Lombok Island was often overshadowed by the more popular and widely known Bali Island. Holidaying on Bali was, and still is, the first choice for many holidaying in Indonesia ― particularly for families. This popularity, however, creates crowded beaches, noise and commercialization. If you are happy with that energized atmosphere, it's amazing water activities and plentiful restaurants, that's great. Those of you who are not, then Lombok Island is your next holiday destination.
That's a resounding yes. It's a truly beautiful Island that promises the visitor really nice beaches with clear waters and many natural attractions. Like Bali, Lombok has some really amazing beaches, and we feel there is more space on the beach for you to enjoy, compared to those on Bali. Quite noticeable, you realize very quickly Lombok Island is a great alternative to Bali because there are fewer international tourists. If you are undecided about either Bali or Lombok, read our Bali travel guide (link below) next, because many opt for Lombok for a little more peace and quiet, more room for relaxation.
The first amazement you find in Indonesia are the beaches, especially those on Lombok. On Lombok Island, Aan Beach is your dream beach what you imagined all along. There are others of course but this one is your special one. The reason being is the bay lies wide open to some of the best, most beautiful scenic views on the Island. The waters are clear and pristine, the perfect tropical Island turquoise blue green hues.
And the sand is pure white, soft under foot. Palm trees all around. Yes, there are other beaches that can be described in the same manner but somehow you know Aan Beach is a touch more remarkable. It's the best beach for swimming, and being on the south of the Island, it's the best location for the stunning sunsets.
Aan Bay is one of the most popular destinations for holidaying tourists but we cannot fail to mention a few other beaches that are widely popular, including:
The main tourist area on the Island is in the north: Senggigi Town. It's our recommendation you base your holiday from there, and drive (either by motorbike yourself or hire a taxi) around. It is only a 3-hour drive to the south of the Island, to Aan Bay for example. It's possible to go anywhere on the Island the same day, and return to your hotel without the need to book a room for a night.
If you are after a beach that is more or less remote and left alone to itself, then consider Kaliantan Beach because it feels few people know about it. If you are after Instagramable moments of Mount Rinjani then head for Sira Beach.
Senggigi Town was marketed as the "up and coming" destination, the "Bali of Lombok" prior to the terrorist atrocity in 2002. Since then, it's often thought that Senggigi has never recovered since. In terms of pulling in the tourists, interest gravitated towards the south of the Island. Perhaps because the focus shifted from Senggigi, south to Kuta Lombok (not to be confused with Bali's Kuta) along with the investment, you may decide on ultimately booking your accommodation in Kuta Lombok? But don't decide just yet.
Kuta is where many a tourist is destined when they're holidaying on Lombok, and that's unfortunate in our opinion. Because Senggigi still holds its own in the face of Kuta Lombok and the better of the two, because of the coastal beauty and the quality resorts still found in and around the town.
Not only the resorts equal to Kuta Lombok but the three Gigi Islands are much more accessible from Senggigi, to the northwest of Lombok Island. Senggigi Town is located on the west coast, towards the north. On the other hand, Senggigi is only a 90-minute taxi ride from Kuta Lombok ― a cost of less than US$19 one way. Lombok isn't a huge Island, and it figures you could travel around the Island's coastline and interior exploring within a couple of days.
The beauty and nature of Lombok surpasses the beaches and the Island's famous volcano, Mount Rinjani. Sure, the active volcano is a must sought after experience for many. There is little doubt a two-day, one night camping trip is a great idea too. But, like Kaliantan Beach, few people are aware of Batu Idung Hill, a tourist park on Lombok.
If reaching the summit of Rinjani sounds impossible then perhaps reaching the summit of Batu Idung Hill is more feasible and practical? You could easily scramble most of the way on a motorbike, or trek the trails to the top if you arrive by four wheels. You have a choice:
At 250m above sea level the attraction is accessible to most people, it's one of the best features on the Island. You can find the place from Mataram City, the hill is an hour from there. If you are unsure, ask the locals for directions or book a guided tour (always a good bet).
As you wander around the Island freestyle, or as a guided tour group, you'll meet in with the wildlife. What can you expect to see, and is it worth having your camera ― or smartphone ― ready? We believe so. The Islands diverse wildlife includes: the Ebony Leaf Monkey, the Leopard Cat, and Rusa Deer among others. Be wary of the monkeys, however.
It's a suggestion you head towards Pusuk Monkey Forest, for the wildlife and scenery. The monkeys move around in groups and they're very friendly. Perhaps a little too friendly to your liking, because they'll come right up to you, and grab anything that you happen to a) be holding in your hand, or b) anything that glitters and catches their eye.
The monkeys may be small and cute, especially the young, but they're clever, sneaky and unashamed in their behavior. It's not advised to give the monkeys food, therefore, and that advice goes for any wild animal throughout Asia. Also, be wary the monkeys can scratch and bite, which is why you have holiday insurance and take your inoculations before leaving on your holiday.
The forest belongs in the catchment area of the great Mount Rinjani National Park, and on the way through the forest is another top attraction:
The waterfall is reasonably well known about you should be able to get directions from the Senaru Village. There is an entrance fee of a (US) dollar, or so per person. As well as this waterfall, the chances are you'll come across Sendang Gile Waterfall first. Not as spectacular as we feel as Tiu Kelep Waterfall but nonetheless it is worthwhile your time to find it.
