Indonesia is home to some of the most coveted surf spots in the world. Renowned destinations like Bali's Uluwatu and the Mentawai Islands draw crowds for their beautiful culture, iconic waves and stunning landscapes. However, beyond these popular spots lies Lakey Peak, a hidden gem in Sumbawa that delivers world-class surfing alongside an opportunity to engage with a community deeply tied to the ocean.
Lakey Peak: A Surfer’s Dream Spot
Located on the eastern coastline of Sumbawa, Lakey Peak offers consistent SW swells and glassy conditions, creating an exceptional A-Frame reef break that caters to surfers with the skill to match. The wave breaks flawlessly over a thriving coral reef, providing clean, hollow barrels that challenge advanced surfers while remaining accessible for confident intermediates. Surrounding breaks like Periscopes and Lakey Pipe make this region a playground for wave hunters seeking variety, seclusion and adventure.
What sets Lakey Peak apart from busier surf hubs is its remoteness. To get there from Bali, you are either taking a ferry to a plane to Lombok and then another flight to the airport in Sumbawa, followed by an hour and a half car ride to Lakey Peak. With fewer crowds and a slower pace, it provides a more intimate connection to the water, free from the hustle of Bali’s bustling surf scene. The region’s beauty extends beyond the waves, with white-sand beaches and reef-lined shores offering breathtaking views and tranquil retreats.
Surfing as an Economic Lifeline
While Lakey Peak is a haven for surfers, it is also a vital pillar of the local economy. Tourism tied to surfing sustains the region, providing livelihoods through guesthouses like Villa Gorilla, surf schools, warungs like Fatmah’s, and transportation services. However, the community remains vulnerable to economic challenges due to its dependence on seasonal tourism, limited infrastructure, and a remote location.
These factors underscore the importance of programs that give back to the local community, ensuring tourism benefits extend beyond short-term gains to create lasting impacts.
Why EXC International Chose Lakey Peak
Our nonprofit, EXC International, saw the potential for positive connections at Lakey Peak. Having local friends like Mawar at Fatmah’s and a massive skate project “Salty Wheel” from our friend Lana opened our eyes to the youth there and knew this is something we wanted to be a part of! Surfing here is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life that shapes the identity and resilience of the community. However, many local children lack access to the equipment and resources needed.
Through our surfboard donation programs and youth surfing initiatives, EXC International aims to bridge that gap. By equipping children with surfboards, we provide opportunities for them to explore the waves, learn valuable skills, and develop a lifelong connection to the ocean. Beyond recreation, these programs teach discipline, teamwork, and environmental stewardship—values that empower the next generation to thrive personally and professionally.
Surfing as a Catalyst for Community Development
Surfing at Lakey Peak doesn’t just create skilled wave riders; it builds leaders and stewards of the environment. By introducing and supporting local youth to surfing, we also open doors to potential careers in tourism, coaching, professional surfing and environmental advocacy. These opportunities not only improve individual lives but also help sustain the broader community.
Our initiatives are designed to address deeper challenges, such as limited access to extracurricular activities and economic opportunities. By creating programs that are inclusive and empowering, we hope to foster a sense of pride and possibility among the youth of Sumbawa.
Why You Should Visit Lakey Peak
For surfers seeking world-class waves and an authentic cultural experience, Lakey Peak is a must-visit. Its unspoiled beauty and challenging breaks promise memories that will last a lifetime. But beyond catching waves, visitors have the chance to make a meaningful impact.
By choosing to stay at locally owned accommodations such as Villa Gorilla, dining at warungs like Fatmah’s, or supporting initiatives like those run by EXC International, you contribute directly to the livelihoods of Sumbawa’s residents. Your visit becomes a part of the story—a ripple that strengthens the connection between surfers and the communities that welcome them.
At EXC International, we believe that surfing is more than a sport—it’s an energy force for good. By supporting underserved communities through surfboard donations and youth programs, we aim to create a brighter, more sustainable future for places like Lakey Peak and the surrounding areas.
Are you ready to join us in making waves? Consider sponsoring a surfboard or partnering with us to expand our impact. Together, we can ensure that surfing not only brings joy to the ocean but also transforms lives on the shore.
Find out more by visiting EXCInternational.org
-Daniel & Desirae
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