How to Build an Airbnb in Sumba [Guide for 2025]
How to Start a Small Retreat or Airbnb on Sumba Sunset Cliff
If you’ve been dreaming of building something slower, simpler, and more connected to nature. Sumba Sunset Cliff might be the place you’ve been searching for. Whether you envision a barefoot beachfront Airbnb, a jungle-shaded yoga retreat, or a quiet space to host conscious guests, this stretch of West Sumba coastline offers a rare opportunity.
Unlike Bali, where land is crowded and regulations are tightening, here you’ll find freedom: legal land ownership through a foreign PMA company, tourism zoning, and a conscious community shaping something beautiful from the ground up.
Here’s what you need to know to get started:
1. Choose the Right Plot
Sumba Sunset Cliff offers oceanfront and ocean-view plots starting from 1,000 sqm up to 2,000+ sqm. The zoning is tourism (pariwisata), meaning you’re allowed to build hospitality properties like retreats, Airbnbs, or eco-villas.
Plot sizes: 1,000 or 2,000+ sqm
Price: $27/m²
Land type: HGB (PMA-ready freehold structure)
Zoning: Tourism (commercial and eco tourism allowed)
2. Legally Own the Land as a Foreigner
Foreigners can’t directly own freehold land in Indonesia, but you can legally own land through a PMA (foreign-owned company). Sumba Sunset Cliff supports buyers with the full legal setup.
Cost of PMA setup: $2,500
Ownership title: HGB under your PMA
Perks: Can build, operate, rent out, and sell
3. Understand Permits and Approvals
Before building, you'll need a few permits to ensure everything is fully legal and aligned with Indonesian regulations. Since the land is already zoned for sustainable building, the process is clear and supported locally.
IMB or PBG: Building permit required before construction (now referred to as PBG under newer regulations)
SLF: Operational certificate needed if you plan to rent or open commercially
Environmental considerations: Light guidance on waste, water, and building materials
Our team and local consultants can assist you through the process, and most approvals are easier and faster in Sumba than in Bali.
4. Design with Nature and Simplicity
Sumba is raw and beautiful, people come here to disconnect. Design your retreat or Airbnb in harmony with the land: open layouts, natural materials, minimal disturbance to trees and cliffs. Keep it simple and intentional.
Use bamboo, stone, reclaimed wood
Prioritize ocean views and natural airflow
Avoid concrete box-style homes (against community guidelines)
Incorporate gardens, outdoor showers, and shaded decks
5. Estimate Your Costs
Here’s a rough idea of what it takes to build your dream project:
Item Estimated Cost Land (2,000 sqm) $54,000 PMA Setup (one-time) $2,500 Construction (basic villa or retreat space) $50,000–$150,000 Total ~ $106,500 to $206,500
You control the cost depending on design, finish, and size.
6. Generate Income or Use It Yourself
Whether you want to build a wellness retreat, surf lodge, yoga sanctuary, or peaceful Airbnb, the growing eco-tourism scene in Sumba is in your favour.
Surf and diving tourism is increasing
There’s limited high-quality accommodation near cliffs and beaches
Remote workers and conscious traveler's seek long-stay nature escapes
You can rent your space or live in it : or both
Why Sumba is the next eco-living hotspot
7. Join a Conscious Community
Sumba Sunset Cliff isn’t a real estate company, it’s a consciously curated community of individuals who value privacy, simplicity, and nature. We’ve set light guidelines to protect the raw beauty of the cliff and avoid overdevelopment.
No concrete boxes
No high fences blocking views
Shared respect for the ocean and land
Supportive community of other landowners and builders
What makes Sumba Sunset Cliff different
8. Ready to Start? We’ll Guide You.
You don’t need to figure everything out on your own. Our team can assist with:
Plot selection
Legal setup (PMA + HGB)
Architect referrals
Local contractors and project support
Ongoing community updates and building tips
If the idea of owning a simple piece of paradise speaks to you, whether as a long-term lifestyle move, a conscious investment, or a creative project. We’d love to help you make it real. Sumba Sunset Cliff isn’t just land; it’s a foundation for something meaningful, designed on your terms and built with intention.
Contact us to begin your retreat or Airbnb journey on Sumba Sunset Cliff.