4 Bobs
4 Bobs is a fun all-round right reef break in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands, producing almond-shaped barrels and good turn sections. The wave is more accessible than the heavy Kandui and Rifles breaks nearby, offering two-turn combos and fun barrel opportunities for intermediate-to-advanced surfers. A great option for variety during Mentawai charter trips.
4 Bobs surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (220°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 240°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 1.8m
- Ideal size
- 1.3m - 1.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (112°)
- Offshore range
- 82° - 142°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Charter boat from Padang (~10hr) or speedboat (~4hr)
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at 4 Bobs?
The 4 Bobs profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at 4 Bobs?
The 4 Bobs profile uses wind from ESE (112°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 82° to 142°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at 4 Bobs?
The 4 Bobs scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 240°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 1.8m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf 4 Bobs?
The main season at 4 Bobs is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. Best Apr-Oct (dry season, SE trades offshore). Swells year-round but wet season brings onshore winds.
How do I get to 4 Bobs?
The spot profile lists PDG as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $200 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Charter boat from Padang (~10hr) or speedboat (~4hr)
What kind of wave is 4 Bobs?
4 Bobs is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Best Apr-Oct (dry season, SE trades offshore). Swells year-round but wet season brings onshore winds.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Pitstops
🌊 Playgrounds fun right • Sand-reef bottom • All-level waves
Rifles
🎯 200m flawless rights • Precision swell angle • Mentawai crown jewel
Playgrounds Left
🌊 Many names, one zone • Playgrounds barrels • Mentawai spectacle
Pistols
🌊 Playgrounds right • Short barrels, nice turns • Fun warm-up wave
Burgerworld
🌊 Most exposed Mentawai • Low-season barrels • Sculpted right tubes
Hideaways
🌊 Secret Mentawai left • Barrel opportunities • Less crowds