T-Land (also known locally as Besialu or Besialo) is Indonesia’s longest left-hand wave, sitting just offshore from Nemberala village on Rote Island. With multiple sections, crystal-clear waters, and year-round surf vibes, it’s a bucket-list destination for intermediate to advanced surfers.
T-Land Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Nemberala, Rote Island, Indonesia |
| Wave Type | Left-hand reef break |
| Wave Size | Chest high to triple overhead |
| Swell Size (Ocean) | 3 – 12 ft |
| Direction | Left |
| Swell Direction | SW |
| Best Wind | E – SE |
| Best Tides | Low to mid |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Ride Length | Up to 400 meters |
| Fun Factor | 9/10 |
| Crowd Factor | 5/10 |
| Localism Factor | 1/10 |
| Hazards | Coral reef, currents, marine life |
Where is T-Land?
T-Land is located off the southwestern coast of Rote Island, Indonesia, just 500 meters offshore from the laid-back surf village of Nemberala. It sits in one of the most unspoiled parts of the Indonesian archipelago — with long white sand beaches, warm turquoise water, and a quiet vibe far from the Bali crowds.
What Makes T-Land Special?
T-Land is one of Indonesia’s longest left-handers, rivaling waves like Desert Point or G-Land — but much more user friendly and less terrifying. It breaks over a flat coral reef and offers long, rippable walls with occasional barrels. With the right swell, rides can run up to 400 meters, and thanks to multiple take-off zones, crowds tend to spread out.
Is T-Land Crowded?
Short answer yes. T-Land is the most popular wave in the area, being one of Indonesia’s longest lefts, ease of access and constant offshore from the trade winds, T-Land is a popular wave and can get busy.
But, don’t let this put you off. As the reef is so long the wave has different peaks, which break up the crowds. So while there could be 50 total in the water, you could still be surfing a peak with only 10 or 12 people.
How do you get to the lineup at T-Land?
There are 2 options to get to the lineup at T-Land which breaks roughly 500m offshore:.
- Boat Transfer – Included with most surf resorts or arranged via The Boatmen Bar in Nemberala (75,000 IDR return).
- Paddle Out – For the adventurous. Expect a long paddle and reef navigation. Booties recommended.
Most of the resorts include boat transfers to and from T-Land in their nightly rate, which is good cause the resorts are not cheap!
If you are not staying at a resort there are surf boat taxis running all day everyday from the main harbour in Nemberala. The best place to get one is to go to The Boatmen Bar, where they will arrange your journey with one of the local crew. A return trip to the reef is 75,000 IDR and you can surf for as long as you want.
Or you can walk/paddle: While most people go for the boat option, if you don’t mind a longer trip out, then you can do it on your own. This normally requires a bit of walking and a bit of paddling as there are some deeper sections of reef. Just be careful of sharp sticks from old seaweed farms and bits of coral. The jump of the reef when there is a solid swell can also be pretty daunting.
What are the best times of year to surf T-Land?
T-Land can break throughout the year, but like most of Indonesia, for more consistent swells and offshore winds, you will want to visit in the peak season.
Peak Season:
- May to October (dry season)
- Consistent waves and ideal east-northeast winds
- Warm air temperatures (26°C to 27°C) and comfortable water temperatures
Off-Season:
- November to April
- Can still offer good waves, but less consistent
- Higher chance of onshore winds and rain
The different sections of T-land
T-Land has 4 main sections along the reef, which with ideal swell conditions all link up to form Indonesia’s longest left. On normal size days these peaks spread the crowd out along a long section of reef. The sections of T-Land surf spot are known as:
- The Point – This section is the first surfable part of the wave, which breaks fast and steep on a shallower section of the reef and can barrel in the right conditions.
- The Steeple (a.k.a. The Pyramid) – The second section where the wave fattens into triangle frames and open walls perfect for big open turns.
