Nemberala Rote: Travel Guide

Nestled on the southwestern corner of Rote Island in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province, Nemberala is a hidden gem that’s quickly becoming a must-visit destination for surfers and travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Known for its world-class waves, including the famous T-Land – one of Indonesia’s longest left-hand breaks – Nemberala offers more than just amazing waves.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about this tropical paradise. From how to get here and where to stay, to the best spots for coffee, local eats, and nightlife, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re just after pumping waves, a digital nomad looking for your next remote office, or simply in search of a white sand island getaway, Nemberala has something for everyone.

We are constantly updating this page with new and up to date information, and if there is anything you want to know about Nemberala that we haven’t mentioned here, drop us a message on socials or our WhatsApp.

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Where is Nemberala?

Nemberala is a village located on SW corner of Rote Island, part of the East Nusa Tenggara province in Indonesia. It is where almost all foreign tourists visiting Rote are heading too as it is at the center of surfing in Rote and where you will find all the surf resorts.

The island is home to the Rote people, who have a rich cultural heritage and traditions, and it is the southern most populated island in Indonesia.

Nemberala is the well known in the surf world as it is home to one of Indonesias longest left hand waves, T-Land.

How to get to Nemberala

Getting to Nemberala is a little trickier than other destinations like Canggu, or Uluwatu in Bali. We go into detail on every step of the journey in our detailed Rote travel guide, but here is a quick summary.

1. Fly into Indonesia – Jakarta or Bali normally
2. Fly to Kupang (KOE) in West Timor
3. Spend a night in Kupang – Unless you opt for the afternoon local slow ferry you will need to spend a night in Kupang and wait for an early fast ferry the next morning.
4. Take the Bahari Fast ferry from Kupang – Rote Island
5. Transfer from Pantai Baru to Nemberala

Update: Wings Air are planning to start flying between Kupang and Rote again from September 20th 2024.

What’s on in Nemberala

While Nemberala is a pretty sleepy village overall, there a still some things going on throughout the week to keep you entertained. Great for socializing or getting a deal:

• Tuesday morning is the Nemberala Local Market – 6am-10am
• Taco Tuesday at Nemberala Beach Resort
• Wednesday 2-for-1 Pizza and Cocktails at Seed Resort
• Sunday Brunch Deal at the Pasar

Accommodation in Nemberala Rote

Nemberala offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxurious resorts with stunning ocean views to cozy guesthouses that provide a more local experience, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of surfing or exploring.

Whether you’re looking for high-end amenities, a family-friendly environment, or a quiet retreat, Nemberala has something for everyone.

Here’s a list of some top accommodation choices in Nemberala, catering to various preferences and price points:

Nemberala Homestays

• Balo Surf House (Great Wifi)
• Sunset Bungalows
• Oemau Bugalow

Nemberala Resorts

• Boa Vida (Our favorite resort )
• 81Palms
• Seed Resort
• Nemberala Beach Resort
• Eliana Resort and Spa
• Keong Villas
• Villa Santai
• Anugerah Surf and Dive Resort
• Belar Reef Bungalows
• Utopia Surf and Yoga Eco Lodge

Nemberala Villas

• Villa Mango (Coming Soon)
• Pachamama Eco Villas

Best Spots for Coffee in Nemberala

While Nemberala is known more for its waves than its cafe culture, there are a few noteworthy spots where you can get your caffeine fix.

These places offer a range of options from traditional Indonesian kopi to Western-style espresso drinks like lattes and americanos. Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up before hitting the surf or a relaxing afternoon break, these coffee spots provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your brew.

Here are the top places to find a good cup of coffee in Nemberala:

• Indika (Best coffee)
• Pasar (Has a bakery)
• 81Palms

Bars and Beer Spots in Nemberala

Nemberala’s nightlife is low-key and relaxed, reflecting the laid-back surfer vibe of the area. While you won’t find a bustling bar scene, there are several casual spots where you can enjoy a cold beer or cocktail after a day on the waves.

These venues range from beachfront bars with stunning sunset views to local warungs serving Bintang. Many accommodations also offer their own bars or common areas where guests can socialize over drinks.

Here’s a list of places where you can grab a refreshing beer or cocktail in Nemberala:

• Boatmen Bar (Local beach bar, epic sunset, epic crew)
• Shipwrecks (Possibly the coldest beers on the island!)
• 81Palms (great cocktails)

Best Restaurants in Nemberala

Nemberala offers a unique culinary experience that blends local flavors with international influences. From humble warungs serving traditional Indonesian fare to upscale restaurants offering michelin star quality, this charming town has something to tantalize every palate. While some resorts only allow their own guests to eat, there a few that do and a couple of great restaurants outside of the resorts for you to enjoy.

Here’s a list of the best restaurants in Nemberala where you can drop in for a great meal:

• Fishbones
• 81Palms
• Shipwrecks
• Seed Resort (Good Thai food)
• Blu Oceano
• Narrow Resto

Nemberala Surf Schools

Nemberala is famous for it’s surf. T-Land breaks right in front of the village and attracts surfers from all over the world, but that doesn’t mean though that it is only good for pro surfers. No trip to Nemberala can be complete without giving surfing a go.

• Nemberala Beach Surf School

Nemberala Surf Photographers

There is nothing better than sending your mates back home pictures of you scoring pumping waves in tropical clear blue waters while they battle through the 9-5. So make sure you grab a few images from the local photographers.

You can meet the photographers at the Boatmen Bar everyday. Say hello, let them know you want some pictures and they will make sure they come and shoot your sessions from the boat in the channel. Prices are really fair and the image quality is excellent.

Motorbike and Scooter Rental in Nemberala

Rote Island is absolutely breathtaking, and so while in Nemberala you might have all you need on your doorstep, you must explore some of the beautiful beaches, traditional villages and beautiful scenery nearby. The best way to do this is by renting a motorbike or scooter.

If you are comfortable riding geared bikes, there are some brand new CRFs available. If not then you will find plenty of Vario type scooters available.

For the best prices and bikes contact Jhio on WhatsApp.

• Jhio Saetban – WhatsApp +62 813-3821-8499

Is there an ATM in Nemberala?

YES! Finally there is an ATM in Nemberala which works with foreign bank cards and can be found in a small kiosk on the roadside, between Warung Mia and the Dolarosa store.

Unfortunately it is often empty or out of order.

So you can also withdraw cash from the Melati Mart in Oenggaut. This is not your traditional cash withdrawal, costs a 5% commission and takes 1-2 days to get your cash. You essentially make a purchase at the store using their card machine, and then you can get the cash back.

Is there a gym in Nemberala?

If a gym is on your list of requirements then you are in luck. Rote Training Center is a new addition to Nemberala, as the first (and only) gym.

You’ll find a selection of your standard gym equipment like weights, squat rack and a rowing machine as well as an ice bath and onsite osteopath.

You can drop in for daily sessions, monthly memberships or join in for some of their regular classes.

How is the internet in Nemberala?

It’s actually pretty great! There has recently been a massive improvement to wifi connections in the village meaning that more and more places are now able to get cable internet.

There is really good coverage from most Indonesian phone networks like Telkomsel and XL.

And several businesses have setup Starlink satelite internet, so if keeping online during your stay is important, you are in luck.

Check out our ‘Remote Worker’s Guide to Wifi and Mobile Data in Nemberala, Rote‘ for more info.