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Some might say that if you’re living in Bali you don’t need a vacation. But one of our main goals when we travel is to get off the beaten track. And Bali is definitely on the beaten track. That’s why we decided to take a break from living in Bali to visit the neighboring island of Lombok. Lombok may be known on the world stage for its series of devastating earthquakes that shook the region in July and August of 2018, but this beautiful destination is much more than a disaster zone. Lombok has a rich indigenous culture, with strong Islamic influences. It also has some of the prettiest coastlines in Indonesia, with a fraction of the crowds of Bali.

From the beginning of our trip planning, Lombok was a clear frontrunner for a getaway from Bali. To seal the deal we hopped on Orbitz to check out the hotel selection. We wanted to start off our trip with a bit of luxury and were stoked to find a variety of gorgeous resorts and hotels throughout the island. From quiet villas to larger resorts, there was plenty to choose from for our trip to Lombok.

In the end we chose the Katamaran Resort in Senggigi, rated as one of the best hotels in Lombok. This place looked drop dead gorgeous on Orbitz, and it was affordable! By booking through Orbitz we were able to get a 32% discount off the regular price of $265/night. That means we only paid $180/night for an ocean view suite! The room included wifi and a huge buffet breakfast in the morning. And if you know us you know that Jules loves a good breakfast buffet!

We were coming from Bali so flights were super cheap, but if you’re coming from the United States or Australia you can find some very affordable vacation packages that include flights and hotel!

Reaping Our Orbucks Rewards

One of the best parts of the booking process was using our Orbucks Rewards points to earn 5% when we booked using the Orbitz app. Unlike other confusing reward systems, Orbitz Rewards makes things really easy. 1 Orbuck = $1. You can use your Orbucks for discounts on any of their 350,000+ hotels, with no blackout dates! So on our 3 night stay we earned $24.21 in Orbucks! You could rack up some serious discounts if you use your Orbitz reward app to book all of your travel. One of the best parts is that you can earn 1% on flights on top of any airline miles you get from airline rewards!

We were also able to use Orbucks that we had earned back at home with the Orbitz Reward Dining program. This program can help you earn discounts on travel before you even decide on your destination! You link your credit card to the Reward program and Orbitz will automatically reward you with Orbucks whenever you dine at a participating restaurant. I was so surprised how many restaurants nearby are in the program. There were plenty of places that we already dined at, and now we’re saving up for future trips when we eat there! We earned enough through dining at home to get a decent discount for our trip to the Katamaran Resort in Lombok.

The Katamaran Resort, Lombok

Because of these discounts we were even more excited to splurge on our luxury accommodation at the Katamaran. Here’s what we loved about our stay at the resort:

We’ve been to some sweet hotels in our day, but we have to say that this is one of the most luxurious! Everything about this place is stunning. They pride themselves on excellent hospitality, which is what you’re met with right when enter their beautiful lobby. At check in, you’re welcomed with a fruity drink and a cold scented washcloth that feels like heaven on the back of your neck. 

The room itself was stunning, with a clear view of both the ocean and the infinity pool below. The style is sleek and minimalist, and the decor reflects the local Lombok architecture. The bed was huge and comfortable. We even had an outdoor shower where we could look up at the palm trees overhead while washing the day away. One of my favorite parts of the room was the day bed on our balcony. I loved curling up with a beach read while listening to the waves crash below us. Heaven!

While we loved our room, the best part of the Katamaran resort is definitely the pool area. The pool is one of the features that we saw on Orbitz that made us think, we have to book this place! Not only is there a large infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, but the sides are made of clear glass! That means you can see in from the side. It makes for some epic photos that you would never be able to get in a standard pool. For us, fun little additions like this quirky pool make a hotel stand out more than anything!

What to Do in Lombok

Before the earthquakes of 2018, Senggigi was known as the tourist hub of Lombok. When went to visit in March of 2019, the town felt quiet. We spoke to some artisan sellers on the beach who mentioned that the earthquakes scared away tourists. It’s been difficult for them to make the same wage as before the disaster. This was an important reminder that where we choose to travel is extremely important. Our tourism dollars have a huge impact on the communities we visit. We really encourage travelers to visit Lombok, not only to support the local economy, but because it’s a really beautiful destination!

One thing you can’t miss exploring in the region are the gorgeous beaches! The best beaches in Lombok are scattered throughout the island, and there are plenty near the Katamaran Resort. One of our favorite things we did in the area was rent a motorbike and cruise to different local beaches. The coastline of Lombok is absolutely gorgeous. If you grab a bike near Senggigi and head north, you can catch the beaches of Sentangi, Ludmila, Nipah and Pandanan. Each beach is stunning and has its own vibe. The turn off for Sentangi and Ludmila is easy to miss, so the beach is incredibly devoid of tourists. Although there’s a bit of trash around the palm trees, down by the water the sand is pristine. Nipah is one of the more popular beaches on the coast. As you drive down you’ll see warungs (local restaurants) lining the sand. It’s definitely worth stopping in for a fresh fish and veggie lunch with spicy sambal. Whichever beach you choose, you’ll definitely see some gorgeous views as you ride along the highway.

Another activity we really enjoyed while in Senggigi was a visit to the Lombok Pottery Center. The LPC is a cooperative of over 200 women potters. They work in different villages around the area, crafting pottery indigenous to the region. You can visit the center or go on one of their village tours to see the pottery being handmade by artisans. This activity may not be as relaxing as laying by the pool, but taking the time to learn about the local culture and support a female owned and operated community project will have a much more positive impact than ordering another Mai Tai.

In the end we were so happy that we chose the Katamaran Resort in Senggigi, Lombok. Finding this resort on Orbitz was such a score. Not only were we able to easily book our luxury room at the best rate, but we actually made Orbucks while we did it. Now we’ll be set with a discount for our future trips!

