Top 29 epic things to do in Lombok

After traveling in Lombok for almost 10 years, and even living on the island, I knew I had to share my favorite things to do in Lombok.

Located only a short 18-minute flight away from its neighbor Bali, Lombok couldn’t be more different. If you’re tired of Bali’s traffic jams, huge hotel complexes and crowds of tourists everywhere, take some time out in Lombok.

From surfing world-class waves and chasing secret waterfalls to visiting traditional weaving villages and trekking Mount Rinjani. Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Lombok, so you can create your ultimate Lombok bucket list!

Best things to do in Lombok overview

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here are my top three picks for things to do in Lombok:

🌟 This guided tour of the Kuta area is my favorite tour I’ve done in Lombok so far. It includes Kuta Beach, the beautiful Tanjung Aan, Bukit Merese and several traditional villages known for their handicrafts. It’s also super affordable for what you get!

🌟 This Lombok highlights tour includes 4 of the best sights and attractions on the island, Lendang Bajur Morning Market, Baun Pusuk Monkey Forest, Sendang Gile waterfall and Malimbu Hill. So if you’re limited on time and want to explore northwest Lombok, this tour is a no-brainer!

🌟 If you’re all about nature, but don’t feel like trekking Mount Rinjani, you can still explore Rinjani National Park. This private full-day tour takes you to all the highlights of the park, including Senaru village, the Baun Pusuk monkey forest and the Sendang Gile and Tui Kelep waterfalls.

Lombok sights and attractions map

How to get to Lombok from Bali

You can fly from Ngurah Rai Denpasar Airport in Bali to Lombok International Airport in about 18 minutes. However, the cheapest option is to go by boat.

I usually book with Gili Getaway, a popular fast boat service that has been operating the route between Bali and Lombok for 10 years. They offer daily departures from Serangan Harbor in Bali and Teluk Nare/Bangsal in Lombok. The journey takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Gili Getaway also provides pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel in the most popular tourist areas, making it easy to get to or from the harbor. Some places outside the main tourist hubs in the south may cost an additional fee.

How to get around in Lombok

You can ask your accommodation to pick you up. You don’t want to start haggling with the drivers when you get off the boat in 35 C-degree weather while trying to maneuver your luggage. Trust me!

Alternatively, I often book this driver when I’m doing day trips or going from the north to the south. It is a customizable 10-hour tour, you choose where you would like to spend the time. Super affordable.

You can, of course, also rent a scooter and drive by yourself, just make sure your travel insurance covers it. I love to drive by myself in the south, and usually just ask my accommodation to arrange a scooter for me.

🌟 You can check price & availability here >> Lombok private driver

Top things to do in Lombok

These are all my favorite things to see and do on the island, so you can make up your mind between Lombok and Bali. Or maybe visit both!

1. Explore on two wheels

My favorite thing to do in Lombok is to just drive around the south part of the island on a scooter and see where I end up. By doing this I’ve found many places I hadn’t heard of and wouldn’t have experienced otherwise. Like a “secret” beach I had all to myself, with only a small path leading to it through the bush. 

South Lombok is the perfect place to do so because the traffic is not as crazy as on many of the other islands. Most roads are narrow but quite good, though some are steep. If you’re not super confident on the scooter be sure to get back to your area before the sun is gone because there aren’t many streetlights in the jungle.

If you’re staying close to Kuta Beach, head either east or west out of town and just enjoy the incredible scenery. You’ll most likely stop every two minutes or so to shoot photos. I know I did.

Scooter hire is usually 75k a day, I usually just ask my accommodation to arrange it for me. Just please make sure your travel insurance covers driving a scooter.

2. Go beach-hopping

With an abundance of beautiful coves and bays, Lombok is a haven for beach lovers. Pick and choose which one you like best, as they are all lined up along the south coast.

When we first came to the island, we easily saw five beaches on the first day to decide which ones we wanted to go back to and spend a little more time at. So I would say beach hopping is the second best thing to do in Lombok.

My favorite beach in Lombok is Tanjung Aan.The sand is powdery white, the water is turquoise and the warungs that line the beach are as picture-perfect as can be.

Mawun (in the photo above) is another one of my favorite beaches around Kuta, while Selong Belanak is popular among families and beginner surfers due to the shallow water.

