Lombok Travel Guide: Surfing, Exploring & Insider Tips (2025)

In this guide, you’ll discover why Lombok is more than just an alternative to Bali – everything you need to know about this dream surf destination.

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Bali is known as a paradise for digital nomads and surfers, but is it really still the dream destination that Instagram promises? Crowded line-ups, heavy traffic, and a fading authentic culture have many surfers and travelers searching for alternatives.

Right now, Lombok is stepping out of Bali’s shadow!

Bali’s neighboring island is no longer a hidden gem, but you can still find pristine, uncrowded beaches, laid-back surfer vibes, and breathtaking nature – all without waiting in line for the perfect photo. So it’s no surprise that more and more travelers and surfers are making Lombok their go-to destination.

Reading Tip: Lombok vs Bali: Which is the Better Choice for Your Surf Trip 2025?

Your ultimate Lombok Guide – not just for Surfers!

Best Time to Visit Lombok

The best time to visit Lombok is during the dry season, from April to October.

Luckily, you can surf on Lombok all year round, so there’s never really a wrong time to visit. However, traveling is generally easier and more pleasant during the dry season, especially if you’re looking for plenty of sunshine and beach vibes.

Where To Stay in Lombok – Best Areas for Tourists

If you want to be in the heart of the action—surrounded by trendy cafés, restaurants, and a vibrant tourist community—then Kuta in Lombok is the best choice for you. This area offers the best infrastructure for visitors. But don’t worry! Kuta Lombok is nothing like the crowded and chaotic Kuta on Bali. Instead, it still has a relaxed vibe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a surf culture reminiscent of Canggu before it became a major hotspot.

Today, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations, from homestays and hostels to boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Kuta’s location is also perfect for surfers, as you can easily reach multiple surf spots by scooter. That’s why most surf camps have settled in Kuta. You can find my top surf camp recommendations in my Lombok Surf Guide.

How to Get to Lombok

You can reach Lombok either by direct flight or, more commonly, by traveling from Bali. Here are the best ways to get to the island:

1. Direct Flight to Lombok

Lombok’s international airport in Praya (LOP) is served by a limited number of international flights. In most cases, you’ll need to plan for at least one or two layovers.

Travel Tip:

As soon as I arrive at the airport, I get instant mobile internet access with an eSIM, making my onward journey hassle-free! My personal favorite is Saily – their data packages are fairly priced, and the app is super easy to use. Plus, with the code “saltwatersecrets”, you get 5% off!

2. Traveling from Bali to Lombok

If you’re arriving in Bali first, you have three main options to continue your journey to Lombok:

By Plane

The fastest way to reach Lombok is by taking a short domestic flight from Denpasar (DPS) to Praya (LOP). The flight takes just 45 minutes but costs around €130 (+ surfboard fees). While pricey, it saves you the hassle of a boat transfer. Once you land, it’s another 30-minute drive to Kuta.

By Speedboat

The speedboat is the most popular option among travelers! The crossing takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your departure point (e.g., Padang Bai, Serangan, or Sanur). Tickets cost between €20 and €30 per person. (www.Gilibookings.com).

Once you arrive in Senggigi or Bangsal, it’s about a 2-hour drive to Kuta.

By Public Ferry

Taking the public ferry is the cheapest but also the slowest option. For around €8, the crossing from Padang Bai to Lombok takes 5 to 6 hours—though delays are common. On one of our trips, we had an additional 3-hour wait, the ferry was overcrowded, and since we were among the last to board, we had to sit in the scorching sun on the deck for the entire journey. (www.Lomboknetwork.net)

Once you arrive at Lembar Port, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Kuta.

Tip:

Unless you need to bring a scooter or vehicle, invest a few extra euros in the speedboat! On later trips, we simply left our scooters in Bali and rented new ones on Lombok. Given the low rental prices, it’s definitely worth it, especially for shorter stays.

Things To Do in Lombok

1. Surfing

Of course, surfing is THE activity on Lombok. The island is also a fantastic place to learn how to surf. You can find a detailed surf guide in my article: Surfing in Lombok: Your Guide 2025 to the Underrated Surf Paradise

But beyond the waves, Lombok has plenty more to offer, ensuring your trip is varied and full of adventure.

