What’s Lombok known for?
To the east of Bali lies Lombok, the next large island in the archipelago of Indonesia. Many visitors to Bali wind up here after a trip to the nearby Gilis, but what is the island known for and who should go?
Lombok is a land of adventure and the island is most popular among active, outdoorsy travellers. Surfers and hikers especially will find plenty to keep their blood pumping, from waterfalls and volcanoes to epic swell and spectacular beaches.
Who should go to Lombok?
The island of Lombok is more rugged, wilder and more authentically Indonesian than the neighbouring tourist-haven of Bali. For adventurous travellers, it’s a dream come true; the perfect place to scale volcanoes, seek out waterfalls and make your journey uniquely action-packed!
- Surfers
- Divers and snorkelers
- Hikers
- Partygoers
When should you go to Lombok?
Note that as for the September 2018 Lombok cannot be considered completely safe following the earthquake aftermath. For more information about the Lombok earthquake and travelling to the island click here
For the weather
The weather in Lombok is generally drier than in Bali and you have a good shot at sunshine if you go from May to September. Rainfall during this time of year is very infrequent, especially in August and September.
To beat the crowds
Lombok never gets as busy as next-door neighbour Bali, but the island sees most of its visitors during the dry season (especially around July and August). If you want to encounter as few other travellers as possible, head to the island in March, April, or October. Although this is technically the wet season, rainfall is still fairly infrequent during these months.
For the best surf
The best weather and the most favourable conditions for surfing in Lombok are in May, June, July, August, or September.
For the best diving
Divers and snorkelers should head to the Lombok during April and May for sunny skies, calm waters and the best visibility.
For the coolest events
Bau Nyale Festival
Where? Kuta Beach, Segar Beach, Balanak Beach
When? February
This age-old Indonesian tradition is a must-see for visitors to Lombok and is the island’s most important (and unique) event. Every year, thousands of people gather in south Lombok for the annual folk festival of Bau Nyale, which revolves around capturing sea worms. These worms (nyale) are believed to bring good fortune among the Sasak people of Lombok and are collected from the ocean in their thousands.
Although catching nyale is the main event, this fascinating festival has several other activities and exhibitions to keep you entertained. These include a cultural parade, surfing and volleyball competitions, food stalls, beach-cleaning expeditions, and more!
Things to see and do in Lombok
Go surfing
Bali is world-famous for its epic breaks and popular surf spots here are often packed out as a result. To escape the rush, many surfers head to neighbouring Lombok to catch their waves, where there are way fewer boards in the water.
The swell around Lombok may not be as powerful as that of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, but it can still give intermediate and even expert surfers a run for their money in places. Most spots around the island are best suited for intermediate and advanced surfers, although there are still a few places where beginners can get in some practice.
So where are the best surf breaks in Lombok and who should check them out?
Selong Belanak Beach
Where? South Lombok, near Kuta Lombok
Best suited for: Beginner surfers
Selong Belanak is located around a 30-minute drive from Kuta in south Lombok and is the perfect place for beginner surfers to get in some practice.
This spotless, sloping beach has small, gentle waves and a fine, sandy seabed. Even absolute beginners will be able to sharpen their skills at this picturesque surf spot. Remember to bring a board with you from Kuta though, as they don’t rent them on the beach!
Mawi Beach
Where? South Lombok, near Kuta Lombok
Best suited for: Intermediate/advanced surfers
For intermediate and advanced surfers, the longer, faster waves at this break present an exciting challenge. Mawi Beach is located a 45-minute drive west of Kuta Lombok and is popular for its powerful swell and stunning scenery. Head here during the dry season months of May – September for the best conditions!
Desert Point
Where? Southwestern Lombok
Best suited for: Expert and pro surfers
Desert Point is a rite of passage for hardcore surfers in Lombok and is world-famous for having the longest, most powerful waves on earth. The swell can be unpredictable, but when the waves do break they can form long barrels that last for 20 seconds or more. The fast hollow waves and sharp, shallow reef at Desert Point make this spot suitable for expert surfers only, however!
Explore the waterfalls
Lombok, like Bali, is home to vast stretches of dense, lush jungle and dozens of sensational waterfalls. Trekkers, hikers and nature-lovers won’t be able to get enough of Lombok’s breathtaking scenery and you could easily spend weeks exploring this vibrant, rugged landscape. But what are the most unmissable falls on the island and how do you get to them?
Sendang Gile Waterfall
Where? Senaru (North Lombok)
Sendang Gile is one of the most popular attractions in North Lombok and is easy to find from the town of Senaru. The waterfall can be reached by motorbike, car, or taxi – simply follow the signs on the main road! Once you arrive at the waterfall path continue on foot down the steep, slippery trail to discover the magnificent double-cascade of Sendang Gile. These powerful falls have awe-inspiring power and are a magical place to cool off during the midday heat.
Tiu Kelep Waterfall
Where? Senaru (North Lombok)
If you’re visiting Sendang Gile, you’d be crazy not to check out Tiu Kelep! From the Sendang Gile waterfall, return to the path and continue down to reach Tiu Kelep. Take your time and walk carefully, as the path can be treacherously slippery!
The Tiu Kelep falls are the most impressive in Lombok and are unique in their amazing formation. The main cascade creates a powerful stream that defies gravity, projecting meters from the rock face and crashing with incredible force into the pool below. Meanwhile, jungle vines drape thickly over the underlying cliff, transforming the flow of water below into a shimmering curtain. The effect is mesmerizing and this site of incredible natural beauty should be top of any travellers bucket-list!
