Plan a spring trip to Sumba Island. Explore neighborhoods, restaurants, places to stay and practical local advice from AVARA's full editorial guide.
Sumba Island — TL;DR
Indonesia's remote animist island, where NIHI Sumba's 27 thatched villas meet Occy's Left, one of the world's most legendary surf breaks.
Sumba Island overview
May to October (dry season) offers the best conditions for surfing and hiking to waterfalls.
Sumba has two airports — Tambolaka in Southwest Sumba and Waingapu in East Sumba — and the island must be explored with a driver-guide since most roads aren't on Google Maps.
Indonesian Rupiah (Rp)
Indonesian; Kambera and other Sumbanese languages are spoken.
WITA (UTC+8)
Sumba's hospitality scene continues to attract world-class luxury travelers, with NIHI Sumba's award-winning 27 thatched villas and Lelewatu's high-end offering reflecting the island's status as one of the world's most exclusive remote getaways, while its legendary Occy's Left surf break and Marapu animist culture preserve Sumba's raw, undeveloped character.
Where to eat, drink & do in Sumba Island
Sumba Island neighborhoods
NIHI Sumba estate Home to NIHI Sumba's 27 thatched villas set in almost 500 acres of wilderness, one of the world's 50 best hotels.
Occy's Left surf district Home to the epic surf break known as Occy's Left, alongside Pantai Kerewei, Waingyapu, Pero and Marosi.
Lamboya & Lapopu district Home to the Matayangu Waterfall, Lamboya Rice Fields, and the Lapopu Waterfall.
Practical info for Sumba Island
Getting around in Sumba Island? Sumba has two airports — Tambolaka in Southwest Sumba and Waingapu in East Sumba — and the island must be explored with a driver-guide since most roads aren't on Google Maps.
When to go in Sumba Island? May to October (dry season) offers the best conditions for surfing and hiking to waterfalls.
What's changing now in Sumba Island? Sumba's hospitality scene continues to attract world-class luxury travelers, with NIHI Sumba's award-winning 27 thatched villas and Lelewatu's high-end offering reflecting the island's status as one of the world's most exclusive remote geta
Seek out Weekly village markets in Sumba Island? Joining the community at the weekly market or visiting craftspeople in their workshops, an authentic look at Sumbanese life beyond the luxury resorts.
Base yourself in NIHI Sumba estate in Sumba Island? Home to NIHI Sumba's 27 thatched villas set in almost 500 acres of wilderness, one of the world's 50 best hotels. Known for world-class luxury wilderness resort.