed so much during our time there that I didn’t fit into my bridesmaid dress for my friend’s wedding. My back had gotten so muscular from paddling to and from our accommodation!
If you want to plan your perfect trip to Nias, Indonesia, or if you just want to learn more about this island, continue reading below!
Where is Nias?
Nias Island (also known as Pulau Nias in Bahasa Indonesia) is located in the North Sumatra province of Indonesia. It is the largest island in an island chain called the Barrier Islands off the west coast of Sumatra.
It is arguably one of the top surf destinations in the world, particularly famous for its iconic right-hand break at Lagundri Bay, Sorake Beach.
There was a huge earthquake and tsunami here in 2004 that completely shifted the reef, but many argue that it actually made the wave better.
You can see exactly where the surf spot is on Nias Island using the map below:
How to Get to Nias Indonesia?
Getting to Nias is an adventure in itself, especially if you’re coming from abroad and not from another Indonesian island.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your journey:
Step 1: Fly to Medan (Kualanamu International Airport – KNO)
The closest major airport to Nias is Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) in Medan, North Sumatra.
- From International Destinations: Direct flights are available to Medan from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Singapore, and Bangkok.
- From Domestic Locations: Medan is well-connected to Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, and other major Indonesian cities.
Step 2: Fly from Medan to Gunungsitoli (Binaka Airport – GNS)
From Medan, you can take a domestic flight to Binaka Airport (GNS) in Gunungsitoli, the main city on Nias Island.
- Airlines operating this route include Wings Air and Citilink.
- Flights are usually around 1 hour and 15 minutes long.
Step 3: Overland Travel to Your Destination on Nias
Once you arrive in Gunungsitoli, you can travel by road to other parts of the island depending on your destination, but most of you will be heading to Lagundri Bay in South Nias. It is about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Gunungsitoli.
I recommend hiring a private car with your accommodation so they can pick you up and drive you to your destination!
Can You Take Surfboards to Nias?
Yes, you can definitely take surfboards, and I recommend doing so.
In addition to obviously traveling with them for your international flight, you’ll need to check them in on your flight from Medan to Gunungsitoli.
Airline Policies:
- Wings Air and Citilink are the main airlines operating this route. Both allow surfboards as checked luggage, but size and weight limits apply.
- Check your board’s dimensions against the airline’s baggage policy. Shortboards are usually fine, but larger boards like longboards may face restrictions.
Surfboard Fees:
- Airlines may charge additional fees for oversized items like surfboards. These vary by airline and the number of boards in your bag. At the time of writing this, Wings Air charges 1 million Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) per board from Medan to GNS. Click here for the most up to date Indonesian airline surfboard baggage fees.
Once you arrive in Gunungsitoli, you’ll be able to strap your board bags to the roof of your transportation. Just make sure you book your car and let them know in advance so they can bring straps.
Can You Take Longboards to Nias Island?
Longboards are a bit trickier but not impossible to get to Nias.
From the time of writing this post, only Wings Air and Citilink fly from Medan, and longboards exceed the length limit for both airlines.
However, if you’re flying from another Indonesian city like Jakarta or Bali Denpasar, there may be airlines that will allow you to take longboards on the flight (I have not done this myself).
If you are able to, what I did was ship my longboard to Nias from Java Island using J&T Cargo.
They picked up my board, fully wrapped it, and transported it all the way to Teluk Dalam (only a few minutes by scooter from Lagudri) for so cheap and arrived within a few days.
If you have a day or two in Indonesia before your Nias trip to arrange this, it will definitely make your travels easier and stress-free!
The other option is to rent longboards from Casa Bebas, run by a local longboarder named Lisa. They have both longboards and midlengths for rent.
Best Time of Year to Travel to Nias
There are two distinct seasons in many parts of Indonesia that dictate how great the waves and weather will be. Depending on what you’re looking for, there’s going to be a time of year that is better for you!
Dry (Peak) Season (April-November):
The peak season, also known as dry season, is April-October and it’s the best time for massive, pumping surf on Nias.
During this time:
- Wave Consistency: Lagundri Bay and other surf spots receive consistent swells, with waves ranging from 4-12 feet.
- Weather: Sunny days with minimal rainfall create perfect surfing conditions.
- Crowds: This is the busiest time for surfers, so expect popular spots to have more visitors. It can get crowded!
Rainy (Off-Peak) Season (December-March)
Rainy season brings higher rainfall, less predictable weather, and less consistent swell.
- Fewer Crowds: This is a quieter time to visit, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Smaller Swells: Surf breaks tend to be less powerful, which may suit beginner surfers.
My husband and I visited during rainy season from February to March and it was perfect for us! The wave was practically empty and I was able to longboard, with swells pulling through for fun barrels.
Nias Indonesia Surf
The crown jewel of Nias is the legendary right-hand point break that faces the Indian Ocean, known for its long, barreling rides that attract advanced and professional surfers from around the world.
Most people travel here for the massive barrel that you see on social media when the swell ranges from 4 to 12 feet during peak surf season, but on days with no swell the wave can also be great for beginners!
Keep in mind that there is one main takeoff point and it can get super crowded.
Some days, you can surf the inside but it isn’t the most consistent.
There are a few other waves around like Beach Break, Rockstar, and Indicators, but they either are for beginners or require a drive on good conditions. Some can be super sketchy for advanced surfers only!
Can You Rent Surfboards?
Yes, you can rent surfboards in Nias in some accommodations and guesthouses.
You’ll typically find shortboards and funboards available, but the selection is not extensive and high-performance boards are limited.
Renting is a convenient option if you don’t want to travel with your boards, but for serious surfers who are picky about their dimensions, I definitely recommend bringing your own!
