“You have to go to Lombok! It’s like Bali was 20 years ago“, these are the words that encouraged me to book my ferry to Lombok for the first time. And I can tell you now, Lombok did not disappoint. The island has a magic to it that you can feel as soon as you arrive.
Lombok’s beaches are truly unique as they are often surrounded by incredible mountains, local life and a ton of rice paddy fields. It’s not just the sand and the sea that get travellers’ jaws dropping to the floor (even though those are ridiculously gorgeous too).
Whether you’re up for an action-packed beach day of surfing, diving and hiking… or would rather relax on the beach, coconut in hand with the occasional snorkel – there is a beach in Lombok that will suit you.
I’ve just spent the last two months living in Lombok (for the second time) and had the opportunity to explore a ton of beaches!! I’ve compiled the best beaches in Lombok into this article to help you to decide which ones to add to your hit list. Grab a pen, you’ll want to note some of these down.
Let’s dive on in.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- When to Go to Beaches in Lombok
- Most Popular Beach in Lombok | Tanjung Aan
- Most Beautiful Beach in Lombok | Tampah Beach
- Best Beach in Lombok For Watersports | Selong Belanak
- Best Beach in Lombok for Swimming | Pink Beach
- Best Beach for Surfing in Lombok | Gerupuk or Mawi
- Best Beach to Experience Local Culture | Pandanan Beach
- Best Beach in Lombok for Snorkelling | The Gili Islands
- Best Beach for Families | Nipah Beach
- Quietest Beach on Lombok | Mawun Beach
- Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Lombok
- Buy Us a Coffee!
When to Go to Beaches in Lombok
The beaches in Lombok are drop-dead gorgeous all year round. However, if you want to enjoy them with maximum sunshine and minimum rainfall, you’ll want to head there between May and October.
July and August are the peak months for travelling in Indonesia and Lombok is no different. Although the island is much quieter than its wild neighbour (yes, Bali, I’m talking about you), the tourist hot spots do get pretty packed. Particularly, the small, bustling town of Kuta, along the south coast and Senggigi on the west.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
So, my top tip is to go slightly earlier, May-June or later, September-October to enjoy the clear weather but also avoid the crowds that Bali’s beaches also suffer from. My favourite time is to go slightly earlier in May and June as at this time, the rainy season has just finished up so the greenery is LUSH and plentiful… which just adds to the magic.
Pack your snorkel, your surfboard, a good book, suncream and whatever else you enjoy doing at the beach and head to Lombok to soak in their God damn AMAZZZZING beaches.
Most Popular Beach in Lombok | Tanjung Aan
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Who’s it for: Surfers (beginner to intermediate), those who love a good sunset and beer by the sea.
- Don’t miss: Watching the sunrise and set on the small hill at the beach, Bukit Antara.
Tanjung Aan is one of the most popular beaches on Lombok… and for good reason. This dazzling stretch of sand caters to maaaany people. If you’re staying in Lombok and are into surfing… head here. If you’re into beach bars… this is the place for you. If you froth a good sunset or sunrise… yep, you guessed it, you’ll love it here too.
Whatever you’re into, Tanjung Aan probably has it. Plus, it’s only 10 minutes from the bustling town of Kuta, so travellers swam here like moths to a flame. Although it can be busy, it’s a big stretch of beach with a shit load of warungs (local restaurants) to choose from so it never feels too crowded. Find yourself a nice lounger and umbrella to relax under and lap it all up.
If you’re into surfing, Tanjung Aan is one of the most popular spots for beginner/intermediate surfers. The break is a boat ride out, which adds to the excitement of it. The wave is LONG (honestly one of the longest waves I’ve ever ridden) and usually, pretty small. However, it can get hella busy… so be safe and brush up on your surf lineup rules, peeps.
There is a small hill to climb at the end of the beach called Bukit Antara, this is a gorgeous spot to watch the sunrise AND set! Or, just chill out up the top during the day, watch the surfers and take in the views. You won’t want to miss this off your Lombok itinerary.
Best Place to Stay Near Tanjung Aan:
Bale Baleku Homestay
Just a 5-minute scooter from Tanjung Aan and outside of the bustling Kuta central, this budget-friendly homestay has airconditioned bungalows and FREE breakfast.
Luxury Ocean View Villas with Private Cook and Free Gym Membership
If you’ve got the cash to splash, you’re gonna want to splash it here. This villa is INSANE with a private chef, incredible views, an infinity pool and so much more.
Most Beautiful Beach in Lombok | Tampah Beach
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Who’s it for: Great for families or if you just want to relax by a calm sea and enjoy a cold coconut.
- Don’t miss: Renting a snorkel and mask and exploring under the sea!
