Journeys

Inside NIHI Rote: On an Indonesian Island with Tropicsurf Guide Nicole

by Tropicsurf Blog October 28, 2026

NIHI Rote Resort is the latest addition to the Tropicsurf portfolio, bringing our ‘art of luxury surfing’ collection to a remote corner of Indonesia known for its quality waves, island culture and laid-back pace of life. Born from the same vision as sister resort NIHI Sumba, twice named the best resort in the world, NIHI Rote offers its own take on remote island luxury. With Tropicsurf guides stationed on property, guests can discover the surrounding breaks while enjoying the privacy and understated luxury of this secluded retreat.

Image: Ndana Left. A 15 minute boat ride from the resort.

Image: The freshly opened NIHI Rote Resort.

Tropicsurf Guide, Travel Designer and Regional Manager Nicole recently spent two months at the newly opened NIHI Rote Resort, helping establish the surf program and experiencing the destination first-hand. Over six years with Tropicsurf, she has worked across destinations including the Maldives, Fiji, Desroches and Alphonse Island, bringing plenty of experience to her time on Rote.

From memorable sessions at secret surf breaks to getting to know the island’s people and traditions, Nicole shares a few highlights from her stay.

Words by Nicole, Tropicsurf Guide, Travel Designer and Regional Manager

The Journey Is Part of the Experience

Having only visited a handful of islands in Indonesia, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from Rote. Getting there was more straightforward than I expected, with the journey from Bali connecting through Kupang before a short domestic flight to Rote. From the airport, it’s around a 90-minute drive west through palm-lined landscapes to reach NIHI.

Tropicsurf works closely with the NIHI team to coordinate the journey, from airport transfers to arrival at the resort, making the logistics of reaching such a remote destination feel seamless. One of the highlights for me was arriving at NIHI in an open-air safari vehicle. It was a great introduction to the island and set the tone for the stay ahead.

Image: NIHI’s legendary transfer rig.

The drive takes you through Nemberala, around 15 minutes from the resort, which reminded me of Bali as it might have been 20 years ago. There are small cafés, locals and expats crossing paths, school children heading home and well-supported football (soccer) games at the local pitch. It has a lovely, laid-back feel that gives you a glimpse of everyday life beyond the resort.

Image: The white sands of Boa Beach at NIHI Rote Resort.

Arriving at NIHI, I was struck by the scale of the property and how much space there was to explore. You’re in your own little NIHI bubble, but there’s still plenty of opportunity to get out and experience the island. I loved how the design incorporated local elements, from lontar leaves used in roofing to carved sasando details on cupboard doors. The landscaping works beautifully with the natural surroundings, creating an interesting contrast with the resort’s architecture.

Image: NIHI Rote Resort with Ndana Island (top right) just a short boat trip away.

A Wave for Every Kind of Surfer

Nothing beats the feeling of exploring a new surf setup, and Rote has plenty of options. I’d been looking forward to surfing Ndana Island after seeing photos and videos, and it didn’t disappoint. The boat trip itself felt like an adventure, taking us to a remote island where the landscape and vivid blue water made an incredible first impression. There were several waves to choose from, with options for different abilities, and the feeling of being so far removed from the outside world made the experience even more special.

Image: Ndana Left.

Image: A right hander "Suckie Mamas".

One of the highlights was the setting itself. The rock formations and uninhabited coastline are incredible. 

We were wowed by the quality and variety of waves throughout our stay. 

Directly on property, Bo’a Right could be fun and manageable one day, then turn on the power and live up to its reputation as Bo’a Barrel the next. As a goofy-foot surfer, I’d always wanted to experience T-Land, so getting out there was a real highlight. It’s a long, fun wave with plenty of room to find your spot, although it can get busy at times.

What really struck me was just how much there is to explore. Even after two months on Rote, I still had waves on my bucket list that I hadn’t surfed. It’s a surf destination that keeps you curious, and one I’d happily return to.

Image: Nicole pointing to the spot.

As I mentioned, Bo’a Right is directly on the doorstep at NIHI Rote, making early morning surfs an easy start to the day. I found the best time to get out was before the wind picked up. From there, the options opened up depending on the conditions, tides and the kind of surf we were looking for.

Image: Bo'a Right.

Image: Bo'a Right.

T-Land is a standout in Nemberala Bay, particularly for intermediate and advanced surfers, but there’s plenty more to discover. The surrounding islands offer further options by boat, with the chance to find different waves and quieter line-ups when conditions align. Part of the fun is having local knowledge to help decide where to go, rather than knowing exactly what each day will bring.

Image: T-Land Left.

Image: Ndana Left. 

