I've Lived in Hotels for 7 Years, and This Idyllic Indonesian Resort Is One of My Favorite Stays in the World

"Located on the far-flung island of Sumba, guests of Nihi Sumba travel through winding roads, past rainy mountain villages and herds of buffalo, to reach a sign welcoming them to "the edge of wildness." The hotel consistently ranked among the best in the world, including every year from 2017 to 2024 in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards. In fact, Nihi has been perfecting the art of secluded luxury since 2012."

""Nihi Sumba isn't just a resort-it's a state of mind. What makes it truly special is the harmony between geographical opulence and a deeply human connection. From the greatest Spa Safari on earth to world-class surfing, wild horses, and our commitment to philanthropy, Nihi is where raw nature meets refined experience," McBride tells T+L. "It's not about luxury as a product-it's about transformation through place, people, and purpose.""

Located on the remote island of Sumba, the resort sits along a rugged 1.5-mile beach renowned for surf breaks including Occy's Left. Guests travel winding roads past mountain villages and buffalo to a sign proclaiming the edge of wildness. The property has consistently ranked among the world's best, earning Travel + Leisure recognition from 2017 through 2024. The original Nihiwatu opened in 2001 by surfer Claude Graves and was later acquired and refurbished by Chris Burch and James McBride. The resort features 29 villas with Sumbanese design details, a Spa Safari, world-class surfing, wild horses, and a strong philanthropic focus on community transformation.

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