At Sumba Beach Kerewe we are often asked how far away the surf breaks are from the retreat - and we always answer “right out front”.

Kerewe Beach (Pantai Kerewei) in Sumba, Indonesia, is a gem for surfers looking for uncrowded waves and a raw, natural vibe. Located in West Sumba Regency, this beach faces south into the Indian Ocean, catching consistent swells that roll in from southern storms. It’s about an hour’s drive from Waikabubak or roughly 73 km (2 hours) from Tambolaka Airport, making it accessible yet still off the beaten path.

The surf at Kerewe Beach is a reef break offering both rights and lefts, with conditions heavily influenced by tides and swell direction. The waves are known for their power—often described as thick and punchy - breaking over a shallow coral reef. This makes it more suited for intermediate to advanced surfers, though beginners can paddle out on smaller days if they’re cautious. The sweet spot is mid-to-high tide with a southwest swell (3-6 feet), where the rights can peel nicely for up to 500 metres, especially when offshore southeast trade winds kick in during the dry season (April to October). June through September often delivers the cleanest, most consistent surf, with swells sometimes hitting 8-10 feet on bigger days. Low tide can get sketchy due to the exposed reef, so timing matters.

Unlike hyped spots like Occy’s Left at Nihi Sumba, Kerewei stays quiet - crowds are rare, and you might share the lineup with just a handful of locals or travellers. The wave quality is reliable and versatile, offering fun, rippable sections when it’s on.

Although the surf at Kerewe Beach is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers, there are still plenty of options for beginners. Directly out front of Sumba Retreat Kerewe but close to shore are gentle smaller rolling waves in the bay. This is perfect for beginners at higher tides.

If you do decide to do some surf exploring in the area we can arrange transport either by boat, car or scooter. We have a selection of surfboards and standup paddle boards for hire and we also have surf instructors who live in close vicinity who can help you on your way.

If you have any questions about surfing at Kerewe Beach please get in contact with us on WhatsApp +62 853 3923 4685 or email info@sumbaretreat.com