Nihi Sumba, voted the best resort in the world - here's why

 

Let yourself be transported to a place that perfectly blends unbelievable fantasy and rich reality:

Nihi Sumba, a resort that began as a humble surf camp in the 80’s and has progressed to become one of the best luxury hotels and surfing destinations in the world.

When you look at the sublime photos and videos of this secluded luxury resort, you can almost taste the softness of the sea-swept air, hear the gentle crashing of waves, feel yourself with a surfboard beneath your feet and the sun on your skin.

Enjoy the perfect waves that break directly out the front of the resort

Enjoy the perfect waves that break directly out the front of the resort

Whether you are looking for the surf trip of a lifetime, adventure through an almost untouched slice of paradise, or to soak up one of the most incredible spa atmospheres around, Nihi Sumba is definitely a top contender for your next vacation.

There are many hidden paradises in the world, though, so why is Nihi Sumba different? And, is it worth the the accompanied price tag? Spoiler alert - YES

Let’s dive into some of the amazing things you can expect during your luxury retreat on the secluded island of Sumba.

Getting to Nihi Sumba

Getting_to_Nihi_Sumba.png

Unlike some secluded destinations, Nihi Sumba seems almost too easy to access, a mere 90 minute drive, (on a relatively well kept road!) from the airport. Offering daily, direct flights from Bali.

Although somewhat easy to access, Sumba could be considered remote, simply because it is rather uncorrupted by development and tourism. It is said to have maintained the original essence of what Bali used to be.

You will reach Sumba by flying from Bali to Tambolaka. We will help you organise this flight as our travel experts have done it a number of times and would love to share their knowledge. To make your transit journey to and from the resort even more pleasurable, you will be granted access to the Nihi lounges in Bali and Sumba.

After arriving at the Bali Domestic airport you will find the Nihi Sumba staff, who will help you check in. You will be taken through the express queue ensuring you don’t waste your valuable holiday time standing in lines. If you have a direct connecting flight, the staff will help you check your bags in and show you to your next gate.

Upon landing in Sumba you will be welcomed by the Nihi staff, who will escort you to the hotel and get you settled into your accommodations.

Dining at Nihi Sumba

The food at Nihi Sumba is famous for being incredibly fresh and inventive.

At the resort, you will have three options for dining:

Ombak: Breakfast + Dinner

An outdoor restaurant, where you can sit at tables or the bar. Breakfasts include many options so that there is something for everyone.

An outdoor restaurant, where you can sit at tables or the bar. Breakfasts include many options so that there is something for everyone.

Nio Beach Club + Pool: Lunch

A cool, refreshing place to dine, with epic views of the ocean, sunset and local village life.

A cool, refreshing place to dine, with epic views of the ocean, sunset and local village life.

Kaboku: Dinner:

This beachfront sushi bar is an experience of fresh seafood and unparalleled views. Reservations are required as space is limited.

This beachfront sushi bar is an experience of fresh seafood and unparalleled views. Reservations are required as space is limited.

Overall, you will find many delicious options, ranging from international to local dishes. You also can chose to participate in themed events which include a dinner specific to the occasion.

In addition, you can request private dining experiences for an extra fee.


Things to do at Nihi Sumba

Nihi Sumba is located on a 1.5 mile crescent of pristine, untouched beach.

Above the beach, there is a fitness facility, lap pool and yoga pavilion. At the watersport centre, you can book jet skiing, snorkelling, sailing, fishing, diving, surfing and horse riding adventures. There is also a boutique which sells unique products of local craftsmanship and a gourmet chocolate factory!

Always dreamt of going horse riding along pristine beaches? Now you can at Nihi Sumba

Always dreamt of going horse riding along pristine beaches? Now you can at Nihi Sumba

Around the island, there is a vast array of incredible activities to choose from: Hiking through the jungle to secluded waterfalls, afternoon picnics in the wild, river paddle-boarding, cycling around the villages, taking sea voyages, diving and snorkelling and of course, the incredible resort spa.

Due to the secluded nature of this island, cultural immersion is easily arranged. Take a cooking class or language lesson to experience some of the richness of the culture.

For a complete guide to the activities, click HERE for the full brochure:

But of course, one of the highlights of Nihi Sumba are the waves. Whether you are a pro or a beginner, the incredible waves surrounding the resort will cater to your skill level.

Surf perfect barrels right out the front of Nihi

Surf perfect barrels right out the front of Nihi

Straight out the front of the resort is a world class left-hander, Occy’s Left. Named after the legend and world champion Mark Occhilupo. On its day, this grinding left hander offers steep barrel sections as well as long rip-able walls. When the conditions are dialled, you can score yourself a 300m long ride directly in front of your friends and family perched at the Nihi Beach bar.

The resort limits the number of surfers to 10 per day so the worry of a crowded line up is a thing of the past. The team on hand at the surf shack will make sure you are well looked after and guided in the right direction to that perfect take-off spot. This is truely an experience every surfer needs to indulge in.

Children

The resort offers childcare, consisting of exciting and educational activities, These include soccer, volleyball, snorkelling, boating, fishing, visiting villages, hiking to the waterfall, pony rides, mountain biking, exploring the reefs on low tides and collecting fossils and shells. For younger children, there is a child-friendly swimming pool, board games, arts, crafts and beach toys.  

Lots to do for the kids, including a visit to the horse stables

Lots to do for the kids, including a visit to the horse stables

Babysitters are also available, with several days of advance notice but we will make sure that is all organised for you if needed.

Out of all the luxury resorts in the world, Nihi Sumba is the place to visit if you are looking for an opportunity to escape to the “edge of wildness”. Whether you are visiting to ride the waves in one of the best surf spots in Indonesia, or simply wish to experience one of the most unique resorts in the world, you will find that Nihi Sumba is a distinctly magical destination to explore.

Get in touch with one of our travel experts and let us help you book your dream holiday