August sits at the heart of the dry season and the middle of the surf season, making it one of the most reliable months to surf the Mentawai Islands. Think long days of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and an almost clockwork consistency of Indian Ocean swells. With average daytime temps of 28–32°C and bath-warm water hovering around 29°C, you can surf all day in boardshorts without worrying about chill.
Rain? Almost nonexistent. August is statistically the driest month of the year here — around 50mm total — meaning fewer interruptions and crystal-clear water visibility. Combine this with light offshore winds in the mornings, and you’re looking at prime conditions across the islands.
Surf Conditions in August
This is peak Mentawai. The southern Indian Ocean sends powerful SW swells, and the Mentawai reef setups transform them into mechanical perfection.
- Wave size: Expect 4–8 ft average most days, with regular pulses hitting 10–12 ft+.
- Swell direction: Mostly SW, lining up perfectly for famous spots like HT’s (Lance’s Right), Macaronis, and Kandui.
- Consistency: Around 5–7 surfable days per week with powerful, long-period swells (14–16 seconds).
- Wind: Light E–SE in the mornings (5–10 knots) → glassy perfection. PM winds can swing SW and bump things up, so mornings are prime.
- Tides: Mid-to-high tide is the sweet spot, as reefs at low tide get shallow and sharp.
What to Expect at Hollow Trees (HT’s / Lance’s Right) in August
For rights, Hollow Trees is king in August. While the month is known for producing some of the best lefts in Mentawai (Kandui Left, E-Bay, Hideaways), HT’s stays remarkably consistent with barrels and rippable walls.
- Wave type: Mechanical right-hand reef with multiple barrel sections.
- Skill level: Advanced surfers thrive on the bigger swells, but smaller days still serve up fun for confident intermediates.
- Conditions: August’s SE winds line up perfectly, keeping the face clean for those classic “Office to Surgeon’s Table” runs.
HT’s is also less wind-sensitive compared to other waves, which is why staying right in front at Villa Onu is such a cheat code. When others are burning fuel chasing waves, you’re literally watching them from breakfast.
Other Waves Around HT’s
Staying in the HT’s area gives you access to a variety of breaks that shine in August:
- Lance’s Left: Long, rippable left with a barrel take-off and open face. Great option if winds swing.
- Cobras: A-frame peak just off Lance’s Left, offering short barrels and sometimes linking up with the main wave.
- Bintangs: Short right-hander, hollow on bigger swells, fun and playful when it’s small.
- Beach Break: Just a short ride away, mellow peaks ideal for beginners or longboarders.
- Mini HT’s: Fun, forgiving reef break walkable from the villa.
- The Point / Monkeys: Rights and lefts nearby that offer variety, especially on smaller days.
This variety is what makes the HT’s zone special in August, you’re covered whether it’s triple-overhead at HTs or chest-high fun at The Point.
👉 The Complete List of Every Surf Spot in the Mentawai Islands
Mentawai Weather in August
- Air temp: 28–32°C days, 24–25°C nights.
- Sea temp: 29–30°C
- Rainfall: Driest month ~50 mm total.
- Sunshine: 8–10 hours per day.
- Humidity: 70–85%, tempered by ocean breeze.
Mentawai August Travel Tips
- Book early: August is high demand, charters and resorts fill fast.
- Expect crowds: It’s the most popular month, but staying land-based at HT’s keeps you one step ahead.
Why August at Villa Onu Hits Different
If you’re surfing in Mentawai in August, you’ll want to be as close to the action as possible. Villa Onu is right in front of Hollow Trees, meaning:
- Wake up, check the waves from bed or terrace.
- Paddle out before the boats arrive.
- When conditions swing, you’re already in the zone, with access to multiple waves nearby.
Add in the private chef, concierge transfers, kayaks, snorkel gear, ice bath, and family-friendly setup, and you’ve got all the makings of an epic time in Mentawai.
Conclusion: August Is for Surfers Who Want It All
For pure surf consistency, August is as good as it gets in the Mentawai Islands. Perfect weather, peak swells, long sunny days, and variety in the lineup. Yes, it’s busier, but if you’re at Villa Onu, you’ve already claimed the best seat in the house.
👉 Plan ahead, book early, and you’ll be scoring the sessions of a lifetime while everyone else is still figuring out ferry timetables.