Don’t forget to plan the rest of your trip to Lombok! Here are some other affordable hotels that are drop dead gorgeous.

Batatu Villa – This villa located in Kuta Lombok is a holidayer’s dream. Each of the four rooms have their own private pool and breakfast is included every morning. Staff can help you organize a bike or car rental. Plus you’ll find some of the best beaches in Lombok around Kuta!

Samsara Villas – These villas on relaxing Gili Air also have a private pool and terrace, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee. They’re right by the ocean so you don’t have far to walk for a snorkeling tour or to take in the sunset. 

Ponte Villas – At less than $100 per night, these villas are luxury at an affordable price. On busy Gili T, you’ll want a relaxing place to come back to after a long day in the sun, and these villas are perfect!

There is are lots of things to do in Lombok, Indonesia, but one of our favorite activities was renting a motorbike and exploring the beaches! The beaches of Lombok are drop dead gorgeous. The sand is white, the water is clear and the waves are calm. And getting to Lombok from Bali is super easy!

From the resort beaches of Senggigi to the quiet isolated shores near Kuta to the beach parties on the Gili islands, there are so many impressive beaches to explore. Whether you’re a surfer or just want to lay back on the soft sand, Lombok has something for every interest. These were our favorite beaches in Lombok:

Kuta Beach Lombok

Kuta is one of Lombok’s most popular destinations, but it’s small and quiet compared to super touristy Kuta in Bali. Instead, Kuta Lombok is a cute surf town, with an increasing amount of guesthouses, restaurants and cafes. At night the local bars have live music, where it seems like the bands play the same charming covers ,while travelers knock back a few Bintangs.

The town has a laid back, dusty feel, but you can tell from the increase in hip cafes that Kuta is probably going to boom in the next few years. There is a lot of construction going on near in the beach in town, so you can expect new developments to be popping up here soon.  The beach in town is nice enough for a quick dip, but the beaches surrounding Kuta are much more isolated and beautiful. In our opinion, these are the best beaches near Kuta Lombok.

Selong Belanak Beach

About half an hour outside of Kuta, this beach has something for everyone. Part of the beach is lined with small warungs (restaurants) that double up as surf schools. The waves here are calm, perfect for practicing your surf skills as a beginner. Further down the beach you’ll find a fancier restaurant if you want a nice meal and past that you’ll find a long stretch of white sand all to yourself.

Selong Belanak is definitely one of the more popular southern beaches in Lombok, so it can feel crowded by the warungs, but if you keep walking you’ll find that the further you go, the beach actually becomes very quiet. One a sunny day, the contrast of the white sand with the blue water is really stunning.

Motorbike parking cost: 10,000 rupiah

Mawi Beach

Just south of Selong Belanak is Mawi beach. This Lombok beach is undeveloped and beautifully quiet. On a sunny day Mawi beach is a real stunner. We only spotted one other couple on the long stretch of sand. The road to Mawi is very bumpy and can be a bit treacherous if you’re not used to riding a motorbike. Be especially careful if it’s recently rained as the mud can be difficult to bike through. If you go slow, though, you’ll be fine! The reward for braving the bumpy road is arriving at the sand to find that you have the whole beach to yourself!

There are really two sections to Mawi, the closest to Selong Belanak is a long stretch of sand. We didn’t see any warungs or shops here, so bring your own picnic. If you keep walking along this beach, away from Seong Belanka and toward Semeti Beach, you’ll hit a formation of rocks where the sand ends. It’s definitely worth the small hike up to catch a view of the beach from these rocks. If you continue along the rocks you’ll hit the second, and much smaller, part of Mawi. On this second stretch you’ll find Mawi Surf Cafe, a small warung selling basic food and drinks.

Parking cost: Free (although it could depend where you stop along the beach), but we had to pay 10,000 rupiah to a man who was guarding the road with a parking gate.

Semeti Beach

This is just right next door to Mawi beach and perhaps even less well known than its neighbor. You can reach Semeti by going back to the same dirt road that you took for Mawi and turning right. It will lead you to another quiet, rustic Lombok beach with plenty of rocks and caves to explore.

Semeti beach has some black rock formations that contrast beautifully against the bright blue water. It’s really fun to spend an afternoon here climbing the rocks and exploring. This rugged natural coastline provides more of an adventurous challenge than the other beaches. Semeti is also a perfect place for sunset if it’s not too overcast.

Lancing Beach

Further along the coastline heading back to Kuta is Lancing Beach. There are actually two entrances to this beach. Coming from Semeti Beach, the first entrance is barely marked with just a small wooden sign. This side of Lancing has more of a local vibe. Parking is free and you may even catch a motorbike drag race along the beach. There’s also a bit more trash in this area, so be careful if you’re walking barefoot. Christine sliced her foot on an old beer bottle. If you’re happy to just relax on the sand and chat with some locals, this side is for you.

Further down the beach on your way to Kuta there is a marked entrance which will take you down to a motorbike parking lot right by the beach. Parking is 10,000 and this side of Lancing has a couple of small warungs with bamboo beach chairs for rent. There’s also a swing perfect for lazily looking out over the ocean. If you’re looking for a drink and a chair to relax on, you’ll enjoy this side of Lansing Beach.

Parking cost: Free/ 10,000 rupiah

Tanjung Aan Beach

In our humble opinion, we thought this was the best beach in Lombok. This stretch of beach is very long, and although its lined with small warungs, you can still find a section all to yourself. This beach has the softest, white sand and prettiest turquoise water you could ever want. The water is pretty calm here so it’s lovely to take a relaxing swim. The warungs sell grilled fresh fish and coconuts which make for the perfect afternoon snack. A few of the warungs have swings out front if you want to get your Instagram photoshoot on.

