Main Destinations in Lombok

Senggigi

Overview: Senggigi is one of Lombok’s most popular tourist destinations, serving as the main gateway to the island. It’s a coastal area with beaches, resorts, and vibrant nightlife.

What to Expect: Senggigi has a well-developed tourist infrastructure with restaurants, bars, and live music venues. Enjoy sunsets at Batu Bolong Temple with views of Mount Agung across the Bali Strait.

Kuta Lombok

Overview: Located on the southern coast, Kuta Lombok is known for its surfing spots and relaxed vibe, offering a much quieter experience compared to Kuta Bali.

What to Expect: World-class surf breaks and developing guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants. Highlights include the beaches of Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak.

Mount Rinjani

Overview: Mount Rinjani, an active volcano, is Indonesia’s second-highest peak, drawing adventurers from all over for multi-day treks.

What to Expect: Challenging treks with rewarding views over Segara Anak, a stunning crater lake. Hot springs surround the lake, perfect for post-trek relaxation.

Tetebatu

Overview: This quiet village on Mount Rinjani’s southern slope offers scenic views of rice fields, waterfalls, and Sasak culture.

What to Expect: Rural tranquility, rice terrace hikes, and visits to Benang Kelambu and Benang Stokel waterfalls.

Mataram

Overview: The capital of Lombok, a business hub with historical sites and a glimpse of local life.

What to Expect: Organized city tours, shopping, and visits to Pura Meru Temple and Mayura Water Palace. Great for an authentic Indonesian dining experience.

Senaru

Overview: Known as the main starting point for Rinjani treks, Senaru is also famous for stunning waterfalls.

What to Expect: A small village with breathtaking views of Mount Rinjani, traditional Sasak charm, and beautiful Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile waterfalls.

Sekotong

Overview: Located on the southwestern coast, Sekotong offers secluded beaches and access to the quiet Gede Islands.

What to Expect: Undisturbed natural beauty, pristine beaches, and snorkeling spots ideal for a peaceful getaway.

The Gili Islands

Overview: The three popular Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—are famous for their laid-back atmosphere, beach culture, and great diving spots.

• Gili Trawangan: Known for a vibrant party scene, with some quieter spots for relaxation.
• Gili Meno: The quietest of the three, perfect for honeymooners and peace-seekers.
• Gili Air: Offers a balanced mix of social and serene atmospheres.

The Gili “X” Islands

Overview: The lesser-known Gili islands—such as Gili Gede, Gili Asahan, Gili Layar, and Gili Rengit—are part of the “secret” Gilis off the coast of Sekotong, in southwest Lombok. These islands are far more secluded than the famous Gilis, offering a true off-the-beaten-path experience.

• Gili Gede: Known for its tranquil beaches and small resorts, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
• Gili Asahan: A favorite for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and minimal tourist infrastructure.
• Gili Layar: Offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and a handful of secluded bungalows right by the water.
• Gili Rengit: One of the most untouched islands, ideal for a private beach day and rich marine life exploration.

Hotel & Resorts

Lombok offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to all types of travelers from budget backpackers to luxury seekers. Most accommodations are concentrated in popular areas like Senggigi, Kuta Lombok, and around the Gili Islands.

Senggigi, as Lombok’s main tourist hub, features mid-range hotels, family-friendly resorts, and beachfront villas with amenities like pools and easy access to local restaurants and nightlife. For those seeking upscale, luxury resorts with private beach access, the southern coast around Kuta Lombok offers stunning options set against pristine beaches and surf spots, with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to lavish resorts. The Gili Islands, known for their laid-back vibe, offer everything from budget guesthouses to chic beachfront bungalows.

For a quieter stay, Tetebatu and Senaru on the slopes of Mount Rinjani feature homestays and eco-lodges where guests can experience Lombok’s rural charm, perfect for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Sekotong and the Gili “X” islands to the southwest offer simple, serene beachside bungalows and small resorts ideal for those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Across the island, travelers can find unique options from traditional Sasak-style lodgings to high-end villas, allowing visitors to experience Lombok’s varied landscapes in comfort and style.

Accommodation

From oceanfront local seafood warungs to international restaurants, Lombok offers a large variety of food options, With varying menus and exquisite local. It’s a great place to dive into the rich Indonesian cuisine and and venture into the streetfood experience.

Lombok’s culinary scene is as vibrant and unique as its landscapes, blending spicy flavors and local ingredients into unforgettable dishes. Distinct from Bali, Lombok’s cuisine showcases the island’s Sasak heritage, with influences from Javanese and Sumbawan culinary traditions. Freshly harvested chilies, coconut, and a variety of spices form the backbone of Lombok’s food, making it a paradise for those who enjoy a kick of spice.