Conquer Mt. Rinjani
Lombok’s tallest volcano stands a towering 3,700 m above sea level and represents an irresistible challenge for hiking enthusiasts. Mt. Rinjani is the second highest mountain in the whole of Indonesia and dominates Lombok’s rugged landscape.
An expedition to the summit of Rinjani is not for the faint of heart and cannot be attempted without a local guide. 3 days, 2 nights and miles of rough, steep terrain make this gruelling trek a true test of stamina. The views from the summit, however, are awe-inspiring and well worth the journey. Push yourself to the limits of endurance and make some epic memories, for an unforgettable experience in Lombok!
Soak in the Air Kalak hot springs
At the foot of Mt. Rinjani lies the Air Kalak hot springs. These natural hot springs are likely to be your first stop if you’re finishing up a hike and are the perfect place to soothe those stiff, tired muscles.
These naturally hot pools are renowned for their healing properties and are the ultimate place to relax, unwind and reflect. Soak for hours in these picturesque springs, but keep an eye on your possessions – the local monkeys are known for going through people’s bags!
Take a diving or snorkelling trip
The ocean around Lombok is home to dozens of pristine marine habitats, all begging to be explored! Diving and snorkelling off the coast of Lombok is easy, with calm, clear waters creating optimal conditions. Even beginner divers will have no problem exploring the vibrant coral reefs around the island, but where are the best dive sites in Lombok?
Gili Islands
Underwater sculpture gardens, sea turtles, drop-offs, sharks and mantas – the Gilis are one of the best-known and most magical diving destinations in Lombok. All three (Gili Trawangan, Meno and Air) are just a stone’s throw from Lombok’s west coast. The gentle, clear waters around the Gilis mean scuba conditions are perfect and visibility is high, especially In April and May.
South Lombok
There are several popular dive sites in South Lombok, many of which have only been recently discovered. Reefs in this area are thriving and healthy and host an abundance of spectacular sea creatures. Scuba divers in south Lombok can swim among tropical fish, tuna, hammerheads, barracuda, clownfish, scorpion fish and many, many more!
Off the beaten path…
Pantai Bilasayak
For breathtaking coastal views and an adrenaline-high, head to Pantai Bilasayak on the southeastern coast of Lombok. The beach itself is breathtaking, with pristine white sand sloping down to turquoise waters.
However, for the adventurous traveller, the main attraction in this region is the tower. Daredevils can climb this narrow, rusted structure to reach a small platform hundreds of meters above the ground.
The ascent may be sketchy, but the scenery at the top is extraordinary. Anyone brave enough to venture up will be rewarded with views of the whole southern coastline, not to mention an epic shot for Instagram.
Where to eat in Lombok
El Bazar Cafe and Restaurant
The Mediterranean cuisine at El Bazar is outstanding, with each and every dish professionally prepared and beautifully presented. With fresh ingredients, friendly staff and a stylish interior, this upmarket restaurant on Lombok’s southern coast is a must-visit!
Warung Buana
The name may sound Indonesian, but the food is authentically Italian! For the best pizza in Lombok, check out Warung Buana on the west coast of the island.
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Shake & Bake Bakery
This beachside bakery is the ultimate place to pick up an energy boost after a long morning of surfing! Their menu of refreshing fruit smoothies and delicious baked treats is mouthwateringly good. If you want to keep things healthy, Shake & Bake also serve smoothie bowls and oats topped with fresh, seasonal fruits.
Where to stay in Lombok
To party
The island of Lombok is predominantly Muslim, so it doesn’t have a big drinking culture. Partygoers needn’t be disappointed, however – the Gili Islands are an exception to this rule and host nightly, epic parties! Stay here to indulge your hedonistic side, while still enjoying the dive sites and scenery of Lombok.
To relax on the beach
If you want to take advantage of Lombok’s white-sand beaches, look for a villa in Tanjung. This coastal resort area on the north coast of the island is the ideal place to relax and unwind during your trip to Lombok.
For the best surf
Lombok’s best surf spots are found off the southern coast of the island. For surfers, the best place to stay is, therefore, Kuta. This puts you within driving distance of all the most famous surf breaks in Lombok (including Desert Point and Seger Beach). Kuta is also home to most of Lombok’s surf schools, board rental and apparel shops, so you can find everything you need before hitting the waves!
Renting a villa in Lombok
For the ultimate in luxury and location, take a look at the Anandita Villa in Lombok. Perched on the edge of the incredible white-sand Sira Beach, this stylish villa has one of the best locations in Lombok. Anandita is close to Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club, Tanjung Village and, of course, that sensational beach. It’s also just a stone’s throw from Gili Air; perfect for a day trip!
Other places to stay in Lombok
Earthquakes in Lombok 2018
As anyone who’s been following the news lately will know, the island of Lombok has been hit by several earthquakes over the summer. The strongest of these was a 7.0 quake on August 5th and a total of 8 people died on the island between then and August 19th.
As of September 2018, the province of Lombok (including the Gili Islands) is open for travel; however, many areas are still recovering from damage to infrastructure. It is advisable to thoroughly research any areas in Lombok you had planned to visit before you arrive to gauge the extent of the damage.