It’s no secret that Indonesia offers some of the most epic surf on the planet. But as more and more travellers flock to this Asian archipelago in search of adventure, rapid development has put a strain on island resources and the natural environment. Plastic pollution is an issue in many parts of the country and in some cases, profit is being put before people and long-term sustainability in a bid to secure lucrative tourist dollars.
The good news is that you can still get your wave fix in Indo without it being to the detriment of locals and the environment, provided you are selective about where you stay. Eco-friendly surf resorts in Indonesia allow you to travel sustainably while living the surf life to its fullest AND supporting local initiatives.
Whether you’re after a luxury villa in Bali, a glamping resort in Java or a barefoot utopia on Rote Island, there are sustainable surf resorts in Indo that tick all the right boxes.
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Utopia Rote Lodge, Rote Island
Nestled in the hills of Rote, this eco-friendly surf lodge and wellness retreat opened in 2018 to provide guests with a nurturing escape surrounded by natural beauty. It’s fully off-the-grid, relying solely on solar power to minimise its environmental impact. With composting toilets, homegrown fare and eco-conscious practices woven throughout the lodge's operations, sustainability is at the core of the Utopia experience.
On an island seeing a rise in tourism, this sustainable surf lodge in Indonesia aims to embody mindful, green travel. During your stay, you'll enjoy one-of-a-kind accommodations featuring panoramic views and built using local materials.
When you’re not out surfing Rote’s legendary waves, savour farm-to-table cuisine made from fresh, organic ingredients grown right on site. You can rejuvenate in the infinity pool or stretch it out during an afternoon yoga session. Utopia Rote receives rave reviews for its commitment to sustainability and views of the T-land surf break.
"The whole experience at Utopia was incredible! I especially loved the great family environment created when everyone eats together around the big table…The food was incredible, really amazing meals!” - Marie (read more reviews here)
Best sustainable surf resorts in Indonesia
An aerial view of Mana Eco Retreat in Lombok, Indonesia (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Mana Eco Retreat, Lombok
No matter what your budget is, this eco-friendly yoga and surf resort in Lombok has accommodations to suit. Set around two sparkling swimming pools, it features thatched-roofed cabanas, bungalows and dormitories, all within walking distance of Kuta Lombok’s main street. The vibe here is intensely relaxed, thanks in part due to an exceptional onsite spa.
When you’re ready to explore, rent a motorbike to access the incredible surf that awaits on the surrounding coastline, then return to the resort to stretch your muscles during surf-focused yoga classes. Included in the rates is a delicious breakfast, with Mana’s restaurant offering an exceptional choice of vegetarian/vegan-friendly meals, plus healthy smoothies and barista-made coffee.
Mana Retreat takes environmental responsibility seriously. All of the septic waste and grey water gets filtered through an advanced tank system (transforming it into clean irrigation water) and they are eliminating plastic waste by offering free drinking water throughout the property. One hundred solar panels generate clean energy to power this sustainable surf resort, with surplus electricity going back into the grid for others to use.
“Exceptional! This place was such a treat! The food at the restaurant was so so yummy and the free breakfast blew my mind.” - Amanda (read more reviews here)
Sustainable surf resorts in Indonesia
Istana Ombak Eco Resort, Java
Amazing surfing and serenity await at Istana Ombak Eco Resort. This beachfront paradise on the north coast of Java not only promises endless days of sun and surf but also a sustainable stay in Indonesia. This Java eco-resort was created through a partnership between the Indonesian government, local Javanese people and passionate surfers from both Australia and Indonesia. Together, they built an environmentally friendly surf resort that benefits the community economically while providing an authentic Indonesian experience for travelers.
The name Istana Ombak means "Wave Palace" in Indonesian, and rightly so. Just steps from your bungalow, surfers of all levels can paddle out to epic left and right-handers. More hidden waves dot the surrounding coastline and within an hour's drive, you can be at a half-dozen more surf spots - some barely touched by humans.
