Unwind in Untamed Beauty: A Journey to Tranquility at Nihi Sumba

Nihi Sumba, set along the quiet bay of Nihiwatu Beach, is a secluded island resort surrounded by an unspoiled landscape rich in ancient tribal culture. Spanning 270 hectares, this luxurious property is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of Sumba Island, ensuring that much of the land remains undeveloped and used only for farming and nature explorations. The resort’s mission, “The Freedom to Thrive,” offers guests a personalized experience that allows them to explore, discover, and relax in a way that suits their desires.

The natural beauty of Sumba is central to the resort’s ethos. Set against a lush, varied backdrop, Nihi Sumba combines sustainability with luxury. The resort employs local community members and pays fair wages, significantly boosting the island’s economy. Guests are encouraged to embrace the Sumbanese culture and traditions, and the resort’s operations are designed to protect the environment, with sustainability at the core of its infrastructure. Solar energy powers the property, food waste is composted, and wastewater is reused for irrigation.

The resort’s private villas are positioned to offer uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Each villa is designed with comfort and luxury in mind, featuring expansive spaces, private pools, and floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the outside in. The resort’s famous “Wave,” a left-hand surf break, is one of its most celebrated features, attracting surfers from around the world. To maintain exclusivity, Nihi limits the number of surfers on the wave to just 12 per day, enhancing the experience for those lucky enough to catch it. This commitment to preserving the natural beauty and offering an intimate experience sets Nihi apart as one of the world’s most unique resorts.

The rich history of Sumba is intertwined with the story of Nihi. According to legend, the Marapu, ancient deities of the island, first set foot on the beach where the resort now stands. The Nihiwatu Stone, a sacred boulder used by the Marapu, remains on the beach today, adding a layer of mysticism to the resort’s already enchanting atmosphere. The Sumbanese believe the stone holds the key to predicting the success of the island’s harvests, and it plays a significant role in local ceremonies.

Dining at Nihi is a highlight of the experience. The resort’s all-inclusive approach ensures that guests can enjoy three meals a day, along with beverages and snacks, without additional cost. The main restaurant, Ombak, serves a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes in a relaxed, open-air setting with stunning ocean views. Nio Beach Club offers fresh seafood, grilled meats, and homemade pizzas, while Kaboku, the resort’s Japanese restaurant, provides an intimate omakase dining experience. For those looking for something more private, Nihi offers destination dining, where meals can be enjoyed in secluded locations around the resort, from romantic beach dinners to elaborate group feasts.

Guests at Nihi are invited to engage with the island’s wildlife and environment. Sumba is home to a wide variety of species, including the famous Sandalwood horses, which roam freely across the island. Birdwatchers will delight in the many species of tropical birds that inhabit the island, and the Spa Safari is a favourite spot for spotting the elusive Julang Sumba hornbill. In the surrounding waters, guests can snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, where sea turtles, dolphins, and a rich array of marine life can be found.

For those seeking adventure, the resort offers a wide range of activities, from surfing and paddleboarding to jungle trekking and horseback riding. Guests can also take part in the resort’s turtle release program, which helps protect endangered sea turtles by hatching and releasing them into the ocean. For those who prefer to unwind, the resort’s Spa Safari offers a tranquil escape, with treatments set in a serene jungle environment.

Nihi Sumba is deeply committed to sustainability, ensuring that its operations have minimal impact on the environment. Solar energy powers the property, food waste is composted, and wastewater is reused for irrigation. The resort preserves much of its 270 hectares of land for farming and nature explorations, limiting development to maintain the island’s natural beauty. Through its partnership with The Sumba Foundation, Nihi supports local communities by providing clean water, healthcare, and education, while actively contributing to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism practices.

For further information, visit nihi.com