Escape to the Mentawais for the women's surf retreat of a lifetime
Go off-grid and discover a wilder side of Indonesia
HOME / JOIN A RETREAT /
MENTAWAIS 2026
NIGHTS
13
MAX GROUP
10
ACCOMMODATION
DATE OF RETREAT
22 Oct - 3 Nov 26
PRICE FROM
AUD
$7,500
Leave the modern world behind and explore Indonesia’s untouched island magic on this 12-night private boat adventure through the Mentawai Islands. This all-women surf retreat takes you far beyond the usual breaks — to perfect reef waves, crystal-clear water and a slower rhythm of life on the ocean.
Created for confident surfers riding short boards, mids, logs or twins, this journey is your chance to level up your surfing in dream conditions. With coaching, video feedback and in-water support, you’ll sharpen your technique, build confidence and ride waves you’ll never forget.
When you’re not in the water, swim with reef fish, cast a line, visit palm-fringed islands or just chill on deck with the sea breeze in your hair. No crowds, no schedule — just good waves, great company and a surf adventure you’ll talk about for years.
Key retreat highlights
Spend 12 nights on our private surf charter through the Mentawais, with one night in Padang at the Santika Hotel
All meals included on board, plus snacks, soft drinks, juices and filtered water (excluding your first hotel night)
Receive expert coaching each day with Master Coach Serena Adams, featuring in-water support and detailed video feedback
Cruise between remote reef breaks with 10 days of surfing, snorkelling, island-hopping and downtime on deck
Stretch it out and reset with daily breathwork and recovery sessions to support your surf performance
Easy arrival and departure with included transfers from Padang Airport to the hotel, and from hotel to boat
Disconnect fully with an off-grid retreat surrounded by nature, surf and stillness in the Mentawais
Included in your retreat
Discover the perfect blend of surfing and adventure on this unforgettable Mentawais retreat
12 Nights Aboard a Private Surf Charter
Spend 12 unforgettable nights on our Private Surf Charter, cruising through the world-class waves of the Mentawai Islands. With only our group and the crew on board, this is your chance to wake up in paradise each day, surrounded by turquoise waters, untouched beaches and pristine reef breaks.
All Meals & Refreshments Included
Enjoy three delicious meals a day, plus snacks and unlimited soft drinks, juices and water to keep you fuelled for long days in the surf. Our onboard chefs prepare a mix of Indonesian and Western cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients to ensure every meal is a highlight (All meals included, excluding dinner on the first night whilst staying at the hotel).
Progressive Surf Coaching with Master Coach Serena Adams
Level up your surfing with 10 days of expert coaching and local surf knowledge from a Surfing Australia Accredited Master Coach. Whether you're looking to refine your turns, improve wave selection, or build confidence in reef breaks, our coaching includes in-water guidance, video analysis and tailored feedback to ensure progression.
Chase Perfect Waves in the Ultimate Surf Playground
The Mentawais are home to some of the best waves on earth, and our private boat allows us to access the best conditions daily. From playful, peeling reef breaks to long, hollow barrels, there’s something for everyone.
Daily Breathwork & Stretch Sessions
Start each morning with a breathwork and stretch flow session, designed to prepare your body for surfing and enhance recovery. These sessions help improve flexibility, reduce fatigue, and keep you in peak condition for multiple surf sessions per day.
Snorkeling, Fishing & Ultimate Relaxation
When you’re not surfing, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Mentawais with snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, fishing off the boat at sunset, or simply unwinding on deck with a book and a fresh coconut.
Step Back in Time & Go Off-Grid
The Mentawai Islands remain one of Indonesia’s last true frontiers, offering an escape from the modern world. Disconnect from everyday life and fully immerse yourself in untouched landscapes, warm ocean breezes, and endless surf sessions—all without the distractions of city life.
Seamless Transfers from Airport to Boat
We take care of all the logistics so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Your trip includes:
Arrival transfers from Padang Airport to Santika Hotel Padang
1 x night stay at Santika Hotel Padang before departure
Hotel to boat transfer for a smooth transition to your surf charter
Departure transfer from the boat to the airport in Padang
Gallery
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 & 2: Arrival in Padang & Setting Sail
Your adventure begins as you touch down at Minangkabau International Airport in Padang. You’ll be greeted and transferred to Santika Hotel Padang, where you can unwind and meet your fellow travellers before the journey ahead.
In the evening, grab some dinner and enjoy a trip briefing with your Woman Explore guide and Surf Coach to go over the exciting days to come.
The next day, after breakfast and a relaxed morning, we’ll transfer to the harbor at 2:00pm and board our private charter. At 5:00 pm, we set sail, leaving the city behind and heading into the stunning Mentawai Islands.
Enjoy a welcome dinner under the stars as we cruise toward our first surf destination.
