Sarang Gantung Island, also known locally as Sarang Alu, is a hidden gem in the Banyak Islands chain, Aceh Singkil. Strategically located as a border island between Aceh and Nias, this destination offers a rare combination of untouched natural beauty and challenging wave potential, making it an attractive choice for true adventurers.
Administratively, Sarang Gantung Island is located in the West Pulau Banyak District, Aceh Singkil Regency. Its position at the tip of Tuanku Island makes it the last island in the Banyak Islands chain that borders directly on Nias waters. Its existence on the outermost line is what gives it unique and challenging wave characteristics.
Although its size is not too big, Sarang Gantung has a stretch of fine and sloping white sand, decorated with lush coconut trees that create a peaceful tropical atmosphere. The environment here is truly pristine and untouched by the hustle and bustle of mass tourism, suitable for those who want to escape the crowds and be at one with nature.
Access to Sarang Gantung Island is not for everyone. Its distance is quite far from the district center and the condition of the waves around the island which are often "ferocious" make it rarely visited. It takes special skills to navigate the boat, even by speedboat the journey can take around 1.5 hours from the nearest departure point in the Banyak Islands.
However, it is precisely behind the challenge of access that lies its main attraction for the surfing community. Reports of big and strong waves on the edge of the island are a clear signal of the potential for a top-class surf break that is still waiting to be fully explored. Plus, its proximity to Ujung Lolok and Bangkaru, two famous surf spots in the Banyak Islands that are known to produce spectacular barrel waves, further confirms that the waters around Sarang Gantung have the ideal geographic and swell conditions for the formation of powerful waves.
Therefore, if the surf break potential here is developed or explored further, it is likely that the waves will be suitable for Intermediate to Advanced surfers. Good wave reading skills, strong duck dives, and experience conquering fast reef breaks will be the main capital. This is definitely not an arena for beginner surfers.
For surfers captivated by the challenging waves and natural beauty of the Banyak Islands, especially the untouched surf potential around Sarang Gantung Island, Diamond Island Eco Resort is an unrivaled accommodation option. Strategically located on Palambak Besar Island and with a commitment to sustainable tourism, the resort not only provides comfortable and eco-friendly accommodation, but also acts as a gateway to world-class surfing adventures. With complete facilities, experienced surf guides and a boat service ready to take you to various breaks – even the most challenging – Diamond Island Eco Resort ensures you have an intense, safe and unforgettable surfing experience in one of Indonesia’s hidden gems.