NIHI Sumba

We have already highlighted a few of NIHI’s attractions, but trust us, we are far from done. This place offers activities, experiences and relaxation by the bucket load. They cover every base, make sure that no matter why you have journeyed to the island, they will provide the foundations for the most magical of stays. 

The main reason the resort is where it is can be traced back to the surf spot it overlooks. World-famous, and known as ‘God’s Left’ (what does that mean, we hear you ask), the name says it all. However, what draws most people to this spot is that it is managed by the resort, who, unlike most places in the world, limit the number of surfers allowed in the water at once (if you can, you do, right?). This creates a truly spectacular experience, drawing visitors from every corner of the world to try their hand on the world-class wave. 

Beyond surfing, water activities include kitesurfing, hydrofoiling, deep-sea fishing, free-diving, (stay with us) snorkelling,  stand-up paddle, jet skiing and boat cruises (and breathe). Talk about having all the toys in your own paradise palayground. And best of all? You can enjoy them in crystal clear waters with stunning scenery both above and below the surface. 

For those who prefer exploring above land, the island is also yours to explore. With jaw-dropping waterfalls, rice fields, landscapes and local communities, NIHI organises fantastic treks, bike rides, excursions and more. The resort’s local connections allow you to become fully immersed in the island’s uniqueness.

On the sporting front, there is plenty to keep you entertained, including Golfish. No that is not a typo, we checked. It really is what it might sound like, too. Want to practice your swing? Then this is the unique experience you’ve been craving. Set up on the incredible boat house balcony, you can hit eco-friendly golf balls which slowly biodegrade and feed the fish along the reef out in front (beats the garden net In Club Àguilas’ humble opinion, or ICAHO). Aside from this, there is a magnificent pickleball court located just behind the beach in the heart on nature (and no, we’re not averse to name dropping that other sport that begins with a ‘p’ now and again, but fear not, we haven’t lost our proverbial marbles, there’s more on padel to follow).

It’s not all fun and games at NIHI however, depending on who you ask. Wellness lovers, are you with us? This place is for you too, and we think you will be more than satisfied. With morning yoga in their cliffside pavilion and numerous other classes to choose from, this is the place to switch off your mind or loosen up after your sunrise surf. The boathouse spa is not to be missed, either. They offer a range of treatments from massages, to facials and so on. We all know spa days can be a little pedestrian for those adventure-loving surfers. But this is where the NIHI Spa Safari comes into its own. Sound a little ridiculous to you too? Just wait. Because this safari lark is a mind-blowing experience. Your day can start in one of three ways; by horseback, safari jeep or spirited sunrise trek through rolling hills and expansive rice fields. And from there it only gets better, arrive at the venue and your day is entirely in your hands. Begin with a refreshing swim in the sea followed by breakfast cooked on an open fire, or dive into a selection of treatments, a collection of wellness experiences inspired by the tales of Indonesia’s rich healing history all firmly rooted in the comforts of classic methodologies.

As you can see, there’s plenty to do. But we can’t ignore one final showstopper: the horses. Not the life-changing you’d yearned for? Think again. This experience will change the way you think of the four-legged fillies. Ride down the beach and into the sea with the waves breaking around you and this experience will provide you with memories which last a lifetime.

We hope you need no further enticement for a trip to NIHI Sumba. If you’re worried about a poor game of expectation management from the Club Águilas crew, then we’re prepared to put our collective neck on the line for it, because you won’t be disappointed. The ethos, the staff, the nature and the stunning scenery all help create this enchanting world that will make you never want to leave and return to real life. 

Excuse the cliché, but it might just be necessary here. Coming away from NIHI, you’ll feel a different person than when you arrived. And trust us, that’s a good thing.

Like all great resorts, NIHI recognises the importance of exceptional food. The main Ombak open-air restaurant offers both breakfast and dinner on their outside deck and hosts highlight events such as weekly BBQs. This is the place to refuel after an intense padel battle. Alternatively, escape the midday heat and head to Nio, the beach side lunch spot. Enjoy fish just caught from sea, delicious vegetables or freshly made pizzas from their wood-fired oven. 

If you are here to really treat yourself, then Kaboku is a must. The restaurant offers a special seven-course experience with the freshest ingredients prepared by experienced Japanese chefs. Enjoy the freshest fish and carefully selected ingredients, masterfully crafted and presented in the traditional omakase style. Kaboku's beachside location makes the experience second to none.

Sumbanese Dragon (fruity and fiery)

Made up of largely Sumbanese locals with western ownership and the odd wellness professional thrown in for good measure, this family is one to make you feel completely at home. With everything meticulously thought out, the ship always runs smoothly, and the famous Sumbanese smiles are always on show. The resort often welcomes visiting gurus to provide something different to the usual offering, ensuring you are wonderfully looked after during your stay.

Just the one. But it’s a damn good one. The traditional blue surface emphasises the beauty of the surrounding nature. The trees on either side provide some shade throughout the day and foster the unique jungle padel experience. This rare opportunity to play on a completely isolated court with no distractions is one which should never be knocked down the bucket list. 

Given its remote location and singular padel court, the club currently outsources its coaching to the professional team of Liga Tennis. Based in Bali, these masters are part of the NIHI Sumba family and will give you the skills and awaken your competitive instinct out in the midst of a lush tropical environment. Whether you need to learn the basics or fine-tune your game, the experience and expertise of the Liga Tennis pros will ensure you’ll feel at home out on the court at the edge of wildness. However, NIHI Sumba have also been known to welcome their own private coaches. Most notably, top 50 FIP World Ranking padel player Matty Thomas (from Train with Matty - look him up, it’s worth it) to run a padel training camp at the resort. Catch it at the right time and you might be in for a nice surprise.

With the involvement of Liga Tennis, the padel programme is growing and developing by the day. With the team of experts on site, there is no shortage of enthusiasm, however the number of guests keen to get involved in tournaments and social events does fluctuate throughout the year.

Edge of Wildness Tote Bag – perfectly sized for your padel racket of choice.