Untouched Landscapes at The Sanubari, Sumba

There is a rawness to Sumba that feels increasingly rare.

Grasslands stretch towards the horizon, horses move freely across the landscape and long stretches of coastline remain largely untouched. Less developed than many of Indonesia's better-known islands, Sumba has retained a strong connection to its traditions, its communities and the natural environment that shapes daily life.

On the island's eastern coast, The Sanubari occupies two kilometres of white sand beach within a 100-hectare private reserve. The setting is striking in its simplicity. Ocean on one side, open landscape on the other, and very little to distract from either.

Villas

The accommodation ranges from intimate studios to larger beachfront villas designed for families or groups with private pools positioned towards the ocean. Large terraces create additional living space outdoors, allowing guests to spend much of the day between the villa, the pool and the beach beyond.

What stands out isn't necessarily the size, but the positioning. From the private pools, there is little between you and the ocean. Horses and buffalo are often seen moving along the beach in the late afternoon, reinforcing the feeling that this stretch of coastline remains largely unchanged.

The interiors draw from Sumbanese craft traditions without becoming overly decorative. Natural timber, stone, rattan, handwoven textiles and locally sourced materials create a sense of place that feels authentic rather than staged. Much of the timber, stone and alang-alang grass used throughout the property was sourced locally.

Restaurant & Bar

Meals are served beside the beach. Tropical fruit, freshly brewed coffee and ocean views set the tone for the day, while lunches centre around fresh seafood, local produce and uncomplicated dishes designed for warm afternoons. As the sun begins to lower, guests gather at the beach bar for a cocktail before dinner, watching horses move along the shoreline and the colours of the landscape shift with the fading light.

The Experiences

The Sanubari's experiences are shaped as much by Sumba itself as they are by the resort. One day might be spent visiting ancient hilltop villages and meeting local weavers, another discovering waterfalls hidden within the island's interior or swimming in natural lagoons. There are opportunities to surf nearby breaks, fish offshore or explore the coastline by boat, though some of the most memorable moments are often the simplest - watching horses move across the beach at sunset or arriving at an empty stretch of sand with no sign of development in either direction.

For guests wanting a deeper understanding of the island, the team can arrange cultural excursions that offer insight into Sumba's traditions, craftsmanship and connection to the land.