You’re craving more than just a holiday – you want nature, quiet moments, and space to actually feel your surroundings. Lombok delivers all that, effortlessly.
This island is raw, beautiful, and humbly vibrant. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, the ocean speaks, and sunsets feel like private performances. If you're ready for a destination that’s still wonderfully under the radar, this guide is for you.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Lombok – for those who love surf, adventure, and peace in equal measure.
You know that dreamy surf montage in your head? Endless blue waves, soft takeoffs, locals smiling from their boards – that’s real here.
On the southern coast, especially near Kuta, surf breaks unfold gently across the shoreline. Whether you’re standing up for the first time or chasing your hundredth green wave, Lombok’s southern coast gives you room to grow. And, more importantly, room to breathe.
And when your arms are jelly and your face salty from grinning too hard, you’ll find that most surf stays here blend in morning yoga, healthy meals, and chill-out zones that remind you that surfing is a lifestyle, not just a sport.
There’s something deeply satisfying about chasing waterfalls and stumbling upon beaches you didn’t expect. Hire a guide or rent a vehicle to explore the northern waterfalls – Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile. These twin cascades thunder through lush jungle, cooling your skin and
washing off any leftover stress. The hike? Short, sweet, and filled with the soundtrack of monkeys and birdsong.
It’s nature’s way of reminding you who’s boss – and why you came. Along the coast, skip the busy strips and explore:
Rent a scooter. Point it somewhere on the map. And just go.
If food is your love language, Lombok is ready to flirt. You’ll find two kinds of foodies here: those who love hole-in-the-wall warungs, and those who can’t resist a smoothie bowl topped with a rainbow of tropical fruit.Thankfully, Lombok caters to both.
Start with Ayam Taliwang – a spicy grilled chicken dish marinated in fire and flavor. It’s served simply, often with steamed rice and vegetables, but the taste is unforgettable. Pair it with Plecing Kangkung, a zesty water spinach salad with a sambal kick, and your tastebuds will thank you.
In Kuta Lombok, a cozy café scene has blossomed. Places like Milk Espresso and Munchies serve smoothie bowls so pretty you’ll hesitate to eat them, alongside robust coffee and tropical breakfasts that fuel your days.
But the true gems? The warungs. Local, humble, and generous with flavor. Grab a plate of nasi campur, choose your toppings – curried tofu, sambal eggs, fried tempeh – and sit under a thatched roof while the world spins slowly around you.
Eat slow. Try new things. Food here isn’t just fuel – it’s a story.
Just off Lombok’s coast, a string of tiny islands offers an entirely different pace – charming, chilled, and easy to explore. Each one has its own flavor:
Don’t-miss experiences:
Hop on a public boat from Bangsal Harbour or book a private one from Teluk Nare if you’re feeling fancy and make your way back to Lombok.
Lombok’s beauty isn’t just in its beaches – it’s in its people.
Spend a morning in Sade Village, where the Sasak people still live in traditional thatched homes. They’ll show you how they weave ikat cloth from hand-spun yarn and natural dyes. In Ende Village, women invite you to try the loom. Kids run up to say hello. Elders sit in the shade weaving baskets and watching the world go by. The sense of community here is palpable.
These aren’t performances – they’re daily life, shared with pride and warmth.
Festivals to look out for:
Up for a challenge? Mount Rinjani is your test – and your reward.
Mount Rinjani is both a pilgrimage and a playground for adventure lovers. This active volcano towers over Lombok, and climbing it is no small adventure. Trekking to the summit means 2–3 days of jungle trails, steep ascents, and breathtaking sunrises above the clouds.
There’s a crater lake, hot springs, and starry nights that silence even the chattiest minds. Don’t worry if a full summit feels like too much – you can opt for a partial hike and still catch
jaw-dropping views. Just be prepared: sturdy shoes, layers, snacks, and a sense of humor go a long way. It’s intense but manageable, and the views are unforgettable.
In Lombok, sunsets aren’t an event – they’re a ritual. Bukit Merese, or Sunset Hill, is a gentle drive from Kuta. Pack a mango (or buy a coconut from small local stores on the way), find a grassy spot, and let the show begin. Orange melts into pink, then purple, then deep night.
Want a quieter view? Seger Hill offers wide-angle ocean views with less crowds. Selong Belanak and Mawun Beach are great if you prefer to stay closer to the waves. Grab a drink, dig your toes in, and watch the sky reflect every emotion you didn’t know you had.
Wellness in Lombok isn’t curated – it’s felt. You’ll find surf camps offering yoga, meditation, breathwork, and nourishing food – but without the gloss or pressure. It’s real, raw, and refreshingly unfiltered.
One morning might start with a clifftop stretch, another with a silent walk through rice fields. There’s massage, sound healing, and even ice baths for the brave. But the best part? You can just be yourself here. No hashtags needed. No judgment. Just healing, connection, and space.
Forget expensive retreats with tight schedules. Wellness in Lombok is effortless.
Scooter culture is alive and well in Lombok – and it’s your passport to total freedom. Rent a bike, strap on your helmet, and set off with no destination. The roads are open, the air is warm, and the views unfold like a film reel. The route from Kuta to Selong Belanak is a stunner. Rolling hills, grazing cows, ocean vistas, and tiny warungs where you can pause for iced tea or fried bananas.
Safety tip? Always wear a helmet, take it slow, and soak in the scenery. Lombok reveals its best treasures when you’re not in a rush.
Yes, that’s a thing. And here, it’s sacred. Let yourself nap in a hammock. Read a book by the sea. Sip coconut water slowly and forget your plans. In Lombok, “doing nothing” becomes a kind of art – and a powerful reminder that you’re allowed to just be.
It’s in these quiet, unplanned moments that the magic happens. Thoughts settle. Creativity bubbles up. Peace becomes tangible. Lombok holds space for all of that – and more.
This isn’t a place you rush through. It’s a place that opens up slowly, like a seashell in your palm. With every wave, every hilltop, every smile from a stranger – you remember what it means to feel alive again.
Come for the surf. Stay for the simplicity. Leave with a lighter heart. Lombok’s not a secret, but it does feel like one. And once you’ve been? You’ll carry it with you forever.
We make sure you don’t leave without learning a little more about Lombok. Apart from its stunning beaches and mild waves, this country offers endless tropical adventures.
Embark on an adventurous trek up Mount Rinjani, where you'll experience stunning panoramas and the thrill of conquering one of Indonesia's most famous volcanoes.
Dive into the heart of Lombok's cultural heritage by visiting Sasak villages. Learn about the traditional weaving techniques and the unique way of life of the Sasak people.
Discover the freedom of exploring Lombok on a scooter. Wind through quaint villages, along stunning coastlines, and up mountainous terrains at your own pace. It’s an exhilarating way to cover more ground and see the sights from a local’s perspective.
Experience the charm of Tanjung Aan Beach from a seaside swing. Capture the perfect photo or simply enjoy the gentle breeze as you swing with views of the sparkling ocean and expansive beach. It's a relaxing and Instagram-worthy way to enjoy Lombok’s coastal beauty.
Journey through the jungle to discover the stunning Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. Feel the mist and enjoy the soothing sounds of nature.
Embark on an adventure to the lesser-known Secret Cave in Gerupuk. Ideal for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path, this cave offers a unique spelunking experience that highlights the natural beauty and mystery of Lombok's coastal region.