Less popular but just as beautiful as its neighbor to the east, Lombok’s wild and remote character is exactly what makes it so enticing.
The incredible island has it ALL! Isolated beach landscapes, jungle scenery, delicious food, and friendly people – all without the Bali crowds!
There’s an infinite list of things to do in Lombok like hiking to the summit of an active volcano and indulging in a yoga retreat. Every kind of traveller will find their thing.
After spending a few weeks on the island, this is my list of the best things to do in Lombok, including tourist-centric activities and hidden gems.
30 Incredible Things to Do in Lombok
With something for the laid-back yogi, the active sports fanatic, and the table-dancing nightlife goer, here are 30 of the best things to do in Lombok!
Find your Inner Zen at Mana Eco Retreat
Mana Eco Retreat
Nothing compares to the peace and serenity of a yoga retreat. Mana Eco Retreat is one of Lombok’s premier yoga retreats that takes palce right in the heart of Kuta Lombok.
From three nights to seven-night experiences, these retreats allow you to deeply relax and rejuvenate with daily yoga classes, spa treatments, and healthy meals. If you are looking for a way to escape your day-to-day life, this is a great way to do it!
They have a whole host of different kinds of accommodations including a dorm room, garden room or cabana.
If you have some time and want to really unwind, Mana Eco Retreat is a great place to start.
Learn about the Textiles Industry at Sukarara Weaving Village
Indonesia is renowned for its incredible textile industry. Lombok in particular is popular for its weaving crafts, known as Songket woven cloth and Ikat weaving.
Touring the Sukarara village is an incredible thing to do in Lombok to experience a taste of local culture.
You can witness the talents and skills that have been passed down from generation to generation. Hand-weaving 3 meters of intricate material can take only 1 day for the experts!
Try out the Brunch at Bush Radio
Bush Radio
Everyone loves a good brunch, even when exploring a paradise island.
In the heart of Kuta Lombok, Bush Radio is my number one spot for breakfast, lunch, and brunch. They have all kinds of options for vegetarians and carnivores on their menu. All the delicious Western-inspired dishes are served like works of art.
If you’ve been to Canggu’s Crate Cafe in Bali, you can expect a similar vibe. The industrial style and easy-going vibe makes for a great spot to meet some friends or perhaps get a few emails done.
Surfies Stock Up at Flow Surf Store
Flow Surf Store
For pro surfers or those who are taking up the hobby on the island, Flow Surf Store has exactly what you’re looking for.
Other than shaping custom surfboards and selling top brands off the rack, the shop also sells all the surf essentials you might need, including grips, wax, leashes, and fins.
If you’re keen to fit into the laid-back lifestyle of the island, Flow Surf Store sells some cool clothing and accessories too.
Tuck in to Lombok’s Best Asian Fusion Cuisine
Jiang Nan
There will come a stage where you will crave food that isn’t nasi goreng or rendang curry – yes, it can happen!
When that time comes, head to Jiang Nan Lombok for some traditional Asian fusion dishes with a focus on Chinese cuisine.
Take it from me: the cozy and casual diner has some of the best dim sum on the island.
Hike to Tiu Kelep Waterfall
Along with pristine beaches and coral reefs, Lombok is well known for its stunning waterfalls. Tiu Kelep Waterfall is one of the top contenders, and taking the hike to the falls is an amazing thing to do in Lombok for a bit of nature and exploring.
After an hour’s trek from the Senaru Village, you’ll reach the cascading waterfalls that plunge into the lush green jungle.
Make sure to bring along your bathing suit for a scenic dip in the pool below.
A guided tour to the falls will keep you on the right track while also giving you lots of insider knowledge.
Stretch it out at Astari Yoga
Ashtari Yoga
So you can’t commit to a few days for a full retreat, but you still wanna stretch it out. A good yoga class will get you nice a limber, and to do it while looking out over the ocean?! A dream!
Set on the south Lombok coast, the meditation hut at Astari Yoga looks out over incredible jungles until the ocean, adding an extra touch of something special to your yoga class.
