Lombok sits 18 minutes by air from Bali, but the two islands feel like different countries. Where Bali has traffic, beach clubs, and yoga retreats on every corner, Lombok still has empty beaches where you might be the only foreigner all afternoon, an active volcano with a crater lake at 2,000m, and traditional Sasak villages where weaving is still done by hand. We’ve been running tours here since 2012, and the most common feedback we get from guests is some version of “I wish I’d booked more days.”
This guide pulls together 38 of the best things to do in Lombok, organized by region so you can plan a sensible route. We’ve added our own notes from years of running these trips—the small details that don’t usually make it into travel articles. If you’d rather skip the planning, you can also check our Lombok tour packages for ready-to-go itineraries.
But first, a few practical things you should know before you arrive.
Why Visit Lombok? Lombok vs Bali in 30 Seconds
Both islands have beautiful beaches, surf, waterfalls, and Hindu temples. The difference is volume. Lombok gets a fraction of Bali’s tourist numbers, which means cheaper accommodation, less traffic, and more genuine local interactions. The downside is fewer high-end restaurants and slower internet outside the main hubs.
If you’ve already done Bali and want something quieter without sacrificing the natural beauty, Lombok is the answer. If this is your first trip to Indonesia and you want easy convenience, start with Bali and add Lombok as a side trip.
Before You Go: Practical Things to Know
Best Time to Visit Lombok
The dry season runs April to October, with the best weather in June through September—clear skies, calm seas, and full access to all five Rinjani trekking routes.
November to March is wet season. Some travelers actually prefer it because waterfalls like Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile are at their most dramatic, and the south coast beaches are even quieter. Just expect occasional afternoon rain and pack a light jacket.
A note from us: avoid Indonesian school holidays (around mid-June and Christmas/New Year) if you want quiet. The boat queues at Bangsal harbor for the Gilis can stretch to two hours.
How Long to Spend in Lombok
After hundreds of trips, the patterns we see are roughly:
- 3 days is enough for the south highlights (Kuta, Tanjung Aan, Merese Hill) plus one day on the Gilis.
- 5 days lets you combine the south, the Gilis, and the northern waterfalls.
- 7 days gives you a proper Lombok loop including the east coast and Pink Beach.
- Climbing Rinjani needs at least 3 dedicated days on top of the rest of your trip.
How to Get Around the Island
Three main options depending on your travel style:
- Scooter rental (around Rp 75,000–100,000 / $5–7 per day). Best for solo travelers and couples comfortable on Indonesian roads. Some routes—especially Mataram to Sembalun—involve sharp climbs.
- Private car with driver-guide (Rp 600,000–800,000 / $40–55 per day, fuel and driver included). The most comfortable option for families or anyone with luggage. Details on our Lombok car rental page.
- Pre-arranged tour package. Everything handled, route already optimized.
Public transport exists but doesn’t reach most tourist destinations. We don’t usually recommend it unless you’re on a very tight budget and have flexible time.
Where to Base Yourself in Lombok
The four main bases, ranked by who they suit best:
- Kuta Lombok (south) — surf, beach hopping, hippest cafés. Best for first-timers and beach lovers.
- Senggigi (west) — quieter, sunsets, classic resort vibe. Best for couples and older travelers.
- Gili Trawangan (north) — party, no motorbikes, strong international scene. Best for younger travelers and divers.
- Senaru/Sembalun (north/east) — base for Rinjani trek, cool mountain air. Best for trekkers.
Most guests on a 5-day trip split between Kuta and one of the Gilis. On a 7-day trip, we add Senaru.
1. Things to Do in Mataram (The Capital)
Mataram is your point of arrival if you fly in. Many travelers treat it as just transit, but a half-day here is worth it before moving on.
1. Ampenan Old Town and Beach
A relaxed beach close to the city center, lined with food stalls. The sunset view is excellent and you don’t need to drive far—just 5–10 minutes from downtown Mataram.
