Hollow Tree’s Resort

Located on the southern end of one of the smallest developed islands in the Mentawais, Hollow Tree’s Resort gets its name from the barreling world-class right-hander that sits just out front. Hollow Tree’s, the wave, is also known as HT’s or Lance’s Right and is one of the premier waves in the Mentawais, if not the entire planet. The stretch of coastline upon which Hollow Tree’s Resort sits on is complete with white sand, palm trees, and crystal clear water with tropical reef, making it one of the top surf resort destinations in the region.

Hollow Tree’s Resort consists of four 2 bedroom villas along beautiful Katiet beach. The villas would be considered more on the luxurious side and are made of natural or recycled materials. Each villa can fit up to four people and has one bathroom. White walls and ceilings along with windows give them an open, breezy vibe, and each room is outfitted with air conditioning. Each villa also comes with its own private patio and pool, making for a nice place to relax while also being able to check on the swell conditions. Hollow Tree’s Resort also has a new addition to their accommodations. Villa Onu is a 4 bedroom luxury beachfront villa that fits up to 8 people. Villa Onu also features a kitchen, dining room, movie room, private pool, and massage room.

Lance’s Right alone would be all one would need for an amazing surf trip, but the resort also touts 10 world-class waves within a short boat or bike ride. Hollow Tree’s Resort has two boats to take you to some of the surrounding breaks. Notable waves include Shipwrecks, Bintangs, Macaronis, Beach Break, Cobra, The Surgeon’s Table, The Office, and many more. In general, there is no shortage of spectacular waves to be had in the Mentawais,

Lessons and coaching are also available at Hollow Tree’s Resort. There are a variety of more mellow, gentle waves in the area, and lessons are done in waves that suit your ability. Out-of-the-water training and education is available where one will learn about the tide and swell conditions, how waves are formed,  and anything else that goes into becoming a better surfer. There’s a surf shop on site that offers boards and other gear to rent or buy. It also offers ding repair, souvenirs,  and anything else you might need for the ocean and waves.

Hollow Tree’s Resort is all-inclusive, with meals being served at the oceanfront restaurant and bar that looks right our at Lance’s Right.  Ingredients are locally sourced and organic, with many dishes featuring seafood and fresh fruits and vegetables. The resort serves three meals a day with a menu that’s Indonesian, French, and Thai-influenced. Beer and cocktails are also available to order at the bar.

The Mentawais is known for its fishing and Hollow Tree’s has that as one of its major offerings. It’s also set up for yoga and yoga retreats, Other non-surfing activities include snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, and scooter rides through the jungle. The resort also has a ping pong table, pool table, board games, and massages on offer.

April through September is considered the prime months in the Mentawais, with October and March considered ‘shoulder season’. Waves can generally be found yeard round, especially with boat access. May, June, and July are considered prime months for the best breaks.

Getting there entails flying into the Minangkabau International Airport at Padang, Indonesia. From there you have several options at different price points for making the boat ride to Sipora island and Hollow Tree’s Resort. Transportation to and from Padang can be arranged through the resort.