Tampah Beach is unlike any beach I’ve ever been to, especially in the Kuta Lombok area. It made me feel as if I had been transported into a beach version of Jurassic World. The sand went on for DAYS with lush green mountains surrounding each side.
The beauty doesn’t just start when you get to the beach, the road to get down is also pretty mind-blowing. Full of rice paddy fields, local life and majestic, green hills. It’s the kinda view that gives you goosebumps and makes you feel fucking grateful to be there.
Unlike Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak, Tampah boasts only a few small local restaurants that can offer you a cold coconut, local food and a shaded lounger. It’s a simple beach and strangely, not as popular as the others! It can feel pretty remote which is a breath of fresh air (especially if you’ve just come from Bali, like I had). Especially if you choose to visit Lombok in shoulder season.
Tampah Beach is unique as the locals really look after it. You’ll see a sign on the way telling you that it’s the cleanest beach as they clean it every day! And you won’t have swarms of kids selling you bracelets (which if you’ve been to Kuta Lombok, you’ll know what I mean).
It’s also a special beach because, unlike its neighbourhoods, Tampah Beach usually has pretty calm waters (no surfing here peeps) and is a decent place to do some snorkelling. A friend of mine even saw a turtle here! Rent a snorkel from one of the local warungs and check it out for yourself.
Best Place to Stay Near Tampah Beach:
Tampah Hills Villas
If you’re looking for a budget stay, Tampah is NOT where you’ll find one. However, you will find this incredible luxury stay fit for up to 10 people a stones throw from the beach.
Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….
These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.
Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…
Get Yours Here Read Our ReviewBest Beach in Lombok For Watersports | Selong Belanak
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Who’s it for: Those wanting to learn to surf, or eat some delicious local food by the sea.
- Don’t miss: Stroll along the sand and explore the quiet spots further down the beach.
Selong Belanak is another popular beach along the south coast of Lombok. Known for its roaming buffalos, ideal beginner surf waves, delicious beachfront restaurants and endless stretches of sand.
Easily, the best thing to do here is to grab a foamy surfboard and go and play on the baby waves that crash onto the shore. If you’ve never been surfing before, HERE is where you’ll want to go. There are loads of surf schools that line the beach, so you’ll easily find someone to teach you the ways of the ocean!
These beginner’s waves crash straight on the beach, so no boat ride is needed! However, there are boats that can take you out to more advanced waves, just ask around at the surf schools and they will let you know what spots are on that day.
There are loads of local warungs ready to serve you a cold coconut (or a cheeky bintang) and nasi goreng (fried rice). Honestly, a post-surf, beachfront nasi goreng brings me so much joy. <3
There are a few places to stay near Selong Belanak, although many travellers stay in Kuta and then take a 30-minute scooter ride to the beach. The ride here is bloody gorgeous, you get to see some insanely beautiful landscapes and loads of local life.
Tip: On your way back to Kuta, stop in at Ryan’s Cafe for sunset. It’s a local spot with the BEST views over the mountains and the beach. 10/10 would recommend!
Best Place to Stay Near Selong Belanak Beach:
Mahkota Atia Bungallow
Selong Belanak is brimming with luxury stays, but not so many budget-friendly spots. Luckily, Mahkota Atia pulls through for us budget backpackers with the perfect bungalows near the beach.
Sempiak Seaside Resort
This is one of those honeymoon kinda places. Everything is perfect, from the service and breakfast to the facilities and the views.
Best Beach in Lombok for Swimming | Pink Beach
- Who’s it for: Families and travellers who want a beach adventure away from Kuta and Sengiggi.
- Don’t miss: A tour of the nearby Southeast Gili Islands and snorkelling at Gili Petelu.
The Pink Beach is pretty iconic in Lombok, you’ll see a trip to the Pink Beach being offered by 99% of the travel stands in Kuta and Senggigi. The photos entice you with bright pink sand… however, the truth is that the sand is a veerrrrry light shade of pink these days.
That being said, it’s still pink sand… and one of only 10 pink sand beaches in the world! It’s created from the red coral mixing with the white sand and viola, magic… we have pink sand!
Unfortunately, I never made it to the pink beach during my Lombok stay. The reason I didn’t bother with this beach is because from what I’ve heard, it’s sadly covered in trash and not like it used to be. As it’s a two-hour journey from Kuta Lombok (where I was staying), I decided against it.
However, the rubbish may have been due to the season, I was on the island in May so the rainy season was just finishing up which could have been the cause for the rubbish. Take a look into it for your trip as it may clear up over the dry season.
From what I’ve heard, on a good day, it’s an ideal spot to soak in the sun away from the crowds and marvel at the vibrant coral in the crystal-clear waters. It’s not got an overly commercialised vibe but rather a few local warungs and day beds to hang out on.