Accommodation: Night 1 at Santika Hotel Padang / Night 2 onboard Private Charter
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Welcome Dinner
Included Activities
Airport to hotel transfers
Hotel to boat transfers
Day 3 & 4: Settling In & First Surf Sessions
Wake up to your first Mentawai sunrise, surrounded by palm-fringed islands and crystal-clear waters. Start each morning with breathwork and stretch sessions, preparing your body and mind for the waves ahead.
Over these first two days, we’ll ease into the surf, selecting waves suited to your ability. Your Woman Explore Surf Coach / Guides will guide you through in-water coaching, helping you refine your positioning, wave selection, and technique.
Between surf sessions, relax on deck, enjoy a snorkel in the turquoise lagoons, or even try your hand at some fishing.
Accommodation: Private Charter
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included Activities
Breathwork sessions
Surfing sessions
Snorkelling
Fishing
Day 5 & 6: Progression & Video Analysis
With your confidence growing, we’ll step up the coaching with surf video analysis sessions, where we break down your technique and pinpoint areas for improvement. The mornings will start with goal-setting breathwork, followed by coached surf sessions in some of the Mentawais' best breaks.
In the afternoons, video analysis sessions will give you a clearer understanding of how to progress, followed by a second free surf session or snorkelling adventure.
As always, evenings will be spent relaxing on deck, sharing meals and enjoying the magic of the open ocean.
Accommodation: Private Charter
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included Activities
Breathwork sessions
Surfing coaching
Video analysis
Snorkelling
Fishing
Day 7 & 8: Exploring New Breaks & Mentawai Magic
By now, you’ll be fully settled into the rhythm of boat life, and we’ll venture deeper into the Mentawais, chasing the best waves for the conditions. These days will be all about surfing new breaks, improving consistency and pushing yourself in perfect waves.
Afternoons will be spent free surfing, exploring the reef by snorkel, or unwinding on the boat.
Evenings will include goal-setting and reflection sessions, helping you fine-tune your mindset for the final stretch of the trip.
Accommodation: Private Charter
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included Activities
Surfing sessions & coaching
Free surfing
Snorkelling
Evening reflection
Day 9 & 10: Surf, Snorkel & Sunset Sessions
With newfound skills and confidence, these days are about enjoying everything the Mentawais have to offer. Your morning breathwork and surf sessions will continue, but the focus will shift toward consolidating your progression and truly enjoying the waves.
Afternoons will include surf video reviews, snorkelling in stunning lagoons, and optional sunset fishing trips.
As we move toward the final days of the retreat, you’ll feel stronger, more connected to your surfing and fully immersed in the magic of the Mentawais.
Accommodation: Private Charter
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included Activities
Breathwork sessions
Surfing sessions
Video analysis
Snorkelling
Sunset fishing
Day 11 & 12: Final Surf Sessions & Reflection
The last two full days of surfing will be spent fine-tuning everything you’ve learned, with a mix of guided coaching and free surf time. You’ll have the chance to revisit your favourite breaks, catch your best waves yet, and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Evenings will include final goal-reflection sessions, celebrating progress, sharing highlights, and soaking up the last moments of boat life.
Accommodation: Private Charter
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included Activities
Breathwork sessions
Surfing coaching
Free surfing sessions
Final goal reflection sessions
Day 13: Departure & Farewell
Wake up for one last morning on the boat, enjoying a final breakfast as we begin our journey back to Padang. As we cruise back, soak in the last views of the Mentawai Islands, reflect on your incredible surf progression, and enjoy the company of your Woman Explore crew one last time.
Upon arrival in Padang, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, leaving with newfound confidence, unforgettable memories, and deep connections with your fellow travellers.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Final surf session (if time allows)
Airport Transfers
Customer Reviews
See what the Woman Explore community are saying about our surfing retreats
They've mastered the perfect formula
"Don’t waste any more time surfing the internet when you could be surfing the waves in the Maldives with crew from Surf Getaways and Woman Explore. There isn't a better place or a better surf travel company catering to all women adventures. These girls totally rock!"
KJF | Australia | Maldives Surf Retreat
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay the full amount upfront?
It's up to you. To secure your place on this retreat you can select to pay the full amount upfront, or pay a 30% deposit. If you select the deposit, the remaining amount is due 90 days before the retreat begins. Chat to us about our flexible payment plans at no extra charge.
Which airlines allow surfboards to Padang Airport?
Several airlines allow surfboards as checked baggage when flying to Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang. Virgin Australia allows 23kg with boards up to 9 feet, Singapore Airlines allows 25kg with boards up to 9 feet. Check with your airline before departure and ensure your board is packed securely.
Do I need to bring my own surfboard?
Absolutely! For our intermediate surf retreats, participants are required to bring their own surf boards with them. Having your personal board ensures that you're riding a familiar setup, promoting a more comfortable and enjoyable surfing experience.
Do I need to bring my own snorkelling gear?
Snorkelling gear will be provided on-board the boat, but we highly recommend you bring your own gear. It's also important to remember that reef shoes or reef booties are required to protect your feet for all water activities, including surfing.
