GETTING HERE

Travel & transfers.

How do I get to Aloita Resort?

Fly to Padang (PDG) in West Sumatra, then take the Mentawai Fast Ferry to Tua Pejat. Our team meets you at the port and transfers you by speedboat to the resort — around 15 minutes. We offer a transfer package covering all logistics from Padang airport.

What days does the ferry run?

The ferry departs from Padang on Sundays at 10am, and on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7am. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours to 4 hours.
The return ferry departs from Tua Pejat at 3pm, arriving in Padang at around 7pm.
The ferry can get quite cool with the air conditioning, so we recommend bringing a light sweater or an extra layer for the journey.

Do I need to stay overnight in Padang?

Yes — the ferry departs early morning, so plan to arrive in Padang the evening before. On the return, the ferry arrives in Padang around 7pm and there are no same-day flights available, so an overnight stay is also required on your way home.

What is included in the transfer package?

The Transfer Package includes all transfers from Padang Airport to Aloita and back, including transfers to and from your hotel in Padang, Fast Ferry tickets, porters, and speedboat transfers between Tua Pejat and the resort. The Fast Ferry includes a 15 kg luggage allowance, plus one surfboard bag up to 15 kg for surfers. Accommodation in Padang is not included.

Are there other ways to get to Aloita?

Yes — private speedboat from Padang, private charter flight to Mentawai Airport (30 minutes from Padang), or private jet. Get in touch and we can help arrange alternatives.

What currency is used at the resort?

We accept major credit cards and USD. There are no ATMs on Simakakang — if you need local currency (IDR), exchange or withdraw cash in Padang before departure.

THE RESORT

General questions.

What is included in the nightly rate?

All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), complimentary morning yoga, use of snorkel gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddles, fresh coconuts, and access to all resort facilities including the bar, TV room, library, table tennis, and billiards.

Is there wifi at Aloita Resort?

Yes — wifi is available in the common areas. There is no wifi in the villas — a deliberate choice. Most guests stop noticing after the first day.

What are the check-in and check-out days?

Standard check-in and check-out days are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, in line with the ferry schedule. If you're travelling another way and would like to arrive or depart on a different day, please contact us directly.

When is Aloita Resort open?

We are open almost year round. We close in November — typically the rainiest month of the year. We also do not accept group bookings in July and August.

What is the best time to visit?

The Mentawais can be visited almost year round. April to October tends to be the most popular time, with the most consistent surf and weather. Outside of this period the resort is quieter and more peaceful.

ACCOMMODATION

Villas & staying.

Are the villas beachfront?

Yes — all villas have direct beach access with the ocean immediately in front, surrounded by palms and beach gazebos.

How many guests does Aloita Resort accommodate?

Aloita has 10 beachfront villas accommodating a small number of guests at a time — keeping it quiet, personal, and uncrowded.

What villas are available?

Villa Aloita (1 bedroom, sleeps up to 3), Villa Murimanua (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 5), Villa Ka Koat (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6), Villa Simagere (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 8), and Sunset Villa (2 bedrooms, private beach, sleeps up to 6).

Is Aloita Resort suitable for non-surfers?

Absolutely — many guests come specifically for the island experience, activities, and pace of life. Surfing is one part of what Aloita offers.

What is Sunset Villa?

Sunset Villa is a private two-bedroom villa on the west side of Simakakang Island — ten minutes by boat from the main resort, on its own stretch of beach. It comes with a dedicated host, private boat and captain, and full access to all Aloita Resort amenities. The same Aloita feeling, completely undisturbed. Sleeps up to 6 guests.

What is Makakan?

Makakan is a separate brand and exclusive-use property created by the founders of Aloita Resort — an architect-designed private estate in the Mentawai Islands. Not a resort, not a hotel. A completely different experience, designed for those wanting total seclusion and a more architectural setting. Entirely yours. Visit makakan.com to find out more.

SURFING

Waves & surf pass.

Do I need a surf pass to surf at Aloita?

Not necessarily. The surf pass is for intermediate and advanced surfers who want to join our guided boat trips to the outer breaks — twice daily, with an experienced guide. If you're a beginner looking for lessons, those are arranged separately. And if you just want to surf our home break right in front of the resort, you don't need a pass — we run a boat for drop-offs.

What waves are near Aloita Resort?

Tikus is our home break — 800 metres from the resort. Within a short boat ride: Telescopes, Scarecrows, Icelands, G4's, Ombak Tidur, and more.

