When most people think of the Mentawai Islands, they think of surfers. And for good reason — the archipelago off the coast of West Sumatra is home to some of the most consistent, powerful, and perfectly shaped waves on earth. But here is something that surprises many visitors: the Mentawais can be just as extraordinary for couples seeking a remote island escape, and for families looking for an adventure unlike anything else they have ever done together.
The key is choosing the right resort. Not every property in the Mentawais is set up to cater to different types of travellers — many are designed exclusively for hardcore surfers. Nasara Resort on Awera Island is different. Built from the ground up as a premium beachfront property, Nasara delivers a world-class experience for surfers, couples, and families alike — all in one of the most beautiful island settings in Indonesia.
Why the Mentawai Islands Are Perfect for More Than Just Surfers
The Mentawai Islands are not just a surf destination — they are one of Indonesia’s most spectacular island escapes. The archipelago stretches across more than 70 islands off the coast of West Sumatra, with pristine coral reefs, lush jungle interiors, and a warm, welcoming local culture that makes every visit feel genuinely special.
For surfers, the draw is obvious: over 70 named breaks, warm water year-round, and consistent Indian Ocean swell that produces world-class waves from powerful barrels to long, forgiving rollers. But even for guests who never touch a surfboard, the Mentawai offer a compelling reason to make the journey:
- Snorkelling directly over some of Indonesia’s most pristine coral reefs
- Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in crystal-clear, calm lagoon water
- Island trekking through untouched jungle to traditional Mentawai villages
- Fishing trips with local crews in some of the most biodiverse waters in Southeast Asia
- Complete digital detox in a genuinely remote, unspoiled island environment
- Watching world-class surf from the beach — an experience that is thrilling even without getting in the water
At Nasara Resort, the experience is designed so that surfers and non-surfers can both have the trip of a lifetime — together.
Nasara Resort for Surfers: World-Class Waves on Your Doorstep
For travelling surfers, Nasara Resort offers one of the most convenient and well-equipped surf bases in the Northern Mentawai region. Situated on Awera Island, the resort sits within easy reach of some of the most iconic breaks in the archipelago — accessible by private speedboat in just 8 to 25 minutes.
Surf Breaks Accessible from Nasara Resort
| Break | Type | Best For |
| Telescopes | Long, powerful left-hander | Intermediate to advanced |
| Icelands | Barrelling reef break | Advanced surfers |
| Suicides | Fast, hollow right-hander | Expert only |
| Hookers | Punchy, consistent reef | Intermediate to advanced |
| Ombak Tidur | Long, forgiving left | All levels |
| Tikus | Fun, accessible reef | Intermediate surfers |
The resort runs two to three guided surf sessions daily using private speedboats and experienced local crews. The team monitors conditions every day to select the best break for that session — meaning guests never waste time or surf poor waves when better options are available nearby. For more on the surf program at Nasara, visit the Surf page.
Nasara Resort for Couples: A Luxury Beachfront Escape
The Mentawai Islands are not a typical couples destination — most resorts are built for groups of surfers, not romantic getaways. Nasara Resort is different. With its 200 meters of private beach, intimate atmosphere, and commitment to exceptional food and service, it has quickly become one of the most popular choices for couples looking for something genuinely off the beaten track.
What Makes Nasara Perfect for Couples
- Private beach on Awera Island — sunrise and sunset views with no crowds
- Executive Ocean Front Master Suite — designed for couples, with private terrace and direct ocean views
- Set menu with 3 main options per sitting at Breakers restaurant — fresh lobster, local fish, and homemade desserts in a beachside setting
- Swimming pool set within the beachfront grounds — the only pool resort in the immediate area
- Yoga sessions and island massage available on request
- Snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding included on our direct reef in front of Nasara — the perfect way to explore the reef together
- Genuinely small guest numbers — most stays host fewer than 28 guests in 12 rooms total, creating an intimate, private atmosphere
For couples who surf, Nasara offers the rare combination of world-class waves and genuine luxury in one package. And for couples where only one partner surfs — or neither does — the resort’s non-surf activity program ensures everyone has an exceptional stay.
Nasara Resort for Families: The Mentawai’s Best Family Resort
Finding a family-friendly resort in the Mentawai is genuinely difficult. Most properties cater to adult surfers only, with limited facilities and accommodation that does not work for families travelling with children. Nasara Resort is one of the very few properties in the archipelago that is genuinely well-suited to family travel.
Executive Ocean Front Penthouse — Nasara’s Family Suite
The centrepiece of Nasara’s family offering is our 3-Bedroom Penthouse — a spacious, purpose-built accommodation option that sleeps up to six guests. The villa offers generous living space, Large Bedrooms, private terrace with panoramic ocean views not 20 meters from the ocean waves, air conditioning throughout, and direct access to the resort’s beachfront.
For families travelling with teenagers or young adults who surf, the Penthouse setup is ideal: experienced surfers can join the guided sessions while younger or non-surfing family members enjoy the beach, pool, snorkelling, and on-shore activities at the resort.
Family-Friendly Activities at Nasara Resort
- Snorkelling the coral reef directly in front of the resort — accessible to all ages and skill levels
- Kayaking and paddleboarding with equipment available to all guests at no extra charge
- Beach time on 200 metres of private, safe beachfront
- Swimming pool with direct ocean views
- Island trekking and mangrove exploration by boat
- Photography experiences to capture the family’s Mentawai memories
- Fishing trips with local crews — always a highlight for younger guests
The resort’s kitchen caters to a wide range of dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free — an important consideration for families travelling with children who have specific dietary needs.