You’ll probably encounter a few locals trying to sell souvenirs, but if you firmly say no thank you, they’ll take the hint. There are also some hikes to do on either side of the beach. At the eastern point of Tanjung Aan is Batu Payung rock formation, a giant rock teetering in the ocean. On the western point is Bukit Merese Hill, which has stunning views overlooking the water, especially at sunset.

Parking cost: Free

Senggigi Beach

Located in west coast of Lombok, Senggigi is the island’s closest thing to a resort town. Senggigi Beach is the main beach in town and it’s a long strip of sand that hugs the bay. The beach is lined with hotels and restaurants, so it can feel a bit over-developed at times. This is a nice spot to visit if you want to stay close to your hotel or grab a drink at one of the restaurants and watch the sunset. However, it’s not our favorite beach in the area. We recommend renting a motorbike (make sure it’s a decent one that can get up and down the hills!) to check out the beautiful nearby beaches.

Parking cost: Free

Don’t forget to check out our mega Lombok travel guide, where we list the 20 best things to do while exploring the island!

Sentangi Beach and Ludmila Beach

We nearly missed the last turn off for this beach because it’s only marked by a small sign, but we’re glad we found it! A short drive through the a field of palm trees will lead you down to the sand. On the northernmost end you’ll find a small shop with coconuts and snacks for sale. You’ll also find….goats! Yep, the women who owns the shop also has a few goats wandering around who are not scared to come straight up to you and try to steal your food. It’s pretty hilarious!

The beach itself is incredibly long, so Sentangi Beach runs into Ludmila Beach and it’s hard to know where one ends and the other begins. We ended up at the Ludmila end where the rocks cut off the beach. Unfortunately there is quite a bit of trash near the palm trees and scattered around the sand. But if you go closer down to the water, you’ll see that this actually quite a stunning coastline that seems to go on forever.

Motorbike Parking cost: Free

Nipah Beach

Nipah is one of the more popular beaches in the area. The beach is lined with warungs where you can sit in a traditional berugaq (a Sasak hut with a raised platform on which you eat sitting cross legged). You can choose from a variety of fresh fish to be grilled and served with rice, veggies and traditional spicy sauce sambal. This area has been very quiet since the earthquake, with warung after warung staying empty during lunch.

Unfortunately the sand is a bit rough because of the broken up coral, but the water here is very calm, so it’s perfect for afternoon swim after your fish lunch. It’s worth a walk up and down the beach to check out the fishing boats. You may even get lucky and see a turtle bobbing in the water!

Motorbike Parking cost: Free

Pandanan Beach

Another beautiful beach just up the road from Nipah. On a sunny day the water here is a stunning blue. Contrasted with the backdrop of green mountains, it’s drop dead gorgeous and perfect for photos! Pandanan Beach is pretty quiet so you’ll probably find an area all to yourself. The sand is a bit coarse but the water is calm and great for swimming. On a clear day, this is also a recommended beach to catch a sunset.

Motorbike Parking cost: Free

Pink Beach in Lombok

Pink Beach, also known as Tangsi Beach, is located on pretty much the southeastern tip of Lombok. It’s famous for its sand that is, well, pink of course! But just how pink is it? Well, when you arrive you might be disappointed to find that the sand isn’t quite the bright pink color you may have seen on Instagram (thank you Photoshop!).

The pink beach color depends on the day and time of day that you visit. It’s more likely to look like a rose gold than a super bright pink. But the sand is soft and the water is inviting. We also recommend taking a stroll up the hill past the west end of the beach to check out the views from above. Pink Beach has gotten pretty famous now, so you may be sharing the beach with quite a crowd.

If you go by motorbike you’ll pass through some small villages and backstreets, which we think make the long journey worth it. Once you get close to the beach you’ll be heading down some bumpy dirt roads so be cautious. You can also get to Pink Beach through a snorkeling tour from Kuta or by boat transport from Tanjung Luar Port.

Entrance fee: A whopping 50,000 per person! They’re definitely cashing in on the beach’s popularity.

Had enough Lombok beaches and want to see some waterfalls? Check out our guide to the 7 Best Lombok Waterfalls

Best Beaches on the Gili Islands

Separate to mainland Lombok, the Gili Islands are an iconic tourist destination from traveler all around the world. If you really want to find the best beaches in Lombok, along with some parties, the Gillis are where it’s at. Here are our recommendations:

Gili Trawangan Beaches

The most happening of the Gilis, Gili T is where you want to go if you’re looking for a party. That being said, it’s also a really nice island to just relax and hit the beach. The beaches on the Gilis don’t have official names, but the islands are so small you can easily get to all of them over the course of a few days.

There’s a beach unofficially called “Surf Point,” that is great for, you guessed it, surfers! Be sure to wear your booties here because the reef will cut up your feet. There are also several snorkel spots perfect for seeing some colorful fish and sea turtles!

In the north western tip of Gili T you can rent snorkel masks and go out looking for turtles. The turtles usually float in the water just a couple meters offshore and they’re really used to seeing people, so they won’t scurry off. It goes without saying, but please don’t touch the turtles. Unfortunately we saw a couple people trying to reach out and touch them.

The southeast area of Gili T has a beautiful stretch of beach that is perfect for wading into the calm water or just relaxing on the white sand. It’s heaven. Lastly, if you want to catch a stellar sunset, head to Gili T’s west side. There are a few beachside bars here where you can pull up a beanbag and enjoy a cocktail. Just make sure haven’t mixed up a pina colada with one of the island’s infamous mushroom shakes!

