Sumba Style Files: Sarah Lamkin’s Island Escape
Island state of mind
By Kiri Johnston | 4th June 2025Sumba doesn’t ask for attention. It just is — raw, remote, and quietly magnetic.
Tucked between Bali and Timor, the Indonesian island is a place of wild edges and ancient rituals. It offers no itinerary, no performance. Just space to step out of the current and into something still.
When Gold Coast-based creative Sarah Lamkin arrived at Cap Karoso — a brutalist dream of a stay nestled on the island’s west coast — she brought no agenda. Just a film camera, a handful of bikinis, and a desire to feel present.
This is her guide to doing Sumba in style.
Why Sumba — and who did you go with?
Sumba had been on my travel wish list for a few years. A close friend of mine who grew up in Bali first introduced me to it, and I was instantly captivated — I knew I had to go. When my partner Blake finally had some time off, we made it happen. We spent five days in Uluwatu, Bali, and then flew to Sumba for another five days.
First impressions?
Honestly, I was a little overwhelmed! I knew it would be breathtaking, but I didn’t realise just how special it was until we arrived.” “It completely lived up to the hype! I’m already dreaming up excuses to go back — haha.
What stood out most about Cap Karoso?
The setting alone feels like you’ve stepped into a dream, but what really stood out was the warmth of the staff — they really go above and beyond. We also loved the thoughtfulness of the design — every space was carefully considered. We found ourselves wandering around just to take it all in.
How did your days usually unfold?
Mornings started slow with a dip in the ocean, followed by breakfast by the water. Each day brought something new — whether it was weaving, farm tours, art or dance performances. Some afternoons we simply relaxed and soaked up the beauty of our surroundings. Our night-time ritual was always a cocktail in hand whilst enjoying the beautiful pink sunset.
Did you venture beyond the resort?
Yes! There’s so much to explore. We visited Waikato Village and met some of the locals, explored Pero Beach so Blake could surf, and swam in the crystal-clear waters of Weekuri Lagoon. Sumba still feels incredibly untouched, which made it all the more special.
Favourite moments?
Meeting the locals on the beach was really memorable. They live so simply but are very friendly, kind and so curious about the western world. And honestly, just being able to experience such an incredible trip with Blake, in such a beautiful part of the world — that’s what really stayed with me.
Best thing you ate or drank?
We were spoilt on our first night with an incredible five-course seafood dinner by resident chef Robbie Noble — every dish was incredible. And the tuna arancini at the beach club was another standout — beautifully presented and unlike any arancini I’ve had before.
What were you wearing in Sumba?
Every outfit started with whatever bikini I had on that day. I gravitated toward sheer dresses and skirts, often thrown over with one of Blake’s oversized shirts and my favourite Miu Miu sunnies. One of the looks I loved was a bold Arcina Ori dress — just the right amount of drama!
Beauty staples?
Slicked-back, wet hair & SPF every day.
Favourite photo from the trip?
“It has to be the shot of Blake walking down the steps into Weekuri Lagoon. We both brought film and digital cameras, but of course, that photo was captured on my iPhone — classic.
What’s inspiring you now that you’re home?
Palm Beach, Gold Coast is where I’m lucky enough to call home. But right now, travel and planning upcoming trips is keeping me creatively driven. Being immersed in a new environment or culture always sparks my inspiration — the ideas just flood in and I can’t help but capture it.
How would you describe your style and energy?
My day-to-day life is very relaxed. Living on the coast, it’s all about comfort and wearability. Online, I love to explore a more styled, expressive side. I have a ballet background, and I think that connection to costume and performance really shaped how I see fashion as a creative outlet. Dressing up for events, shoots, or travel gives me the chance to express myself and play with pieces that feel both special and thoughtfully considered.
Who’s usually behind the camera?
It really depends on the project, but most of the time it’s my girlfriends and I shooting together. When I’m travelling, my partner Blake kindly steps in — unless it’s a girls’ trip, of course!