 

Going Out

Lombok has no nightlife scene that is comparable to Bali. Yet there are quite a few live music bars, some beach clubs,. Senginggi is a relatively populated area, where you can find some live concerts and a bit of nightlife. If you are looking for partys and nightlife, then Gili Trawangan is your place.

Lombok, although sometimes overshadowed by Bali, has earned a reputation among surf enthusiasts for its pristine beaches and untouched landscapes, offering surf spots that range from gentle beginner waves to thrilling advanced breaks.

Selong Belanak is the ideal spot for beginners, located along the southern coast. Known for its calm waters and sandy bottom, it’s a quiet stretch where surfers can practice their skills with ease, especially during the dry season when the waves are smaller and more manageable.

For intermediate surfers, Gerupuk Bay is a must-visit. Located just east of Kuta Lombok, Gerupuk offers several surf breaks that vary in size and difficulty. It’s a bay accessible only by boat, with five different breaks ranging from soft waves suitable for novices to more challenging ones for those ready to push their skills. The spot known as “Inside Gerupuk” is perfect for those seeking a balanced wave with just the right amount of power.

Another fantastic spot for intermediate surfers is Ekas Bay, situated further east. Known for its long, consistent waves and two primary breaks, “Inside Ekas” and “Outside Ekas,” this bay offers something for every skill level. Inside Ekas delivers mellow waves perfect for intermediate surfers, while Outside Ekas produces larger, more powerful waves that can give advanced surfers an exciting challenge.

Mawi Beach, a hidden gem along the south coast, caters to surfers with intermediate to advanced skills. Known for its powerful reef breaks, Mawi is best surfed at mid to high tide when the waves form perfect barrels. However, the strong currents and rocky bottom make this a spot better suited for those with some experience under their belt.

For experienced surfers seeking a world-class thrill, Desert Point on the southwest coast is an absolute must. Renowned as one of the best left-hand breaks globally, this spot is famous for its long barrels and challenging conditions. The waves at Desert Point can get dangerously shallow over the sharp reef, and the currents are strong, making it suitable only for advanced surfers who are comfortable with high-stakes, technical surf. When it’s pumping, Desert Point offers rides up to 300 meters, making it a bucket-list destination for surfers worldwide.

Lombok’s surf scene remains relatively uncrowded compared to Bali, preserving its tranquil, unspoiled appeal. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced surfer, Lombok offers a mix of scenic beauty, consistent waves, and a more relaxed vibe, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape Bali’s busier surf spots.

Lombok’s landscape is a paradise for various types of travelers. Beyond its stunning beaches and resort stays, the island offers diverse activities that showcase its unique natural and cultural richness. Here are some top activities for different traveler types:

For Adventure Seekers:

• Mount Rinjani Trek: This challenging multi-day trek to the summit of Lombok’s active volcano, Mount Rinjani, offers breathtaking views, a crater lake, and hot springs. It’s an experience that’s tough but highly rewarding for avid hikers and adventurers.
• Cave Exploration at Bangkang Cave: Located near Kuta, this cave offers a mysterious atmosphere where sunlight beams through holes, creating a beautiful display of light and shadow. Perfect for those seeking a unique adventure.

For Nature Lovers:

• Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls: These twin waterfalls near Senaru provide a refreshing retreat and an excellent spot for swimming, photography, and enjoying Lombok’s pristine natural surroundings.
• Pink Beach (Tangsi Beach): Famous for its unique pink-tinted sands, this secluded beach is ideal for a quiet day by the sea. Snorkeling here is also exceptional, with rich coral reefs and marine life to explore.

For Cultural Enthusiasts:

• Sasak Village Tour: Visit traditional Sasak villages like Sade or Ende to learn about Lombok’s indigenous people, their customs, and unique weaving techniques. Many tours include hands-on weaving experiences and traditional music performances.
• Pura Lingsar Temple: This unique temple, blending Hindu and Muslim Wetu Telu beliefs, is one of Lombok’s most revered cultural sites, offering a fascinating insight into the island’s spiritual traditions.

For Water Lovers:

• Diving in Sekotong and Belongas Bay: These regions offer exceptional diving with a variety of marine life, including manta rays and hammerhead sharks. Sekotong is beginner-friendly, while Belongas Bay is suited for advanced divers.
• Surfing at Selong Belanak and Mawi Beach: Perfect for surfers of all levels, Selong Belanak offers beginner-friendly waves, while Mawi Beach attracts intermediate to advanced surfers.

