Surfing in Sumba
Surfing guide to Sumba, Indonesia
Sumba has 1 main surf areas. There are 6 surf spots and 1 surf holidays. Go explore!
Overview of surfing in Sumba
The surfing dream continues on to the island of Sumba. A lot of far less crowded options here, with waves suiting more experienced riders or those with Bali burnout. Surf camps and tours are far less limited with difficult access being the major challenge around the island. Most surfers arrive by boat from Bali, you will berth just to the north of the island at a port called Waingapu. The main road runs like a backbone east and west from here. To the west lies the village of Bondokodi, a hardcore river mouth reef set up with a slightly more forgiving near-identical set up about 2 clicks to the east called Wanjapu. Losmen on the beach has been a recent addition.
If you plan on visitng Sumba, try Nihiwatu Resort.
Another good option with good ratings is Sumba Nautil Resort, that has very good reviews. It is located near the beach, on the south western coast of the Sumba Island and is known for excellent services, great locations and great food.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Sumba
The problem with Sumba is that all of the major breaks lie on the southern coast which makes for an excellent swell window but prevailing winds are always a problem.You just don’t get that sweetheart deal on the Western Bukit that spolis you every time you go to Bali. There are a few breaks to the north of deeply inserted bays that offer good shelter though, some an hour or more hike from the road. Sunset Left is one such ride and well worth the effort. It’s super exposed so try to catch it early before the wind gets the better of it – a massive offshore left that never really closes out, it just breaks further out, holds 15ft+. There are several inshore sections that will come unto their own in a more manageable swell.
Nihiwatu is also the site of a brilliant eco-resort that goes by the same name. It books out quickly and guests have exclusive use of the left-hander right in front. It’s a quality wave that needs a solid swell to really work.
Wanokaka is only one of a group of river mouth / reef / point combos that will keep you guessing in the area. These set ups continue all the way to Millers Right – one of the best rides on the island and manageable for intermediate surfers and longboarders.
The fishing port of Baing on the far eastern side of the island is a bit of a novelty break in maxing swells. In fact the whole SE coast has great options if the southern breaks are way to big for your abilities. Fix the local fishermen up with as many cigarettes as you can carry and they will show you what you need to see.
Sumba surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Sumba is one of the numerous islands in Indonesia, and is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands. It has a total area of 11,153 km² and is located between Sumbawa, Flores and Timor.