The marine life found in the waters off Lombok, and the Gili Islands include turtles, reef sharks and tuna, among many other smaller marine fish and coral.
There are numerous ways you can make your way onto Lombok. The fastest way, and cheapest believe it or not, is to fly. Book your flight with one of the local airlines, departing from Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport. Less than an hour later, you touch down in the south of the Island, and grab a taxi:
You can take the ferry. There's the slow one and the fast one. The cheaper of the two is the slow ferry obviously, but it's the only one that takes vehicles as well as passengers. A ticket for the slow ferry can be US$5 per person, whereas the fast ferry can be from US$20 per person. The fast ferry will get you to Lombok as quickly as 90 minutes, whereas the slow ferry may be several more hours. And do expect delays, often journey times are longer than announced.
Either depart from Padang Bai Port or Serangan Port, it makes little difference (bar the journey time, maybe) and arrive at Bangsal Port.
There are so many attraction on, and around Lombok Island. There are so many things to see and do on Lombok Island to interest most people on holiday: what immediately grabs your attention are the three Gili Islands:
It's very difficult to pinpoint a favorite as each one is so beautiful, wonderful and an amazing experience. If you are young, or are feeling young, and have energy then head to Gili Trawangan. Otherwise Gili Air is a lot more laidback with a chilled-out atmosphere. For couples, Gili Meno is certainly the more romantic of the three Islands. The smallest too. The trio of Islands are not huge by any stretch of the imagination. Gili Meno is the smallest of the three we reckon.
Read our travel guides (links above) on each of the Islands for more information. No doubt you will want to visit at least one of them while holidaying in Lombok. The distance is not an issue, there are fast boats daily that'll take you where you want to go, and when.
Another Island that is close to Lombok, and a prime hot spot is Nanggu Island. An addition to the Gili Islands, do think about hiring a fast boat to drop you off for a few hours, and come back for you later. The Island has gorgeous, stunningly clear waters and plentiful multi-colored fish to keep you amused.
Whether you like the great outdoors or not isn't relevant. Nor is it important if you like camping, you are going on one mighty adventure. If you are brave enough to attempt the trek to the summit, that is. It will take you several days and nights to conquer the 2,700m active volcano but what an achievement. Can you imagine the bragging rights?
Come prepared with a pair of good sturdy boots and a light, rainproof jacket and your tour operator will do the rest, providing you with the equipment to camp. If you are reasonably fit and healthy, it's highly recommended you go for it because it really is a once in a lifetime experience. It's not every day you have a volcano staring so abruptly in your face, mocking you almost to try.
Guided tours regularly leave from Senaru Village, for interested parties.
Located to the north of the Island, it's a top destination for adventurers and hiking. In fact, the Island of Lombok is built for exploring as you may have already anticipated? It's volcanic in nature, making it perfect in so many ways:
Pergasingan Hill is highly recommended in any tour itinerary and one you shouldn't miss out on. Leaving from the nearest village ― Sembalun Village ― the trail isn't difficult or overly steep and you should manage to reach the top without a guide. On a clear haze free day, you can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Rinjani in the distance as you ascend. An hour or so later and you've reached the top with amazing views out onto the farmland below.
At the top you will not want to leave. You should arrive in the village very early in the morning, to set off because you want to be at the top for the sunrise. One of the reasons why so many people hike to the summit of a mountain is for the sunrise or the sunset. From the village, there are tour guides (book in advance online for least amount of hassle) who will provide you with the camping equipment so you can camp overnight under the stars. Lights from the numerous villages in the valley far below sparkle like diamonds, which is a great feeling as you are all huddled around a campfire.
The Pergasingan Hill hike could be the prelude to the hike you've dreamed about to Mount Rinjani? It would be the best, most ideal practice run for you. In fact, that's why many outdoor enthusiasts holidaying on Lombok hike this hill in the first place ― in anticipation of something far greater and more challenging, in the form of Mount Rinjani. Just remember it's more fun to go as part of a group, so tag along with others who are also out hiking.
This hiking adventure is perfect for beginners, or those who are unsure of their level of fitness but still eager for the great outdoors. Or a practice run for Indonesia's second tallest volcano, Mount Rinjani. If you are not interested in a night under the stars, give yourself at least 8, possibly 9 hours to ascend and descend to and from the summit of 1700m from setting off from the village.
Without a doubt, <a rel="index, follow" href="/your-summer-holiday-guide-to-bali-island" "Your Summer Holiday Guide to Bali Island">Bali Island appeals to one type of holidaymaker, and Lombok, another. You'll identify for yourself which Island is best and better for you, and your family. To help you along, we have a number of reasons why Lombok may be better for you:
Just for those reasons, don't be led to believe Lombok is too quiet, devoid of night activities. Because that isn't the case. The Island has an amazing nightlife with plenty of restaurants with their bars open until late. There are lots of choices of where to enjoy an evening meal and a drink, and dance into the early hours.
We love Bali and you could too. Yet consider Lombok to be like Bali, if only not for being chaotic in regard to the road users, crowded beaches and maddening commercialization. How many days in Lombok? At least two days, one night but no longer than 4 days, 3 nights to have enough time to enjoy everything. Just remember there are the trio of Gili Islands, so between Lombok Island and those neighboring micro-Islands, think along the lines of a week's holiday all in.
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