Explore the full range of experiences available at nasararesort.com/experiences/.
Accommodation at Nasara Resort — Suites for Every Traveller
Nasara Resort opened in June 2022 as a purpose-built premium property — not a resort that was incrementally built and improved over many years. Every suite was designed from the ground up with comfort, ocean views, and a genuine sense of place in mind. Nasara is the first and only 4.5 star resort in the Mentawai with achieving in its very short time since opening 158 x 5 star reviews.
Executive Ocean Front Penthouse (250m2)
Nasara’s flagship suite, sleeping up to six guests across three bedrooms. Ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples who want generous space. Features a private terrace with panoramic ocean views, full air conditioning, and direct access to the resort’s beachfront. The go-to choice for family stays at the resort.
Executive Ocean Front Master Suite (130m2)
The most popular choice for couples visiting Nasara. A spacious, well-appointed 2 bedroom suite with private outdoor balcony area and stunning ocean outlook. Multiple guest reviews specifically cite the Master Suite as one of the highlights of their stay — combining comfort with the resort’s extraordinary beachfront setting.
Executive Ocean Front Junior Suite (65m2)
A smartly designed option for solo travellers or couples who want quality without the larger footprint. All the essentials — air conditioning, private bathroom, WiFi, and the resort’s beachfront ambience — are included. The most accessible price point among Nasara’s suite options.
All suites include daily breakfast, high-speed WiFi, and air conditioning. View the full accommodation options at the The Resort page.
Dining at Breakers Restaurant — The Mentawai’s Best Beachside Kitchen
One of the most consistent highlights across Nasara Resort’s 158+ guest reviews is the food. The resort’s beachside Breakers restaurant operates a set menu with 3 main options per sitting. The menu has been built around locally sourced produce — fresh fish direct from local fishermen, lobster, red meats, seasonal vegetables, and house made desserts.
For families and couples alike, the communal dining setup at Breakers creates a warm, social atmosphere that guests consistently describe as one of the most memorable parts of their stay. Or you can have your own table set up beside the ocean on our deck. The kitchen accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requirements on request — unusually considerate for a remote island resort.
How to Get to Nasara Resort — Travel Guide for Families & Couples
Reaching Nasara Resort is simpler than most travellers expect — and the team handles every detail of the journey from airport to beachfront.
- Fly into Padang (Minangkabau International Airport, PDG) in West Sumatra. The Nasara team can arrange airport pickup and accommodation recommendations for your transit night in Padang.
- Take the Mentawai Fast ferry from Padang to Tuapejat on Sipora Island (approximately 3 hours). Alternatively, Susi Air operates twice-weekly flights from Padang to Rokot Airport.
- A private Nasara Resort speedboat meets you at Tuapejat terminal for the 8-minute transfer to Awera Island. A member of the team is always there to greet you on arrival.
The Nasara team is available on WhatsApp (+61 414 655 599) to coordinate every step of the journey. Full travel details are available on the Destination page.
FAQ — Nasara Resort for Surfers, Couples & Families
Is Nasara Resort suitable for families with children?
Yes. The Executive Ocean Front 3-Bedroom Penthouse accommodates families of up to six guests. Non-surf activities including snorkelling, kayaking, beach time, fishing, and island trekking are suitable for a wide range of ages. The kitchen accommodates children’s dietary requirements on request. Note that the resort is best suited to families with older children and teenagers who can engage with the resort’s activities independently.
Is Nasara Resort good for couples who don’t surf?
Absolutely. The resort’s private beach, swimming pool, snorkelling reef, yoga sessions, and set menu with 3 main options per sitting at Breakers make it a genuinely exceptional couples destination even for guests who never enter the surf. Multiple reviews from non-surfing guests specifically highlight the natural beauty, food quality, and staff warmth as the reasons they would return.
What surf level is required to surf at Nasara Resort?
Most breaks accessible from Nasara are best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. However, the local guides tailor each session to the group’s ability level, and some nearby breaks like Ombak Tidur or Tikus are accessible to surfers still developing their skills. The team will always match guests to appropriate conditions for their level.
How many guests does Nasara Resort host at one time?
Nasara Resort keeps guest numbers small — typically no more than 28 guests at any one time across all three suite types. This creates a genuinely intimate atmosphere that distinguishes Nasara from larger, more commercial resort properties in the Mentawai.
How do I book Nasara Resort for a family or couples stay?
Book directly via nasararesort.com/book-now/, or contact the team on WhatsApp at +61 414 655 599. Early booking is strongly recommended — particularly for the 3-Bedroom Villa, which is the most sought-after accommodation at the resort for family and group bookings.
The Best Mentawai Family Resort — The Verdict
The Mentawai Islands deserve to be on more than just surfers’ bucket lists. With the right resort, they offer one of Southeast Asia’s most extraordinary island experiences — raw natural beauty, warm water, pristine reefs, and an authenticity that is increasingly hard to find.
Nasara Resort on Awera Island was built to make that experience accessible to every type of traveller. Whether you are planning a family trip looking for adventure and connection, a couples escape from the ordinary, or a dedicated surf trip to some of the world’s best waves — Nasara delivers on every front.
With 158+ five-star reviews, a 4.8-star Google rating, and a team that genuinely cares about every guest’s experience, it is the most highly rated and most trusted resort in the Northern Mentawai region.
Book your stay at nasararesort.com or contact the team on WhatsApp: +61 414 655 599.