Bawa
Bawa is Indonesia's answer to Hawaii's Sunset Beach—a massive right-hand barrel machine in the Hinako Islands off the coast of Nias. The wave handles enormous swells, producing thundering rights that only advanced and expert surfers should attempt. Paired with nearby Asu (a left that works on opposite wind), surfers can ride both breaks in the same day depending on wind shifts, making the Hinako Islands an incredibly versatile surf destination.
Bawa surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (215°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 230°
- Size range
- 1.5m - 3.7m
- Ideal size
- 2.5m - 3.2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (315°)
- Offshore range
- 285° - 345°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Boat from Nias south coast (~2hr)
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Bawa?
The Bawa 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 Bawa?
The Bawa profile uses wind from NW (315°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 285° to 345°. 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 Bawa?
The Bawa scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 230°), a swell-height range of 1.5m to 3.7m, and a reference period of 16s. 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 Bawa?
The main season at Bawa is Apr-Oct. SW swell season (Apr-Oct), SE trade winds offshore
How do I get to Bawa?
The spot profile lists GNS as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $100 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Boat from Nias south coast (~2hr)
What kind of wave is Bawa?
Bawa is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
SW swell season (Apr-Oct), SE trade winds offshore
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Asu
🏝️ Hinako left reef • Remote perfection • Adventure required
Walo Hiu
🌊 Nias's heaviest left • 10-second barrels • 30min jungle walk
Indicators
🌊 Nias barrel right • High tide perfection • Dangerous low tide reef
Lagundri Bay
🌋 Earthquake-improved • 9-second tubes • Indonesian legend
Sebatu
🌋 Nias big wave • Outside the bay • Heavy and hollow
8-Frame
🌊 East Nias tube right • Near Hilistaro • Less-visited quality