Is Tikus good for beginners?

Yes — Tikus is a mellow left-hander that works for all levels. Gentle and forgiving, with a safe channel. One of the best beginner waves in the Mentawais.

What does the surf pass include?

The Surf Pass includes two guided boat sessions per day to the best available waves in the area, with an experienced surf guide.
Surf Passes are limited to a maximum of 18 surfers per day, so we strongly recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season. Pre-booking guarantees your space and offers a lower rate than booking on arrival. Surf Pass days must be consecutive.

Are surf lessons and coaching available?

Yes — we offer surf lessons and coaching for all levels, from complete beginners to intermediate and advanced surfers. Lessons are also available for children and are adapted to their age, confidence, and ability. Sessions can be arranged in advance or during your stay.

What is the Mentawai surf tax?

Surfers are required to pay a government surf tax of IDR 2,000,000 (approx. USD 130), valid for 15 days. The tax is collected directly by the Mentawai Tourism Office at Tua Pejat Harbour upon arrival.
To avoid waiting at the Tourism Office, we recommend paying the surf tax online before your trip.

Pay the Mentawai Surf Tax online

FAMILIES

Travelling with children.

Is Aloita Resort good for families with young children?

Yes — no cars on the island, warm shallow water, and open unhurried days. Children explore freely and parents actually relax. We regularly host families with babies and toddlers.

Is the Mentawai safe for kids?

Simakakang is malaria-free with no roads or traffic. The resort is staffed around the clock and a local hospital is 15 minutes by boat.

What do children do at Aloita Resort?

Swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, jungle walks, yoga, and exploring the island. On rainy days there's a TV room, table tennis, and pool table.

Can children learn to surf at Aloita?

Yes — our home break is gentle and forgiving with a safe channel. Surf lessons available for all ages with qualified instructors.

Is the food suitable for children?

Fresh fish, tropical fruit, rice, and healthy meals served daily. Dietary restrictions including vegetarian and vegan are accommodated.

DINING

Food & drink.

Are meals included in the stay?

Yes — breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included. Meals are served buffet style so everyone builds their own plate. Fresh fish, tropical fruit, and healthy meals prepared daily by our local kitchen team.

Are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available?

Yes — vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are always available.

What drinks are included?

Complimentary filtered drinking water, coffee, tea, and fresh coconuts are included throughout your stay. Drinking water is provided in your room, with a refill station available in the restaurant.

What extras are available at the bar and lounge?

A wide selection of cocktails, mocktails, and wines at our beachfront cocktail bar. Earthy Andy fresh smoothies also available. These are not included in the room rate.

Can we arrange a private dinner?

Yes — dinner at the jetty is available for couples or small groups. A candlelit dinner over the water with a special menu. Subject to weather and availability — arrange on arrival or in advance.

ACTIVITIES

Experiences & things to do.

What activities are available at Aloita Resort?

SUP through the mangroves, jungle trekking, snorkelling, waterfall trips, sunrise kayaking, surf school, beach spa treatments, yoga, hat weaving, private photo shoots, bonfire nights, and island BBQ dinners.

Which activities are complimentary?

Morning yoga, snorkel gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddles are all complimentary. Weekly bonfire night is also complimentary for all guests. All other activities are available for an additional fee.

Do I need to book activities in advance?

Most can be arranged on arrival. For private jetty dinners and group BBQs, advance booking is recommended.

What is there to do on a flat day?

Flat days are perfect for the waterfall trip, jungle trekking, snorkelling, mangrove SUP, hat weaving, or a spa day. The island always has something to offer.

Is yoga included in the stay?

Yes — morning yoga in our beachfront shala is complimentary for all guests every day. Private sessions available on request for an additional fee.

SAFETY

Health & safety.

Is it safe to travel to the Mentawai Islands?

Yes — the Mentawais are a well-established destination. Simakakang is a small, safe island, malaria-free, with no traffic. The local hospital in Tua Pejat is 15 minutes by boat.

Is Aloita prepared for earthquakes?

Yes — the resort has a high-ground refuge and all staff receive real-time seismographic alerts. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is mandatory for surfers and recommended for all guests.

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is mandatory for surfers and strongly recommended for all guests.

What should I bring?

Light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and any prescription medicines. The resort shop stocks essentials. Surfers should bring their boards — the resort has board storage and a small rental selection.