Lombok, located just to the east of Bali, is an Indonesian island that’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor. However, this beautiful destination is a true hidden gem that offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. From pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush forests and towering volcanoes, Lombok has something for every kind of traveler.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Lombok to ensure you make the most of your trip to this stunning island.

Things to Do in Lombok

1. Climb Mount Rinjani: An Adventurer’s Dream

Lombok’s crowning jewel is Mount Rinjani, an active stratovolcano standing at 3,726 meters (12,224 feet), making it the second-highest mountain in Indonesia. A trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a thrilling adventure for those who are up for it. The hike is challenging, but the rewards are incredible: breathtaking views, pristine crater lakes, and a sense of achievement that few other hikes can match.

• Trekking Options: The standard trek takes 2 to 3 days, with a guided tour that will take you to the crater rim and the stunning Segara Anak Lake. For the more experienced climbers, you can opt for a summit trek, which usually starts around midnight to reach the peak for sunrise.

• Best Time to Trek: The best time to trek Mount Rinjani is during the dry season, from April to October.

2. Relax on the Gorgeous Beaches

Lombok is known for its serene beaches, many of which are less crowded than Bali, offering an ideal environment for relaxation and water activities. Some must-visit beaches include:

• Kuta Lombok: Not to be confused with Bali’s Kuta, Lombok’s Kuta is a peaceful, laid-back beach that’s perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and swimming. The beach is surrounded by rolling hills and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

• Selong Belanak: This beach is famous for its soft white sand and clear blue waters. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a peaceful walk along the shoreline.

• Tanjung Aan: Known for its crescent-shaped beach and turquoise waters, Tanjung Aan is an idyllic destination for those looking to escape the crowds. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling and surfing.

• Senggigi Beach: This is one of Lombok’s most famous beaches, located on the island’s western coast. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning sunset views, and various water sports.

3. Snorkel and Dive in the Gili Islands

Just a short boat ride from Lombok, the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air) are a world-renowned destination for snorkeling, diving, and relaxation. These tiny islands offer some of the best underwater experiences in Indonesia. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, there’s something for everyone.

• Snorkeling and Diving: The crystal-clear waters around the Gili Islands are teeming with marine life, including sea turtles, colorful coral reefs, and a wide variety of fish. Several dive shops offer guided diving tours, and beginners can take lessons to explore the underwater world.

• Chill and Enjoy the Vibe: The Gili Islands are also known for their laid-back atmosphere. You can enjoy a cocktail by the beach, rent a bicycle to explore the islands, or simply relax in the sun.

4. Explore the Waterfalls of Lombok

Lombok is home to some of the most beautiful and serene waterfalls in Indonesia. These waterfalls are often set in lush tropical forests, offering a refreshing break from the island’s beaches and a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature. Some notable waterfalls include:

• Tiu Kelep Waterfall: This is one of Lombok’s most famous waterfalls, located near the village of Senaru. To reach the waterfall, you’ll need to hike through a jungle path, but the journey is well worth it. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and you can take a dip in the cool, clear waters.

• Sendang Gile Waterfall: Located near Tiu Kelep, Sendang Gile is a beautiful two-tier waterfall that cascades down into a large pool. The surrounding area is peaceful, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim.

• Benang Stokel Waterfall: Situated in the central part of Lombok, this waterfall is known for its unique twin streams that fall into a large pool. It’s an excellent spot for photography and swimming.

5. Visit the Traditional Sasak Villages

Lombok is home to the indigenous Sasak people, who have their own unique culture, language, and traditions. Visiting a Sasak village is an excellent way to experience the local way of life. The Sade Village and Sukarara Village are two popular spots where you can see traditional houses, watch hand-weaving demonstrations, and learn about Sasak culture.

• Sade Village: Known for its traditional architecture and unique customs, Sade Village offers insight into the daily lives of the Sasak people. The houses are built using a mix of bamboo, palm leaves, and thatched roofs, and the community is known for its hospitality.

