How to Get to Lombok from Bali for a Surf Trip

Your chill, step-by-step guide to boats, planes, and making it to your wave-filled holiday
August 4, 2025

Hey, surfer! Planning your trip to Lombok from Bali?

You’ve probably already been picturing those perfect waves, the laid-back vibes, and early morning surfs at your dreamy Lombok surf camp.

But before you wax your board, you’ve got one big question: How do you actually get from Bali to Lombok without stress, confusion, or missing your check-in window?

Good news: you're not alone, and it’s easier than it sounds. Whether you’re chasing the cheapest way to get to Lombok or the fastest way to start surfing, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s break down all the options – plane, slow ferry, fast boat – and help you pick the smoothest route for your surf trip.

Flight vs Ferry: What’s Best for Getting to Lombok?

If you're wondering whether to fly or ferry it across, the answer depends on your priorities. Do you want the fastest route?

Prefer the scenic adventure?

Or need the cheapest ticket possible? Let’s look at each choice.

Flying from Bali to Lombok (30-40 Minutes)

This is hands-down the quickest and most hassle-free way to get to Lombok.

  • Flight time: About 30–35 minutes
  • Airports: From Denpasar (DPS) to Lombok International (LOP)
  • Airlines: Wings Air, Lion Air, Super Air Jet
  • Cost: Usually around IDR 900,000 – IDR 1,200,000 (depending on the season)

You’ll save time, avoid long ferry rides, and it’s a smooth landing close to Kuta Lombok. Ideal for you if:

  • You're short on time
  • You value comfort over budget
  • You want to arrive without being seasick

Note: Flights have been known to fill up quickly – especially during peak travel seasons – so if flying is part of your plan, it's best to book as early as possible to secure your seat.

Taking the Ferry (Slow or Speedboat)

If you’ve got more time, love the sea, or want to save a little cash – the ferry is your friend. Just know it can take longer and involve a few moving parts. Let’s dive into both ferry types.

Slow Ferry Transfers to Lombok (Budget Option)

If you're traveling on a budget or looking for a truly local experience, the public ferry from Bali to Lombok is the most economical choice – though it’s also the slowest.

  • Departure port: Padang Bai (East Bali)
  • Arrival port: Lembar (Southwest Lombok)
  • Trip time: 4 to 6 hours (can be longer with delays or weather impacts)
  • Cost: Around IDR 80,000 for foot passengers; slightly more if you're bringing a motorbike

You’ll sit with locals, tourists, truck drivers, and chickens (seriously). It’s authentic but basic. Don’t expect luxury. Do expect some waiting. Once you arrive in Lombok, keep in mind that Lembar Port is roughly 1.5 hours by car from Kuta, so be sure to factor that into your travel plans.

Pros:

  • Super cheap
  • No luggage restrictions or weight limits
  • Unique local experience
  • Regular 24-hour schedule

Cons:

  • Long travel time
  • Delays are common
  • Can be uncomfortable if the sea is rough

Tip: Bring snacks (or some cash to buy some), headphones, and some patience. If you're not in a rush, it’s a vibe.

Speedboat Transfers to Lombok (Faster and Scenic)

The fast boat from Bali to Lombok is a popular choice if you’re looking for something quicker than the ferry but still ocean-bound. There are several fast boat companies operating routes between Bali and Lombok – many stop in the Gili Islands along the way.

  • Departure ports: Padang Bai or Sanur
  • Arrival ports: Bangsal (North Lombok)
  • Trip time: 2 to 5 hours (depending on stops – can be more with delays
  • Cost: IDR 300,000 – 600,000 ($20–$40 USD), depending on the number of stops, the operator, and the comfort level of the boat.

Best for you if:

  • You want a scenic ocean ride
  • You’re already in East Bali
  • You plan to stop in the Gilis Not ideal if:
  • You get seasick
  • You’re carrying a lot of surf gear
  • You're rushing to check-in on the same day

Note: Not all fast boats drop you close to Kuta. If you arrive in Bangsal, you’ll still need a long drive (2 hours) to reach Kuta Lombok.

Flying with a Surfboard from Bali to Lombok: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning to fly from Denpasar (Bali) to Lombok with your surfboard, take a moment to understand how airlines handle it. It’s not always straightforward – and every airline has its own baggage policy when it comes to boards.

Do domestic Indonesian airlines charge for surfboards?

Short answer: Usually yes – but the rules change often, depends on the company and airport staff.