Parking fee: Rp 2,000 (~$0.15)
Our tip: Come around 5 PM. Street food vendors get going around then—try pisang epe (grilled banana) or grilled corn.
2. Pura Meru — Lombok’s Largest Hindu Temple
Built in 1720, Pura Meru is the largest Hindu temple on Lombok. The three main meru (multi-tiered shrines) inside are dedicated to the Hindu trinity. Easy to reach from anywhere in central Mataram.
If you visit during a religious ceremony, the atmosphere transforms—but a regular visit is also rewarding for the architecture alone.
3. Islamic Center of Mataram
A modern landmark with striking architecture. From the 99-Tower (Menara 99) you get a panoramic view of the city.
Tower entry: Rp 25,000 (~$1.70) for locals, Rp 50,000 (~$3.50) for foreign visitors
Best times to climb the tower are early morning before 10 AM or late afternoon. Midday is uncomfortably hot inside the glass.
4. Mayura Park
A historical park from the former Balinese kingdom, sitting right next to Pura Meru. The two sites can easily be visited together since they’re across the street from each other.
Entry: Rp 10,000 (~$0.70)
2. Things to Do in West Lombok
West Lombok has the most varied destinations on the island—small islands in Sekotong, sunset viewpoints, craft villages, and iconic seaside temples. This region is also where many of our Lombok open trips start, since several attractions cluster close together.
5. Batu Idung Hill (Sunset and Paragliding)
Famous for its sunset views and as one of Lombok’s paragliding spots. You’ll often see paragliders launching from up here.
Location: Lembar District, West Lombok (30 min from Mataram) Parking: Rp 2,000
6. Gili Nanggu — The Snorkeling Paradise
Gili Nanggu offers some of the best easy-access snorkeling on Lombok—coral reefs, calm water, and far fewer visitors than the more famous Gilis. Boats depart from Tawun Village.
Costs:
- Boat charter: Rp 300,000 (~$20), includes Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis
- Snorkeling gear: Rp 30,000 (~$2)
- Gili Nanggu entrance: Rp 5,000 (~$0.35) per person
Our tip: Bring water from the mainland. The few warungs on Gili Nanggu charge 2–3 times normal prices.
One Day Trip Gili Nanggu, Sudak & Kedis
From
IDR 280.000
per person
7. Gili Sudak — Best Seafood Stop
A small island between Nanggu and Kedis, famous for beachside seafood restaurants serving freshly caught fish. Most snorkeling tours stop here for lunch. Pick a busy warung—that’s the sign of fresh daily turnover.
8. Gili Kedis — The Tiny Postcard Island
The smallest of the three Sekotong Gilis and the final stop on most boat routes. White sand, blue water, no permanent warungs. If you want a few quiet minutes that look like a desktop wallpaper, this is it.
9. Pengawisan Hill
Often skipped because it’s not on most tourist itineraries, which is exactly why we like it. After Hotel Sundancer, turn left, then about 300 meters in there’s a side path on the right—follow it and the hill opens up. Both motorbikes and cars can drive in.
10. Sesaot Forest and Aik Nyet Spring
About 25 km (30 min) east of Mataram, Sesaot is a green forest area with a clear river that runs year-round. Good for picnicking or camping. Try the local Sate Bulayak—skewered meat with rice cake wrapped in palm leaves and peanut sauce.
11. Banyumulek Pottery Village
Lombok’s pottery craft center, just 15 minutes from Mataram via the bypass road to the airport. You can watch the pottery being made and try your hand at it under the guidance of local women. Just leave a small tip if you want to participate.
Pieces sell from tens of thousands of rupiah for small items to several million for large works. A good place to pick up a souvenir that’s actually made on the island.
12. Batu Bolong Temple
A Hindu temple built on a rock formation jutting into the sea, with a natural hole in the middle—hence the name “Batu Bolong” (holed rock). Located in Senggigi, 15 minutes from Mataram, right next to the main road.