Taught by pros and with lots of different class options, stop by Astari Yoga for a class you’ll never forget.
Get Up on a Board at Kura Kura Surf Camp
Even if you aren’t surf-inclined, you have to give it a go while you are in one of the most sought after surf destinations in the world!
Take advantage of the warm water, mellow waves, and sunshine, and learn to surf with a curated surf experience with Kura Kura.
Not only a time to learn to surf, you’ll get a taste of the local lifestyle and Indonesian cuisine at this all inclusive surf retreat!
Dip Your Head Under Sendang Gile Waterfall
The Sendang Gile Waterfall in Lombok is an epic spout of water hidden deep in the jungle in the north of the island.
The best way to get to the waterfall, is by joining a local tour group, which covers entrance fees, transport costs, and includes a local guide to show you the way.
The name of the waterfall translates to ‘Crazy Tiger,’ named after a prince who allegedly came across the waterfall while being chased by a tiger. But worry not, there is no need to watch out for tigers today!
Stick to Your Workout Routine at Loka Lombok
Battle against the humidity and heat during in an intense training session with Loka Lombok.
If you are planning an extended stay, keeping to your routine will be on of the top things to do in Lombok. This outdoor gym is Lombok’s version of the famous Bali Training Center.
They have personal training and fitness classes, and even has an onsite health cafe and eight boutique hotel rooms for the die-hard gym bunnies!
I can guarantee you’ll leave feeling refreshed and aching – in the best way.
Trek to the Summit of Mount Rinjani
We’ve all seen the photos of kaleidoscope-colored skies as the sunrises at Mount Batur. You can have a similar experience on Lombok with the island’s incredible Mount Rinjani.
It is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, and the highest point in the local province. The trek to the summit involves hiking steep and rocky terrain, winding through the dense jungle.
There are plenty of tours and treks to choose from ranging from a full-day trek to a three-day two-night trek.
If you have some spare time on your hands, take my advice and don’t rush this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tuck into Nasi Goreng at a Traditional Warung
You seriously haven’t lived until you’ve tried a totally traditional nasi or mie goreng in Indonesia.
The classic fried noodle or rice dish is served with a choice of chicken, shrimp, pork, or tempeh and is a staple for tourists!
It’s a pretty simple dish if you break it down, but the way it is prepared on the roadside or in a single wok will truly impress your taste buds.
I’m not recommending a particular warung here as there are SO MANY options that you can find your own hidden gem.
If you are worried about upsetting your stomach, these goreng dishes are a great starting point to train your belly!
Bathe in the Fountain of Youth at Narmada Water Park
Narmada Water Park is by no means the commercial water park you might be expecting.
It’s actually a national park in Lombok circling around a holy site with sacred buildings and pools. It was originally built by the King of the region as a resting place for the royal family, but was quickly transformed into a magical national park in the modern world.
The Balai Petirtaan, or fountain of youth, is a chamber of water springs that runs from 3 different water sources and is considered incredibly sacred by Hindus.
Basking in the magnificent culture, religion and history of Narmada Water Park is a great thing to do in Lombok when you want to immerse in more of the island’s culture.
Take a Tour of Tetebatu Village
Surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, mystical rice fields, and a tropical jungle landscape, Tetebatu is one of Lombok’s most charming local villages.
People often refer to it as the ‘Ubud of Lombok’ because of its spiritual atmosphere and jungle-fringed landscapes.
Hope on a day tour or try a walking tour to experience the beauty of simple living as you explore the way of life of the traditional Sasak tribes.
Do Some Natural Pampering at the Air Kalak Hot Springs
Name something BETTER to do than lounging in volcano heated hot springs..
Along the route to the summit of Mount Rinjani lies the peaceful Air Kalak Hot Springs. You can take a moment to unwind and reflect in the calming,mineral-rich waters of Lombok’s most famous volcanic mountain.
Not an avid hiker? No worries, the springs are just a short distance from the base camp of the volcano.
