Lombok Travel Guide: Hidden Gems and the Island’s Best Beaches

Lombok, Bali’s lesser-known neighbor, has preserved its pristine nature and laid-back pace of life. The island offers everything people love about Indonesia: volcanoes, tropical forests, waterfalls, white-sand beaches, and perfect waves for surfing. Green hills slope down to deserted bays, while lush jungles hide cascading waterfalls. Lombok remains deeply rooted in tradition—artisan villages still live as if time stood still centuries ago.

This guide will help you plan an independent journey or join a curated MyBaliTrips tour to explore the most beautiful beaches of Lombok.

How to Get from Bali to Lombok

The easiest way to reach Lombok from Bali is by fast boat or ferry. Both depart from Padangbai harbor. The fast boat ride takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, while the ferry takes about 5–6 hours. You can book tickets in advance depending on your schedule. To save time, consider a domestic flight: the journey from Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali to Lombok takes only around 30 minutes.

Top Attractions

Mount Rinjani
Lombok’s highest point and Indonesia’s second-highest volcano (3,726 m). Rinjani draws hikers with its scenic trails, views of Segara Anak Lake, and the breathtaking perspective from the island’s peak. The trek is challenging and requires good physical condition and experience. If you're confident and ready for an unforgettable adventure — Rinjani awaits.

Sasak Villages
The Sasak people are Lombok’s indigenous population, preserving their traditional lifestyle. In Sade and Ende villages, you’ll find clay and bamboo houses, handmade crafts, and rituals passed down through generations.

Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfalls
Hidden in the rainforest on Rinjani’s northern slopes, these two waterfalls are reached via a short hike. Natural pools offer a refreshing dip. They’re often included in guided tours and make a great introduction to Lombok’s lush north.

Best Beaches

Kuta Lombok
The heart of the island’s south coast and a perfect base for exploring. Kuta is a wide, sandy beach ideal for mixing surfing with relaxed breakfasts in local cafés. Its free-spirited atmosphere attracts travelers from all over the world while maintaining a peaceful vibe.

Tanjung Aan
The most picturesque beach in southern Lombok, known for its powdery white sand and twin bays — one calm, the other with gentle waves. It’s perfect for swimming, surfing, or sunset picnics by the shore.

Selong Belanak
Ideal for learning to surf. Soft sand, warm water, and steady waves make it beginner-friendly. Traditional fishermen in wooden boats add a cultural touch. The beach is lined with coconut palms and famous for its iridescent sunsets.

Tangsi (Pink) Beach
A true hidden gem. The sand’s pink hue comes from crushed coral and is most vibrant in morning light. Located on the island’s southeast coast, it’s surrounded by raw nature.

Mawun Bay
A peaceful, secluded bay nestled between green hills. The water is calm, and there are almost no buildings around. One of the few places in Lombok where you can swim in glassy water and feel like you're in a romantic movie.

Want to explore them all? MyBaliTrips offers a 3-day tour to Lombok’s most scenic beaches, bays, and rolling hills — everything that makes this island so special.

What to Do in Lombok

Surfing
Lombok has excellent waves for beginners and advanced surfers, with fewer crowds than Bali. The laid-back atmosphere and sandy breaks make for a welcoming experience. Try Don-Don for smooth, consistent swells, or Gerupuk Bay for waves suitable for all levels. Surf schools and board rentals are available right on the beach.

Snorkeling Around Untouched Islands
The island’s eastern coast is a snorkeler’s paradise. Visit Gili Pasir — a sandbar that appears only at low tide — and the coral reefs of Gili Petelu, home to hundreds of tropical fish. There are no tourist crowds here, and the water is crystal clear.

Hiking
Nicknamed the island of hills and volcanoes, Lombok offers scenic hikes with ocean views. Bukit Merese and Pergasingan Hill take only 15–30 minutes to summit and offer panoramic views of rice fields, villages, and turquoise waters. The best times to hike are sunrise or sunset.

Local Markets
Lombok’s markets are bursting with life — the scent of spices, fresh fruit, and grilled rice fills the air. Find colorful textiles and friendly vendors speaking Sasak and Indonesian. Pasar Cakranegara in Mataram is the largest, while Ampenan Market near the harbor offers an authentic local experience.

Yoga
Lombok is the perfect place to recharge. Yoga studios like Ashtari Yoga (overlooking Kuta) and Mana Yoga Retreat offer sessions surrounded by nature and ocean views. Classes are available for all levels.

Creative Workshops: Batik & Silver Jewelry
Need a break from adventure? Join a workshop at Batik Silver Studio to learn traditional batik techniques or create your own silver jewelry. You’ll leave with both a new skill and a lasting memory.

Spa Time
After hiking and surfing, treat yourself to a relaxing massage or body treatment at one of Kuta’s cozy spas. Try Matcha Spa or Lina Spa & Wellness for tropical tranquility and natural therapies.

Breakfast Spots

Milk Espresso: A stylish café and surfer hangout with great coffee, smoothie bowls, and hearty breakfasts. Chill music and the best latte in Kuta Lombok.

Terra – Plant Based Food: A tropical, plant-based café with smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and matcha lattes served in a lush garden setting. Light and energizing.

The Breakery: A French bakery offering freshly baked croissants and warm bread. Great for a slow morning and a strong cup of coffee. Almond croissants are a must-try.

Dinner options

El Bazar Café & Restaurant: A Moroccan-style restaurant known for its ambiance. Tagines, grilled seafood, cocktails, and fine wines make it perfect for romantic evenings or relaxed gatherings. It’s popular, so book ahead.

Bush Radio: A social café-bar where travelers gather for wood-fired pizza, cocktails, and a laid-back vibe.

Sapori Italian Restaurant: An elegant Italian spot with an open kitchen and a cozy terrace. Serving Neapolitan pizza, handmade pasta, and traditional desserts — ideal for a relaxed dinner.