Things To Do
in Sumbawa Besar
Sumbawa Besar sits on the western coast of Sumbawa Island in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, and serves as the administrative and cultural heart of the region. The town is a gateway to rugged highlands, volcanic landscapes, and pristine coastal scenery, with a laid-back pace and friendly locals. Markets, mosques, and sea-breeze promenades give the town a warm, authentic feel for visitors.
Outdoor adventures, traditional crafts, and seafood feasts highlight a sense of frontier hospitality that makes Sumbawa Besar memorable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sumbawa Besar Fort, where you can walk through the remnants of this 18th-century structure and learn about its historical significance. Enjoy a traditional Indonesian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local dishes such as Nasi Goreng and Pisang Goreng. After breakfast, stroll through the local market, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and colorful stalls filled with fresh produce and handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, visit the Museum Daerah Sumbawa to explore a collection of artifacts that depict the rich cultural heritage of the Sumbawa people. Grab lunch at a local warung, where you can try Sumbawan specialties like Sate Rembiga, grilled beef skewers marinated in spices. After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the views of the sea and the bustling life of the port.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local restaurant for a seafood dinner, indulging in fresh fish caught that day. Enjoy the ambiance as you listen to traditional music while dining under the stars. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach, feeling the cool ocean breeze and watching the waves lap at the shore.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day of adventure. Head to Maluk Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, where you can relax on the sandy shore or rent equipment for water activities. Try your hand at snorkeling, exploring the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a delicious lunch at a beachfront café, sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies. Spend the afternoon engaging in thrilling water sports such as jet-skiing or banana boat rides, adding an adrenaline rush to your beach day. Alternatively, you can choose to unwind on the beach with a good book, soaking in the sun and the tranquil sounds of the ocean.
As evening approaches, watch the breathtaking sunset over the ocean, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Savor a beachside dinner featuring grilled fish and tropical fruits while listening to the gentle waves. Join a local bonfire gathering on the beach, mingling with fellow travelers and sharing stories under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-7 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛒Groceries for a few days | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and authentic local experiences
- Accessible hiking and coastal scenery within reach
- Limited nightlife and public transport
- Road quality can be variable in rural areas
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I do not understand
Places to Visit in Sumbawa Besar
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm bay, fishing boats, and soft morning light create ideal conditions for silhouettes and seascapes.
Panoramic views over the crater and surrounding valleys, especially dramatic at sunrise.
Colorful stalls, textiles, and everyday scenes offer candid street photography opportunities.
Food in Sumbawa Besar
Sumbawa Besar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spicy grilled goat, a regional specialty often served with rice and sambal.
Must-Try!
Marinated fish grilled over charcoal with a bright chili and tamarind sauce.
Fragrant fried rice with local ingredients; a solid option for a hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local snacks; go early for the best selection.
Small stalls along the waterfront serving grilled fish, shrimp, and spicy sambal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; cover shoulders and knees, especially for women in sacred spaces.
A polite handshake is common; use the right hand for giving or receiving; greet elders with courtesy and a smile.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages; many locals are friendly but appreciate consent.
Safety
Tipping in Sumbawa Besar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Indonesia, but small tips to service staff, guides, and drivers are appreciated when service is good.
Cash in Indonesian rupiah is widely used; some larger establishments accept credit cards, and ATMs are common in towns. Mobile payments are growing in popularity in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny, with low humidity and very little rainfall. Great for outdoor activities, beach days, and long hikes, but temperatures can be hot during midday.
Frequent rain and higher humidity. Lush landscapes, but plan around showers and expect occasional muddy or washed-out roads in rural areas.
Sumbawa Besar at Night
Hiking in Sumbawa Besar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned volcano trek with crater rim views; typically a multi-day journey requiring a local guide and proper gear.
Moderate hikes along coastal hills offering sweeping ocean views and sunset photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Sumbawa Besar by plane.
Regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for multi-town itineraries in NTB; ground transfer to Sumbawa Besar takes several hours by road.
Major gateway for the NTB region with frequent flights from major Indonesian cities; onward travel to Sumbawa Besar requires a road transfer and ferry crossing when applicable.
Airport on nearby Sumba Island; useful if planning a multi-island itinerary that includes Sumbawa and Sumba, though travel between islands adds time.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous community forming the primary population of Sumbawa with Sumbawa language alongside Indonesian; predominantly Muslim with rich local traditions.
Eastern Sumbawan group; speaks Bima language; culturally connected to Islam and island customs.
Diverse mix including migrants from other parts of Indonesia who participate in markets, fishing, and commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local leagues; a common social activity in the evenings.
Popular in community centers and homes, especially in the cooler parts of the day.
Lakey Peak and other coastal spots attract surfers to the region, with seasonal swells and local surf culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sumbawa Besar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Sumbawa, vegetarian options exist in city restaurants; look for vegetable dishes, tofu or tempeh, and rice-based meals; request no meat stock.
Many dishes are rice-based; prefer grilled fish or vegetables with rice and ask for sauces without wheat-containing soy or kecap.
Dairy is not a staple in most dishes; check sauces and dressings and request dairy-free preparations when needed.