NIHI® Sumba has earned a reputation for one of the world’s most coveted waves. Known as “God’s Left” or often “Occy’s Left” (after Australian surfer Mark Occhilupo), the wave is popular for its character.

Even for the most experienced surfer it presents a challenge because it is so sensitive to different conditions: tides, size, strength, and direction. Catching a good ride isn’t as easy as it looks, but once you’ve made the right pick, the reward is a two to three hundred meter long and often thrilling ride down the line through sections of ripple walls and heaving barrels.

Novice and first-time surfers can still get their feet wet with lessons on Nihiwatu beach, depending on the swell. Calmer waters can often be found at nearby Coconut Cove, where surfers can spend half a day with breakfast or lunch and do some light surfing, then be driven back to the resort.

The wave has been a popular one for avid, recreational, and professional surfers for decades. As our resort has grown, so has the popularity of our wave. To maintain a surfing experience that is unparalleled in the world, we limit the wave to twelve (12) registered surfers per day.

It is essential to reserve your slot (maximum 1 per Villa and according to availability) at the time of your trip confirmation to avoid disappointment. Surf slots can only be reserved by accomplished surfers. Beginner surfers need not book a surf slot, as surf lessons are booked to secure the services of a NIHI® Sumba Island Waterman & Surf Instructor. For beginner and intermediate surfers, there are fantastic neighboring waves that can be travelled to by boat, or car, at an additional charge.

NOTE: Based on airline regulations, passengers are limited to one (1) board per person with a maximum length of 7 feet. For surfboards that exceed this limit, please email us for special arrangements. Please note that airlines apply additional charges according to the carriers’ policy.

 

Surf Lesson

Let our watermen teach you how to surf the world-class waves of NIHI® Sumba. Calmer waters can often be found at nearby Coconut Cove, where surfers can spend half a day with breakfast or lunch and do some light surfing, then be driven back to the resort. However, the location of surf lessons depends on the season, weather conditions, and available surf slots. In the popular high season, we recommend booking a surf slot together with a surf lesson for those who want to tackle Occy’s Left. For safety reasons, our instructors may decide to reschedule or cancel lessons.

We will accommodate groups of no more than four people who want to share their time and instruction on the wave together.

Experience details

max. 1 guest (private) or 4 guests (group)
1:30 hour
on-demand

 

Surfaris

Searching for perfect waves is what surfing is about.

Although we know that Nihiwatu Beach hosts the best wave on the island, we understand that you might want to explore and check out other locations.

Several breaks are located 30-60 minutes from NIHI® Sumba, and are accessible via car or boat. In case you have the urge to wander, we can incorporate a trip to one or more of the sites below.

Experience details

max. 4 or 6 guests
2 hours || 4 hours || 8 hours
on-demand