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.