• Sukarara Village: This village is famous for its traditional hand-woven textiles. You can watch the artisans at work and purchase beautiful ikat and songket fabrics as souvenirs.

6. Surf the Waves in Kuta Lombok

Kuta Lombok is a surfer’s paradise, boasting some of the best surf spots in Indonesia. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner looking to learn, the beaches around Kuta offer great opportunities for surfing.

• Mawi Beach: A favorite spot for advanced surfers, Mawi Beach offers consistent waves and stunning surroundings.

• Gerupuk Bay: This is another excellent surfing spot with different break points suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers.

If you’re new to surfing, you can find plenty of surf schools offering lessons for all levels. Surfing in Lombok offers a more relaxed vibe compared to Bali, with fewer crowds and pristine surf conditions.

7. Discover the Local Cuisine

 

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Lombok’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its indigenous Sasak culture, and the island is known for its delicious and spicy food. Some must-try dishes include:

• Ayam Taliwang: A local specialty, this spicy grilled chicken is marinated in a mix of spices and served with rice and sambal (chili sauce).

• Plecing Kangkung: A traditional dish made with water spinach, chili sauce, and peanuts.

• Sate Rembiga: Skewered beef served with a rich, flavorful sauce, often enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal.

You can sample these dishes in local restaurants and warungs (small eateries) in towns like Kuta Lombok or Senggigi.

8. Take a Day Trip to Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis

For those seeking a quieter alternative to the Gili Islands, a visit to Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis is a fantastic option. These small, secluded islands are perfect for a peaceful day of snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. You can rent a private boat to visit these islands, and they are far less crowded than the Gilis closer to Bali.

9. Watch the Sunset from Malimbu Hill

If you’re looking for a breathtaking sunset view, head to Malimbu Hill on Lombok’s northwest coast. From here, you can see panoramic views of the ocean, the Gili Islands, and the surrounding hills. It’s one of the best spots on the island to capture the stunning colors of the sunset and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lombok

1. Where is Lombok located?

Lombok is an island in Indonesia, located to the east of Bali in the Lesser Sunda Islands. It is part of the West Nusa Tenggara province, with the capital city being Mataram.

2. What is Lombok known for?

Lombok is famous for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and the towering Mount Rinjani, an active volcano. It is also known for its traditional culture, authentic Sasak cuisine, and the nearby Gili Islands, a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and relaxation.

3. How do you get to Lombok?

• By Air: The easiest way to reach Lombok is by flying into Lombok International Airport (LOP), which receives both domestic and international flights, including connections from Bali, Jakarta, and other major cities in Indonesia.

• By Sea: Lombok is accessible by ferry from Bali or other neighboring islands. There are also speedboat services between Bali and the Gili Islands, which are located off the coast of Lombok.

4. What are the best things to do in Lombok?

• Hiking Mount Rinjani: For adventure lovers, hiking Mount Rinjani is a must. It’s Indonesia’s second-highest volcano and offers stunning views and a beautiful crater lake at the summit.

• Visit the Gili Islands: The Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air) are famous for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant underwater life.

• Explore Waterfalls: Lombok is home to beautiful waterfalls like Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, set against lush jungle backdrops.

• Beaches: Lombok offers stunning beaches like Kuta Lombok, Senggigi, and Tanjung Aan, ideal for surfing, relaxing, and exploring.

• Cultural Sites: Visit traditional Sasak villages and markets to experience the local culture, including the unique architecture and handicrafts.

5. What is the weather like in Lombok?

Lombok has a tropical climate, with two seasons:

• Dry Season (April to October): The weather is sunny, hot, and dry, making it the ideal time to visit.

• Rainy Season (November to March): Rainfall is more frequent during this time, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in January and February.

6. Is Lombok a good destination for surfing?

Yes! Lombok is a great destination for surfing, with some of the best surf spots in Indonesia, such as Selong Belanak, Mawi, and Kuta Lombok. The waves cater to surfers of all levels, from beginners to advanced.

Conclusion

Lombok may be less famous than Bali, but it’s an island that offers everything you could want for a tropical getaway.