Gili Meno Beaches

The most relaxed of the three islands, Gili Meno is known as the honeymooners island. Meno also has arguably the best beaches of the Gilis, with pretty much the whole island being one continuous strip of gorgeous white sand. If you’re looking to get in the water right after stepping off the boat then the south side of the island is for you. There’s plenty of accommodation in this area where the port is, but the beach is still clean and beautiful. The north and south sides of the island both have quiet lovely beaches as well.

Gili Meno has a turtle sanctuary that hatches around 500 turtles every year! Chances are you’ll find yourself swimming next to a turtle hatched at the sanctuary at some point during your trip. One of the most unique activities you can do at the beach in Gili Meno is going snorkeling to see the famous underwater statues created by artist Jason DeCaires Taylor. The art installation is called “The Nest” and they are a set of human statues placed on the seafloor as a man made reef.

Motorbike parking: There are no cars or motorbikes allowed on the Gili islands, but you can get around by bicycle or walking. They also have cidomos, or horse-drawn carriages, but there has been some controversy as to whether the horses are being properly taken care of you. If you want to find out more Gili Eco Trust is works with the carriage drivers to help care for the horses.

Gili Air Beaches

If Goldilocks was visiting the Gilis and decided that Gili T was too much of a party and Gili Meno was too quiet, she would probably think that Gili Air is just right! This island has the same gorgeous white sand beaches as the other two with a great laid back atmosphere. The pounding EDM music on Gili T is replaced by beachy guitar tunes on Gili Air. But if you’re looking for a bit of action, this island has that too. Many of the beach bars have live music at night where people gather for drinks.

Gili Air is only slightly larger than Gili Meno, the smallest of the three, so it’s super easy to walk around. Most of the hotels and guesthouses are on the south side of the island by the port. Because of this the north side of the island has the most pristine, untouched beaches. The east side of the island has great snorkeling and, like Gili T, it’s common to see some sea turtles floating around. Some of the beaches around Gili Air have a bit of broken coral, which can make it a bit uncomfortable to walk on. But the water is clear and calm so it’s a perfect spot for floating on your back and soaking up the rays.

Traveling to Lombok, Indonesia and not seeing any waterfalls is like going to Italy and not eating pasta! Not only does the island have some world class waterfalls, but they are quiet and uncrowded. Unlike some famous waterfalls around the world, where you basically have to queue up for a photo, you’re much more likely to have the place to yourself in Lombok. Some of the waterfalls in Lombok, like the beautiful Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, are more popular and fairly easy to reach. While others, like Mangku Sakti, are off the radar and an adventure to find. Whichever is more your speed, you’re bound to love the Lombok waterfalls!

Tiu Kelep Waterfall

Tiu Kelep is a fan favorite with travelers visiting Lombok. This one is a bit more challenging to reach than Sendang Gile, but in a fun way. You’ll be walking through water and over rocks, so be sure to have your adventure clothes on! It’s about a 30 minute walk from Sendang Gile to Tiu Kelep, but it’s definitely worth the extra hike.

Tiu Kelep is a powerful waterfall, rising to 42 meters in height. You’ll be met with a strong spray from the fall, which after the half hour walk is a welcome refreshment. You can also swim at Tiu Kelep, but the water is pretty chilly.

Both Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep can be easily reached from the town of Senaru in northern Lombok. There are clear signs from the main road and it’s har dot miss. Travelers often visit Senaru as a jumping off point to some of the amazing treks around the region, like hiking Mount Rinjani. If you’re staying in Senaru for trekking, we definitely recommend adding an extra day of exploring to visit two of the best waterfalls in Lombok. 

Sendang Gile Waterfall

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor (Tiu Kelep), Sendang Gile is definitely worth the visit in its own right. While you’re heading to Tiu Kelep waterfall, you’ll actually pass this waterfall on the way. You can hike down to this waterfall from the main road in about 10 minutes without a guide, but many tours include this and Tiu Kelep in a package. You can also pay a local guide to show you the way for about 50,000 rupiah, but it’s not hard to reach on your own.

While exploring both waterfalls in Senaru on your own it’s important to check with locals about the conditions. It’s always best to check if heavy rains have affected the paths to the waterfalls.

Headed to Lombok? Don’t miss our Top 20 Things to Do in Lombok article!

Benang Stokel Waterfall

One of the more popular waterfalls in Lombok, Benang Stokel is located in the center of the island, just to the southwest of Mount Rinjani National Park. After a 15 minute short hike from the gate entrance, you’ll find that Benang Stokel is actually two waterfalls right next to each other.

The “hike” to the falls is mostly on a concrete path and is not difficult. On your way you’ll also pass another small waterfall that drops down to a pool below. We couldn’t figure out if our guide was saying you can jump into the pool or definitely don’t jump, so we opted for the latter. Since then we’ve found out that you can jump, but perhaps only after it’s been raining enough to make the water deep.

Benang Stokel waterfalls aren’t the most powerful falls we’ve ever seen, but the surroundings are incredibly gorgeous. After the walk down to the falls you arrive at a small valley, surrounded on all sides by towering walls covered in ferns and greenery. Being surrounded by such a natural landscape you almost forget that there’s a parking lot just a 15 minute walk away.

Benang Kelambu Waterfall

From the gate entrance of Benang Stokel, you can take about a 30 – 45 minute hike to Benang Kelambu waterfall. You can also have a guide take you on the back of a motorbike if you’re short on time like we were. If you have the time, the hike takes you on a rocky dirt path through the thick jungle.

The hike doesn’t look particularly difficult, there are some inclines and declines, but nothing too steep. If you do decide to take a motorbike, hang on tight because these guides will take you on a wild ride! It’s actually really fun grabbing on to the metal bar in the back of the motorbike as you zip through the jungle at high speeds.

