Where to Stay in Lombok

The Best Areas to Stay in Lombok

people on a beach with umbrellas

Despite featuring rice fields, volcanoes and beaches similar to those on Bali, Lombok differs substantially in several aspects: the indigenous culture and native language are unique; most people practice Islam (yet remain equally welcoming); and far fewer international tourists visit. In spite of limited direct flights, Lombok has much to offer – from museums and royal buildings in the likeable capital city to postcard-perfect tropical shores, many remarkably free of mass tourism.

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In early August 2018, circumstances took a drastic and potentially long-lasting turn for tourism on the island. A earthquake severely impacted the area, devastating tourist destinations such as the Gili Islands, resulting in over 500 deaths, more than 1,300 injuries, and tens of thousands left homeless. Countless structures were destroyed, many hastily constructed out of wood and tin, and major aftershocks continued for days. The number of visitors plummeted by two-thirds, but by late 2019 much of the tourist regions – particularly Senggigi and the Gili Islands – had largely recovered, with little indication of the past tragedy and no subsequent tremors. With far fewer tourists these days, the prices of everything have often been notably reduced, so Lombok offers great value, especially compared to the overpriced, overbuilt, and overcrowded Bali..

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Distinctly diverse yet less than a mile apart are the Gili Islands – commonly called simply the Gilis (even though gili means ‘small island’ in the indigenous Sasak language). Gili Trawangan is rightly considered the ‘Party Island’ where sections of the east coast emulate Kuta in Bali. The closest isle to the mainland of Lombok, Gili Air provides a more authentic village feel while on the smallest, Gili Meno, there is little alternative activity beyond snorkeling and relaxing, an appeal that attracts some but may bore others.

On the mainland approximately 20 miles south of the Gilis, Senggigi features a decent selection of services but nothing comparable to those found on Bali. Most resorts there are actually scattered along isolated bays farther north in Mangsit and beyond. And the likeable island capital, Mataram, is definitely worth a day trip by taxi from Senggigi or even as an alternative place to stay.

Somewhat confusingly sharing the same name as the prime tourist region on Bali, Kuta (sometimes spelled ‘Kute’) is developing as a major destination unlike anywhere else on the island. Majestic untouched beaches extend east (and west) of Kuta as far as the renowned surfing locale of Gerupuk. The more adventurous may divert to Gili Gede, an idyllic island projecting off the southwest peninsula and reminiscent of the Gili Islands prior to the onslaught of mass tourism. And definitely worthwhile visiting even if not hiking or climbing the ever-present Gunung Rinjani volcano are two charming highland villages: Senaru on the northern slopes and Tetebatu to the south.

The Best Places to Stay in Lombok

a beach with palm trees and palm trees

Where to Stay in Lombok for…

  • Best Area in Lombok for Sightseeing: Mataram
    The island`s capital is far more agreeable than most Indonesian cities. It is home to multiple attractions, such as the State Museum, Pura Mayura water palace, Pura Lingsar which is Lombok`s most revered temple, Narmada Park built almost 300 years ago and dedicated to the mighty Rinjani volcano, and Suranadi Forest Park packed with birds and monkeys. The huge markets, historic port, and city streets also offer genuine experiences of Indonesian life. Although only a few miles from Senggigi by taxi, there are also a surprising number of decent and reasonably priced hotels located within Mataram.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Beaches: Gili Meno
    Each of the Gili Islands is completely surrounded by sand, yet not all beaches are ideal for swimming or even sunbathing – some are rocky, dirty, and/or choked with seaweed – particularly those farther from the upscale hotels. Even people living on rival islands Gili Trawangan and Gili Air reluctantly agree that the finest beaches in the Gilis are on Meno. The sand is commonly powdery-white; there is less trash from tourists; the beaches tend to be uncrowded and sometimes deserted; and most of the angled palm trees have not (yet) been cut down for development.
  • Best Lombok Area for Hiking and Mountain-Climbing: Senaru
    Dominating Lombok is the giant Gunung Rinjani volcano, surrounded by the huge Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani (national park). Journeys of up to 5 days can be organized from the 2 primary villages on the slopes: Tetebatu (or more typically referred to as Senaru) and Senggigi (with transportation included). Day hikes in the countryside can also be done independently or with a guide within the national park from Senaru, a cool, charming village with several family-run guesthouses along a ridge north of the volcano. Note: the park closes (and trekking is prohibited) from December/January to March/April.

