Raw Beauty & Island Bliss in Lombok

Kuta-Mandalika sand

This guide calls to those with an adventurous spirit. The early-morning ferry crossing the sea from Bali reveals an island of raw beauty—even before hitting port, the coastline showcases sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. From the world-class surfing beaches of Kuta-Mandalika to the serene Gili Islands, the scenery is breathtaking. Along the way, I dove into indigenous village life in Tetebatu and witnessed the majestic waterfalls of Mt. Rinjani National Park. This is the heart of the “leap”—finding the regions where authentic culture and nature still reign supreme.

Kuta-Mandalika: Untamed beaches & local rhythms

Arriving along the coast of Lombok, the change in pace is immediate. The coastal scenery is dramatically different from Bali—the reef breaks far offshore, creating incredibly calm, mirror-like bays. Staying at the Puri Rinjani Bungalows, directly across from the beach, was the perfect choice. It offered waterfront access and a quick walk into town, giving me the best of both worlds.

Muwan Beach

• Unique Sands: Be careful walking down to the water on Kuta-Mandalika Beach—the sand is so porous you’ll sink with every step! Look closely, and you’ll see each grain looks like a tiny, polished sphere.

• Mawun Beach: A 30-minute drive from town leads to this heavenly, quiet haven of soft sand and gentle waves.

• Selong Belanak Beach: Widely considered the best spot for beginners to try surfing, thanks to its gentle waves and picturesque, crescent-shaped bay. Make sure to grab a beach chair and umbrella (for a fee) because there’s not much shade.

• Sasak Village: For a true cultural immersion, a stop here is a must. Every resident can trace their roots to the island’s original inhabitants, and touring the village to see their native homes and handmade artistry was a highlight of my time in the south. You can witness the intricate process of traditional loom weaving, where artisans create stunning Songket and Ikat textiles using threads colored with natural plant dyes.

Sasak Village dyed yarn

Sasak Village weaver

• Local life: Watching fishermen walk out at low tide to empty their traditional bubu baskets is a beautiful, authentic glimpse into daily life.

• Dining: The town center is a short 10-minute walk from the beach, filled with shops and restaurants where you can pick out fresh fish to be grilled on the spot. For an island escape vibe, head to Treehouse Restaurant and Bar for cocktails and local dishes with a view.

Senggigi Beach

Gili Trawangan: Car-free island bliss

The Gili Islands are a dream, boasting some of the clearest water I’ve ever experienced. Though heavily focused on tourism, Gili T is wonderfully car-free, replaced by the sounds of bicycle bells and horse-drawn buggies. I stayed at Hotel Vila Ombak, which perfectly balances traditional Indonesian architecture with beachfront luxury just steps from the lively main strip.

Gili Islands sea turtle

• Sea turtles: The absolute highlight of the trip was a snorkeling day between Gili T and Gili Meno. Swimming alongside 3–5ft sea turtles as they moved majestically through the water was a bucket-list moment I didn’t even know I had.

• Island life: You can cycle around the entire island in about 90 minutes (or longer if you make lots of stops to take in the scenery). It’s the perfect way to find your own quiet stretch of sand.

• Sunsets: While PinkSunset Kiss is the popular choice, you can find equally stunning (and quieter) views all along the western stretch of the island.

• Diving: If you’ve ever wanted to dive, this is the place. It’s world-renowned for offering accessible PADI certifications in calm, clear waters.

PinkSunset Kiss restaurant

In sum

Ultimately, Lombok and the Gili Islands form a landscape of profound contrasts, where the rugged beauty of volcanic highlands meets the delicate artistry of Sasak culture and the crystalline serenity of a car-free paradise. It offers a rare opportunity to slow down and reconnect with a more peaceful pace of life, where the hospitality of the people is as warm as the tropical sun.

Whether trekking through rice fields, swimming alongside majestic sea turtles, or diving into turquoise depths, a journey through this region is a powerful reminder that true luxury lies in authentic discovery and the quiet moments of island bliss.

Tetebatu Waterfalls

• Money matters: Cash is king in Lombok. While Gili T is becoming more card-friendly, you will absolutely need Indonesian Rupiah (Rp) for ferry porters, warungs, and local guides in the more remote areas like Tetebatu.

• Inter-island travel: The “leap” from Bali to Lombok takes planning. I highly recommend the first ferry departure from Padangbai for the best seating and a smoother ride. (Note: Some ferries use traditional squat toilets, so keep that in mind!)

• Getting around: In Gili T, you’ll be on foot or bike. For Lombok, hiring a private driver is the most efficient way to navigate the island’s hidden beaches. (That’s where I come in!)

• Drinking water: Always stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Tap water in Indonesia is not safe for consumption.

• Mosquito protection: With the jungle trekking and rice fields in Tetebatu, be diligent with repellent, especially during the “golden hours” of dawn and dusk.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Indonesia page.