Surf Camps in Sandaun

Sandaun, on the north coast of Papua New Guinea, offers a remote and uncrowded surfing experience. With consistent monsoon swells from November to April, it's a paradise for surfers seeking adventure and a connection with nature.

The Sandaun Surf Scene

Sandaun, also known as Sundown, is a province on the north coast of Papua New Guinea, bordering Indonesia. It's a remote and relatively undeveloped region, which means one thing for surfers: uncrowded waves. The surf scene here is low-key and centered around the town of Vanimo. It was the expat logging community that first discovered the quality surf on this mountainous coastline, and it has since become a destination for surfers looking for an authentic, off-the-grid experience.

The Waves

Sandaun is blessed with a variety of surf breaks, thanks to the consistent monsoon swells from the northwest. The coastline is dotted with reef breaks, point breaks, and beach breaks, offering something for everyone. The most well-known spots are near Lido Village, just a short drive from Vanimo. Here you'll find Lido's Right and Lido's Left, two classic point breaks that can offer long, peeling rides. The waves in Sandaun are generally fun-sized, making it a great place to escape the heavy crowds of more popular surf destinations.

Best Time to Go

The prime surf season in Sandaun runs from November to April. This is when the monsoon season brings consistent groundswells to the north coast of Papua New Guinea. During these months, you can expect reliable waves and warm, tropical weather. The water temperature is always warm, so you can leave your wetsuit at home.

Who Is It For?

Sandaun has a reputation for being a destination for the adventurous surfer, but it's suitable for a range of skill levels. While some of the reef breaks can be challenging and are best left to experienced surfers, there are also more forgiving waves that are perfect for beginners and intermediates. The variety of breaks means that you can always find a spot that suits your ability and the conditions.

What Makes Sandaun Special?

What truly sets Sandaun apart is the unique cultural experience and the sense of adventure. This is not your typical surf trip. You'll be surfing in a pristine, natural environment, surrounded by lush rainforest and friendly locals. The surf culture here is deeply connected to the local community, and surfers are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions. The Surfing Association of Papua New Guinea (SAPNG) has a surf management plan in place to ensure that surfing remains sustainable and benefits the local communities. This means you can feel good about your surf trip, knowing that you are supporting a positive and responsible surf tourism model.