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  • Best Area in Lombok for Surfing: Gerupuk
    Without the large crowds and prices found on Bali, savvy surfers head to the magnificent waves along the south coast, especially at Gerupuk about 6 miles east of Kuta. The village of Gerupuk is suitably geared towards surfers, e.g. inexpensive guesthouses as well as lessons, rentals, and repairs. The downside is that most waves are up to 200m offshore (but accessible by chartered boat) and Gerupuk can only be reached by rented motorbike or chartered vehicle (with a driver) from Kuta.
  • Top Areas in Lombok for Water Sports: Senggigi and Mangsit
    Water activities across Lombok are more modest than major tourist areas of Bali. Paddleboards and kayaks can be rented in places like Senggigi and larger resorts further north in Mangsit, but motorized sports tend to be off limits due to local policies and lack of demand. As the Kuta region develops in southern Lombok, a wider range of water sports comparable to parts of Bali may emerge.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Scuba Diving: Gili Trawangan
    Beneath the warm, transparent waters encircling the 3 Gili Islands are approximately 3,500 types of aquatic life comprising harmless sharks and large protected turtles among glittering reefs – and there`s even a submerged platform encrusted with coral to explore. Diving excursions and courses can be arranged on any of the islands but internationally-recognized agencies offering the best amenities and most cost effective prices are on the most traveled and developed island, Trawangan. The Gili Eco Trust implements a tax on all divers to assist in safeguarding the underwater delights across the islands
  • Best Area in Lombok for Boat Trips: Gili Trawangan
    Even arriving at the Gili Islands promises excitement in itself, though other boat trips are also obtainable. These involve cruises for admiring the sunset, boats for spotting dolphins (not guaranteed), or swimming and snorkeling among coral reefs in boats with transparent bottoms. All trips necessitate a lowest number of passengers before departing, which is much more probable to be possible on Trawangan. Numerous travel agencies sell tickets but it’s preferable to book straight with one of the boat companies near the terminal. Chartering a boat with a boatman for a private cruise is also feasible but fares are fixed and excessive.
  • Premier Snorkeling Spot in Lombok: Gili Meno
    Some of Indonesia’s most pristine coral reefs and remarkable marine wildlife (including giant sea turtles) lie just offshore from all 3 Gili Islands. However, ocean currents and tides require great care as they can be surprisingly strong. With fewer visitors and therefore less trash and development on the beaches, the snorkeling areas in Meno are especially impressive, including a submerged pier encrusted with coral on the west coast. Masks, snorkels, and fins can easily be rented from stalls where owners may also suggest prime locations for viewing sea life. Glass-bottom boat trips departing from any of the islands also provide easier and superior access to reefs while supplying necessary snorkeling gear.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Nightlife: Gili Trawangan
    The diversity of evening entertainments on the compact island of Trawangan is noteworthy, considering its small size – options range from casually laid-back beach bars that keep Bob Marley songs playing continuously for 24 hours to Irish pubs providing crowds with covers of familiar Western tunes performed by lively local bands. It`s also common to happen upon open mic shows, quiz events, or films screened outdoors. Thankfully for guests lodged along the more serene northern and western shorelines, these bars and clubs are clustered in a compact coastal vicinity near the boat dock.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Food and Restaurants: Gili Air
    The range of dining establishments and variety of cuisine available across the three small Gili Islands is remarkably extensive. Situated adjacent to one another may be a refined Italian bistro and casual eatery selling tasty tacos or a European-standard restaurant emphasizing seafood dishes. The selection is broadest on Gili Trawangan but numerous restaurants insist on loud background music, whereas dining on the quieter island of Gili Meno is regularly disrupted by slow assistance. What makes Gili Air exceptional is the chance to sample authentic Indonesian local Sasak cuisine such as ayam taliwang (marinated chicken) and beberuk terong (eggplant in tomato sauce) at traditional warungs (food stalls). More details are at Gili Cooking Classes
  • Best Area in Lombok for Vibe and Culture: Mataram
    Much of the Gili Islands is overdeveloped and quite touristy while places in Lombok outside of Senggigi and Kuta are not that simple to access directly. The agreeable capital of Mataram, which offers numerous decent hotels and is only a brief taxi trip from Senggigi, is worth visiting for an authentic slice of Indonesian living. The expansive markets (see later) are fascinating and several historic temples, mosques, gardens, and palaces can be easily explored. Adding to the appeal are the friendly people and lack of visitors.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Cycling: Gili Air
    With no motor vehicles (save for some electric bicycles) or public transportation (other than overpriced horse carriages), cycling is often the best way to navigate any of the 3 Gili Islands. Bicycle rentals can easily be arranged on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air (less so on Gili Meno), but paths on Trawangan can be overly crowded with pedestrians and frequently too sandy on Meno. With the largest native population, Gili Air has numerous routes along the coast and among the village.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Markets and Malls: Mataram