A different and more remote beach called Tangsi “Pink” Beach can be found southeast on the island. The sand is made out of coral, which gives it the famous pink color. Make sure you get there early in the morning before all the tourist boats arrive.

3. Learn to surf

Learning to surf is the top thing to do in Lombok. With lots of waves to choose from, Lombok is a great place for surfers at every level.

Rent a soft board and hire a local teacher at Selong Belanak beach, join a surf camp in Gerupuk which is home to five different spots or if your skills are more towards expert level check out Mawi, Are Guling and Desert Point.

Nalua Surf in Kuta is also worth checking out!

Selong Belanak for beginners

Selong Belanak is a wide beach in a bay where the waves are always small, breaking in a straight line on a sand bottom, making it an ideal spot for beginners.

If you have never planted your foot on a surfboard before, Selong Belanak is perfect for you. The beach is also less crowded compared to other spots, which means you’ll have more space to practice your moves.

Desert Point for advanced surfers

Desert Point, one of the most famous surf spots in Lombok and even Indonesia, is known for its long and hollow waves. The waves at Desert Point can reach up to 10 feet, making it a challenging spot for advanced surfers.

The best time to surf at Desert Point is during the dry season from May to September when the waves are at their best.

All of these spots except Desert Point are easily reached from Kuta Beach on a scooter in less than 30 minutes.

4. Trek Mount Rinjani

The beauty of Lombok isn’t just in the coastline, go inland and you’ll find a lot of gems and even fewer tourists. Trekking Mount Rinjani is another one of the most popular and top things to do in Lombok.

At 3.726 m, Rinjani is the second-highest Volcano in Indonesia, so this trek isn’t for the faint of heart.

It takes 2-3 days to complete and requires a good level of fitness and endurance. However, the rewards are well worth the effort. From the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the crater lake and nearby islands.

There are different packages to choose from, depending on your physical and mental strength. I recommend this highly-rated 3-day/2-night trekking package run by a professional and knowledgeable team of guides.

During the trek, you’ll be accompanied by experienced guides who will lead you through the mountain’s rugged terrain. They’ll also provide you with meals and camping equipment, so you don’t have to worry about carrying too much weight.

🌟 Check price and availability >> 3D/2N Rinjani summit trek, crater lake & hot springs

Rinjani National Park

For a less strenuous day in the same area, north on the island, head to Rinjani National Park and explore all the sights except the volcano. The best and most efficient way to do this is to book a guided tour.

This private full-day tour takes you to all the highlights of Rinjani National Park, including Senaru village, the Baun Pusuk monkey forest and the Sendang Gile and Tui Kelep waterfalls. The tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and round-trip transportation, so you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful nature.

5. Visit the traditional Sade Village

The best way to learn about a new place is to engage in conversation with the locals. They will often proudly tell you about their people, culture and sometimes places the guidebooks leave out.

And the Sasak people, which make up 85% of Lombok’s population, are no different. They are warm and welcoming even if you can’t always understand each other. They are known for their spicy food, beautiful handicrafts, music, colorful weddings and the “Lumbung” style houses.

To get a closer look at the local culture, visit the traditional village in Sade. This village has been standing strong against the force of modernization while embracing its traditionality, which has been maintained through 15 generations.

There are a lot of tourists here at all times, but it’s still fun to see how most of the Sasak people lived back in the day. Don’t feel pressured to buy anything if you don’t want to, just smile, shake your head and repeatedly say no.

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting a Sasak village:

• Respect the locals and their way of life
• Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering a house
• Ask for permission before taking photos

🌟 Traditional villages tour >> This full-day tour covers both Sade and Sukarara Village for a truly immersive day of learning about the Sasak culture and maybe even some shopping.

6. Learn about weaving in Sukarara Village

Sukarara is another traditional weaving village located 22 kilometers southeast of Mataram. The Sasak people are known for their brightly colored songket fabrics. Depending on the difficulty of the motif, one sarong can take months to develop.

Upon arrival, you are given a brief tour of the location which includes basic history and some interesting facts about the traditional lifestyle of the Sasak people. After the introduction, you get the opportunity to dress up in traditional clothing for photos. This is, of course, to entice you to buy from the shop.

