Telo Islands
MORE WORLD CLASS SURF OPTIONS
The Telo Islands sit just north of the Mentawais and share the same Indian Ocean energy, but with a more relaxed pace and fewer boats or land camps in the water.
The region is home to a variety of reef breaks, from long, playful points to fast, hollow peaks that come alive with the right swell. With warm water, light winds, and a range of setups close together, the Telos deliver reliable surf for all levels.
Like the Mentawai Islands, the waves here work year round, with the most consistent conditions from March to October when long-period swells line up from the southwest. The shoulder months bring smaller, clean surf and quieter lineups, perfect for surfers who value time in the water and space to move.
famous waves of the telos
We’ve listed some of the best-known waves in the Telos here, but not all of them. The rest are kept quiet, the kind you’ll discover only when you’re out here with us.
Jurassic Park
This wave starts with a punchy takeoff that snaps straight into a tight barrel, then opens up into a long section for clean carving turns. It is one of those waves that stays high on everyone’s list once they have surfed it. Set against one of the most striking backdrops in the islands, this left offers long walls, fun barrels, and that classic Sumatra feeling that keeps surfers coming back.
Rangas
Rangas, also known as GTs, is one of the standout right-handers in the Telos. It bends off a reef ledge into a deep channel and serves up a punchy takeoff that often turns straight into a clean, makeable tube. On smaller days it is playful and super fun, but once it hits the five foot range it steps up fast and becomes a serious, heavy barrel for confident surfers. With no sketchy inside section and a short paddle to the lineup, it is one of those waves you keep going back for again and again.
Monkeys
Monkey’s (also known as Skateparks) is a right hand surf break located in the southern Telo area. The wave is suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers, providing opportunities for both high-performance maneuvers and the occasional barrel. Some other options also in this area.
Churches (Mishos)
Churches, also known as Misho’s, is one of the most reliable waves in the Telo Islands. Set in a remote stretch of western Sumatra, the Telos are known for their consistency, variety, and postcard-perfect surroundings.
Churches is a long, wrapping left-hand reef that works across a wide range of swells and tides. It offers everything from cruisy open faces to faster, hollow sections, making it a favourite for all levels. Whether you’re looking to link turns, find the occasional barrel, or simply enjoy a long, playful wall, this wave delivers day after day.
