Hideaways is a reliable swell magnet in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands, offering plenty of barrel opportunities on a quality left reef break. While less famous than neighbouring Kandui Left and Rifles, Hideaways delivers consistent waves with good tube riding potential. The break is a great alternative when the more renowned spots are crowded, providing a quieter session in one of the world's most wave-rich areas.
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Charter boat from Padang (~10hr) or speedboat (~4hr)
The Hideaways 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.
The Hideaways 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.
The Hideaways scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 230°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 2.4m, 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.
The main season at Hideaways 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.
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)
Hideaways is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
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.
🌊 Most exposed Mentawai • Low-season barrels • Sculpted right tubes
☠️ Most dangerous in Indo • Low tide death • Expert barrels only
🌊 Playgrounds right • Short barrels, nice turns • Fun warm-up wave
🌊 Siberut easy left • Great intermediate wave • Tropical backdrop
🎯 200m flawless rights • Precision swell angle • Mentawai crown jewel
🌊 Playgrounds fun right • Almond barrels • Two-turn combos