The Sanubari: A Hidden Gem in Sumba, Indonesia

Why Visit?

For a toes-in-the-sand escape on the serene shores of Sumba, this location represents one of Indonesia’s last wild frontiers, attracting discerning travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Setting the Scene

The Sanubari’s seclusion is part of its charm. To arrive, travelers first fly to Bali, followed by a 50-minute turboprop flight to Tambolaka, the main gateway to Western Sumba. Afterward, it’s a scenic two-hour drive south through quaint towns until you reach the gates of the resort, nestled in a lush palm-studded reserve. Here, guests are welcomed by a stunning 1.5-mile stretch of pristine white sand, bordered by rice paddies and rocky cliffs, with surfers enjoying the turquoise waves in the distance.

The Backstory

The Sanubari emerged as an appealing mid-range option for visitors to Sumba. Previously, staying on the island either meant spending a fortune at high-end resorts or roughing it in basic accommodations. Rowan and Micha Burn, the British-Australian couple behind The Sanubari, recognized this gap in the market. With the support of experienced hoteliers, the couple relocated to Sumba to develop this charming property, which opened its doors in July 2022. Their future plans include expansions such as residential villas, horse stables, and a locally inspired creative village.

The Rooms

The resort boasts six spacious beachfront villas, designed in a contemporary Sumbanese style. Each villa features sliding glass doors that frame spectacular ocean views, gabled roofs crafted from bamboo and local alang grass, and elegant creamy marble flooring. Interiors showcase local craftsmanship with ikat tapestries, unique wood and stone carvings, and wicker and teak furniture. Each bathroom includes open rain showers and soaking tubs with magnificent sea views. Furthermore, many villas offer private infinity pools that blend seamlessly with the beach.

Culinary Delights

The beachfront restaurant offers a well-curated menu highlighting local dishes such as nasi goreng, rendang, and satay, alongside traveler-friendly favorites, including oversized salads and line-caught fish options. An in-house bakery is set to launch soon, and plans for a larger dining area adjacent to a public infinity pool are underway.

The Neighborhood

Though Sumba’s southeast is considered the island’s liveliest area, the number of beachside restaurants and boutique hotels remains limited. Compared to Bali, the region has a tranquil, untapped charm, attracting guests drawn to its surf and natural beauty. Walk along the beach or ride a bike to Pantai Watu Bella, one of the region’s most picturesque beaches, where the resort will establish a charming cliffside picnic spot and barbecue area. Venture inland for breathtaking valleys, traditional villages, and captivating river excursions during the wet season.

The Service

The young, local staff showcase warm hospitality with their cheerful demeanor. Although service may not be as polished as in other resorts, it aligns with the relaxed atmosphere of The Sanubari. With more experience, the service is expected to improve significantly.

Family-Friendly Vibes

Though the resort doesn’t explicitly cater to families, children will find it an inviting environment. The spacious beach provides an expansive play area, making supervision a breeze with minimal nearby guests.

Eco-Friendliness

The Sanubari endeavors to be eco-conscious through sourcing materials locally and planting over 5,000 native trees within its expansive reserve. While these initiatives are commendable, the resort could further reduce its environmental impact, particularly by decreasing single-use plastic items in guest areas.

Accessibility Considerations

While the villas are sizable enough for wheelchair accessibility, navigating the sandy pathways may prove challenging for those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

This resort is situated in a remote corner of Sumba, appearing off-the-beaten-path. Guests should be prepared for occasional Wi-Fi and electricity fluctuations while the hotel continues to enhance these aspects for future visitors.