Nias / Lagundri Bay · Indonesia
Surfing Asu
A reef break in Nias / Lagundri Bay, Indonesia, for advanced and pro surfers.
- TypeReef Break
- LevelAdvanced / Pro
- Size4-12 ft
- Best monthsMay-Sep
- Crowd1/5
The wave
Asu is a long left in the Hinako Islands, across the channel from Nias. It gets the full force of the open ocean, with thick, fast walls, sections that keep coming and barrels where the reef allows.
It's exposed to swell almost all the time, so it's rarely flat, and even small days are hard work. It works from 4ft to 12ft on SE-E winds. You need to be fit to surf it well.
There are a couple of basic camps with generators, plus boats that anchor during swell runs. There's nothing else to do but surf, eat and sleep. Bring a step-up and spare boards, because supplies are a long way away. It's a very good wave for goofy-footers.
0.91, 97.29 · SW swell, SE-E wind · Open in Google Maps
When to surf Asu
Asu is at its best from May to September. Conditions it likes: SW swell, SE-E wind. This is how the year looks across Sumatra-Nias:
| Months | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| April to May | Good | The season builds, lineups are empty and camps charge shoulder rates |
| June to August | Prime | Peak power at Lagundri and Krui: the classic window |
| September to October | Good | Clean swells continue, crowds drop off |
| November to March | Quiet | Rainier and smaller but rarely flat, and cheaper |
Waves near Asu
| Wave | Area | Type | Level | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bawa (North Nias) | Nias / Lagundri Bay | Reef Break | Advanced / Pro | 38 km |
| Afulu | Nias / Lagundri Bay | Reef Break | Advanced | 40 km |
| Sorake Beach | Nias / Lagundri Bay | Reef Break | Intermediate / Advanced | 69 km |
| Lagundri Bay-Nias | Nias / Lagundri Bay | Reef Break | Advanced / Pro | 69 km |
| Thailands | Simeulue | Reef Break | Intermediate / Advanced | 202 km |
| Tea Bags | Simeulue | Reef Break | Intermediate | 210 km |
Straight-line distances. By road it is usually further.
Getting there and staying around Nias / Lagundri Bay
Transport, costs and the rest of the waves in the area are in the Nias / Lagundri Bay surf guide →
A week here costs from about $725 with flights from Europe, or around $1,232 travelling comfortably. See other surf trips under $1,000 →
Asu: common questions
When is the best time to surf Asu?
Asu works best from May to September. Ideal conditions: SW swell, SE-E wind.
Is Asu good for beginners?
No. Asu is a wave for advanced and pro surfers.
How crowded is Asu?
Asu is usually empty: 1 out of 5 on our crowd scale.
Where is Asu?
Asu is in Nias / Lagundri Bay, in the Sumatra-Nias region of Indonesia (0.91, 97.29). The nearest wave we cover is Bawa (North Nias), about 38 km away.
Last updated October 2026. Seasons, costs and conditions change, so check the details before you book.
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