The fabrics they make in the village were a little more expensive, they started at 750k. I ended up buying some cheaper options, probably mass-produced somewhere. I had my aunt turn them into pillows and they are so pretty.

7. Enjoy the view from Bukit Selong Viewpoint

Bukit Selong Viewpoint is located in Sembalun, a small village in Northeast Lombok, and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and rice fields.

The viewpoint is just a short 2-minute walk from the car park. I recommend getting there in the early morning for sunrise when you can enjoy the view with the sounds of roosters and prayers from nearby mosques. Arrange a driver the day before so you don’t have to drive by yourself in the dark.

There are two viewpoints overlooking rice fields – one at a lower level on a dirt mound and another further up the hill, featuring a handcrafted wooden star on bamboo stilts, perfect for photography.

Explore the area and find an incredible treehouse structure on the other side of the hill, complete with a rickety boardwalk extending over the edge.

8. Hike up to Pergasingan Hill

Just a 10-minute car ride or 45-minute walk from Bukit Selong you’ll find Pergasingan Hill, a viewpoint that offers spectacular views of Sembalun town and vibrant farmland below.

You can easily hike the 1750-meter-high hill without a guide. The trail to the main viewpoint takes just over an hour one way, and I recommend going for sunrise or sunset for the best light.

Just search for “PERGASINGAN HILL – Start point Hiking” on Google Maps. There’s a ticket booth by the entrance where you have to pay the 50,000 IDR fee.

Follow the dirt road, across a bridge and continue until you see a small sign on the left at the base of the mountain that says Pergasingan. From there it’s an easy hike to reach the viewpoint.

9. Malimbu Hill Viewpoint

If you’re looking for the best viewpoint close to Senggig, you have to check out Malimbu Hill. Just search for Bukit Malimbu on Google Maps and you will easily find the parking area along the bend right by the viewpoint.

On the opposite side of Malimbu Beach, there’s another viewpoint, which shows up on the map as Malimbu Cliff. In my opinion, this viewpoint is even better than the more popular one, because you can walk out on the grassy, outcrop with skinny palm trees along the path. Such a good photo op at sunset.

10. Taste the local cuisine

Lombok is a paradise for foodies, offering a wide variety of unique and delicious local dishes. I especially love all the warungs and restaurants in Kuta. Here are some of my personal favorite dishes:

Sate Bulayak

Sate Bulayak is a must-try dish for meat lovers. It is made of grilled beef or chicken skewered on a lemongrass stick and served with a spicy peanut sauce. What sets this dish apart is the use of bulayak, a type of Lombok’s traditional rice cake, as a serving plate.

Ayam Taliwang

Ayam Taliwang is a spicy grilled chicken dish that originates from the town of Taliwang in Lombok. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of chili, garlic, and shrimp paste, giving it a unique flavor and aroma. It is usually served with plecing kangkung, a spicy water spinach salad, and steamed rice. If you are a fan of spicy food, this dish is a must-try.

Bebalung

Bebalung is a traditional Lombok soup made from beef ribs and spices. The broth is rich and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness from the use of kecap manis, a sweet soy sauce. The meat is tender and falls off the bone, making it a perfect comfort food on a chilly evening.

In addition to these dishes, Lombok is also famous for its seafood, such as grilled fish with sticky caramelized sweet and spicy sauce. Yum!

11. Attend Anggrek Putih Cooking Class

This cooking class managed by Anggrek Putih Eco Resort & Authentic Lombok Tours offers 3-hours of learning Indonesian Cuisine. Experience the different flavors of Indonesian cuisine and learn about the local products.

From spicy local Lombok food with hot chilies and herbs to the sweetness of Javanese food made with fresh coconut milk, palm sugar and peanuts. Discover the unique flavors and fruity sourness of lime, lemon grass and tamarind.

You will make between 4 and 7 dishes, vegetarian options are available just let them know in advance. Everything is so good, but my personal favorites are the chicken satay, corn fritters and fish in banana leaf.

🌟 Check price and availability here >> Anggrek Putih Cooking Class & Garden Tour

12. Watch the sunset from Bukit Merese

One of the best things to do in Lombok is to watch the sunset from Bukit Merese Hill. Located in Kuta, Bukit Merese is a natural hilltop viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding countryside.