2. Exploring Lombok’s Dreamy Beaches

On my first visit to Lombok, I was amazed by the sheer number of breathtaking beaches! Even though I always set aside time for beach-hopping, I still haven’t managed to visit them all. Most beaches are easily accessible by scooter, and you’ll usually find small warungs or cafés nearby where you can grab a refreshment or a snack.

In northern Lombok, the beaches often have darker sand due to a mix of black volcanic sand. There’s little to no surf there, making the water much calmer compared to the south, east, and west of the island. In these other regions, you’ll find dazzling white or golden sandy beaches.

You definitely don’t want to miss these:

• Tanjun Aan
• Selong Belanak
• Mandalika Beach
• Pink Beach
• Mawun Beach
• Seger Beach
• Tampah Beach
• Mawi Beach
• Nipah Beach

Each beach has something unique to discover, from the water buffalo herd at Selong Belanak to the stunning sunset views at Tanjung Aan Beach from Bukit Merese Hill.

3. Yoga & Sport

Lombok now offers a diverse range of sports and recovery options for both body and mind—suitable for every budget!

Yoga

There are several good to excellent yoga studios on Lombok. Some are part of accommodations, but you can still join their yoga or Pilates classes even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

My Recommendations:

• Mana Yoga (Yoga & Pilates Classes, Meditation and Retreat), Drop-In: 130k IDR
• Ashtari Yoga (Love that Studio – Incredible View!) Drop-In: 130k IDR
• Rascals Kuta Lombok (Amazing Accomondation, but you can also just book the classes): Drop-In: 130k IDR
• Shanti Yoga (also offers beautiful ceremonies): Drop-In: 130k

Sport & Fitness

Lombok’s fitness scene is also growing steadily. You’ll find a wide range of options to suit different budgets and needs. Here’s my personal selection:

• XENO Fit (Stylish spacious gym & lifestyle club with classes and various open gym areas: strength, cardio, boxing.) – Day Pass 220k IDR
• Loka Lombok (Gym with Classes, Reformer Pilates, Open Gym and Recovery like Sauna, Ice Bath, Magnesium Pool) Day Pass Gym from 100k IDR
• Bumblebee Gym (A more rustic gym and quite dirty – I would only recommend it if you’re really on a tight budget, but it has everything you need.): Day Pass 45k IDR
• MARU Reformer Pilates, Drop-In Preis: 250k IDR
• La Reunion Padel Club

4. Wellness

What could be better than rewarding yourself with a massage after an intense surf session or a great workout? Just like the fitness scene, wellness, recovery, and self-care options are expanding across Lombok. So, even if you’re looking for a purely relaxing holiday, you’ll find plenty of options here.

My Recommendations:

• Mana Yoga also offers a spa and great massages. So, it’s ideal if you’re staying there anyway! – 60 Min from 240k IDR
• Matcha Spa It’s my most visited spa. I really enjoy the atmosphere there, with the tea and cookies, the little shop, and the variety of treatments offered. – 60 Min from 240k IDR
• Jivana Spa also offer very high-quality Balinese massages! If you’re staying there, they can even provide in-room massages.- 60 Min from 180k IDR
• Lina Spa & Wellness offer a beautiful, aesthetic Moroccan spa experience! It’s a great overall experience, and you’ll definitely leave the spa feeling relaxed. – 60 Min from 300k IDR
• Rascals is not only a beautiful accommodation with great yoga, they also offer an excellent spa! – 60 min ab 220k

There are also many small Balinese massage salons where 60 Min – treatments cost around 150k. If you’re lucky, you can get an amazing massage for a great price—but if you’re unlucky, you might walk out feeling less relaxed than before. I had this experience at “Queen Massage,” for example. Since the quality depends heavily on the therapists, who often change, I can’t give a specific recommendation!

5. Diving & Snorkeling

Lombok is a fantastic place for snorkeling and diving, with great spots like Pink Beach and Sekotong.

We went diving with Adventure Divers and had an amazing experience—the organization was excellent, and we felt very safe with the guides.

I also highly recommend diving and snorkeling around the Gili Islands! We dived with 3W Divers and hired a private guide for snorkeling. If you have a bit more time, this is also a great place to get your diving certification.

6. Mount Rinjani Trekking

The trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani is every hiker’s dream. It’s a challenging hike that requires good fitness—but it’s absolutely worth it for the breathtaking views from the volcano.

For those who prefer a less strenuous experience but still want to hike, there are shorter trekking routes that are just as rewarding.

I highly recommend the Rinjani Dawn Adventures tour for trekking Mt. Rinjani.