    The enjoyable capital of Lombok (and the province) offers both rural and modern experiences: expansive traditional markets and contemporary shopping centers with size and variety comparable to Bali. For a wide assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats, as well as handicrafts and clothing, visit the markets at Cakranegara and Mandalika – tourists are rarely seen at both locations. The Lombok Handicraft Centre provides a slightly commercial experience but the Lombok Fish Market is consistently fascinating to observe. For air-conditioned comfort, try the Mataram Mall (with an arcade) or the Lombok Epicentrum Mall (with a theater and food court) Item:
  • Best Area in Lombok for History: Mataram
    The fundamental visitor zones – the Gili Islands, Kuta, and Senggigi – were sparsely populated before the introduction of mass tourism, along these lines they offer no chronicled fascinations. By all accounts all of Lombok’s old structures, temples, and royal residences – some hundreds of years of age – are helpfully in one spot: the island capital, Mataram, which is just a brief taxi ride from Senggigi. Refer to ‘Sightseeing’ above for thoughts about what to visit.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Serenity: Gili Gede
    While Lombok attracts fewer tourists than the popular island of Bali, some areas like the Gili Islands, Senggigi, and Kuta do see sizable crowds particularly during the peak periods of July, August, and mid-December through late January. To escape the large numbers of visitors, one could stay on Gili Gede, a small island located off the isolated southwestern peninsula of Lombok. Resembling what the Gili Islands of Trawangan, Air, and Meno were like three decades ago, Gede is well removed from the main tourist routes and hence not easy to access. Tranquility is guaranteed but amenities are limited.
  • Best Areas in Lombok for Families: Senggigi and Mangsit
    Not a typical destination for families with children, Lombok simply cannot match neighboring Bali, home to many massive resorts providing kids clubs, playgrounds, and children`s pools. Also unlike Bali, Lombok lacks zoos, adventure parks, and other activities sure to engage young ones. The Gili Islands are too small and perhaps serenely beautiful to interest kids much, but along Lombok`s southern coast, Kuta may develop in future years as a wonderful place for families. Currently, the finest area for families is Senggigi and the larger resorts to the north in Mangsit and beyond.
  • Most affordable area in Lombok: Gili Gede
    The major regions of Lombok can be inflated – the perpetually-popular Gili Islands, soon-to-be-developed Kuta coastline, and long-established Senggigi, especially the resorts further north in Mangsit. Far from crowds of free-spending travelers are the inexpensive guesthouses and simple eateries on Gili Gede, a tranquil, undeveloped island that’s not simple to access.
  • Best area in Lombok for transportation: Senggigi
    Alternatives to private vehicles in other tourist locations in Lombok, old minibuses or newer pickup trucks known locally as bemos run between Senggigi and the nearby capital city of Mataram (but rarely go north of Senggigi). Metered taxis are commonly available and useful for accessing remote resorts north of Senggigi along with the various attractions in Mataram. Perama, the major shuttle transport company covering Bali, has an office in Senggigi and provides services to Kuta, Lombok’s airport at Praya, and Bali.
  • Best Area in Lombok for the Airport: Kuta
  • Top Resorts in Hawaii for Families: Turtle Bay Resort (Oahu) • Grand Wailea (Maui)
  • Best Area in Lombok for Beginners: Senggigi
    The crowds on the Gili Islands, especially during the popular periods of July, August, and mid-December to late January can be overwhelming, and even arriving there on crowded speedboats is a little unsettling for the inexperienced. Along the southern coast, Kuta is experiencing considerable advancement and facilities may not yet be adequate for the anticipated influx of tourists. So, those visiting Indonesia and Lombok for the first time may consider remaining at Senggigi, a compact and long-established tourist region that’s effortless to reach and get around by metered taxi.
  • Best Area in Lombok for Romantic Holidays: Gili Meno
    Surrounded by waters of a light sea green hue and sandy beaches bleached white by the sun, the Gili Islands are ideal for a honeymoon or romantic escape. The `Party Island` of Trawangan may overwhelm some visitors (especially during the peak seasons of July, August, and mid-December to late January), while the more authentic island of Gili Air, with its places of worship, markets, and schools, may not be the tropical paradise some are searching for. As Meno is the smallest and, therefore, the least developed and the least crowded island of the Gilis, the intimate resorts and clusters of bungalows can offer the sort of seclusion, intimacy, and beach frontage usually not possible at the other two islands.
  • Various dangers can potentially be self-inflicted, such as substance abuse and excessive alcohol consumption, while other major risks relate to activities like motorcycling, surfing, scuba diving, and adventure sports. Physical and sexual assaults in and around the nightclubs and dance venues of Senggigi and Gili Trawangan are possible (but very infrequent), and years ago some travelers suffered or even perished from improperly made alcohol on the Gili Islands, however this has essentially ceased. (Continued vigilance is still wise.) Located distant from tourist spots without nightclubs, watersports, or traffic, safety is heightened on the remote island of Gili Gede.
  • Least Safe Area in Lombok: Gili Trawangan
    Lombok is probably much safer than places tourists have come from and most dangers can be avoided (see above). As clarified earlier, be cautious on the Gili Islands, especially at the numerous nightclubs and bars on Trawangan. On all 3 islands, street lights are usually inadequate or often absent, especially along rural lanes and remote coastal areas, so carry a torch after dark and don’t wander alone in unlit places. With no police station on any Island, security is usually under the authority of local community ‘guards’.