Beyond the surf, days at Istana Ombak Eco Resort include everything from snorkelling vibrant reefs and hiking jungle trails to immersing yourself in Javanese culture. This sustainable surfers' paradise has it all.
"This place is a hidden gem. If you really want quiet, no disturbance and having the feeling that you are close to maritime life, this is a wonderful place.” - Job (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly surf resort in Indonesia
Bilou Beach Villas, Mentawais
Bilou Beach Resort is an eco-friendly Mentawais surf camp that aims to provide an affordable and luxurious getaway for families and small groups seeking adventure. With just five spacious beachfront villas (each of which sleeps four and is equipped with its own kitchen), the resort manages to keep numbers low and maintain an exclusive vibe.
One of the great things about Bilou Beach Villas is that every villa has its own boat, meaning you and your family/friends can access the waves you want, when you want. After surfing up a storm, unwind over dinner and drinks at the laid-back beach bar as the kids play safely on the resort’s white sand shores.
As a sustainable surf resort, Bilou Beach Villas is committed to protecting its island paradise. The villas blend traditional craftsmanship with eco-friendly design while the use of solar power, rainwater catchments and natural cooling minimise the environmental impact. Not only does the resort grow produce locally but it recycles waste and provides sarongs instead of towels to preserve water resources.
"Bilou is a truly unique experience. The concept of each villa having its own boat gives you the ultimate freedom to surf, dive, fish whenever you want to and wherever you want to.” - Barry (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly surf resort in Indonesia
A row of sustainably built bungalows at Seed Resort on Rote Island (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Seed Resort, Rote Island
Tucked away on the island of Rote, Seed Resort is a thoughtfully designed boutique hotel with sustainability at its core. It sits just steps from T-Land (known locally as “Besialu”), the region's most renowned wave. Its long left reef break is the stuff of legends, consistently delivering one of Indonesia's longest rides.
When you manage to pull yourself away from the waves, Seed Resort offers plenty of ways to explore the island's pristine natural beauty. You can kayak along the surrounding coastline, snorkel on the nearby reefs or grab a paddleboard to explore at your leisure.
At this Rote eco-surf resort, you’ll find nine palm-thatched bungalows, each with a spacious outdoor bathroom and a tropical garden patio. Healthy farm-to-table meals and yoga sessions add to the chill, sustainable vibe at what is an off-the-grid paradise in Indonesia.
"Amazing stay. We were on a long backpacking trip but as a treat, we decided to splash out and have some luxury at Seeds. Great food, incredible location. It really felt as if we were in paradise.” - Jenny (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly surf resorts in Indonesia
Sun loungers beside a plunge pool at eco-friendly Cap Karoso Sumba (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Cap Karoso Sumba, Sumba
Located along Sumba's remote shores, this luxurious beachside resort seamlessly integrates the area's rich indigenous culture with eco-friendly principles. On arrival, you’ll be treated to a traditional Sumbanese blessing ceremony while meaningful works of art created by local artisans - intricate ikat fabrics, symbolic wood carvings and earthy pottery - decorate the property.
Each of the 44 rooms and 20 villas at this sustainable Sumba resort celebrate Sumbanese culture and provide a haven after long days spent out in the waves. On the surrounding coastline are breaks to suit all abilities, including top-class waves without the crowds. The fishing and diving here are also sublime!
Beyond uplifting local people through meaningful employment, Cap Karoso Sumba also cares deeply about protecting its pristine environment. It utilises eco-friendly systems, relies heavily on solar power and has banned plastic usage. In addition, the expansive organic farm supplies the restaurant with fresh, local produce, ensuring the meals are to die for.