However you get there, Benang Kelambu is a must! This set of waterfalls is absolutely stunning. It was by far our favorite Lombok waterfall, and one of our all time favorite waterfalls ever! It’s hard to describe what makes this place so special. It’s not the tallest waterfall, nor the strongest, but there’s something about the falls being framed by 10 foot tall ferns and covered in greenery that makes this place magical. It looks like a set out of Jurassic Park. You can climb on the rocks into the waterfall and swim in the pools at the bottom. It’s a super refreshing dip, especially if you’ve opted to hike there.

Tiu Teja Waterfall

This hidden gem is located in the north of Lombok, just outside of Mount Rinjani National Park to the northwest. If you’re looking to have a waterfall all to yourself, this could be your spot. It’s a bit hard to find, but if you put in the effort you’ll be rewarded with a stunning treat.

First you need to drive to Santong Village, then park and hike an additional 25 minutes down to the falls. There are a steep set of stairs leading to Tiu Teja waterfall, but you can take a refreshing dip once you arrive. Tiu Teja literally means “Rainbow Waterfall,” and on a sunny day you can actually see a rainbow at the end of the falls. But even if you catch Tiu Teja on a cloudy day, it’s still worth it. This isolated waterfall will make you feel like an explorer stumbling across a hidden fall for the first time.

It can be pretty tricky to find this place, but you can always ask locals along the way. If you do go by yourself on a motorbike, put in “Parkiran air terjun” in your Google maps to find the parking lot. Or if you’re on a tour, ask your guide to stop at Tiu Teja waterfall.

Mangku Sakti Waterfall

One of the lesser known waterfalls on Lombok, but definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re checking out northern Lombok. The falls are located just to the northeast of Mount Rinjani National Park, about an hour drive from Senaru. It’s not possible to reach the falls by car, so you can either walk from Sajang Village to the falls in about an hour and 20 minutes, or use a 4×4 or dirtbike to ride to the parking lot, then trek for about 20 minutes.

You’ll most likely see a lot less tourists here than Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep. While the waterfall is picturesque, it’s the beautiful rock formations that are the real star here. In the dry season, the water has a milky blue appearance, which is a beautiful contrast against the gray rocks. You can swim at Mangku Sakti waterfall, so be sure to bring your bathing suit!

Just a short walk from this waterfall is Mangku Kodek waterfall. They’re both really close together, so you should definitely visit both on your trip. You have to walk through water to get to Kodek, but it’s worth the wet walk!

Tiu Pupus Waterfall

We don’t hear many people mention Tiu Pupus when speaking about Lombok waterfalls, which is strange because it’s a beautiful spot! To get to to Tiu Pupus waterfall, it’s a short, flat hike along a trail from the carpark, past a small river and to onto Pupus. Since it had rained the night before we visited, the fall was pumping and it made a perfect backdrop for photos.

We had the place to ourselves and the surrounding landscape of trees and greenery gave the waterfall a very natural vibe. There are also some basic seating areas at the base of the waterfall, where you can take a picnic lunch or a few drinks to enjoy while swimming in your very own private waterfall.

Kerta Gangga Waterfall

This Lombok waterfall, next to Gangga village, is worth a look if it’s included in your tour and you feel like a quick dip. It’s a short, easy walk from the parking lot, so we don’t think it’s necessary to hire a guide. You may be stopped at the entrance and hassled to hire a guide, and if that’s the case you can offer 100K for a group, but anything more really isn’t worth it.

Once you climb the slippery steps up to Gangga waterfall there is a metal platform that takes you to an upper part of one of the falls where you can swim. You have to hop over a small dam and it looks like you could fall over the edge, but it’s actually very safe. The water is not super deep and you can swim further back to see another hidden waterfall. Personally, this wasn’t our favorite fall, but if you’re nearby it’s worth a peek.

Lombok Waterfall Tour

We did most of these Lombok waterfalls as part of a tour with Rinjani Dawn Adventures. We highly recommend this company. They are very environmentally and socially conscious and give back to the local community as much as possible. Our guide for the day was incredibly patient as we took our time at every waterfall.

All of our entrance fees were included in the price, so we can’t confirm the price of each waterfall entrance. We’ve heard varying reports of the cost of these waterfalls, including a whopping 300,000 each at Gangga waterfall! It seems like local guides and drivers get better deals than if you just show up on your own.

We also heard that since the 2018 earthquakes there has been less government regulation on the entrance fees. Previously, there were government stands where you could pay for an official ticket to enter. This regulated entrances also had regulated prices. Now, at some waterfalls, the locals are imposing their own entrance fee which can range in price.

Even if you do have a driver to pay entrance fees, you may decide you want to pay extra for a local guide to show you around. We really enjoyed having our guide at Benang Stokel and Kelambu. He was very patient while we took pictures as the sun was setting and stayed out with us even after the office had closed. He also made Christine a fern crown while he was waiting. Paying for a guide, even when you can find the route yourself, is a nice way to give back to the community and support the local economy.

Where to Stay When Exploring Waterfalls

Northern Lombok

If you’re visiting Sendang Gile, Tiu Kelep or Mangku Sakti, we recommend staying in Senaru. It’s a great place to base yourself in the north, while exploring the area and these gorgeous waterfalls. Here are our recommended accommodation near Senaru:

Dragonfly Guesthouse

This is a simple wooden guesthouse with a stunning view. It’s built on the side of the hill and you can get a stellar view of Mount Rinjani. You’ll find out why it’s called Dragonfly immediately, when you sit on your porch and watch hundreds of dragonflies flutter around. If you go during rainy season, bring earplugs because the rain is incredibly loud on the tin roof.