Airline Surfboard Baggage Policies

Policies and prices vary between airlines and are subject to change. We recommend checking the airline’s website or contacting them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Pro Tip: Always declare your surfboard during booking or check-in. Sneaking it in as a “bag” rarely works on domestic Indonesian flights.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Showing up with a longboard and no advance Many domestic planes don’t have space for these longer boards.
  • Not wrapping your board Staff may toss it on top of a luggage pile. Use hard cases or add extra padding (towels work great).
  • Assuming your board bag is “just another ” It’s not. Most airlines charge based on the dimensions, not just the weight.

Packing Tips for Flying with a Surfboard in Indonesia

  1. Use a short, compact travel board if It increases your chance of it being accepted without issue.
  2. Pack Many airlines only allow 15–20kg total baggage on domestic flights.
  3. Wrap your board nose and Use bubble wrap, soft clothes, or foam pipe insulation.
  4. Label Add your name and phone number – things get misplaced.
  5. Get to the airport Oversized baggage takes extra time to process at Bali Airport and some flights will only let a certain number of surfboards on.

Alternative: Ferry Travel with Longboards

If your go-to surf stick is longer than 6'6", you’re likely to run into trouble at the airport. That’s when the ferry route from Bali to Lombok becomes your best friend.

  • No size restrictions on boards (within reason).
  • You can carry your board with you or store it safely in the luggage
  • No extra surfboard fees – one less thing to worry
  • Great option for travelers with multiple boards or bigger

Downsides? It takes longer (see sections above on slow ferries and speedboats), but it’s reliable for large boards.

So, What’s the Best Option for Flying with a Surfboard?

Here’s a quick decision guide:

Your Situation

Best Option

One shortboard under 6'2"

Fly from Denpasar, Bali to Lombok International

Longer board over 7'0"

Take the ferry

More than 1 board

Ferry is cheaper + safer

Need to arrive fast

Fly and pay the fee

Traveling light

Fly with no issues – easy check-in

Final Tips Before You Book That Flight

  • Book directly on the airline’s website for baggage and surfboard add-
  • Screenshot surfboard policies – sometimes airport staff can disagree with official
  • If traveling with friends, group your boards in one big bag to save
  • Always allow for delays when transferring – island time is

Getting from Lombok Airport to Kuta (Easy Route)

Whether you fly in or take a boat and connect by land, you’ll eventually end up on a road heading toward Kuta Lombok, the surf town you’ve been dreaming about. Here’s how to make that last leg easy.

From Lombok International Airport (LOP) to Kuta Lombok:

  • Distance: About 20 km
  • Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Transport options:
    • Pre-arranged camp pickup
    • Local taxi
    • Private driver

Tip: If you're landing late, arrange your transport in advance. Don’t count on finding rides after 9pm.

From Lembar Port (Ferry) to Kuta:

  • Time: Around 5 hours by car
  • Roads: Scenic through local villages
  • Tip: Share a ride with other travelers to cut costs

From Bangsal Port (Fast Boat) to Kuta:

  • Time: Around 2 hours
  • Roads: Windy and scenic
  • Options:
    • Pre-booked car
    • Local driver negotiations
    • Shuttle vans (longer but cheaper)

Note: The surf isn’t near Bangsal, so don’t linger there. Head south where the good stuff lives

One more thing to keep in mind: Grab and Gojek are not popular in Lombok like they are in Bali. They are not a reliable source of transport here.

Best Arrival Times for Surf Camp Check-In

Most surf camps in Lombok will have a check in time around 2pm. To keep things smooth, here’s a breakdown of best arrival timing based on transport:

If Flying:

  • Choose a flight landing between 00 AM and 2:00 PM – most direct flights will leave Denpasar in the morning before 12pm.
  • Gives you time for airport pickup and check-in before sunset

If Taking a Slow Ferry:

  • Leave Padang Bai by 9am
  • Factor in delays, road time, and possible queueing

If Taking a Fast Boat:

  • Depart early and land in Lombok before 12:00 PM
  • Expect a long taxi ride south

Quick FAQs for Your Surf Trip to Lombok

Can I bring my surfboard on the ferry or plane?

Yes. But check airline baggage fees and policies – some charge extra for boards and some have limited room.

How long is the boat from Bali to Lombok?

Fast boat: around 2–3 hours. Slow ferry: 4–6 hours (or more).

Can I get a taxi at Lombok Airport?

Yes, but booking in advance is easier and more efficient (trust us, after a day of travel, you’ll be thanking yourself for booking a car in advance).

Is it better to stay in the Gilis first?

Only if you want a stopover. Surf isn’t great there – better waves are in Kuta Lombok.

If you want a peaceful surf trip with warm waters, uncrowded breaks, and laid-back energy.

Lombok is the place. Now you know exactly how to get there from Bali. Enjoy the ride – and save your energy for the waves.