Things To Do
in Simeulu

Freshly caught fish grilled over charcoal and brushed with spicy-sweet sambal and local herbs; available at beachside warungs in Sinabang and coastal villages.

Must-Try!

Fragrant spiced rice often served with curried fish or beef, influenced by Acehnese spices—look for local variations in village eateries.

A raw fish salad marinated in lime, chili, and shallots (like a local ceviche); best when made with the morning's catch at small seafood stalls.

Generally the best time to visit: calmer seas, more consistent sunshine, good conditions for snorkeling, diving and surfing. Outdoor activities and boat travel are more reliable.

Expect more frequent heavy rain, rougher seas, and occasional canceled boat services. Some surf spots still work, but visibility for diving and snorkeling can drop.

April/May and October/November can be changeable—short rain showers interspersed with sunny windows, and fewer tourists. Check local weather and ferry schedules.

Short hikes along coastal ridges that offer panoramic ocean views and sunset vantage points; trails are often informal and best done with a local guide.

Gentle walks through mangrove areas for birdwatching and observing coastal ecosystems—good for easy half-day excursions.

Combine village visits with paths leading to secluded beaches—these gentle hikes provide cultural encounters and scenic beach access.

The island's small airport serving Sinabang with occasional scheduled flights from Banda Aceh or Medan via regional carriers; flight frequency is limited and schedules can change.

Major regional airport on the Aceh mainland offering more frequent connections to Medan, Jakarta and domestic hubs; many visitors transfer through Banda Aceh and continue to Simeulue by short flight or ferry/boat connections.

A larger international gateway on Sumatra with many domestic and some international flights; travelers sometimes connect through Medan to reach Banda Aceh and onward transport to Simeulue.

The island's indigenous communities with their own local dialects and customs; many families have long-standing ties to fishing and agriculture.

Culturally and linguistically linked to the broader Aceh region; Islam is a central part of identity and daily life.

Occasional traders and seasonal workers from other parts of Sumatra or Indonesia who live and work on the island.

Surfing is a growing attraction with reef and point breaks that appeal to experienced surfers; local knowledge is important for safe sessions.

Soccer is widely played and followed in villages and towns—common informal matches on beaches or fields.

Both a livelihood and a pastime—traditional fishing techniques and community fishing form an important part of island life.

Vegetarian options are available but limited; request meals without fish or meat (say 'tanpa ikan/daging') and rely on vegetable curries, tempeh, tofu, and plain rice. Be explicit about no fish sauce or shrimp paste in dishes.

Vegan choices can be found in basic form—steamed rice, cooked vegetables, and tempeh—but check for coconut milk and fish-based seasonings; communication in Indonesian helps avoid mix-ups.

Simeulue is part of Aceh province where Islamic dietary rules are commonly observed; pork is rare and most food will be halal, but always ask if unsure.