The 11 Best Areas in Lombok for Tourists

a beach with palm trees and palm trees

1. Gili Trawangan

Of the three Gili Islands, Trawangan is closest in geographical proximity and cultural alignment to the island of Bali. Most daytime activities revolve around the water while nights center around the bars. As the most visited and easily accessible island, with frequent speedboat connections between it, Bali, and the mainland of Lombok, Trawangan offers far more conveniences combined than the other two islands. The majority of hotels, restaurants, shops, especially bars are situated along the east coast near the boat terminal. This region is heavily crowded and loud but provides the finest selection of lodgings across the three islands. Trawangan appeals most to the younger demographic, so those older seeking some peace and authenticity may consider the other two islands or at minimum farther from the boat terminal on Trawangan.

2. Gili Air

Gili Air, the second largest of the Gili Islands, was originally settled due to its proximity to the mainland of Lombok and sources of fresh water. (Interestingly, the Indonesian word for water is `air`.) Despite increasing development, Gili Air maintains an authentic village atmosphere not found on Trawangan and Men, and the range of dining options is said to be the best in Lombok. Most conveniently located near amenities and the boat terminal is the southern coastal region, while many other hotels (even moderately priced ones) offer beachfront views. However, no hotel is recommended for families.

3. Gili Meno

Many visitors to the Gili Islands tend to favor the party scene on Gili Trawangan or the accommodation on Gili Air, making Gili Meno, the smallest island, comparatively tranquil despite recent structure of intimate resorts and bungalow complexes. The shorelines are specifically delightful and pleasantly uncrowded, and snorkeling just offshore is viable. The downsides are the poor bicycle paths and lack of immediate speedboats from Bali and Lombok (regularly necessitating an overnight connection on Trawangan or Air islands). And note: some cheaper hotels may not have air-conditioning and/or heated water.

