For surfers who just want to surf, sleep, eat and repeat at their own pace, you really can’t go wrong with a surf camp. Authentic, simple, and affordable, surf camps tick all the essential boxes and offer an experience that is filled with adventure, cultural immersion, and most importantly, a lot of surfing.

A surf resort will be a mild level up, with added comforts and luxuries like air-conditioned and ensuite rooms, facilities such as an infinity pool or a yoga studio, and gourmet meals that are generally all-inclusive.

If what you’re chasing is wave count, be sure to choose a base with a break out the front, or at least within walking distance. This will make all the difference to your experience and means less waiting around. If you’re traveling with non-surfing friends, family or a partner, a resort or camp is most definitely the way to go.

Our top picks this summer are Mahi Mahi Surf Resort in Simeulue, the private and exclusive Telo Surf Villa or for groups, Kingfisher Surf Resort and Villa Mentawai.

It feels a bit like Christmas waking up at a new surf spot while on a charter in the tropics. You go to bed completely surfed out and before you know it the froth and anticipation starts all over again. Ultimately, it’s the novelty factor of cruising around palm-fringed islands with your closest mates that makes surf charters so special. And, having an expert surf guide and crew means that finding uncrowded waves requires little to no effort.

Similar surf skill levels and preferences are important when you’re living in close proximity with little opportunity to do your own thing. So with this in mind, make sure you’ve got a solid group of mates joining you.

For the ultimate surf charter adventure this summer, our top recommendations are Nomad Surf Charters or Moon Palikir Charters.

If you’re an intermediate level surfer looking to take things up a notch, Macaronis Surf Resort is where you’ll want to be this summer. Surf and train with a likeminded crew and experience the ultimate surf adventure in the heart of the Mentawais.

Get amongst daily training sessions both in and out of the water, have your progress captured by a dedicated surf photographer, and immerse yourself in the immense beauty of the Mentawai Islands. Don’t sleep on it, spots are limited!