Refresh with a Smoothie Bowl at Milk Espresso
Milk Espresso
Tucked away on the edge of Kuta Lombok, Milk Espresso is the best place in town for a coffee and a smoothie bowl.
Smoothie bowls were pretty much pioneered in Bali, with just about every cafe serving up a delicious choice of fresh fruit bowls for breakfast and lunch.
Other than the incredible food, I love this place as it is super quiet and peaceful. There are also a few power outlets and great Wi-Fi for those who need to get some work done.
Venture to Senaru Sasak Tribal Village
Senaru Sasak is the main gateway to Gunung Rinjani National Park, where most treks and hikes depart from.
Set on the slopes of the mountain, the tribal village stretches along a quiet street lined with basic homestay accommodation and local warungs.
Another of the super cool things to do in Lombok, you can join a tour of the village and learn about the area. My favorite thing about these tours is that they are hosted by the women of the village, while the men typically work as porters and trekking guides in the national park.
Take a Day Trip to the Sekotong Gilis
We’ve all heard of the Gili Islands, but what about the Sekotong Islands?
It is a small archipelago that includes 13 islands, each with its own unique vibe and activities to do.
While the 3 famous Gili Islands can get crowded, the Sekotong Islands are much more off-the-beaten-track and relatively untouched by tourists.
Do yourself a favor and visit Gili Nanggu Sekotong for a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling trip. With very few people around, you’ll feel like you have the ocean to yourself!
Treat Yourself to Some Luxe Indonesian Cuisine at Kemangi
Kemangi Bar & Kitchen
Most restaurants serving traditional food have a super casual atmosphere, usually on the side of the road with an open kitchen.
While we love a good warung, if you are looking for a more high-end Indonesian dining experience, Kemangi is where to go.
A B&B, bar, and restaurant, Kemangi creates spectacular ‘island style’ dishes inspired by Sasak cuisine. Make sure to order the green papaya and prawn salad – thank me later.
Hang Out by the Pool at Bara
BARA
Bara is an island-chic pool club with music playing through the day into all hours of the night.
If you arrive early enough for a little brunch moment, they make a damn good cup of coffee and sell in-house baked goods.
Of all the chilled things to do in Lombok, spending a day on the loungers, ordering off their indulgent cocktail and dining menu, and cooling off in the pool sounds like an island dream.
Plan your visit for Saturday afternoons for their weekly Surf Saturday event and take advantage of the hard-to-beat drink specials!
Bask in the Nature at Gunung Tunak National Park
The hype around Rinjani National Park leaves Gunung Tunak National Park relatively unknown – and this is exactly why I love it so much.
It is one of the only nature preserves on the island, located at the southern tip of Lombok.
You can follow treks and trails along the dramatic cliff-lined coastline overlooking the Indian Ocean. I highly recommend a hike at sunset!
Nature lovers will loooove it!
Glance in Awe at Lombok’s Famous Pink Beach
Lombok has 1 of 10 natural pink sand beaches in the world. The island’s Pink Beach attracts tourists and photographers from all over to the world to see its incredible natural pink-hued sand.
The beach gets its pink color from millions of tiny pieces of coral and shells that make up the sand – its really outstanding.
As if pink sand wasn’t enough of a draw-card, the beach also has some of Lombok’s calmest and clearest waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
For convenience sake, a full-day boat and snorkeling trip can include transport, beverages and everything you need for a fun day on the pink sand.
Trek the Bukit Merese Hills
One of my all-time favorite sunset viewpoints is the Bukit Merese Hills. It is a series of hills that overlook Tanjung Aan Beach and its rocky shoreline.
Only a short scooter ride from Kuta Lombok, it is the perfect spot to escape the town for a good sunset.
The hike to the top of the tallest hill is pretty easy, and you’ll be rewarded with sunset views of a sky painted in hues of red, pink, and blue.
Be sure to bring along some cash as you’ll have to pay a small fee to enter the spot.
