Pistols
Pistols is a super fun right reef break in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands, offering short but good barrels followed by nice turn sections. The wave is one of the more forgiving breaks in the area, making it popular during charter trips as a warm-up or wind-down session. Consistent SW swell and easterly trade winds create regular surfable conditions during the April-October season.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (230°)
- Direction range
- 210° - 250°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 1.8m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m
- 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 Pistols?
Pistols works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Pistols?
Offshore wind at Pistols blows from the ESE (112°). Anything in the 82° to 142° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Pistols?
Pistols wants SW swell (210° to 250°) between 0.9m and 1.8m, with a period of 14s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Pistols?
The main season at Pistols 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 Pistols?
Fly into PDG, then allow about 0 minutes by road, plus a boat transfer (around $200 USD). Charter boat from Padang (~10hr) or speedboat (~4hr)
What kind of wave is Pistols?
Pistols 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
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