The combination of religious site and sunset viewpoint makes this a popular evening stop. Aim to arrive around 4:30 PM.
3. Things to Do in North Lombok
North Lombok is the heart of the island’s waterfalls and the gateway to the three main Gilis (Trawangan, Meno, Air). We usually recommend at least two days here—one for the Gilis, one for the waterfalls in Senaru.
13. Nipah Hill — Grilled Fish with a View
A favorite stop for travelers heading to Gili Trawangan. The hill has restaurants serving grilled fish with sweeping ocean views.
Location: Malaka Village, Pemenang District (45 min from Mataram)
Our tip: Stop here in the late afternoon, not midday. The food tastes better with sunset and the prices are more transparent.
14. Gili Trawangan — Lombok’s Most Famous Island
The largest and most popular of the three main Gilis. Snorkeling, diving, cycling, and a lively evening scene with cafes, beach clubs, and live music. No motorized vehicles allowed—you get around by bicycle or cidomo (horse-drawn cart).
Getting there:
- Public boat from Bangsal harbor: Rp 25,000 (~$1.70)
- Fast boat charter from Teluk Nare: Rp 400,000–600,000 (~$27–40), capacity up to 8
Public boats depart when full, so you may wait. For groups of 4 or more, the fast boat works out cheaper per person and saves time.
One Day Trip Gili Trawangan Lombok
From
IDR 340.000
per person
15. Tebing Beach (Cliff Beach)
About 1.5 hours north of Mataram, Tebing Beach is named for the dramatic cliff that rises directly behind the shore. The cliff backdrop makes this one of the most photogenic beaches on Lombok.
16. Rinjani Lodge Infinity Pool
Technically a hotel, but it’s become a destination because of the infinity pool overlooking Senaru’s green hills. The pool is small but the water comes straight from a mountain spring—genuinely cold and refreshing.
You don’t need to stay overnight to use the pool. Just order food or drinks from the restaurant. About 2.5 hours from Mataram, on the main road in Senaru just before the entrance to Sendang Gile waterfall.
17. Sendang Gile Waterfall
One of Lombok’s most famous waterfalls, in Senaru village (~2.5 hours from Mataram).
Costs:
- Entrance: Rp 10,000 (~$0.70) per person
- Parking: Rp 5,000
- Local guide (recommended for first-timers): Rp 75,000 (~$5)
Bring water and snacks. The walk down is long but the view is worth it.
One Day Trip Tiu Kelep Waterfall, Lombok
From
IDR 240.000
per person
18. Tiu Kelep Waterfall
In the same area as Sendang Gile, but you have to walk an extra 15 minutes through forest and a small river crossing. Many travelers (and we agree) consider Tiu Kelep the most beautiful waterfall on Lombok—the way the water spreads out like a curtain makes for unreal photos.
19. Senaru Coffee Plantation
A great selfie spot for coffee lovers. The plantation grows arabica coffee on the slopes of Rinjani. Located in Senaru village (2.5 hours from Mataram). Motorbikes can ride directly to the site; cars must park near the Rinjani National Park office and walk about 10 minutes.
The coffee here tastes noticeably different from city café brews. Worth the detour if you’ve already come to Senaru for the waterfalls.
4. Things to Do in Central Lombok
Central Lombok holds Kuta Mandalika, the MotoGP circuit, and the most Instagram-famous beaches on the island. Most of our Lombok day tours cover this region because the highlights cluster within easy driving distance.
20. Sade Traditional Sasak Village
A cultural village where original Sasak houses, customs, and weaving traditions are preserved. You can watch women weaving traditional cloth on hand looms and learn about local marriage customs.
Location: Rambitan Village, Pujut District (1 hour from Mataram) Donation: Voluntary (suggested Rp 20,000–50,000 per group)
A local guide will accompany you through the village. Most homes are still lived in. If you connect with the weaving, buy a piece directly from the weaver—prices start around Rp 150,000 for small scarves.