Bukit Merese is located about 15 minutes from the center of Kuta Lombok on a scooter. Once you arrive, you will need to hike up the hill for about 10 minutes to reach the top. The hike isn’t too difficult, but it can be a bit steep in some places.

At the top of Bukit Merese Hill, you will find a wide cliff with plenty of room for everyone to get a peaceful view of the Lombok setting sun. The most popular viewpoint is where most of the crowd will be, standing around a dead tree on the edge of the cliff.

Watching the sunset from Bukit Merese Hill is a truly magical experience. The view is simply breathtaking, and it’s a great way to end the day after exploring Lombok.

13. Spend a day at Tanjung Aan Beach

Okay, I know I talked about the beaches earlier, but this one deserves a spot of its own. My favorite beach in all of Lombok is Tanjung Aan Beach, located a 15-minute drive from the center of Kuta.

Tanjung Aan is famous for its two crescent-shaped bays, with crystal-clear water and white sand. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. You can easily spend an entire day here.

The westernmost bay is lined by colorful, local warungs where you can use the sun loungers for free if you purchase something to eat or drink. The eastern cove is much calmer, both on the sand and in the more shallow water.

Cuddle with the beach puppies, rent a stand-up paddleboard or hitch a ride with one of the local boats out to the surf breaks, best suited for longboarders.

14. Photoshoot with the Tanjung Aan palm trees

If you’re looking for the perfect Instagram-worthy shot, then Tanjung Aan Beach is the place to be. One of the best spots for a photo shoot is at the far end of the beach, where the palm trees are a vast field of palm trees.

To make the most of your photoshoot, I recommend wearing bright colors that will pop against the green backdrop. You can also bring some props, like a hat or a beach bag, to add a fun element to your photos.

When I was there last, a local man offered us coconuts straight from the tree for only 10k. He climbed up to fetch the coconuts in seconds.

15. Go Paragliding

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, paragliding in Lombok is a must-do activity. The island offers stunning views of its mountains, beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect place for a paragliding adventure.

Several paragliding companies in Lombok offer tandem flights, so even if you have no experience, you can still enjoy the thrill of flying through the air. One of the licensed companies that offer paragliding in Lombok is Skylancing Lombok Paragliding.

Some popular take-off points include Tampah, Selong Belanak Merese Hill, Kuta Torok Hill, Central Lombok Batu Bangke, Praya Are Guling, and Pujut Prabu Hill.

You should wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

16. Dive at Sekotong

You probably already know that snorkeling in Nusa Penida is an incredible experience, but diving at Sekotong might even top that. If you are a diving enthusiast, then Sekotong should definitely be on your list of things to do in Lombok.

Sekotong is a large, sheltered bay in southwest Lombok, with gorgeous beaches and a rich underwater world. In total, the waters around Sekotong are home to over 3500 species. That means about a quarter of the world’s marine life is found in Indonesian waters.

You can choose from various dive centers in Sekotong, offering dive packages for all levels of experience.

Notable sites like ‘east of Gili Renggit’ and ‘west of Gili Renggit’ feature sloping reefs with rich coral life, ideal for macro photography enthusiasts. Gili Kura-Kura offers a great introduction for beginners, while Hadiah Reef and Sunken Island present opportunities to spot nudibranchs, turtles, reef sharks, barracuda, and trevallies.

Advanced divers can enjoy the thrill of the Stairs to Medang drift dive, where mantas have been observed circling the reef.

17. Explore the secret Gilis

The secret Gilis (gili means island in Indonesian) in southwest Lombok isn’t so secret anymore. But they do provide a lesser-known and unspoiled alternative to the crowded Gili Islands in the northwest.

Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis are accessible from the port of Lembar and most easily visited as part of a guided tour. This is the full-day tour we did, and I absolutely loved it.

Each island has its unique charm, with Gili Nanggu being the largest and most developed among them. Here, you can relax on untouched white-sand beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas.

Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis, in contrast, are smaller and less developed. Gili Sudak is known for its excellent seafood, with a few local warungs serving freshly caught fish. Gili Kedis, on the other hand, is a large sandbar with a few trees.

