Lombok is often dubbed as the new Bali, but we don’t quite agree. The island has its own charm and comparing it to its more popular neighbour it’s doing both islands a disservice.
One of the reasons why we love Lombok is the untouched beaches. They have not been overrun with rampant development, and the fact it takes more effort to visit the island’s pristine beaches makes the experience even better. Although Senggigi Beach is convenient, we suggest venturing out to other beaches to find your own tropical paradise. Don’t just stick to the Gilis (Trawangan, Air, Meno) either!
Here are some of our favourite beaches in Lombok:
1. Selong Belanak
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The beach is known for its laidback vibe and, most importantly, its large bay of sweeping crescent-shaped beach with glittering white sand and azure waters. Perfect for swimming, surfing or just relaxing at the beach.
Address: Desa Selong Belanak, Kecamatan Praya Barat, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
2. Mawun
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This horseshoe-shaped beach is surrounded by sloping hills, which gives you a sense of seclusion and makes for a good POTD. The waves in the middle part of the bay can be rough, so stick to the outer edges if you want to go for a swim.
Address: Dusun Mawun, Kecamatan Praya Barat, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
3. Pantai Tangsi / Pink Beach
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Pantai Tangsi’s claim to fame is its sandy pink beach, which was formed when crushed red coral and fine white were combined. It’s little wonder that the beach is also known as Pink Beach, but don’t get mixed up as there are other pink-tinted sandy beaches in the surrounding Indonesian islands.
Address: Desa Sekaroh, Kecamatan Jerowaru, Kabupaten Lombok Timur, Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat, 83672, Indonesia
4. Tanjung Ringgit
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(@putrielizabeth)Tanjung Ringgit is a peninsula that juts out of the southeast corner of Lombok, looking out to a stunning coastline of limestone cliffs. The cape is best combined with a visit to Pantai Tangsi (Pink Beach) and Pantai Segui.
Address: Desa Sekaroh, Kecamatan Jerowaru, Kabupaten Lombok Timur, Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat, 83672, Indonesia
5. Tanjung Aan
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The Cape of Aan and its fine, white sand is not exactly unknown, but there’s still a good chance that you will have the beach to yourself. Even if there are other visitors, there’s enough space for everyone what with the two isolated bays separated by an elevated plateau.
Address: Desa Pengembur, Sengkol, Kecamatan Pujut, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat, 83573, Indonesia
6. Kuta
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Yes, the name is Kuta. No, it’s not Bali’s Kuta. No, it doesn’t look anything like its Balinese counterpart. Instead of the hustle and bustle of Bali’s Kuta, Lombok’s Kuta is chilled out and uncrowded, with a beautiful view to boot.
Address: Desa Kuta, Kecamatan Pujut, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
7. Gerupuk
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There’s a place to catch some prime waves not far from Lombok’s Kuta, and it’s called Pantai Gerupuk. Away from the beach there’s some good trekking and beautiful views from the top of the hills which line the area, as well as seaweed home industries. There are enough shops that can help you with surf lessons or boat rentals at this surfer’s paradise.
Address: Gerupuk, Desa Sengkol, Kecamatan Pujut, Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
8. Bangko-Bangko (Desert Point)
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Bangko-Bangko hasn’t gained mainstream popularity but it holds a good reputation among surfers who dub it as Desert Point. Aside from large swells, Bangko-Bangko is also a good spot for diving, trekking as well as eco-tourism.
Address: Desa Pelangan, Kecamatan Sekotong, Kabupaten Lombok Barat, Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
9. Nambung
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Nambung Beach is famous for its natural pools formed by rock formations. The pools are particularly famous for their ‘waterfall’ phenomenon, which happens when huge waves slam against the tall rock formations, creating a ‘waterfall’ effect on the other side.
Address: Dusun Nambung, Desa Montong Ajan, Kecamatan Praya Barat Daya, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
10. Tanjung Bloam
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Most visitors come to Tanjung Bloam for the POTD opportunity at the natural rock bridge that connects mainland Lombok to a pyramid-shaped islet, and we don’t blame them. But please be mindful that this is also a turtle conservation area.
Address: Jl. Pantai Beloam, Tanjung Ringgit, Kabupaten Lombok Timur, Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat, 83672, Indonesia
Yes, we know that this list is very much slanted towards the central and southern part of the island, but there’s a reason for that. The Indonesian government is keen to develop the region, called collectively as the Mandalika integrated resort area, which means better access and facilities for travelers. There are countless other beaches around the island so by no means is this an extensive list, but it will give you an idea if you’re a first time visitor to Lombok.
GETTING THERE: AirAsia flies from Kuala Lumpur to Lombok. Book your seats now at airasia.com