<![CDATA[Ecotourism development is a strategic effort to improve the local economy; however, its implementation in Hu'u Lakey Tourism Village, Hu'u District, Dompu Regency, has not yet been optimal. This study aims to describe the ecotourism development process and analyze its role in enhancing the local economy and community empowerment. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. Informants were selected using purposive sampling, involving local government, Pokdarwis, and community members. Data analysis was conducted using the development administration theory of Caiden and Wildavsky, which highlights the government’s role as a development agent, policy planning and implementation, and community empowerment. Additionally, ecotourism characteristics proposed by Lai and Nepal natur based, ecologically sustainable, and environmentally educative were used as analytical frameworks. The results show that ecotourism development has contributed positively to the local economy, particularly in the hotel, restaurant, and MSME sectors, as well as through the Lakey Festival, which attracts tourists. However, several challenges persist, including limited infrastructure, the suboptimal role of local government, and low community participation in tourism management. From an ecotourism perspective, nature-based and ecological sustainability indicators have begun to be implemented through beach cleanups and coastal reforestation. Nevertheless, the environmental education aspect remains weak due to limited public awareness and budget constraints. Therefore, strengthening the government’s role and increasing community participation are essential to achieving sustainable ecotourism development.]]>
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