For years I’ve been visiting Bali And yet somehow I’m completely engrossed in this beautiful island. However, on this trip to Indonesia, I was hoping for new experiences to discover more from this country, consisting of around 18,000 islands. Flying on a plane from Bali is becoming increasingly popular with travelers looking to escape the Bali crowds. Although my days in Lombok were enough to discover highlights, I was able to easily spend a week or two living the island lifestyle here.
Lombok Indonesia Guide
Once you arrive in Lombok, you will soon notice how everything is spreading. The airport is located south of the island and is close to many Bali-inspired restaurants, cafes, bars and surf camps. With Venture West you will soon discover many resorts that cater to families, honeymoon couples and groups of travelers challenging the Gili Islands.
If you’re a solo or adventure traveler who wants to meet people, the South is a great base. Here you will find several surf camps and healthy cafes selling smoothie bowls and vegan treatments.
If you travel as a couple and are more interested in resort-style vacations, there is a wide range of luxury hotels and resorts to the west of the island. We stayed at the Catamaran Resort, a 4 star hotel.
The west of Lombok is the place you need for at least one sunset while on the island. Lombok overlooks Bali in the west and creates the perfect background for watching the sunset. The best way to see the coast is to rent a Vespa (please note, most travel insurance does not cover accidents with bikes in Indonesia). If you are heading this way, enter your marineb into the map and you will immediately find this perspective.
Things to do in Lombok
We only had a few days in Lombok, but we strived to explore the beaches, cafes and perspectives at sunset. We really didn’t have enough time for the epic adventure and both agreed that we should have spent more time in Lombok. If you realize you have more time, these are the island highlights:
Trekking to Tiu Kelep Waterfalls – The journey takes about 45 minutes’ walk and leads you to this magnificent waterfall in the forest.
Kuta, Explore Lombok – The south of Lombok feels like the island’s centre, making it a great place to discover delicious eateries, fun bars and a truly relaxed island lifestyle.
Rinjani Mount Trek – If time was on our side, this is definitely an adventure we would have been on. The trekking lasts for 2-4 days, but offers some of the most spectacular views than Lombok.
Where in Lombok do you eat and drink?
If you are a foodie, you will absolutely worship Lombok. Especially south of the island, there are some great plant-based restaurants and better (if not good) coffee than you’d find in Bali! Here are some notable favourites:
Milk espresso – If you’re drinking great coffee, milk espresso is the place to go. With that very hip little joint, you could see digital nomads or 12 stools in one of the clean table settings.
Kenzal Cafe – Think of raw vegan foods that will taste great. Also, all the food is sourced locally from the island!
Terra – With the motto of “Foods that Love You,” Terra is a great option for healthy and heartfelt boosting on your day. The food here is so delicious that I’m looking for recipes, and above all, everything is very fresh.
Where to stay in Lombok
As mentioned before, we checked in at an affordable 4 star hotel to the west of the island. You can find truly great last minute bargains online, especially since Lombok is less busy than Bali.
Generally speaking, Western-style hotels and a wide range of luxurious villas are located to the west of Sengigi Island, with a relaxed surf camp in Kuta.
Many travelers use Lombok as a hub to visit the Gili Islands. The Gili Islands are only 15-20 minutes’ ferry ride from Lombok.
