Where to Stay in Sumbawa & Saleh Bay

Accommodation options on Sumbawa are limited but range from basic guesthouses in Sumbawa Besar to the exclusive Amanwana resort on Moyo Island, one of the most luxurious island retreats in Indonesia. The Amanwana provides tented safari-style accommodation on a pristine beach with direct access to house reef diving and organized boat trips to surrounding sites. For budget travelers, Sumbawa Besar offers a handful of modest hotels and guesthouses, while the Labuhan Jambu area near the ferry terminal provides basic accommodation convenient for accessing Saleh Bay's whale shark sites. Camping and homestay options exist on Satonda Island for the truly adventurous. Many of the newer guesthouses in the region are adopting eco-friendly practices to preserve the pristine nature of Saleh Bay and Moyo Island. While you won't find many international hotel chains, the warmth of Sumbawan hospitality and the incredible natural beauty of the region provide a more authentic and rewarding stay. It is highly advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, particularly if you are visiting during the peak whale shark season when the limited number of rooms can fill up quickly.