Who has been? I am looking to book a trip over in that area for my 50th. Macaronis looks like a pretty good place to land camp with several waves near by. I know there are a lot of you who have traveled this region or surrounding areas that can share some great advice here! I would consider a boat as well but I am more than likely planning a solo trip so that is not totally an ideal situation compared to a land camp.
Advice is appreciated!
There's no question, Macaraonis Resort is awesome. A well managed resort and an incredible left on your door step. But the focus is 95% on that wave rather than the regions other waves. That said, Green Bush (a heavy left) you'll have the chance to surf once or twice if you're lucky. Its swell direction sensitive and needs a high tide to break. But Maca's is genuinely the best left in the region for 95% of visiting surfers. Everyone loves it. Works on all swells and tides. Super consistent too.
On the flip side, Kandui Resort is in a completely different surf region to Macas. Its located in the Northern Ments (aka Playgrounds). You wont surf Macas but there are 20+ waves you will have access to. Lots of variety. Its off the chart! No place like it. And if the gods are shining down on you, there's a chance you'd score "Rifles".
I wouldn't necessarily say Kandui Villas is worth the extra money. It's the most luxurious resort in the area - but its by far the most expensive resort too. On the same island is Kandui Resort which is more affordable and has direct access to 3 waves - Four Bobs (fun right), Karambat Left & A-frames (left and right). You're also the closest camp to Rifles & you're a 5 minute boat ride from Kandui Left (Nokandui). Its owned & operated by a nice American called Ray Wilcoxen.
If you have the time, check out this article which has a complete list of all the surf camps and resorts in that part of the Ments:
https://www.surfcampsumatra.com/blog/mentawai-surf-camps-northern-region-playgrounds
Try and head out there before Australia's borders open!
And as a single surfer, don't do a boat trip. Good luck!