Sumba Surfing Guide

Sumba surfing guide. A Complete Surfing Guide to Sumba: Best Spots, Seasons, and Boards

Indonesia is a world-renowned surfing destination, and while Bali and the Mentawais often steal the spotlight, Sumba remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets for surfers. With uncrowded waves, pristine beaches, and a raw natural backdrop, Sumba offers a more soulful, off-grid surfing experience. This guide covers everything you need to know to surf in Sumba, including the best surf spots, the ideal seasons, recommended board types, and travel tips.

Why Surf Sumba?

Sumba’s surf scene is unlike Bali’s. Here, you won’t find beach bars, traffic jams, or lineups filled with aggressive surfers. Instead, expect remote reef breaks, long barrels, and a peaceful connection to nature and local culture. The island’s geographical position in the Indian Ocean means it picks up consistent swell, especially during the dry season.

Best Time to Surf in Sumba

The surf season in Sumba runs from April to October, aligning with the dry season. During these months, the Indian Ocean swell hits the island’s southern and western coasts with consistency. Winds are generally offshore in the mornings, especially from June to August, creating ideal surfing conditions.

• April–May: Early season, clean swells, fewer people
• June–August: Peak swell, great waves, offshore winds
• September–October: Less crowded, still very surfable

You can surf in the wet season (November–March), but expect smaller waves, unpredictable winds, and more rainfall.

Top Surf Spots in Sumba

1. Occy’s Left (Nihiwatu)

• Location: West Sumba, in front of Nihi Sumba Resort
• Type: Left-hand reef break
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
• Access: Exclusively reserved for guests of Nihi Sumba
• Highlights: Long barreling left-hander, considered one of the best waves in Indonesia

Occy’s Left, named after Australian pro surfer Mark Occhilupo, is the island’s most famous wave. Though private, it’s the stuff of legends, offering consistent, powerful lefts that can run for over 200 meters.

2. Pero Left and Right

• Location: Near Pero Village, West Sumba
• Type: Left and right reef breaks
• Skill level: Intermediate
• Access: Public, with local homestays nearby
• Map: Google Maps – Pero Beach

Pero offers a mellow left on one side and a more playful right on the other. It’s accessible, scenic, and less intimidating than other reef breaks, making it suitable for surfers looking to ease into Sumba’s waves.

3. Wainyapu / Marosi Beach

• Location: Southwest Sumba
• Type: Beach break and occasional reef
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
• Access: Public
• Map: Google Maps – Marosi Beach

With wide sandy stretches and occasional peeling waves, Marosi Beach is ideal for beginners or those who prefer a softer ride. On big days, the outside reef can also produce more challenging waves.

4. Kerewei Bay

• Location: Near Rua Village, Southwest Sumba
• Type: Left reef break
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
• Access: Accessible by bike or 4WD
• Map: Google Maps – Kerewei Bay

A reliable wave that works best during mid to high tide. It offers a powerful take-off and a long left wall, especially fun on a solid swell. The surrounding bay also provides beautiful scenery and relaxed vibes.

What Board to Bring?

Given the reef breaks, epoxy or durable PU boards are recommended. The wave variety means you’ll want at least two boards:

• Shortboard (5’10”–6’4”) – For sharper reef breaks like Occy’s Left or Kerewei
• Funboard or Fish (6’6”–7’0”) – For smaller, playful waves at Marosi or Pero
• Optional: Step-up – For big swell days in August or September

Wax up with tropical water wax, and bring extra leashes, fins, and repair kits, as surf shops are scarce outside of the resorts.

Surf Accommodation in Sumba

1. Nihi Sumba Resort – Luxury option with exclusive access to Occy’s Left
   Visit Website
2. Alamayah Boutique Retreat – Stylish and serene, located near Kerewei Bay
   Google Maps
3. Maringi Eco Resort – Affordable eco-lodge supporting local communities
   Visit Website
4. Homestays in Pero and Marosi – Great for budget travelers and closer cultural connection

Surf Travel Tips

• Bring cash – ATMs are few and unreliable in rural areas.
• Respect locals – Sumba has strong traditions; be polite and ask before surfing near villages.
• Stay safe – Reefs can be sharp. Booties are optional but helpful for beginners.
• Check tides and wind – Many breaks are tide-dependent, and wind can shift quickly after noon.

Final Thoughts

Surfing in Sumba is not just about catching waves—it’s about slowing down, respecting the rhythm of the island, and immersing yourself in a surfing experience that’s as much spiritual as it is physical. If you’re tired of the crowds in Bali and crave adventure, Sumba might be your surf paradise.