Magic Mountain (a.k.a. The Mountain) – The third section that grows in size and can offer some backdoor tube sections in the largest swells. - Inner Tubes (a.k.a. Banana) – The final section of the T-Land left, this section wraps tight around the end section of reef. In big swells this section is a playground of rippable lefts. On normal days it can be great for more beginner surfers.
How to Get to T-Land from Bali or Jakarta
- Fly to Kupang (KOE) from Bali (1h45m) or Jakarta (2.5–3h).
- Take a short Wings Air flight or ferry to Rote.
- Drive to Nemberala (approx. 1 hour from Ba’a port or airport).
- Boat taxi out to the reef!
👉 See our full “How to Get to Rote” travel guide here
Surfing Etiquette and Safety at T-Land
While Rote is still a relatively untouched and remote island, there is no denying that it is not as quiet as it was just a few years ago. As more accommodation options open and as the journey becomes easier, more people are discovering our amazing island, meaning the lineups can sometimes be busy.
The lineup at T-land has long been a friendly place, and we all want to keep it that way. So here are a few tips to help you navigate the lineup and have the best session at T-land.
Respect the few local surfers there are: There are not many local surfers in Rote, and they are the ones with the biggest smiles on their faces in the lineup. They all work hard to make money for their families, driving boats for resorts, guiding guests to the best surf spots, and generally making sure we all have an epic time here in Rote. So when they get the chance to surf, make sure you let them get waves.
Respect the lineup and take turns: T-land has multiple peaks that spread along the reef and disperse the crowd. Once you have had a wave, avoid paddling straight back to the top of the peak, sit wide of other people, let them get waves and work your way back to the top. You don’t want to be that person constantly paddling past people and taking every wave. Sharing is caring.
Avoid paddling directly to the top of the peak from the boat: The surf taxis will drop you off anywhere you like along the reef. When you jump of the boat, be conscious of people already in the water who have been waiting for a wave. There are few things more frustrating than watching 5 people jump of the boat at the peak and paddle for the first waves that come through.
Be aware of your skill level and don’t paddle out if conditions exceed your abilities: While T-land is certainly not the heaviest wave in Indonesia, it still has a way of putting us in our place. Know your limit, there’s nothing wrong with sitting a big session out.
Bring a first aid kit for minor injuries: T-land breaks over reef, and while it is a relatively deep reef, there are some shallow inside sections, so reef cuts are common. There are limited medical supplies and services in Nemberala, so having a basic first aid kit is a great idea.
Be sun-smart: use high SPF sunscreen and stay hydrated: When the waves are pumping, T-land can break all day thanks to consistent offshore trade winds and the ability to break on all stages of the tide. Don’t get your session cut short cause of sunburn.
Beyond Surfing: Exploring Rote Island
Rote isn’t just for surfers—it’s a paradise for slow travelers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers. Here’s what to do when the swell drops (or your arms need a break):
- Explore Bo’a Beach – Just around the corner from T-Land, Bo’a offers raw beauty and a quieter vibe. Great for sunsets, shell collecting, and swimming.
- Visit Oeseli Village & Telaga Nirwana – Head to the southern tip of the island for mangroves, hidden salt lakes, and a truly untouched atmosphere.
- Ride a Scooter Through Palm Lanes – The backroads of Rote are lined with palm trees, traditional houses, and curious kids waving as you pass. A great way to see village life.
- Watch a Sasando Performance – The Sasando is a unique Rotenese instrument made from palm leaves. Catch a performance if you get the chance—it’s mesmerizing.
- Support Local Weavers – Rote is known for its hand-woven ikat textiles. Many villages welcome visitors to watch the process or buy directly from the women who make them.
- Relax at Local Warungs – Try fresh grilled fish, the spiciest sambal, and the island’s famous lontar syrup—served in everything from coffee to sticky sweets.
Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
As a surfer visiting T-Land, it’s important to practice responsible tourism:
- Respect the local environment and wildlife
- Minimize plastic use and dispose of waste properly
- Support local businesses and communities
- Be mindful of water and energy consumption