7. Nightlife

One of the things I love about Lombok is that the nightlife isn’t (yet) as intense as in Bali. But don’t worry—that doesn’t mean it’s boring!

In the evenings, people gather at lively bars, some with dancing, live music, or small clubs, creating a great, relaxed atmosphere—like at Surfers Bar. Different places have events on different nights, so there’s always something happening.

8. Shopping

Lombok is a great place for shopping—you can stroll from one boutique or surf shop to the next. Unlike Bali, Kuta is more relaxed, and everything is within easy walking distance.

My absolute favorite shop: Nalua Store!

Get Around – Transportation on Lombok

The main mode of transport in Lombok is scooters or motorbikes! Unlike Bali, riding a scooter here is (still) more relaxed. With a scooter, you can reach almost any location, and if you have a surf rack, it’s the ideal way to get to the surf spots. Most beaches have parking areas that charge a small fee of 10,000 IDR (around. 60 Cent)

Who Can Ride a Scooter?

To legally ride a scooter in Indonesia, you need an international driving permit along with your original license from your home country. However, many places will still rent you a scooter without one. Be aware, though, that if you get into an accident, your travel insurance may not cover your medical costs if you don’t have the proper license.

Also, keep in mind that Indonesia has left-hand traffic, and don’t forget your helmet! (I once had to pay a fine during a police check because I wasn’t wearing one.)

Scooter Rental in Lombok

It’s best to rent a scooter directly through your accommodation. In case of any issues, communication is usually easier, and there’s less risk of scams. A scooter rental costs around 70,000 IDR to 130,000 IDR per day. If you need it for a longer period, you can always negotiate weekly or monthly rates.

Most rental places do not offer insurance for damages or theft, so you’ll have to cover any costs yourself. If you run into any issues, it’s a good idea to ask a trusted local, such as someone from your accommodation, for recommendations on a good repair shop.

A full tank of gas is incredibly cheap—around 2 EUR.

Alternative To Scooter

If you don’t want to or can’t ride a scooter, your only real option is to hire a driver. This is why surf camps can be a great alternative, as they provide transport to surf spots, and within Kuta, you can walk everywhere. If you’re not into surfing, ask your accommodation if they can recommend a reliable driver.

Is Lombok Safe?

I’ll admit, I was influenced by a few blog posts before my first visit to Lombok and had some initial concerns—but completely for no reason! I’ve always found the island to be safe and not at all threatening.

That said, some travelers have reported incidents of petty crime, such as theft. This isn’t surprising, considering that poverty is still a big issue on the island.

But honestly, I wouldn’t leave my belongings unattended in Bali either. In fact, recent reports suggest that tourists are more likely to steal from each other than locals are. Or maybe it’s the monkeys? 😉

If you follow a few basic safety precautions, you can minimize the risk of a negative experience in Lombok:

• Don’t openly display your valuables, and never leave them unattended—neither on the beach nor in your scooter.
• Store important valuables in a safe at your accommodation whenever possible.
• Avoid walking alone in remote areas at night.

Travel Tip:

Protect your data & privacy while traveling by using a VPN. I personally swear by the App NordVPN.

Cultural Respect

Unlike Bali, where Hinduism is the dominant religion, Lombok is predominantly Muslim. However, the locals are just as welcoming to the growing number of tourists and usually greet travelers with warmth and tolerance. Still, it’s important to respect their culture and traditions.

Especially in town away from the beaches, you should be mindful of your clothing. Wearing a bikini or board shorts is totally fine on the beach, but when riding a scooter through town or visiting a restaurant, it’s best to cover up. Even though the locals are generally very tolerant, they feel more comfortable when visitors dress respectfully. (By the way, this also applies to Bali!)

I really hope that tourism in Lombok doesn’t develop as irresponsibly as it has in some parts of Bali. Each of us can help preserve the island’s relaxed and respectful atmosphere!

Summary

Lombok is no longer a hidden gem, but it’s still a paradise for anyone looking for an unforgettable island getaway. Whether you’re here to surf, relax, or seek adventure, Lombok offers a perfect mix of activities, relaxation, and culture. With its growing surf community, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Lombok is every bit as special as its bigger sister, Bali.

I hope this guide helps you prepare for your trip to Lombok! If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to reach out. Enjoy your journey!

This article was all about Lombok – Your Ultimate Travel Guide.

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