🌟 Check price and availability here >> Secret Gilis full-day snorkeling trip

The east Gilis

The east of Lombok is still an undiscovered and off-the-beaten-track part of the island. It is also home to a group of even lesser-known Gili Islands: Gili Kondo, Gili Bidara, Gili Kapal and Gili Lampu.

I personally love East Lombok, and recommend booking this full-day tour of the East Gilis for the best experience. There was literally no one else around when we did the tour.

18. Spend a day at Ekas

When I lived in Lombok, we used to head out east to Ekas for a quiet night or two. The beautiful spot that up until a few years ago only locals and adventurous surfers knew about, is quickly gaining popularity and new developments are popping up all over.

Ekas Bay boasts several different waves and caters to all levels of surfers. From hollow barrels on the reef, to slow beach breaks that can run over 100 meters and are perfect for beginners. This is the place to be when the line-ups close to Kuta get too crowded.

The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters provide a perfect setting for relaxation and unwinding after a day of surfing. In fact, you’ll find one of the best beaches in Lombok, Pantai Rungkang, here.

We rented a cute bungalow on top of a hill, enjoyed time on the beach all by ourselves and even explored an abandoned hotel. I can’t ask for much more!

19. Relax on Pink Beach

If you’ve been wanting to visit the Instafamous Pink Beach in the Flores but haven’t made it yet, you’re in luck, because Lombok has a pink beach of its own, called Pantai Tangsi.

It is definitely one of Lombok’s most unique beaches, though the pinkishness of the sand depends on the light. The beach gets its color from eroded coral, and the contrast against the turquoise water is absolutely stunning.

The drive from the Eka’s area takes around 45 minutes, and if you’re coming straight from Kuta expect to spend 1 hour and 30 minutes on the road. If you get tired from the journey you can sit down and enjoy a cold drink and simple dishes like Mie Goreng at one of the small warungs.

There are several pink beaches in the area, so my recommendation, if you drive by yourself, is to head to the main pink beach early in the morning and then continue on to Pink Beach 2 or 3 when the crowds arrive.

20. Join a walking tour in Tetebatu Village

Tetebatu, often referred to as the Ubud of Lombok, is a picturesque village set in the lush green foothills of Mount Rinjani.

If you’re interested in eco-tourism, you can visit organic farms, spice plantations, and sustainable tourism initiatives that promote environmental conservation and community empowerment.

I highly recommend this Tetebatu Walking Tour, where you get to explore beyond the traditional sights of Lombok and discover the area’s hidden gems.

With a private guide, walk through the lush landscapes to see rice terraces, waterfalls, the monkey forest, and panoramic views of Mount Rinjani.

🐵 Check price and availability here >> Tetebatu Village full-day walking tour

21. Take a photo in Bangkang Cave

Goa Bangkang Prabu, also known as Bangkang Cave, is a small system of caves on the hillside just west of Kuta. The caves are a cool place for a little photo shoot but keep in mind that they are dirty with bugs on the ground and pooping bats on the roof.

Search for Goa Bangkang Prabu on Google Maps and follow the small wooden bat cave sign from the main road. You’ll be met by locals charging a 25,000 IDR entrance fee, which includes a guide.

The best time to visit the caves is in the afternoon, between 3:00 and 5:00 pm when the sun shines into the caves.

22. Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls

Senaru is the best base in Lombok for exploring waterfalls, but you can also do day trips from Senggigi or Sembalun. I recommend getting there around 7:00 am to be able to have the area to yourself for a little while.

The entrance fee of 20,000 IDR includes both waterfalls. The guides are not mandatory but if you want to hire one, make sure to bargain it down to around 150k.

From the parking area, it takes 10-15 minutes to reach the first waterfall, Sendang Gile. The hike to Tiu Kelep is a bit more strenuous and takes around 45 minutes. You will get wet from the humidity and water spray so protect your camera and valuables.

🌟 You can easily visit both Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls as part of this full-day waterfall tour. Alternatively, you can get there by renting a scooter or hiring a driver. Senaru is a 1-hour drive from Sembalun and about 2 hours from Senggigi and Mataram.

23. Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls

On the south side of Mount Rinjani, about 2 hours and 45 minutes from Tiu Kelep, you’ll find another set of waterfalls, Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu.

In fact, there are four waterfalls in Aik Berik Village, so depending on your budget and time, you can visit all of them or just these two that are the most popular. It takes 15 minutes to reach the first one and then 20 minutes to reach the next.

Benang Kelambu is in my mind the most beautiful waterfall in Lombok, so at least see that one. I paid 100,000 IDR for both which included a guide and motorbike taxi.

This highly-rated half-day tour includes both waterfalls as well as a traditional weaving and Sasak village. Such a good way to cover several of the highlights Lombok has to offer in one day.

24. See the monkeys in Baun Pusuk

The Lombok Monkey Forest, known as Baun Pusuk, is located on a mountain pass just 30 minutes from Senggigi. Keep in mind that the road is steep with several bends, so only drive by yourself if you’re confident on a scooter.

To find the monkey forest just search for Pusuk Forest Viewpoint on Google Maps. This isn’t an organized place like Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest, but rather a place along the road where the monkeys hang out.

They have gotten used to humans, so make sure your valuables are out of reach. They will steal anything from sunglasses to sandals, and even try to open your backpack.

Don’t try to touch or hold the monkeys, just enjoy having this opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Also, notice the view across the rolling hills, all the way to the ocean.

🌟 Pro tip >> This Lombok highlights tour includes Lendang Bajur Morning Market, Baun Pusuk Monkey Forest, Sendang Gile waterfall and Malimbu Hill. So if you’re limited on time in Lombok, this tour is a no-brainer!

25. Learn about pearl farming at Autore

Located in northwest Lombok, in the calm bay of Teluk Nara, the visitors center looks out on the majestic Rinjani mountain range to the east and the Gili islands to the north.

You will have the opportunity to learn how the rare and beautiful South Sea pearls are and knowledgeable guides will explain the intricate processes of modern cultured pearl farming – from how the oysters are seeded, the growing process, harvesting and grading the pearls, through to the end result – the pearls on display in their showroom.

26. Lombok mountain biking tour

I love a bike tour! It is such a great way to connect with the places you visit as you get to explore the backroads and sights a car can’t get to. And this Mountain Biking and Waterfall Tour departing from Mataram is a great option.

Drive through Lombok’s rainforests, get your bike and ride a 10-kilometer downhill trail that traverses plantations replete with vanilla plants, coffee trees and cocoa beans. Then, you’ll stop at the secluded Kerta Gangga Waterfall and revitalize with a swim in the refreshing water of its natural pools.

You do not need to be in the greatest shape as it is mostly downhill biking, and a car is readily available if something were to happen.

27. Visit Mayura Water Palace

Mayura Water Palace, located in the capital of Mataram, is a beautiful historical site and a pilgrimage site for Lombok’s Hindus, built in 1744.

The centerpiece of Mayura is a large artificial lake adorned with a floating pavilion, surrounded by lush gardens and ancient stone structures. This historical landmark offers a glimpse into the island’s royal past, making it a significant cultural attraction.

It isn’t as spectacular as the water palaces you see in Bali, but if you find yourself in the Mataram area, it is definitely worth a visit.

28. Snorkeling trip to the Gili Islands

So if you’re in Lombok, I recommend visiting the lesser-known Gilis in the southwest or southeast. But if you really want to experience the popular and original Gili Islands, I recommend joining this full-day snorkeling tour.

Begin by taking a boat to Gili Trawangan, and enjoy the view of beaches and hills along the way. Upon arriving, spend 3 hours exploring the island on your own, and consider visiting the local mosque or venturing into the tunnels on the island.

Next, make your way to Gili Meno to snorkel along the reef, keeping an eye out for colorful fish and even sea turtles. Then continue to Gili Air, where you’ll have free time to get lunch and explore before returning to Lombok.

29. Yoga, pampering & wellness retreat

Do you feel stuck in your life? Like old beliefs and habits holding you back? Then this 4-day yoga and pamper wellness retreat in Gili Air might be just the thing you need.

The Pamper Pack is all about self-love, allowing yourself to receive the love and treatments, enjoying the classes on offer, and letting go of any stress and tension, peace and calm will re-surface.

