A guide to the best beaches in Sumatra

Sumatra is the 7th biggest island in the world and you would imagine, you could just go to the sea in any direction and would find the best beaches in Sumatra. But this is not the case. There is just a small selection of great beaches along the coast, some of which are a bit hard to reach.

Whether you’re a surfer, a sunbather, or a cultural explorer, Sumatra’s beaches offer a piece of paradise for every traveler. Explore the diverse coastal landscapes and create lasting memories on this enchanting Indonesian island! Enjoy leisurely strolls along the shoreline, soak up the sun on the sandy beach, and indulge in local seafood at nearby eateries.

Best beaches in Sumatra

Here’s your guide to some of the most captivating beaches and how to reach them:

1. Pulau Weh

Location: Off the Northern tip of Sumatra
Getting There: Fly to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Banda Aceh, then take a ferry to Pulau Weh (3 times daily).
Highlights: Famous for its vibrant coral reefs, it’s a haven for divers and snorkelers. Nice beaches are in Gapang Beach, Pantai Sumur Tiga or in the South at Pulau Weh Paradise.
Where to stay: If you are looking for some restaurants nearby, check Oh Lala Bungalows or Santi Garden Bungalows in Iboih. If you want peace and quiet check our Casa Nemo or Pulau Weh Paradise.

Iboih beach on Pulau Weh

2. Pulau Palambak Besar, Banyak Islands

Location: Singkil, North Sumatra
Getting There: Fly to Medan, then drive 8-10h to Singkil, then speed boat directly to the island or slow boat to Balai and another boat to Palambak. Or you can take the slow ferry from Nias Island.
Highlights: The island of Pulau Palambak Besar offers long white sand beaches with hardly anyone in sight. It is fairly big (3h to circle), so you’ll never feel crowded even if other guests are there. For snorkeling you can do daytrips from your hotel or resort.
Where to stay: MB Palambak Island Resort, The Palambak Dream

3. Sipora Island, Mentawai Islands

Location: Off the western coast of Sumatra
Getting There: Fly to Padang, then take a ferry or speedboat to Sipora Island (only go Tue, Thu and Sat in both directions).
Highlights: Known for its world-class surf breaks and vibrant coral reefs, but non-surfers will enjoy the island as much. The small islands off the coast of Sipora offer pristine beaches, coconut trees and turquiose waters. The paradise beaches you only see in movies.
Where to stay: Crow’s Nest on Sipora or one of the fancy resorts on the small islands such as Awera Resort or Aloita Resort

Awera beach, Sipora Island

4. Krui Beach

Location: South Sumatra
Getting There: Fly to Radin Inten II Airport in Lampung and then drive 6-7h to Krui. You can organise a driver with your accommodation in Krui.
Highlights: It’s a popular spot for surfers, with consistent waves and a laid-back atmosphere.
Where to stay: Kambuna Bungalow, Palma Beach Resort

5. Nias Island

Location: Off the Western coast of Sumatra
Getting There: Fly to Gunungsitoli airport on the island.
Highlights: Enjoy the clear waters and unique culture of the Nias people. South of Afulu is Pantai Pasir Putih (White sand beach) and Laosi-Laosi Beach. In the South of the island you will find Teluk Dalam beach, which is best known among surfers.
Where to stay: Afulu Retreat, Baholo Beach Resort

6. Belitung Island

Location: Off the east coast of Sumatra
Getting There: Fly to H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin International Airport in Tanjung Pandan, Belitung’s main city. From there, explore the island’s beaches and attractions by car or motorcycle.
Highlights: Belitung is famous for its stunning granite rock formations, clear turquoise waters, and pristine beaches such as Tanjung Tinggi, Tanjung Kelayang, and Bukit Berahu. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling, island-hopping tours, and sampling delicious seafood dishes. The beaches in the West are all equally amazing. The beaches in the East are a bit hard to reach.
Where to stay: Swiss Belresort, MaxOneHotels at Belstar Belitung, Sheraton

Belitung Island | © Nicole Mathes, Instagram @weltreisemitkoffer, weltreisemitkoffer.com

7. Nirwana Beach, Padang

Location: South of Padang, West Sumatra
Getting There: From Padang, travel south by private driver to reach Nirwana Beach, situated approximately 15 kilometers away.
Highlights: Nirwana Beach is a hidden gem offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Nestled between lush hills and the Indian Ocean, this beach boasts golden sands, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s an excellent destination for those seeking relaxation and a break from the crowds of Padang.
Where to stay: There are no hotels right at the beach, but you can stay in Padang, e.g. at Ibis, d’Oxville or Santika. Or a bit further at Rimba Ecolodge or Jophira Tintin (both with private beaches).

Best beaches for activities

Relaxing/swimming: Pulau Weh, Sipora Island
Surfing: Nias, Krui
Diving: Only on Pulau Weh
Short on time: Pulau Weh, Nias, Padang
Remote Island: Banyak
Easiest to reach: Belitung, Pulau Weh, Nias
Families: Pulau Weh

Beaches in Sumatra on a map

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Tipps for visiting beaches in Sumatra

Sumatra is a muslim island. Most of the time, it will be appropiate to wear a T-Shirt and shorts while swimming. No thongs and bikini tops. In some of the more expensive resorts on Pulau Weh, Nias or Mentawais it might be ok to swim in a bikini, but please check beforehand with the staff.

Furthermore don’t expect beach vibes like in Bali with smoothie bowls, fancy coffeeshops or boho boutique shops. Sumatra is not that touristy like Bali or Thailand. Most beach destinations usually only offer local eateries and coffeeshops. But Sumatran coffees and food is great, so you should try.