21. Mawun Beach
A crescent-shaped bay with calm water, ideal for swimming and relaxing. White sand framed by two small hills.
Entry: Rp 5,000 motorbike, Rp 10,000 car
Mawun is rarely as crowded as Tanjung Aan. If you’re hunting for a quieter Kuta-area beach, start here.
22. Seger Beach
In the Kuta Mandalika area with small climbable hills offering views toward the Mandalika MotoGP circuit. Seger is also one of the locations of the annual Bau Nyale festival—a Sasak tradition where locals catch sea worms believed to bring good fortune.
Entry: Rp 5,000 motorbike, Rp 10,000 car
23. Merese Hill — Lombok’s Best Sunset Spot
Still in the Kuta Lombok area, about 2 hours from Mataram. Merese Hill has become Lombok’s most famous viewpoint for good reason—rolling green hills meeting blue ocean, perfect for sunset.
Plan to arrive late afternoon. Combine in one day with Tanjung Aan, Batu Payung, and Seger Beach—they’re all within minutes of each other.
24. Tanjung Bongo
When you’re at Merese Hill, walk to the southern tip. There’s an easy descent on the right that leads down to Tanjung Bongo. Quieter than Merese, with the same dramatic views. Most tourists never find it.
25. Tanjung Aan Beach
About 2 hours from Mataram, just east of Merese Hill. Tanjung Aan has a unique pepper-grain sand—small white beads that have earned it the nickname “pepper beach” among foreign travelers.
The water is shallow near shore, so it’s safe for kids. Several beach clubs now operate here, with sun-lounger rentals around Rp 100,000–300,000 per chair.
One Day Trip Kuta Mandalika Lombok & Sasak Tour
From
IDR 200.000
per person
26. Batu Payung Beach (Umbrella Rock)
Named for the umbrella-shaped rock formation rising from the shore. Two ways to reach it:
- By boat from Tanjung Aan beach (~Rp 250,000 per boat, capacity 4–6)
- On foot: drive slightly east of Tanjung Aan, then walk 10 minutes along the beach and cliffs
Bring water and a hat—the walking route has no shade.
27. Mount Tunak Nature Park
Despite the name, this is a coastal park with hills, not a real mountain. Located at Tanjung Bungkulan, Mertak Village, about 2.5 hours from Mataram.
Entry: Rp 10,000 per person
You can walk along a white sand beach flanked by two large cliffs, or climb the hills for open ocean views. Better to come with friends or family—it’s quite remote and more enjoyable in a small group.
5. Things to Do in East Lombok
East Lombok is sometimes called the “easy trekkers’ region” because of its many soft-trek hills with views as good as proper mountain hikes. It’s also home to the famous Pink Beach.
28. Pergasingan Hill — Easy Trekking with Big Views
A popular soft-trekking and camping destination. From the summit, sunrise and sunset views stretch across the Sembalun valley below.
Costs:
- Entry: Rp 20,000 (~$1.40) per person
- Guide: Rp 250,000 (~$17) per day
Tips:
- Bring water and food—springs are only at the top.
- Camp overnight to catch sunrise. It’s easily worth the effort.
Camping & Soft Trekking Package in Pergasingan Hill, Lombok
From
IDR 1.650.000
per person
29. Anak Dara Hill
In the Sembalun area, East Lombok. The hike to the summit takes about 4 hours and the trail is more challenging than Pergasingan.
Bring enough water—there are no springs along this route. Hiring a guide and porter (Rp 175,000 / ~$12 per person) is recommended for first-timers.
30. Nanggi Hill
Accessed via Sembalun Bumbung (different starting point from Pergasingan). The summit takes about 4 hours of hiking.
Same advice as Anak Dara: bring water, hire a guide if you’re inexperienced.
Read Also: 9 Beautiful Hills to Visit in Lombok
31. Gili Kondo
About 2.5 hours by car from Mataram to Sambelia village in Labuhan Pandan, then a boat from Padak Guar beach.