4. Senggigi

Compared to Bali`s primary tourist zones, Senggigi`s amenities remain rather plain, but chief benefits include a lack of crowds, simple transportation access, a decent selection of water activities, and proximity to the nearshore Gili Islands. While fitting for families and newcomers, Senggigi`s moderately dusty beach grows inconceivably congested with locals on weekends. Lodging choices provide enough quality though be informed that numerous inns smack in Senggigi`s core lay near at least one overly boisterous nightspot. Nonetheless, most billed as in Senggigi actually situate in outlying Mangsit or beyond (see below).

5. Mangsit

The majority of hotels and resorts advertised as being in Senggigi are actually dispersed amongst coastal coves stretching north between Senggigi and Bangsal, the terminal for public water transportation to the Gili islands. While the beaches at locations like Mangsit are frequently an unappealing gray, they tend to be deserted and very picturesque. The primary attraction is the seclusion, though this does in turn mean a lack nearby amenities for visitors and significant taxi trips of up to 25 minutes from Senggigi or over an hour from the airport. A handful of more affordable lodgings are spread higher up into the hills, but most accommodations fall under the luxury resort or boutique hotel classification accessible along the main roadway.

6. Mataram

An easy day-trip by metered taxi from Senggigi, the provincial capital of Mataram is home to numerous worthwhile attractions (refer to Sightseeing earlier). The streets and extensive markets offer an authentic slice of Indonesian life, while the malls are as big and busy as those on Bali. The range of hotels is surprisingly comprehensive, too, but caters mostly for business people.

7. Kuta

Facing a delightful beach along the southern coast, Kuta (sometimes spelled Kute) has long been slated for major redevelopment. The multimillion-dollar Mandalika Project includes resorts, theme parks, a golf course, and motor racing track. The backstreets still retain a village atmosphere, and hopefully the vast weekly market will endure. However, the days of bamboo huts selling beers and renting snorkeling gear directly on the sand have passed. Within 20 minutes by taxi of the international/domestic airport, Kuta is gradually replacing Senggigi as the primary tourist region on the mainland. And only a few miles to the west and east, perfect coves of pristine white sand remain untouched.

8. Coast East of Kuta/Bumbang

Several nearly circular small bays with tiny islands located just offshore are situated only a few miles to the east and west of Kuta. Despite significant progression in Kuta itself, these beaches remain pleasantly untouched so far. However, reaching them presents issues, and is limited to renting a motorbike or chartering a vehicle with a driver. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, the secluded beaches of Pantai Seger and Pantai Tanjung Aan can actually be arrived at more quickly from Kuta via the sand rather than the road. Additionally to the east is the relaxed surfer community with guesthouses at Gerupuk, and another road east of Kuta stops at the fishing hamlet of Awang with its mangrove inlets and deserted port.

9. Gili Gede

In the indigenous Sasak language, gili refers to a ‘small island’ and doesn’t only denote the more renowned Gili Islands of Trawangan, Air, and Meno. Gili Gede probably resembles what Gili Trawangan looked like 30 years ago and parts of Bali did in the 1960s. Just off the coast of a remote peninsula in the southwest, reaching Gede is half the fun. Amenities are limited but the family-run guesthouses and eateries provide very good value.

10. Senaru

Along the northern slope of Gunung Rinjani volcano which absolutely dominates Lombok, Senaru serves as the primary staging area for organizing ascents to and movements across the volcanic peak. The main road which concludes at the trekking center near the beginning of the trail is flanked with charming family-run guesthouses providing million-dollar views. Notably more tranquil and cooler than the sticky coastal regions, Senaru is also worth visiting solely for relaxed hikes to thundering waterfalls and rice-terraced valleys. However, note that amenities are extremely limited and the village can only be reached by chartered vehicle with a driver.

11. Tetebatu

Spread across the southern slope of Gunung Rinjani volcano, Tetebatu offers scenic views like the nearby village of Senaru. Along the primary road through the community and a side street leading to the magnificent Jeruk Manis waterfalls are approximately a dozen rustic lodgings with simple adjoining eateries. Tetebatu is a popular spot to conclude a hike initiating in Senaru (starting in Tetebatu is less common). Guided day excursions are also easy to organize among rice fields and plantations cultivating vanilla, coffee, and tobacco. However, it is important to note that amenities are quite restricted and access to the village solely possible by vehicle with a driver.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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