Breakfast, lunch and drinks are included in the super affordable price. The best money I have spent over the years is for retreats like this. You can’t go wrong with investing in yourself.

🧘 Check price and availability >> 4-day yoga, pampering & wellness retreat

Frequently Asked Questions Lombok

After living in Lombok I get a lot of questions. Here are some quick answers to the most common ones.

What is the best time to visit Lombok?

The best time to visit Lombok is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During this period, you can enjoy pleasant weather with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and some time on the beach.

I prefer to visit Lombok and Indonesia in general, during the end of the rainy season. February to April (avoid Easter) is my personal favorite months, when it’s still lushly green after the rainy but mostly clear weather during the day.

How much time do I need in Lombok?

The amount of time you need in Lombok depends on your interests and the things you want to do. A week is a reasonable amount of time to explore the main attractions, including the Gili Islands, Mount Rinjani, waterfalls and the beautiful beaches down south. However, if you can, stay longer!

Where should I stay in Lombok?

Senggigi used to be the tourist hub of Lombok, but these days I recommend basing yourself out of the southern part of the island. The Kuta area is the most developed part of the south coast, with a growing number of accommodation options, restaurants and bars.

Don’t worry, it doesn’t share any similarities with Bali’s Kuta other than the name. You won’t see anyone raging around wearing Bintang tank tops high on Magic Mushrooms in this Kuta.

🏨 Best Kuta hotels

One of the most popular places to stay in Kuta is El Tropico Boutique Hotel, the perfect backdrop for a tropical photoshoot. Just take a look at their beautiful decor.

I, however, find El Tropico a little busy and prefer the much calmer and highly-rated Rascals Hotel. The breakfast, the staff, the pool area, I can’t say enough good things about this adults-only hotel. And it is actually quite affordable for everything you get.

How do I get around on Lombok?

Transportation options in Lombok include taxis, rented scooters, and private car hires. Public transportation is available in the larger cities but isn’t really convenient for tourists.

Renting a scooter or car gives you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. Ferries and fast boats connect Lombok to nearby islands, such as Bali.

What is the currency used in Lombok?

The official currency of Indonesia, including Lombok, is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). I recommend always carrying some cash in Lombok as many smaller shops and warungs don’t accept credit card.

Is it safe to visit Lombok?

Lombok is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s essential to take basic safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, take care of your belongings, and follow any local guidelines or advisories.

I did talk to one surfer living in Sumbawa a few years ago, who wasn’t looking forward to driving overland in Lombok (from the Sumbawa ferry to the Bali ferry) after hearing some scary stories of robberies.

But as a tourist and after living in Lombok for months, I never experienced any problems. Though I never drove outside Kuta when it was dark out.

What should I wear in Lombok?

One of the questions I get asked most about Lombok is “What should I wear?”. Although Lombok is a predominantly Muslim island, the dress code isn’t as strict as in many other Muslim countries. You can wear whatever you’d normally wear on a beach holiday, especially in the south.

But I always cover up with a maxi dress or a long kimono if I go into one of the bigger cities. Remember to also bring some appropriate hiking gear if you want to explore the jungle or trek Mount Rinjani.

Is Bali or Lombok better?

The choice between Bali and Lombok depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. The main difference is of course that Bali is a Hindu island, while Lombok is Muslim.

Bali is more developed than Lombok and has a bustling nightlife and a wide range of tourist attractions. If you love exploring temples, going out to nice restaurants, shopping and being in the thick of things, choose Bali.

Lombok, on the other hand, boasts a quieter atmosphere, pristine beaches, and many outdoor activities. Everything is on a larger scale, and closer to what Bali was 30 years ago. If you want to be outside in nature and learn to surf, without hundreds of other people around, choose Lombok.

If you can, do both!

And if you’re still considering where to go in Southeast Asia, check out my comparison between Indonesia vs. Thailand.

More Lombok travel guides

• Island Life 04: Living in Lombok + House tour
• 5 incredible viewpoints in south Lombok you shouldn’t miss
• Kuta Lombok restaurant guide: 12 best restaurants
• Tanjung Aan Beach: The absolute best beach in Lombok
• Selong Belanak Beach: Is it still worth a visit?

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