Boat charter: ~Rp 250,000 (capacity up to 10)
Quieter than the main three Gilis. Good for travelers who want the small-island experience without the crowd.
32. Tanjung Ringgit Cliffs
Located in Sekaroh, Jerowaru District, ~2.5 hours from Mataram, on the same route as Pink Beach. The main draw is the high cliffs facing the open Indian Ocean. Standing on the edge with waves crashing below is the kind of moment that stays with you.
33. Pink Beach
Lombok’s pink-tinted beach in Sekaroh village, East Lombok. The pink color comes from broken red coral mixed into the white sand—most visible when the sand is wet.
Two routes to Pink Beach:
- Overland: ~2.5 hours from Mataram, can combine with Tanjung Ringgit
- By boat: cross from Tanjung Luar harbor, often combined with stops at small islands
Costs:
- Overland entry: Rp 10,000 car / Rp 5,000 motorbike
- Boat charter: ~Rp 500,000 (~$33)
One Day Trip Pink Beach Lombok
From
IDR 310.000
per person
34. Gili Petelu
Known for the underwater scenery—a popular snorkeling spot. Most travelers visit Gili Petelu as part of the boat trip to Pink Beach.
35. Pulau Pasir (Sand Island)
A unique destination consisting purely of white sand—no trees, no buildings. Standing here feels like being in the middle of the ocean surrounded by sand. At high tide, part of the island disappears underwater.
Reached by the same boats that go to Pink Beach and Gili Petelu, often as a combined trip.
6. Things to Do in Mount Rinjani National Park
Rinjani isn’t just another destination—for many travelers, it’s the highlight of their entire Indonesia trip. The three sites below are all part of the same national park.
36. Mount Rinjani Trek
Mount Rinjani has five official trekking routes: Sembalun, Senaru, Aik Berik, Timbanuh, and Torean. Each has its own character. For a more comfortable climb, the Sembalun route is often preferred for its gentler initial gradient.
Essential gear:
- Tent and sleeping bag (or rent through your operator)
- Warm clothing—nights at Plawangan can drop to 5–10°C
- Headlamp
- Broken-in trekking shoes
- At least 3 days of trail food
For the full summit and Segara Anak Lake trek, plan 3 days minimum (fast pace) or 4 days for a more relaxed pace. Full route details and packages on our Mount Rinjani trekking page.
37. Segara Anak Crater Lake
A turquoise crater lake at 2,000m altitude inside Rinjani’s caldera. Reaching it is a reward for the climb. There are also natural hot springs near the lake—useful for soaking sore muscles before the descent.
Rinjani Trekking Package 4 Days 3 Nights Via Sembalun
From
IDR 3.030.000
per person
38. Penimbungan Waterfall
Visible only from a distance—there’s no access route to the base. You’ll see it along the Torean trekking route, one of the most scenic of the five official paths.
External reference: Mount Rinjani National Park – Wikipedia.
Sample Lombok Itineraries from Our Team
Three templates based on the trips we run most often. Use them as starting points and adjust to your interests.
3 Days — Quick Highlights
Day 1: Arrive → check in (Kuta or Senggigi) → Ampenan Beach for sunset Day 2: Sasak Tour: Sade Village → Mawun Beach → Tanjung Aan → Merese Hill (sunset) Day 3: Snorkeling 3 Gilis (Trawangan, Meno, Air) → return to mainland → airport transfer
Best for first-time visitors. For a ready-made version, see our Lombok tour packages.