If you do decide to visit Pink Beach, I’d recommend staying closer to Kuta Town and joining a tour of Pink Beach and Southeast Gili Islands. There isn’t a lot around the area of the pink beach for tourists.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIBest Beach for Surfing in Lombok | Gerupuk or Mawi
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Who’s it for: Surfers. Period.
- Don’t miss: The beginner/ intermediate waves at Gerupuk and the advanced waves at Mawi.
If you’re into surfing… head to Gerupuk. But, if you’re down to chill on the beach… DON’T head to Gerupuk. There is nowhere to lounge on the beach here, instead, it’s just a spot where surfers rent and prep their boards before heading out to surf breaks by boat.
There are two main spots: Gerupuk inside (intermediate) and Gerupuk outside (advanced). There are also two other beginner breaks that are sometimes on depending on the swell, these are Don Don and Kiddies. So, yep Gerupuk is ALL about the surf my friends… there is not a lot else to do here.
It’s tucked away just behind the popular Tanjung Aan, so it’s pretty close to Kuta. You can rent a board from the shops in Gerupuk Village and take a boat from there. A few of the locals have set up a business taking drone footage, so if you see a drone following you on a wave… go and find them to check it out after your surf! They sell the footage for a pretty reasonable price.
If you’re a PRO heading to Lombok, the best beach for surfing is Mawi Beach. You’ll be travelling off the beaten path… literally, it’s a very rugged road to get there. If you’re not experienced on a bike, I’d avoid heading here. Maybe ask an experienced mate if you can jump on the back of theirs!
But the surf can be insane and it’s a beach break too, so no boats are required. I have never surfed it (it’s a bit above my pay grade) but we sat and watched as the pros did their thang… cold coconut in hand, obviously.
Best Places to Stay near Gerupuk:
Surf Shack Grupuk
If you’re after chill surfy vibes and a nice clean space to come home to, this is your spot. Close to the sea, surf rental shops and local warungs… this is a great budget spot to stay for surfers.
Dome Lombok
This unique spot is built in a dome, so not only will you be SUPER close to some of the best waves on the island but also have an EPIC luxury dome to recoup and recover in!
Best Beach to Experience Local Culture | Pandanan Beach
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Who’s it for: Families, snorkellers and chill travellers after a more local beach experience.
- Don’t miss: Sampling the local grilled food from warungs along the beach.
Located on the west side of the island, Pandanan Beach provides a refreshing reprieve away from the crowds of Bali. A gorgeous beach, lined with fisherman boats, warungs, white sand and clear blue water.
Although the beach is quiet in terms of tourists, there are still a few local warungs that grill up some delicious fresh fish and eggplant. Get chatting to the locals and find out what’s on the menu today!
The water is crystal clear and calm. Perfect for those of you after a relaxing dip and a coconut in the sun. You’ll find snorkels, banana boats and canoes for rent, so there is plenty to do to keep you entertained.
Although the most popular beach on the west side of the island is Sengiggi Beach, my favourite is Pandanan Beach.
Best Places to Stay Near Pandanan Beach:
Lala Salama Backpacker
This backpackers is the ideal spot for those on a budget. The rooms are clean and modern, the staff are EPIC and there is a pool to lounge around while you’re not at the beach.
The Kayana Beach Lombok
These beachfront villas are BOUJEE, so much so that it deserves boujee to be spelt in capitals. Just a short drive from Pandanan, it’s the ultimate luxury spot to stay.
Best Beach in Lombok for Snorkelling | The Gili Islands
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Who’s it for: Anyone who enjoys island livin’ and incredible marine life!
- Don’t miss: Cycling around these islands! They have no scooters or cars, so grab yourself a bike and get exploring.
I know, don’t come at me. There are loads of beaches on the Gili Islands and I’ve lumped them all into one. But honestly, in my opinion, whichever island you choose – the beaches on Gili Islands are all the BOMB when it comes to snorkelling… especially if you want to see turtles!
The island you choose will depend on the vibe you’re after. If you want to party and snorkel, head to Gili T. If you want rustic, local vibes and snorkel, head to Gili Meno. If you want a mix of it all… and snorkel, head to Gili Air. There are always snorkelling boat tours going between the islands so don’t worry, you won’t have to miss out on any.
In my opinion, the coral and sea life on Gili Air was the BEST. However, the sheer number of turtles on Gili Meno blew my mind! I saw three at one time… not trying to set your expectations too high, but it was mad. The hostels in the Gili Islands will always be my favourite places to stay in Lombok.
