All our most common questions in one place. Can’t find yours? Message us on WhatsApp.
Planning your trip
When is the best time to surf the Mentawais?
April to September brings the most consistent and powerful swells. October to March has smaller, fun waves for every level: see our low season page. With 24+ waves around the bay facing every direction, our guests surf on average 9 out of 10 days.
What is a Featured Trip?
Our fixed-date trips of 10, 11 or 14 nights, run back to back all year. On January–February trips and 2027 early bird bookings, the transfer from Padang, the surf video package and (in January–February) the Mentawai surf tax are included. See dates and rooms left.
Can I choose my own dates?
Yes. Arrive on a Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, with a minimum stay of 5 nights. On your own dates the transfer (US$ 175 per person each way) and the surf video package are extras.
Is there a discount for longer stays?
Yes. Stays of 21 nights or more get 15% off the stay (room and meals), all year.
Do you host groups?
Yes: groups, the full resort, and hosts who bring their own crew, club or family. See Groups & Host a Trip.
Surfing
What surf level do I need?
Hidden Bay welcomes surfers of all levels who can already surf on their own. Our guides follow the forecast and choose the right wave for each group, with breaks for every level around the bay.
How far are the waves?
Most spots are 10 to 20 minutes away by speedboat, and Hideaways is just 5 minutes away. See the wave map.
How many surfers are on each boat?
An average of 6 surfers per boat, never more than 8, and your guide knows your name.
Are there fixed session times?
No. Every evening at dinner our guides share the forecast and plan the next day: two boat sessions, or one longer trip to distant waves like Burgerworld.
Can I rent or buy a board?
Yes. Rental boards cost US$ 20 a day plus 10% government tax. You can also order a new board handmade in Bali by Dylan Longbottom (US$ 450), waiting for you at the resort; order at least 30 days before arrival.
Prices and payment
What is included in the nightly rate?
Your room, all meals by Chef Wandi, free Wi-Fi, the gym and physical trainer sessions (March to November). Surfers add the Surf Pack. See Rates & What’s Included.
What is the Surf Pack and do I need it?
The Surf Pack (US$ 90 per night, plus 10% government tax) covers the daily boat surf sessions with our local guides. It is required for everyone who surfs; non-surfers do not pay it. Surfers also pay the Mentawai surf tax, added automatically with the Surf Pack.
Is there tax on top of the price?
Yes. Room, meals, the Surf Pack, drinks and extras carry a 10% government tax, shown separately on your invoice. Transfers and the Mentawai surf tax carry no added tax.
How do payment and cancellation work?
A 30% deposit confirms your booking and the balance is due 30 days before check-in. Card payments carry a 3.5% fee. If you cancel, the deposit is not refunded; once fully paid, your payment can be moved to a future date.
Getting here
How do I get to Hidden Bay?
Fly to Padang, in West Sumatra. From March 2027, Featured Trips go by direct speedboat to the resort, with no night in Padang. On your own dates, you take the public fast boat to Siberut and our speedboat picks you up. See How Do I Get There?
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance that covers surfing and medical evacuation is mandatory.
At the resort
Can non-surfers, couples and families stay?
Yes. Rooms suit every setup, from solo travellers to families. Non-surfers pay the stay only; surfers add the Surf Pack. Children aged 0 to 5 stay free and children aged 6 to 13 pay 50%.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi across the resort, in the restaurant and in every room.
Can you cater for my diet?
Yes. Chef Wandi adapts the menu to any diet, allergy or restriction. Just tell us in your online check-in.
Is it safe?
Yes. We have a clear plan for earthquakes and tsunami warnings, first aid on every boat and CCTV around the bungalows. Read Before You Travel for the details.