HT's
HT's (Hollow Trees, named for the casuarina trees on shore) is the Mentawai Islands' most famous right-hander—a long, mechanical barrel that peels down a pristine coral reef on Lance's Island. The wave offers everything from rippable walls on smaller days to death-defying tubes when it maxes out. Unlike some Mentawai breaks, HT's is remarkably consistent and handles a wide range of swell sizes. The takeoff is predictable, the barrels are forgiving by Indo standards, and the channel makes paddling out relatively easy. Many consider it the best all-round wave in the Mentawais.
HT's 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
- 190° - 260°
- Size range
- 1m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.1m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 1.03×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.6m
Water temp
29°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Day boat from Padang or charter
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at HT's?
The HT's profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.6m 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 HT's?
The HT's profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 50° to 130°. 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 HT's?
The HT's scoring profile favors swell from SW (190° to 260°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3.5m, 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 HT's?
The main season at HT's is Apr-Oct. April-October. E winds offshore.
How do I get to HT's?
The spot profile lists PDG as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $150 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Day boat from Padang or charter
What kind of wave is HT's?
HT's is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
April-October. E winds offshore.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
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🌊 Hidden Mentawai gem • Bowling barrels • Uncrowded lineup
Seven Palms
🌊 Overlooked Sipora right • Often surfed alone • Quality solitude
Telescopes
🔭 200m Mentawai left • Barrel to shoulder • Trade wind perfection
Icelands
🌋 Mentawai big wave • 20ft+ faces • Expert-only reef
Cobra
💥 Near HT's • Short hollow slab • Quick intense barrels
Bintangs
💥 Shallow Mentawai slab • Technical tube ride • Expert barrels
Plan a trip around HT's
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