Best Places to Stay on the Gili Islands:
The House Hostel
Located on Gili T, this is the ideal backpacker place to crash between snorkelling. Unlike most of the island, this hostel is not a party hostel but offers a more mellow, social vibe. PS the pancakes for breakfast are THE BEST.
Meno House – Adults Only
It doesn’t get more luxury than a beachfront resort on Gili Meno, this is the BEST place to stay on the Gili’s if you want to stay somewhere luxurious but also be steps away from swimming with turtles!
Best Beach for Families | Nipah Beach
- Who’s it for: Families and travellers after a chilled vibe and quiet stretch of beach.
- Don’t miss: Adventure up the top of Nipah Hill and enjoy the views across to the Gili Islands.
Nipah Beach is another beautiful alternative to Senggigi Beach, actually just next to Pandandan Beach so you could easily hit both of these in a day! Nipah is calm, relaxing and mostly, pretty quiet. With white sand, swaying palm trees and clear blue water… it’s all you can ask for from a tropical beach.
Senggigi town is the closest tourist town to Bangsal Harbour (where most travellers arrive) and is packed with Lombok’s swankiest luxury resorts. The area is not so much a backpacker’s dream, but it is better suited for couples and families! Hence, why I’ve recommended Nipah Beach as an ideal spot for families.
The water is calm for swimming, there are a few local warungs around to grab a bite to eat and, for the more adventurous families, you can take the kids up the top of Nipah Hill. The view is incredible looking across the beach on one side and out to the three Gili’s on the other.
Best Places to Stay Near Nipah Beach:
Seven Secrets by Hanging Gardens
Senggigi area is known for its resorts and this one doesn’t disappoint. Pure luxury, set right on the sand. Relax by the pool, as you soak in the sound of the waves and sip a cocktail from the on-site bar. Dreamy.
Quietest Beach on Lombok | Mawun Beach
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Who’s it for: Families and travellers after a quiet escape from the bustling streets of Kuta.
- Don’t miss: Catching sunset from the hills on either end of this beach.
If you’re after a secluded, quiet beach away from the crowds of Kuta Lombok, Mawun is where you need to go. Mawun is a smaller beach with just a few local warungs, with hills on either side… it feels like you’re tucked away in a remote paradise (even though you’re just 20 minutes from Kuta).
The water is crystal clear, the local boats line the beach and the sand has the usual unique texture that many of the beaches around Kuta have! It’s almost like tiny little peppercorns. It’s a beautiful beach to soak in the sun on a lounger and take it all in.
This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lombok, however, it broke my heart to see the amount of rubbish covering the beach and washing in from the sea. Although the beach itself is absolutely dazzling, it was also a sad experience visiting this beach and seeing the reality of the plastic pollution problem. This is your reminder to be a responsible traveller, we need to take care of our environment.
Best Places to Stay Near Mawun Beach:
Villa Ellya
Luxury villas are the name of the game when it comes to accommodation in this area, and Villa Ellya is one of the best. With a view over Mawun, a private pool and gorgeous bungalows… this is the ideal spot to stay.
The Plastic Pollution Problem in Lombok
I can’t conclude this article without talking about the plastic pollution problem in Lombok. We saw it on nearly every beach… PILES of plastic. It’s heartbreaking and a reminder to everyone that we need to look after our earth. Say no to plastic.
Buy yourself a water bottle (Grayl Geopress is my ULTIMATE favourite), dine in instead of getting plastic takeaway containers, and be a sustainable traveller. The impact of your decisions literally lines the beaches in Lombok…
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Hotels and restaurants that are located on the beach often organise beach clean-ups that you can join. Or, just take a bag down with you on your walk and pick up a few pieces. Travel responsibly peeps, your small actions make a difference.
Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.
Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!
We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!
View on REI Read the ReviewDon’t Forget Travel Insurance for Lombok
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Lombok.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Lombok
Lombok is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. I loved every minute of exploring them; from soaking in the local life and majestic hills on the scooter rides to each of them to marvelling at the underwater worlds. No matter what you’re into, there is a beach on Lombok to suit.
My absolute favourite beaches were Tampah Beach and the Gili Islands (especially Gili Meno). I’m a lover of snorkelling, sippin’ coconuts, eating local food and enjoying time away from the crowds – so if that sounds up your alley, they will probably become your favourites too!
There are so many incredible beaches in Lombok, that it’s hard to narrow down which ones you want to visit. So, I hope this list helps you to plan your adventure in Lombok.
Lombok is a very special place. Enjoy it and look after it <3
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Find the best corner of the island for you with our guide on where to stay on Lombok.
- Check out this guide to staying safe in Indonesia to enjoy tour trip to the fullest.
- Embrace your backpacker spirit and stay at the best hostels on Lombok.
- Our in-depth Indonesia packing list has all the info you’ll need for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
