Thunders
Thunders earns its ominous name when solid south swells pour into the Playgrounds zone—a heavy, bowling left that detonates over shallow reef with serious intent. This is where the Mentawai experience steps up in intensity, demanding committed takeoffs and fast tube navigation. The wave jacks up dramatically on the takeoff before pitching into thick, grinding barrels that seem to thunder with each impact. It's not for the faint-hearted, but for surfers ready to match its power, Thunders delivers some of the most satisfying tubes in the island chain.
Thunders 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
- 195° - 245°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.2m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (115°)
- Offshore range
- 75° - 155°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.6m - 1.6m
- Danger below
- 0.3m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Boat charter from Padang. Playgrounds area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Thunders?
The Thunders profile favors mid to high tide, ideally between 0.6m and 1.6m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session. The profile flags a low-tide hazard below 0.3m.
What wind direction is offshore at Thunders?
The Thunders profile uses wind from ESE (115°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 75° to 155°. 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 Thunders?
The Thunders scoring profile favors swell from SW (195° to 245°), a swell-height range of 1.2m 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 Thunders?
The main season at Thunders is Apr-Oct. April-October. Needs solid swell to work properly.
How do I get to Thunders?
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. Boat charter from Padang. Playgrounds area.
What kind of wave is Thunders?
Thunders is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
April-October. Needs solid swell to work properly.
Getting There
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