For Relaxation Seekers:

• Sunset Watching at Senggigi: Senggigi’s calm beaches provide stunning sunset views over the Bali Strait, with Mount Agung visible on clear days. Many beachfront cafes offer drinks and light bites to enjoy as the sun sets.
• Yoga and Wellness Retreats in Tetebatu: Known for its serene rice fields and views of Mount Rinjani, Tetebatu is an ideal spot for yoga retreats and wellness getaways, offering tranquility away from the tourist crowds.

For Family Travelers:

• Beach Day at Kuta Lombok: The area’s gentle waves and sandy shores are great for families with young children, with cafes and small shops nearby for convenience.
• Snorkeling at Gili Nanggu: A quiet island near southwest Lombok, Gili Nanggu is perfect for families with children to snorkel safely in shallow, clear waters with colorful fish and coral.

Whether you’re here for adventure, culture, relaxation, or family fun, Lombok’s diverse activities promise something unforgettable for every traveler.

Lombok has plenty of beaches. The drive towards some beaches can be quite difficult sometimes, but the pristine and soft sandy beaches are worth the journey. Quiet and isolated with beach shacks that replace beach bars, the shores of Lombok offer a different ambience. Not only that, spots as Mawun and Tanjung Aan beach with their crystal blue waters are only some of the sights you’ll find going around the island. Certain beaches are of different colors, such as Obel-obel beach, found on the northeastern side of Lombok, has black sand that stretches across the coast. Lombok also has their own famous pink beach, Tangsi, which is far down towards their southeast peninsula.

1. Tanjung Aan Beach

•Description: Famous for its calm, shallow waters and soft, white sand, Tanjung Aan is ideal for swimming and relaxing with stunning views of the surrounding hills.

•Google Maps: Tanjung Aan Beach

2. Selong Belanak Beach

•Description: Known for its crescent-shaped shoreline and gentle waves, this beach is perfect for beginner surfers and families looking for a peaceful day at the beach.

•Google Maps: Selong Belanak Beach

3. Mawi Beach

•Description: A hidden gem with strong waves, Mawi Beach is popular with experienced surfers looking for a more challenging ride.

•Google Maps: Mawi Beach

4. Pink Beach (Tangsi Beach)

•Description: Famous for its unique pink-tinted sand, Pink Beach offers crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs for snorkeling enthusiasts.

•Google Maps: Pink Beach

5. Kuta Beach Lombok

•Description: The hub of Lombok’s southern coast, Kuta Beach is a popular spot for both surfers and beachgoers, surrounded by small cafes and accommodations.

•Google Maps: Kuta Beach Lombok

6. Tampah Beach

•Description: A quiet, lesser-known beach with soft white sand and turquoise waters, ideal for relaxation away from the crowds.

•Google Maps: Tampah Beach

7. Seger Beach

•Description: Just a short distance from Kuta, Seger Beach is known for its beautiful sunsets and as a great surf spot for intermediate surfers.

•Google Maps: Seger Beach

8. Gerupuk Beach

•Description: A well-known surfing destination, Gerupuk Beach offers multiple surf breaks for both beginners and advanced surfers.

•Google Maps: Gerupuk Beach

9. Ekas Beach

•Description: Secluded and peaceful, Ekas Beach is located on the eastern side of Lombok and is known for its remote beauty and excellent surf conditions.

•Google Maps: Ekas Beach

10. Tanjung Bloam Beach

•Description: Famous for its rugged cliffs and clear blue waters, Tanjung Bloam is a stunning but lesser-visited beach, perfect for exploration.

•Google Maps: Tanjung Bloam Beach

11. Sire Beach

•Description: Located on Lombok’s northern coast, Sire Beach offers calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and enjoying the view of the nearby Gili Islands.

•Google Maps: Sire Beach

12. Mekaki Beach

•Description: A hidden paradise in the southwest of Lombok, Mekaki Beach offers pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for those seeking tranquility.

•Google Maps: Mekaki Beach

Beaches

Whether you are flying in through Lombok International Airport, jumping on the public ferry from PadangBai in Bali,, or taking a fast boat from Padangbai or Benoa Harbor, Lombok is not too far from Bali for a weekend away.

On Lombok

There are car rentals with drivers available to go on half day or full day tours. If you can drive a scooter or motorcycle that would be a great way get around the island.

Although there are other vehicles of transport, such as Bemo, a public minibus with open doors for natural air, or the Cidomo, a horse-drawn carriage that carries up to 4 people, those are not really helping to get from A to B efficiently.