Lombok offers a more chilled out vibe with fewer tourists than its closest neighbour Bali. The best-known wave in Lombok is undoubtedly Desert Point located on the southwestern tip. This has repeatedly been called the best wave in the world, but it is a fickle beast that is always crowded when it is on. On the flipside a single wave at Deserts can change your life. Elsewhere the reef breaks around Kuta and the Gili Islands offer real quality and a vibrant mix of tourist energy, beautiful untouched coasts and epic diving.

When to go

More than any other island in Indonesia, Lombok is a year-round surf destination. Peak season is April to October as per the rest of Indonesia when consistent 4-12ft SSW – WSW swells and ESE trades are common. This is the best time to catch the mythical Desert Point. Smaller, but relatively consistent 3-6ft swells from the same quadrant continue throughout the wet season and as winds tend SE/SW in November and then more W and NW until March. In this season Lombok has a stack of hidden gems and sheltered options with very little crowds.

Attractions

The star attractions of Lombok are the Gili Islands – three gorgeous tropical paradises, each with its own unique atmosphere, incredible diving and vibrant party scenes. On Lombok Island itself, Selong Belanak is among the most beautiful beaches while the village of Sukarare offers a fascinating glimpse into local handicrafts and lifestyles. Don’t miss the Fountain of Youth in the historic Narmada Park, either.

The Country

With over 255 million people, Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populated country. Consisting of thousands of islands, Indonesia is rich with tropical oceans, delicious fruits, and impressive volcanoes. Even with the nation’s large population, there are many opportunities to escape the crowds by visiting the country’s outer islands, rainforests, and beaches. Over the millennia, Indonesia has been controlled by many world superpowers – including the Dutch, French, British, and Portuguese. Since the end of World War II, Indonesia has remained a free nation with a constitutional government. Because of this diverse history, Indonesia has a unique blend of island culture, Western Colonialism, and Islamic lifestyle – making it a unique experience for any world traveller. If you enjoy respectfully meeting new people, you will undoubtedly find the people to be as beautiful as the oceans.

Getting There

Most Lombok travellers arrive from Bali (DPS). From there you can either board a connecting flight to Lombok International Airport (LOP) or head to Padangbai port for a cheaper public ferry to the ports of Mataram and Lembar.

Travel Information

Time Zone

GMT +8

Currency

Indonesian Rupiah

Calling code

+62

Electric

230 Plug type V, C, F