"One of the most beautiful hotels I’ve stayed in! The design was superb, the food was amazing, beautiful pools and vibe, and the staff were very friendly!” - Jessica (read more reviews here)
Sustainable surf holiday in Indonesia
Grün Resort Uluwatu, Bali
Nestled atop the lush hills of Uluwatu, Grün Resort is a sanctuary that embraces the natural beauty of Bali. Its sustainable villas blend seamlessly into the forest setting, with breathtaking ocean views that invite you to relax and reconnect with nature. On the doorstep of this eco-friendly surf resort are some of Bali’s best waves, including Uluwatu and Padang Padang.
All of the villas have been innovatively designed, built on stilts with minimal foundations to enhance the existing nature, rather than disrupting it. Constructed mainly from renewable wood and steel, their small footprint and natural airflow systems leave only a fraction of the carbon footprint of conventional buildings. Solar panels provide clean energy with low environmental impact while rainwater is harvested and filtered to conserve precious resources.
Grün Resort Uluwatu is designed as a place to slow down and awaken your senses while finding renewal in the serenity of nature (and incredible surf). It’s one of the more luxurious sustainable surf resorts in Indonesia on this list but well worth the splurge!
"It’s one of the most amazing accommodations I’ve been to in Bali.” - Olena (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly resorts in Uluwatu
The luxurious treehouse villas at Grün Resort in Uluwatu, Bali (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Jawa Jiwa G-Land, Java
Nestled amidst the lush forests and tranquil waters of Alas Purwo National Park, Jawa Jiwa G-land is a luxurious beachfront glamping eco-lodge. Surrounded by over 250 species of exotic birds and wildlife, this is the perfect destination for surfers, nature lovers or anyone seeking a relaxing yet adventure-filled getaway.
From the comfort of your sustainably designed tent, you can gaze out over the famed waves of G-Land, one of the world's top surfing spots. Spend your days riding barrels or exploring the ancient Hindu temples and pristine beaches scattered throughout the national park. As night falls, listen to the soft crash of waves and chatter of birds from the comfort of your luxurious yet eco-friendly accommodation.
With its breathtaking natural scenery, world-class waves and upscale camping, Jawa Jiwa G-Land offers a one-of-a-kind Indonesian escape. It’s the perfect destination for eco-conscious surfers wanting to reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying an unforgettable stay in what is a true tropical paradise.
"Earthly paradise. Jungle and waves. I would stay here forever.” - Federico (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly surf resorts in Java
An aerial view of Java Jiwa G-Land - an eco-friendly surf resort in Indonesia (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Suarga Padang Padang, Bali
Perched dramatically on the cliff's edge, Suarga Padang Padang offers exceptional views across some of Bali’s best surf breaks. This eco-friendly surf resort is built primarily on stilts to preserve the native plants and animals below while promoting natural airflow. Constructed entirely from locally sourced reclaimed materials - think salvaged ironwood from abandoned pontoons in Borneo, recycled teak houses, bamboo and local limestone - the resort integrates seamlessly into its surroundings.
Each of the 36 rooms have been designed as contemporary sanctuaries, seamlessly blending modern comforts with indigenous artistry. Soaring vaulted ceilings and open-air designs let the refreshing ocean breeze ventilate the spaces, reducing the need for energy-intensive air-conditioning.
Beyond its sustainable architecture, Suarga Padang Padang aims to instill in each guest a passion for implementing small lifestyle changes to protect our planet. The result is an ultra-luxurious boutique surf resort experience that is architecturally spectacular yet gently treads on its landscape. Suarga Padang Padang shows us sustainability can be stylish.
"Second time staying here. It’s a really impressive location: right on the cliff with full view of Padang.” - Dmitry (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly surf resorts in Bali
The leafy grounds of Suarga Padang Padang - an eco-friendly resort in Uluwatu, Bali (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Staying at a sustainable surf resort in Indonesia
Gone are the days of having to stay at profit-driven resorts that ignore sustainability, particularly when it comes to surf vacations in Indonesia. Not only does this island nation boast some of the most awe-inspiring waves on the planet but it’s leading the charge when it comes to eco-friendly surf stays.