5 Days — Beach + Culture + Trekking
Day 1: Arrive → check in → explore Mataram (Islamic Center, Pura Meru) Day 2: South coast: Sade → Mawun → Tanjung Aan → Merese Hill Day 3: Waterfalls: Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep → Rinjani Lodge → overnight in Senaru Day 4: Snorkeling 3 Gilis (Trawangan, Meno, Air) Day 5: Souvenir shopping → airport transfer
7 Days — Full Lombok Loop
Day 1: Arrive → Mataram tour Day 2: South coast Sasak tour + Mandalika Circuit Day 3: Snorkeling Gili Nanggu, Sudak, Kedis (Sekotong) Day 4: Senaru waterfalls + coffee plantation Day 5: 3 Gilis (Trawangan, Meno, Air) Day 6: East Lombok: Pink Beach + Tanjung Ringgit + Gili Petelu Day 7: Shopping → airport transfer
For Rinjani trekkers, add 3–4 days between Days 3 and 4. For groups, our Lombok group tour packages offer better per-person rates.
Insider Tips from Our Local Team
After 14 years running tours on Lombok, we’ve collected a few rules of thumb you won’t find in most travel articles:
- Don’t pack everything into Day 1. Many guests want to “make the most” of their first day and end up exhausted. Day 1 is jet lag plus heat adjustment. A casual sunset at a nearby beach is enough.
- Visit Tanjung Aan and Merese Hill on weekdays. Saturday–Sunday at Merese now resembles a market, especially around MotoGP or World Superbike weekends at the Mandalika circuit.
- Snorkel the Gilis early in the day. Visibility is clearest before 11 AM. After that, plankton rises and visibility drops noticeably.
- Carry small cash. ATMs outside Mataram and Kuta are scarce and often offline. Rp 5,000–20,000 notes are essential for parking, donations, and warung meals.
- Wear sport sandals, not sneakers. Many destinations involve wet paths, sand, or waterfall climbs. Sneakers will be wet by Day 2.
- Book the earliest Gili boat (8–9 AM). Public boats from Bangsal get crowded after 10. Going early means you can sit on the open deck instead of squeezed into the cabin.
- For Rinjani, train cardio at least one month before. Most underestimate this. The result is exhausted Day 2, cancelled summit, wasted guide fees. Physical preparation matters more than expensive gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lombok safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Crime rates are low and locals are warm to visitors. The risks here are more nature-related: rough seas crossing to the Gilis (especially in February), and trekking trails that shouldn’t be done without a guide. Lombok is also relatively safe for solo female travelers compared to many Southeast Asian destinations.
How long should I spend in Lombok?
Depends on your interests. Minimum 3 days for the highlights, ideally 5–7 days to explore more than one region, and 10+ days if you want to climb Rinjani and still explore the rest of the island.
When is the best time to visit Lombok?
June through September for the most stable weather and calmest seas. April–May and October–November are shoulder seasons with lower prices and still great weather. Avoid February if the Gilis are part of your plan—westerly winds sometimes cancel boat crossings.
Is Lombok better than Bali?
Different, not better. Lombok wins on price, peace, and untouched nature. Bali wins on convenience, food variety, and infrastructure. The honest answer for first-time Indonesia travelers: do both. Three days on Lombok after a week in Bali gives you the best of each.
Should I rent a scooter or hire a driver?
Solo travelers and couples comfortable on Indonesian roads: scooter is fine. Groups of 3+, families, or anyone uncomfortable with foreign traffic: a car with driver is much smarter. Local drivers also tend to know food spots that don’t appear on Google.
Should I book a tour or travel independently?
Independent works if you have time to research and you’re already comfortable traveling in Indonesia. Tours work if you’re short on time, traveling with family, or simply don’t want to deal with logistics. The cost difference is often smaller than people expect once you add up scooter rentals, fuel, guides, and entrance fees on your own.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Lombok Trip with Us
Lombok offers a combination that’s hard to find elsewhere—Bali-quality beaches without the crowds, a top-10 trekking destination, and a living Sasak culture you can still witness in working villages. The 38 places above are a foundation. Most of our guests find a few unexpected favorites of their own along the way.
If you’re planning a trip and want the route, accommodation, and logistics already worked out, our Lombok tour packages cover everything from one-day excursions to seven-day comprehensive trips. For Rinjani, the trekking package includes all gear and certified guides.
Enjoy Lombok.
