Playgrounds (North) · Indonesia
Surfing Hideaways
A reef break in Playgrounds (North), Indonesia, for advanced and pro surfers.
- TypeReef Break
- LevelAdvanced / Pro
- Size3-8 ft
- Best monthsApr-Oct
- Crowd2/5
The wave
Hideaways is a shifty right tucked in among the small islands of the Playgrounds area. The barrels are round and wide, and there are usually fewer boats than at the better-known spots.
The peak moves around more than at the mechanical waves, and the sets swing wide, so being able to read the lineup gets you more waves. When you're in the right place, the barrels are some of the roundest in the area, with deep water to come out into.
It holds 4-10ft, prefers SE winds and is easiest at mid tide. Charters fit it in between other sessions, and resort guests get there by small boat. Take a step-up when it's on.
-1.645, 99.075 · SW swell, SE wind · Open in Google Maps
When to surf Hideaways
Hideaways is at its best from April to October. Conditions it likes: SW swell, SE wind. This is how the year looks across Mentawai Islands:
| Months | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| April to May | Good | Fewer boats and good swell |
| June to August | Prime | Peak season: maximum swell, maximum boats, book long ahead |
| September to October | Prime | Still good swell, fewer boats |
| November to March | Quiet | Small season: playful sizes, big discounts, empty lineups |
Waves near Hideaways
| Wave | Area | Type | Level | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beng Bengs | Playgrounds (North) | Reef Break | Intermediate / Advanced | 3 km |
| Pitstops | Playgrounds (North) | Reef Break | Intermediate / Advanced | 3 km |
| Kandui Left | Playgrounds (North) | Reef Break | Pro | 3 km |
| Rifles | Playgrounds (North) | Reef Break | Advanced / Pro | 4 km |
| E-Bay | Playgrounds (North) | Reef Break | Advanced | 4 km |
| Nipussi | Playgrounds (North) | Reef Break | Intermediate / Advanced | 4 km |
Straight-line distances. By road it is usually further.
Getting there and staying around Playgrounds (North)
Transport, costs and the rest of the waves in the area are in the Playgrounds (North) surf guide →
A week here costs from about $1,040 with flights from Europe, or around $2,195 travelling comfortably. See other surf trips under $1,500 →
Hideaways: common questions
When is the best time to surf Hideaways?
Hideaways works best from April to October. Ideal conditions: SW swell, SE wind.
Is Hideaways good for beginners?
No. Hideaways is a wave for advanced and pro surfers.
How crowded is Hideaways?
Hideaways is usually quiet: 2 out of 5 on our crowd scale.
Where is Hideaways?
Hideaways is in Playgrounds (North), in the Mentawai Islands region of Indonesia (-1.645, 99.075). The nearest wave we cover is Beng Bengs, about 3 km away.
Last updated October 2026. Seasons, costs and conditions change, so check the details before you book.
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