Lighthouse Rinjani

This guest house is owned by a German couple but the decor reflects traditional Lombok style. The cute huts reminded us of a tree house, which is perfect against the backdrop of Senaru’s green hills.

Western Lombok

For Tiu Pupus, Tiu Gangga, or Tiu Tej you can stay in Senggigi to easily visit these waterfalls. Here are our recommended accommodation near Senggigi:

Katamaran Resort

This gorgeous resort is located right on the beach just outside of central Senggigi. This is a perfect place to come back to after a long day of exploring and enjoy happy hour in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean. And the Katamaran has some of the friendliest hotel employees we’ve ever met!

Ibludan Hotel

This budget friendly guesthouse has everything you need during your stay in Senggigi, including a pool and terrace area. Not quite the luxury of the Katamaran, but very cute and comfortable.

Southern Lombok

If you’re exploring Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu, we recommend staying in Kuta Lombok. Here are our recommended accommodation near Kuta:

Dome Village

This Airbnb will soon become an entire resort of eco-domes. The domes are constructed out of earthbags, an environmentally friendly build material that is earthquake safe. There’s only one dome listed now on Airbnb, but it is super stylish and fun to stay in! This property is located in Gerupuk, about a 20 minute drive from Kuta, right next to famous Tanjung Aan beach.

To book it on Airbnb click here. New to Airbnb? Get your free $20USD Airbnb credit for first time users!

Amnaya Resort

A beautiful resort in Kuta if you want to splash out on some pampering. There is a gorgeous pool area, a spa and all the amenities you’d expect at a luxury hotel.

Pipes Hostel

A fun, lively hostel in Kuta. If you’re looking for a backpacker atmosphere (and budget), this is a great choice. The hostel has a cafe/bar and a pool, but the main attraction here is a skate bowl that it’s open to guests and the public every afternoon!

Welcome to Lombok, a small Indonesian island that offers uncrowded white sand beaches with crystal clear water, waterfalls that will leave you breathless, world class surf breaks, unique cultural activities and more adventures than you’re trip could possibly contain! Lombok has often been likened to nearby neighbor Bali, but at least a decade of development behind, with less traffic, less tourists, but equally incredible natural attractions. As cliche as it sounds, Lombok really does have something for everyone. It’s also super easy to get to Lombok from anywhere in Indonesia.

If you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, this region has some of the best beaches you’ll find in Indonesia, with affordable hotels that will sweep you off your feet. Surfers, both beginner, expert and everyone in between, will find the perfect wave down in the south. Culture nuts will love learning about the pottery, weaving and art of the Sasak people. Backpackers will love the laid back vibes of the Gili islands.

And if it’s adventure you’re after, you better buckle up because Lombok has some of the best volcano treks, waterfalls and jungle hikes you’ll find anywhere in the world. Enjoy our list of the best things to do in Lombok, no matter what you’re interested in.

Our trip to Lombok was also more than just an adventure, we had the goal of bringing more tourism back to Lombok. After the 2018 earthquakes, tourism slowed down significantly on the island and the local economy took a huge hit. But we’re happy to say that Lombok is back in business and we wholeheartedly recommend visiting! It was one of our favorite trips we’ve taken recently and we expect that this will be a destination we continue to return to!

Traveling to Lombok

With an international airport, as well as ferry ports, you can travel to Lombok by sea or air. Most people traveling by boat are going from Bali to Lombok, choosing either a slower ferry or quicker fast boat from eastern Bali. When flying there are number of countries that now fly directly into Lombok International Airport in Praya, with AirAsia and Garuda being the best choices. In fact, as we write this, Perth to Lombok direct flights have just started with AirAsia, so this only makes it easy for Australian’s to visit Lombok.

Whether you’re taking the ferry, fast boat or plane, each option offers a different ease of travel, as well as a different price range. Ultimately it’s not difficult or expensive when traveling to Lombok. We went by plane and would absolutely choose this mode of transportation every single time. From Denpasar (Bali) to Praya (Lombok), it’s only a half hour flight and it costs between $30-60 USD round trip. Flying out of Bali domestic airport is a breeze and landing in Lombok airport is fast and efficient.

If you want to go to the Gilis, or you just prefer to go by boat, you can take a fast boat from one of Bali’s harbors. Padangbai in eastern Bali to Bangsal Ferry Terminal in northern Lombok is the most common way to get to to Lombok from Bali. There are a number of companies that offer this trip. The boats also go past the Gilis if you want to stop off along the way, or on your way back.

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Adventure Activities: What to Do in Lombok

If you’re an outdoor lover who has been searching for a destination that has world class hiking without the crowds, Lombok is your spot. Whether you’re looking for a chilled out walk through the jungle or you want to get your blood pumping on a multi-day trek, here’s what Lombok activities have to offer:

Hike Mount Rinjani

One of the island’s most famous sights, Mount Rinjani is an active volcano in Northern Lombok. This hike is not for the faint of heart; it’s super challenging. Rinjani rises to 3726 meters and is the second biggest volcano in Indonesia. This hike is bound to test your mental and physical strength, but if you can reach the top the views make it all worth it.

You can also take it at your own speed, with different Mount Rinjani tours taking two, three or four days depending on your skill level and how much time you can allot. Two days/ one night is only recommended for expert level hikers who really only have a short window of time. Three days/ two nights is a common choice and allows you more time to take in your surroundings and enjoy a peek at the Crater Lake. The four day/three night trip is for those that want to take it at a slower pace and enjoy the beauty of Mount Rinjani National Park.

When planning your Mount Rinjani hike one good thing to know is that the volcano is closed every year from January to the end of March due to the rainy season. So if you want to hike it, you”d better plan around that. Even within the hiking season it’s always good to reach out to some trekking companies to check the current status.