Are There Surf Lessons or Surf Camps?
You can sign up for 1:1 surf lessons with some of the locals, but I would say Nias is not a beginner-friendly place to learn how to surf.
If you have the basic skills and can pop up, you can take a lesson with one of the locals and practice going down the line on a small day!
Just ask your accommodation for recommendations for someone to take you out.
If you’re surfing for the first time ever, there are definitely better places to learn in Indonesia like Bali, Batukaras or Rote Island.
There are a few “surf camps” in Nias but they are mainly hostels with bunk beds, and nothing like the surf camps you’ll find on other islands where they actually take you out with a group multiple times a day.
Where to Stay in Nias
Jamburae Lodge
My husband and I stayed at Jamburae Lodge for weeks and it was perfect for us! You can paddle out directly in front with a longboard, or take a 5 minute walk to the keyhole and jump right into the lineup.
What I liked the most was ending my sessions every day at the end of the wave, so when I’m all surfed out I didn’t have to walk back to my accomodation.
I was able to paddle right up to the doorstep.
We had breakfast and dinner included every day so we didn’t have to think about food, and met so many amazing people traveling and working online as well.
Jamburae has boards for rent and you can book surf lessons with the owner Site, who is a local pro and you’ll definitely get priority in the lineup.
All rooms have air conditioning, and there is a common space in front where you can set up your workspace and get some work done.
Grace Wave Resort
Another great option with a similar location to Jamburae is Grace Wave Resort.
They have more facilities like a pool and lounge area, and you also have the option to add in breakfast, lunch, and dinner with your stay.
Yuni Surf House
For a comfortable budget option, check out Yuni Surf House.
Where to Eat in Nias
Casa Bebas
Casa Bebas is a new restaurant, cafe, and boutique store owned by an Italian longboarder named Lisa who relocated to Nias.
They serve delicious coffee, brunch foods, and pastas, and organize events throughout the year like beach cleanups and longboard festivals.
From what I’ve heard since visiting, they also have the strongest wifi at the beach front so you can co-work from there as well!
Lisa is the sweetest and you’ll have to meet her when you’re there!
Kalihuna Burger & Pizza
Kalihuna is a fun night out with friends where you can get tasty burgers, pizza, and if you’re lucky, sing karaoke during karaoke night! You’ll need to rent a scooter or hire a combi van to get here.
The Indonesian locals love their karaoke and are so happy when they see foreigners (also known as bules) singing with them.
If you go with a group, I recommend placing an order in advance as it can take a while to get all the orders out!
SaltyDog Restaurant
SaltyDog is a hostel and restaurant located right on the water. They have great views and good food.
Local Warungs
There are tons of local warungs and restaurants that aren’t on Google Maps, all within walking distance on the waterfront of Sorake Bay. As we had food included in our stay, we didn’t go to all of them but the ones we went to were all great.
You can find a wide variety of nasi campur every day like at Warung Makan, with fresh food and many veggie options.
There was this one shop that sold bubble tea with CHEESE on Sundays. Super odd but I really liked it!
Is there Wi-Fi in Nias?
Yes, there is Wi-Fi in Nias, but its availability and quality can vary depending on your location.
Many accommodations, cafes, and guesthouses offer Wi-Fi for guests, but the speed and reliability of the connection may not be as fast as other more developed parts of Indonesia.
Wi-Fi speeds are definitely sufficient for basic tasks like checking emails, browsing, and social media, but you may struggle with video calls or large uploads/downloads.
I would definitely recommend getting an eSIM for your trip so you can be connected on your travels and hotspot as needed. Use code WANDERLOVER for 5% off!
Surf Photos and Videos
There are a bunch of local photographers and videographers on the beach every day, especially when there is swell!
Some charge per photo, and others charge one price for all your photos and videos.
Depending on how long you’re staying, I recommend negotiating with a photographer and/or videographer you like, and getting all your photos and videos at the end of your trip.
This way, you’re paying one price for the entire time instead of having to go to different ones after each session.
What is the Religion of Nias Indonesia?
Interestingly, the main religion of Nias is Protestant Christianity. It is one of the few islands in Indonesia that practice Christianity.
Indonesia itself is predominantly Muslim, with around 87% of its people practicing Islam.
There are a few mosques on the island, and some of them are located close to churches. It was definitely very interesting to see the two religions mix here!
Nias also has its own indigenous culture and traditions as the primary form of spiritual expression.
Important Tips for Your Nias Vacation
Pack a First Aid Kit
There were a few accidents during our time in Nias, we had a friend who cut her thigh with a fin and multiple friends who stepped on sea urchins on their way back from surf.
The nearest medical facility is a drive away and is not always stocked up on medical supplies, so you’re definitely going to want to stock up on first aid!
Beware of sea urchins on the rocks (especially during sunset) and reef cuts. They can get infected quickly and you don’t want to have an open wound with the humidity.
Pack LOTS of Sunscreen and Zinc (and a surf hat)!
The sun gets HOT and if you’re out surfing all day, you’re going to want to stock up on sunscreen and zinc. It’s hard to find in Nias so you’ll want to bring this with you.
Take Out Cash Beforehand
There are no ATMs in Sorake and the nearest ones are in Telukdalam, which is about a 15-20 minute drive. It’s pretty accessible but you’ll want to have cash on hand to pay for most things!
What To Do Next
Buy an eSIM card so you are immediately connected as soon as you land! I always purchase an Holafly eSIM which gives you unlimited data. Use WANDERLOVER For 5% off!
Buy travel medical insurance so you are fully covered in case anything goes wrong. I use SafetyWing on all my surf trips and recommend them!
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