During my time on Rote, I also heard about the experiences of guests with very different surfing goals. Don was looking for challenging waves while still making time to enjoy the resort with his wife. Silvia wanted to improve her technique and explore, managing to surf six different breaks during her stay. Mike and Amber often started at Bo’a before heading to T-Land or Ndana, while beginner surfers Amanda and Duncan found their favourite at Squealers.

Image: Bo'a Right.

Image: T-Land inside section.

That’s what makes surfing Rote so rewarding. Whether you want to explore new breaks, build confidence or make the most of every session, there’s variety to suit different surfers. With the Tropicsurf guides helping you read the conditions and plan each day, you can make the most of what’s on offer.

Image: A left hander called "Squealers". 

Image: A secret little-known gem not far from NIHI Rote Resort.

Life at NIHI Rote

One of the things I loved most about NIHI Rote was how easily you could settle into island life. My mornings often started with a surf at Bo’a, followed by coffee and breakfast back at the villa. With your own private space to unwind and the ocean close by, there was no rush to decide what came next.

Image: NIHI Rote Uma Bo'a Beach Villa. 

Image: Boa Right, the view from your Ume Bo'a Beach Villa.

Image: Two bedroom Ume Leo Garden Villa.

Image: Ume Bo'a Beach Villa. 

Some days, I felt like getting out and exploring, while others were about enjoying the resort, spending time by the pool or slowing down after an early start in the water. Telaga Nirwana lagoon was a highlight for getting out on a stand-up paddle board and seeing a different side of the island, while biking and hiking offered another way to explore beyond the resort.

Image: Ume Bo'a Beach Villa bathroom views.  

Image: SUPing through Telaga Nirwana lagoon.

Image: Scenic hikes beyond the coastline.

Back at NIHI Resort, afternoons often led into “Happiest Hour” before dinner at Savu restaurant. I loved that you could spend the day chasing waves and exploring, then return to somewhere private and relaxed. There’s a lovely balance between adventure and downtime, making it easy to enjoy Rote beyond the surf.

Image: Dining steps from the sands of Bo’a Beach.

There’s also plenty to keep families and teenagers entertained between sessions, from the pump track and volleyball to table tennis and the golf simulator. The spa had just opened during my stay, and a beautiful sailboat has since added another way to explore the surrounding waters. Whether you’re filling your days with activities or simply enjoying the setting, there’s room to make the stay your own.

Image: Restorative treatments in a tropical setting.

Image: Jet skiing along Rote’s remote coastline.

Image: Nammo Beach Club.

A Little More of Rote

Spending two months on the island gave me time to discover some of the details that make Rote so distinctive. Saturday’s Rotenese Night was a lovely way to experience more of the island’s culture through local food, music and dance. I also enjoyed getting to know the local team and hearing their stories. Visiting Nemberala gave me another glimpse of everyday life on Rote, and I loved that it was so easy to venture beyond the resort when I wanted a change of scene.

Image: Rotenese Night.

One unexpected highlight was getting to know the horses. Grace is calm and happy to interact with people, while her son Bo’a is much more playful and cheeky. Sari, Grace’s best friend, is shyer and tends to keep her distance. I spent time with Carol, who visits to look after the horses and has a real knack for understanding them. I enjoyed learning about their different personalities, and those little encounters became some of the memories that made my time on the island special.

Image: Grace and Sari rule the roost. 

Image: One of those special moments at NIHI Rote.

The People Behind NIHI Rote

The people I met during my stay were a big part of getting to know Rote. I spent time with Cherish, a graduate of the NIHI Academy, biking and hiking around the island. The Academy provides training and opportunities for young Rotenese people, and it was great to meet team members who had come through the programme and were now part of the resort. Tuesday’s Academy Night was another highlight, bringing guests together through local food, traditional dance and stories from former students.

Image: The people who make NIHI Rote special

Finding Your Own Rhythm

After my stay at NIHI Rote, I came away feeling there was still so much more to discover. The variety of waves was a real highlight, but I also loved how much the experience extended beyond surfing. You could spend the morning exploring a new break, take the afternoon at your own pace and still find something different to do the following day.

Image: Pre-surf with Nicole.

Helping establish the Tropicsurf program gave me the chance to get to know the surf, the resort and the island more closely. It’s exciting to be part of a destination where there are so many waves to explore, whether you’re an experienced surfer looking to make the most of the surf or travelling with someone who wants a little more time to relax.

For me, that’s what makes NIHI Rote Resort so special. The surf gives you a reason to get out there, but the setting, the people and the freedom to find your own vibe are what make the stay memorable.

Reach out directly to Nicole for the inside scoop on Rote Indonesia, she can even book you into her favourite villa at NIHI Rote Resort. Drop her a line.

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