NIHI: A Remote, Pristine Oasis on a Tranquil Indonesian Isle

It’s rare to find 5-star luxury amid a truly wild paradise, but NIHI, tucked into the western coastline of quiet Sumba Island in east Indonesia, delivers. More than twice the size of Bali yet with a fifth of the population, the unspoiled locale is not plagued by traffic or crowds like its popular neighbor, but rather dominated by rural farmland, grasslands and rice paddies that spill into immaculate beaches renowned for their surf breaks. NIHI’s 28 villas, each with its own stunning plunge pool, sit cliffside and within the hills and have beautiful ocean views. From waterfall hikes and swimming with native Sumbanese ponies to cultural and culinary experiences, the award-winning property has much to offer families and multigenerational travelers. Ciao Bambino founder and CEO Amie O’Shaughnessy recently visited and recalls her magical experience.

NIHI Review and Highlights for Families

CB: Could you share a bit about Sumba and getting there? How does it compare to Bali?

Amie: Just like Bali, Sumba is an island in the Indonesian archipelago. It’s an hour flight from Bali, and NIHI can assist with coordinating the domestic transfers [between Denpasar, Bali and Sumba’s Tambolaka airport].

The islands are very different. Bali is beautiful and culturally rich, but it is also coping with overtourism. Sumba is very undeveloped and that’s really what makes it special. NIHI sits on more than 500 acres of private land, including a gorgeous stretch of sand that guests share only with the horses. Many travelers pair the two destinations, so it doesn’t need to be an either-or situation.

When you land, NIHI picks you up in an open-air safari-style vehicle and this is the beginning of the adventure. It’s about a 90-minute drive to the property, and as soon as you leave the airport, you see these very visually distinctive thatched homes with towering, pointed roofs, as the Sumbanese believe they live with their ancestors, and they build their homes with this connection to the spiritual world … I’ve never seen a place like this.

CB: What are the accommodations like?

Amie: NIHI comprises a variety of gorgeous, sprawling one- to multi-bedroom villas, making it especially well-suited for multigen travel. They are spread across the property and all have plunge pools and ocean views.

Here’s a panorama of the spectacular views over the water from the grounds.

CB: What are some of the activities on and off-property?

Amie: One of the core activities is their surfing program, which many families enjoy. The swells on Sumba are the stuff of legend, especially “Occy’s Left” — a left‑hand point break directly off the shore of the resort, named for world champion surfer Mark Occhilupo and one of the most coveted waves in the world. Even beginner surfers can learn at calmer spots like Coconut Cove, though, and the property also offers surf camp for kids.

Another big highlight is the equine program at the onsite Sandalwood Stables, which includes everything from horseback riding at all experience levels to swimming with the horses. There’s also the Kids Pony Club, which lets younger children participate in grooming and feeding (alongside the stable team) as well as learning to ride. There’s even a small chocolate factory onsite that hosts chocolate-making classes, which kiddos will love.

Last but not least, engaging with the local community is another big draw for families. The Sumba Foundation, a nonprofit developed in tandem with the property, is very much part of NIHI’s DNA and guest experience. The foundation receives support from The Burch Family Foundation, which is owned by NIHI owner Chris Burch (though it’s a separate entity from the resort). This partnership helps to expand the impact of programs that support fresh water, healthcare such as malaria mitigation and eye care, education and schools, and more. Families staying at the resort can go to a local water project, visit a malaria clinic or even volunteer at a local school during lunch.

CB: How was the food?

Amie: The food is all delicious with a wide array of fresh options. The seafood and sushi were incredible! Meals are all included in your stay — there are several restaurants that offer everything from a multi-course omakase-style dinner at Kaboku, which can accommodate up to six guests, to more casual dining with a live grill right on the sand. Ingredients are sourced from the property’s own organic garden.

CB: There seems to be a very strong wellness component too. Can you tell us about it?

Amie: The Nihioka Spa is one of the most unique spas anywhere — a private space integrated into the wild landscape that’s a destination unto itself. You can choose to have your body and facial treatments in these open-air bales with the sound of the waves crashing. The fragrant body oil used for treatments is made locally and infused with botanicals and spices such as turmeric, coriander, galangal, cinnamon and more. One of the signature experiences is the spa safari, which includes a hike, horseback ride or open-air vehicle transfer to the Nihioka Valley; a fresh breakfast or lunch served on a private treehouse platform; spa treatments of your choice in an individual bale; and, if you want, time to enjoy the beach and pool nearby.

A yoga pavilion overlooking the beach hosts multiple classes a day. There are also meditation, breathwork and fitness classes. Some of these can definitely be customized for families to participate in together.

CB: Could NIHI Sumba be part of a larger Indonesia itinerary?

Amie: Absolutely! Indonesia boasts such incredible nature and culture. You could easily pair time at NIHI Sumba with exploring Bali before or after.

CB: Is there a preferred time of year to visit?

Amie: It’s really a year-round destination, but the months from November through March are the wet season. The dry season, April to October, corresponds with our summer travel season and many families like Indonesia for this reason since it’s summer break for kids.

CB: Any tips on booking?

Amie: Yes! There are lots of nuances on how to structure your time while at NIHI. Ciao Bambino can support booking and itinerary plans to ensure you make the most of your visit.

Relevant Links: 

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Photos by Amie O’Shaughnessy except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.