There are so many incredible islands across Asia, but the continent’s tried and true vacation hotspot has long been Bali, Indonesia’s shining tourism star.
Bali is one those destinations that gets the people going!
Some love it, some hate it, but it’s hard to be ‘meh’ on it.
Far from its Eat Pray Love portrayal, this beach icon has undergone many changes over the years and continues to do so, all while annoying locals and tourists alike who can’t seem to find common ground on how to share the treasures of this magical paradise.
Sure, there are still some amazing places to visit within Bali, but you can often find just as many complaints as compliments nowadays from Bali’s seemingly endless vacationers.
But what if there’s a more idyllic place without the Bali chaos on another Indonesian island?
There is. That would be the up-and-coming island of Sumba, boasting lavish resorts and pristine tranquility.
Discover The Untouched Island Of Sumba
The astounding island of Sumba offers visitors unspoiled coastlines, lush forests, and uncrowded resorts waiting to be discovered.
Doesn’t sound like Bali anymore, does it?
Adding to the fact that local islanders proudly showcase their heritage through music, dance, and art, which has also not been taken for granted, like the many obnoxious fist-pumping beachgoers of Bali.
Here in Sumba, you’ll find pure serenity among vivid blue-watered beaches and lagoons and soft white sand you can have all to yourself, unlike Bali where sharing isn’t always not caring.
Swim in lagoons, sunbathe on white sand, or snorkel above coral reefs in Indonesia’s newfound paradise.
One category Sumba beats hands down is surfing, simply because you don’t have to share the gorgeous waters with anyone else.
Sumba is easy to reach from both Jakarta and Bali so that you can double-dip Indonesian beach getaways for your own comparison.
But here’s a spoiler alert – Sumba is more than likely to become your new favorite island with so much more authenticity and open space.
To find out yourself, book a flight with Wings Air or NAM Air for the quickest arrivals. There are ferries servicing Sumba, but they’re a slow burn.
Travel Tip: Weekuri Lagoon is one of the prettiest places on the island. Beholding both sea and lake waters, the mixture creates perfect swimming conditions year-round.
Find Your Bali Beach Club’s Exit And Discover Sumba’s Lavish Resorts!
One of your best options for a luxe beachside stay is the fabulous Nihi Sumba, home to 27 opulent villas and the unique experience of horses running wild on the beach.
This, if any, is Sumba’s claim to fame as a ‘tourist destination’ per se, but there are more on the way, including the recent addition of Cap Karoso.
This new beachside boutique retreat even has an organic farm backed by Michelin-starred culinary creations, including savory Sumba staples like Mie Goreng.
Not to mention a ‘Beach Club‘ of their own far more relaxing than what’s typically found in Bali nowadays as more tourists are seeking less crowds, and best of all you don’t have to be a resort guest to visit.
While it’s hard to pass up such luxe digs, Sumba isn’t just a sumptuous island ready to drain your bank balance.
Although, reports of A-listers making Sumba their new extravagant vacation hideaway, such as Ed Sheeran, David Beckham, and even Oprah, certainly speak to the enticement.
The island is certainly making a name for itself as a premiere alternative to Bali, but don’t think this is the type of place where you simply park your butt on the beach all week – there’s so much to explore beyond beachside villas!
Waterfalls, Beaches, & Immense Culture: What To Do In Sumba
There’s plenty to do and see when visiting Sumba, from exploring natural wonders to learning about traditional villages’ day-to-day life and customs.
Starting with the latter, tourists can book a tour that involves village-hopping to support Sumbanese communities’ textile culture, known as Kain Tenun.
Here you’ll go village to village eating, laughing, and learning of deeply-rooted traditions all while taking in stunning scenery and incomparable events, such as the Pasola festival, simulating the island’s past tribal warfare.
Beyond the island’s immense culture, there are ample natural wonders to enjoy, from postcard-worthy beaches to waterfalls.
The most sought-after waterfall is Lapopu, located in the west regency of Sumba and perfectly safe for swimming.
The top beach to visit is Mandorak, where the otherworldly blue waters feed the Weekuri Lagoon mentioned earlier.
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