Spend a Lazy Day at Mawun Beach
Mawun Beach is one of the island’s most well known beaches where you can laze and relax.
The wide sandy bay descends into a shallow bank of shimmering turquoise water, just a 20-minute scooter ride from Kuta Lombok.
Unlike the popular beaches of Kuta Lombok, Mawun is rarely busy. Maybe because it’s so large and spread out, or because of its distance from the main town.
Spending time on this beautiful, uncrowded beach will be one of your favorite things to do in Lombok.
Sip Cocktails at Verve Beach Club
Verve Beach Club
Beach clubs are all the rage in Bali.
Sunny loungers surrounding a clear blue pool, just steps away from the palm-tree-lined beach – What’s not to love?
Unlike Bali’s touristy beach clubs, Verve is surrounded by beached Indonesian Long Boats, which are used to get the day’s freshest catch.
The down-to-earth atmosphere is as refreshing as a dip in the azure water in front of the club. Stop by for a meal, a sunset cocktail, or one of their events.
Learn How to Scuba Dive at Belongas Bay
When you’ve explored all the towering heights and rolling beaches of Lombok, it’s time to head underwater.
At Belongas Bay, you can learn to dive alongside a PADI instructor, and explore the thrilling world beneath the surface of the water.
There are a bunch of dive sites to explore, like the adrenaline-pumping Magnet Point, suitable for only advanced divers, and the coral underworld of The Cathedral.
If it’s your maiden voyage under the seas, you’ll likely hover around the Gili Sarang and Coral Gardens.
Visit the Pura Meru Temple
Across the landscapes of the island you can find magical Hindu temples and intricately decorated Islam mosques.
One of my favorites has to be the Hindu temple complex of Meru – which dates back to the year 1720.
Built from local teak wood with traditional stacked roofs, Pura Meru is Lombok’s biggest (and, in my opinion, most impressive) temple, showcasing a period when Hinduism dominated the island.
Cook Up a Storm at Anggrek Putih Lombok
Anggrek Putih Lombok Cooking Class
One of my favorite things to do in Lombok (and any foreign country, for that matter) is to join a local cooking class.
One of a few local cooking schools on the island, Anggrek Putih in Senggigi is an incredible way to explore the flavors of Indonesia’s rich cuisine and learn about authentic cooking techniques.
Whether experienced or not, these daily classes involve harvesting veggies from the small garden and cooking with the freshest locally sourced ingredients.
To top it all off, you’ll be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor, and learn a new skill!
Descend into the Depths of the Bangkang Cave
Below the surface of Lombok’s rocky coastline, the Bangkang Cave is an astounding underground world waiting to be explored.
Don’t get confused if locals call it Bat Cave or Goa Bangkang Prabu – they are all names for the same spot.
For a small entrance fee, you’ll be able to descend a flight of rickety bamboo steps into the desolate cave.
Take it from me: it’s HOT down here.
The best time to visit is around midday, when bright rays of sunshine come through the cracks in the ceiling, creating an otherworldly setting like no other.
Sample Lombok’s Best Mexican Food at The Mexican in Town
The Mexican in Town
I don’t know about you, but I can’t last too long without my weekly dose of Mexican food.
Luckily, there are a few great places in Lombok to satisfy the craving.
Not only do they serve authentic Mexican cuisine, but the Mexican in Town promises large portions and also caters to vegan patrons. Win-win!
Order the beef tostadas for a real treat for the senses. – drool!
Final Thoughts
Indonesia adventure island, or Balis sister island – whatever you like to call it, Lombok is one of the archipelago’s most beautiful places to visit.
From the buzzing beach bar scene to the friendly locals to the affordable accommodation, Lombok is a slice of heaven for those after an authentic and adventurous escape.
You could spend your days lapping up the sunshine on a near-empty beach or indulge yourself in some more adrenaline-pumping watersports.
What are you waiting for? Come and experience this treasure trove of unforgettable things to do in Lombok.
Featured image: Kura Kura Surf Camp
