Sumbawa

A rugged island east of Lombok, Sumbawa is a dry, sparsely developed land of savannah hills and long empty coastlines that hides some of Indonesia's most coveted waves. Where Bali is crowded and polished, Sumbawa remains raw, and its scattered reef breaks reward surfers prepared to travel.

Two areas dominate its reputation. In the east near Dompu, Lakey Peak is a versatile A-frame reef that splits into a hollow left and a longer right, with the nearby Lakey Pipe throwing heavy barrels for experts; the bay also holds gentler options for intermediates. In the west, around Maluk, the fast left reef of Supersuck offers one of the country's most intense tubes when it turns on. Most waves break over coral and favour confident surfers.

The surf season peaks April to October, when south and south-west swells from the Indian Ocean arrive with offshore south-easterly winds. The dry season also brings reliable sunshine to what is one of Indonesia's most arid islands, with warm water throughout.

Beyond surfing, Sumbawa is home to Mount Tambora, whose colossal 1815 eruption altered global climate, and to traditional cultures distinct from Bali and Lombok. Infrastructure is limited, with surf camps clustered near the main breaks and long, dusty road transfers in between. Access is via ferry from Lombok or flights to Bima or Sumbawa Besar, and the effort of reaching its lineups is a large part of why they stay relatively uncrowded despite their quality.