Mount Rinjani Crater Rim Hike

If you want a taste of Rinjani, without having to commit to the full experience, you can try the Crater Rim hike. This trek is fine for beginners and also great if you’re short on time because it’s only two days/ one night! With this hike you’ll be able to enjoy sunset and sunrise at the beautiful Crater Lake. Just like hiking Mount Rinjani tours, this will be closed during the rainy season, so you should check with your company before booking.

Senaru Walking Tour

If you’re tired after tackling the mammoth hike of Mount Rinjani, or are just looking for something a little slower paced, we recommend going on a walking tour. We did our Senaru tour with Rinjani Dawn Adventures. It was a half day walking tour with their awesome guide Lasa. We started in the town of Senaru, then walked up a trail through the beautiful green jungle to a coffee plantation.

At the plantation there is a beautiful viewing platform that looks out over the surrounding mountains. From this viewpoint you can catch a glimpse of the nearby Tiu Kelep waterfall. Our walking tour also included a stop at our guide’s house and garden, where he offered us a cup of Lombok coffee and avocados fresh from his tree. After, we visited a local rice field which was bright green as far as we could see.

Hike Pergasingan Hill

Another alternative to Mount Rinjani (or an addition if you’re an avid hiker!), Pergasingan Hill is located in eastern Lombok. Pergasingan can be done in just a few hours, but it’s recommended to go up in the late afternoon and camp on the mountain overnight. You’ll wake up to the sun rising and a terrific view of Mount Rinjani.

Waterfalls in Lombok

If you’re planning an adventure in Lombok, you have to visit some of the island’s waterfalls. Not only are they stunning, but they’re often completely crowd-less. Can you imagine, having these beautiful Lombok waterfalls to yourself? 

• Benang Stokel – One of the more popular waterfalls in Lombok, Benang Stokel is located in the center of the island, southwest of Mount Rinjani National Park. After a 15 minute hike from the gate entrance, you’ll find that Benang Stokel is actually two gentle waterfalls right next to each other. They’re not the most powerful falls, but the surrounding area is gorgeous.

• Benang Kelambu – From the gate entrance of Benang Stokel, you can take a 35-45 minute hike to Benang Kelambu waterfall. If you’re short on time, like we were, you can also have a local guide take you on the back of a motorbike. However you get there, Benang Kelambu is a must! This set of waterfalls are absolutely stunning and one of our all time favorite waterfalls!

• Tiu Pupus – We don’t hear many people talking about Tiu Pupus, which is strange because it’s a beautiful waterfall! It’s a 5 minute, flat hike along a trail from the carpark, past a small river/lake and on to Pupus, a beautiful single drop fall.

• Gangga Waterfall – This waterfall next to Gangga village is worth a look if it’s included in your tour and feel like a quick dip. Personally, we didn’t find it that impressive, but maybe we’re waterfall snobs are visiting the other stunning sites! There is a metal platform that takes you to an upper part of one of the falls where you can swim.
  

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  Want even more amazing waterfalls? Check out our detailed guide to the Best Waterfalls in Lombok! It includes how to get there, opening hours, costs and more!

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Bukit Selong Rice Field Viewpoint

If you’re exploring the north of Lombok and heading south, the Bukit Selong Rice Field Viewpoint is a popular stop on your way down. This viewpoint overlooks a rice field that looks like a geometric pattern of shades of green from above. It’s worth coming early to avoid the heat. Come for sunrise if you don’t mind getting up early. Update: As of March 2019 this area has been closed due to the 2018 earthquakes. Check with local tour companies if this has been reopened and we will update our post as soon as we know.

Pusuk Pass Monkey Forest

This is more of a drive than a sight in itself. If you’re heading from Benang Kelambu to Kuta (or vice versa) you’ll most likely drive through the Pusuk Pass Monkey Forest. As you drive on the highway through this dense jungle you’ll start to notice monkeys hanging out on the sides of the road. They often make eye contact with you and turn their heads to continue making eye contact as you drive away.

The monkeys are wild, but they’re clearly accustomed to tourists. You can pull off into a car park where locals will sell you bananas to feed to the monkeys, which are better than normal human food, but we still don’t condone feeding wild animals. This wasn’t cruel, but we didn’t feel like this was a very sustainable activity.

Beaches: Where to Go in Lombok

After spending so much time on Bali island, where the beaches are lacking that white sand and turquoise water combination, we forgot just how gorgeous Indonesian beaches can be! Lombok is a dream destination for beach lovers, and here are a few of our favorites.

Kuta Lombok Beaches in the South

Kuta Lombok (not to be confused with the much more crowded Kuta Bali!) is a cute little surfer town gearing up to the be next Canggu, Bali. It’s a perfect spot to base yourself out of, with plenty of cheap guesthouses, hip cafes and restaurants playing live music in the evening. While the beach in town is so-so, the beaches surrounding Kuta are incredible. Our favorites in the area are Tangjung Aan, Selong Belanak, Mawi Beach, Semeti Beach and Lansing Beach. Rent a scooter for the day (or week) and explore the region to find plenty of uncrowded spots.

Senggigi Beaches in the West

Senggigi is as close to a resort town as Lombok has. Most of the hotels are located along Raya Senggigi which is a long street that hugs the coast. There’s not much to do in the town itself, but the beaches surrounding this area are gorgeous! We recommend renting a motorbike and driving north on Raya Senggigi to enjoy the views. Our favorites beaches in this area are Sentangi Beach, Ludmila Beach, Nipah Beach and Pandanan Beach. While exploring the beaches, stop by Nipah for a delicious fresh fish lunch from the many beachside vendors.

Looking for more fun in the sun? We’ve got an even bigger list of the 15 Best Beaches in Lombok! Come and check it out!

The Gilis

If you really want to find some of the best beaches in Lombok, the Gilis are where it’s at. While there are many gilis around Lombok (gili just means small island in Sasak), there are three Gilis that are the most famous. All three have gorgeous beaches, but very different vibes.

Gili Trawangan, also known as Gili T, is famous for its backpacker party vibes, clubs that pound music till the early morning and easy accessibility to mushroom shakes (yep, those mushrooms!). Gili Air is a chilled out version of Gili T, if you replace the clubs with simple beach bars and spend your evenings sipping cocktails on bean bags at the beach rather than dancing the night away. Gili Meno is the lovers island and the quietest of the three, perfect for honeymooners!

Surfing in Lombok

If you’re looking for surf spots and you’re sick of the crowded waves in Bali, then Lombok has plenty of options. Whether you’re just starting out and need a lesson or you’ve been surfing for years, you’ll find a wave you like on Lombok. Desert Point is one of the most well known around the surfing community. This left hander only works a few times a year, and is definitely an experts only spot, but it’s known as one of the best surfing waves in the world.

If you’re looking for somewhere more beginner speed, Selong Belanak has some great small waves and tons of surf instructors on the beach. There are also some good beginner waves near Gerupuk.

Culture: What to See in Lombok

Even though Lombok is best known for its adventure activities and stunning beaches, the region’s unique local Sasak culture will be fascinating to learn about for any traveler. In between lazy beach days and hiking volcanoes, plan a few local tours to learn more about the history and traditions of Lombok.

Lombok Pottery Center

Lombok is famous for its pottery and if you’re interested in the production, Lombok Pottery Centre is the place to visit. The LPC is a cooperative of over 200 female potters who share the profits of their work, so everyone prospers. They have several tour options available, including a visit to Banyumulek Village, a local village where they create the pottery.

Visitors get to watch the process, from the creation of the clay to the molding of the products, to the outdoor kiln they’ve created. Even if you’re not super into pottery, this is a great opportunity to be invited into a local village and meet with a community. All of the potters we met were so welcoming. Plus you get to visit the LPC office and choose a piece of pottery to get engraved and take home. 

Learn about Islam in Mataram

Indonesia is a country of many different religions, but the majority of the islands are muslim. Bali is predominantly Hindu, Lombok is Muslim and the nearby island of Flores is Catholic. If you’re interested in learning more about Islam in Lombok a visit to the Islamic Center Mosque in Mataram is a perfect opportunity. The colors and architecture of the mosque are quite stunning.

After paying an entrance fee, a guide will take you up to the 9th floor and 13th floor where you will get beautiful views overlooking the city below. Remember to dress appropriately. If for some reason you’re turned away (it sounds like this happens on occasion), you can still enjoy the beauty of the mosque from the outside, especially at night when the building is lit up with colorful lights.

Local Village Tour

One of the things that makes Lombok unique is the indigenous Sasak culture. There are several villages that have opened their doors to tourists, where you can see the traditional houses made of bamboo and thatched roofs. Sade Village is a traditional Sasak village that is probably the most touristy of those available to visit. We’ve heard reports of tourists being pushed to purchase souvenirs, but others have enjoyed the ease of being able to visit.

We visited a small Sasak village during our walking tour in Senaru. It was the village of our guide’s famil,y so we felt more comfortable seeing inside the house of his parents rather than a random stranger. Other small villages that have been recommended to us are Desa Beleq and Segentar. We really recommend only visiting these villages with a Sasak guide who can communicate with you. As always when visiting a local village, it’s so important to be respectful, ask before taking any photos and avoid any tours that feel exploitative.

Visit a Weaving Village

Weaving is another craft that Lombok is well known for. Sasak women learn to weave at a young age and the art has been passed down through many generations. According to Sasak tradition, all women must be able to weave or they will not be allowed to get married. There are several villages where you can watch weaving demonstrations, or you may just come across local women weaving while traveling around Lombok.

If you’re looking to visit a weaving village you can head to Sukarara Village, where they run weaving tours. You’ll definitely be guided into a gift shop and sold textiles at a mark up, but visiting a village likes this means getting a close up look at the production process and the opportunity to ask questions about the tradition. In Sukarara they also dress you up in traditional costume and let you take photos in front of a traditional Sasak house if that’s your jam. Although it’s a little touristy, your money goes directly back into the community, rather than through a third party tour company.

Narmada Water Park

You won’t find any water slides or log rides here, the Narmada Water Park is actually more of a water temple. Historically, Narmada was used in religious ceremonies at the park’s Hindu temple. Now, it’s a nice place to spend the afternoon, enjoy the gardens and have a sip of the holy water which is said to make you look ten years younger.

Lombok Packing List

LifeStraw water bottle – You should definitely not drink the tap water in Lombok, even in the taps at a luxury hotel (unless they’ve confirmed it’s filtered). After visiting some of the beaches and seeing plastic bottles and cups wash ashore, you’ll feel much better about your choice to bring a reusable bottle. Plus you can fill up at all the waterfalls!

Sarong – Lombok is a Muslim region so you’ll want to keep a sarong on hand in case you need to cover yourself up. You’ll most likely only need to do this while visiting a mosque, a school or a government building. You can also buy one of these from a local weaver.

Hat – Just like Bali, Lombok is hot and sunny! We definitely got a little burnt in the sun here, so we highly recommend a good hat especially for hikes.

SunGod sunnies – You’ll be grateful you have a pair of these indestructible, polarized sunnies when you’re hiking Rinjani!

A one piece swimsuit – Bikinis aren’t banned here, but I felt more comfortable wearing my one piece in front of the locals. Plus, this one is super cute!