Escape Bali and island hop to neighbouring Lombok where the happening little town of Kuta awaits with cool cafes, spas, bars and world-class waves…
So, you’ve ticked off all of Bali’s best beaches, and now you’re looking for a new island adventure to escape to? We have just the spot…
Just a hop, skip and a short 30 minute flight away from Bali, Kuta Lombok holds a very special place in our hearts. With its white sand beaches, turquoise crescent-shaped bays and rugged hillsides, it’s a jaw dropping island paradise. Couple that with cool cafes, vibrant new restaurants and an assortment of boutique accommodation, and you’ve got yourself a pretty happening little ‘hood.
We’ve teamed up with resident and local expert Lucy Elliott from Reef Property Lombok to bring you this ultimate guide to Kuta Lombok. We’ve covered the best places to eat, where to stay and how to make the most of that stunning coastline.
Happy island hopping Honeys!
BREAKFAST & BEYOND
Cool cafes and casual restaurants in Kuta Lombok – head here for brekkie, brunch, lunch or later, with epic coffee, island-inspired cuisine and of course, all-day cocktails.
Best for expert coffee and Aussie café culture: Milk Espresso
Rise and shine at Milk Espresso for darn good coffee and classic Aussie brekkie combos in tropical homely surroundings. Think bacon eggs benedict, smashing avocado and colourful smoothie bowls. Open in the evenings also, these guys make a mean cocktail (Espresso Martinis are their thang). Swing by on a Wednesday or Friday for their two-for-one cocktails and live tunes.
Milk Espresso, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 822 6618 9839. Open daily 7am – 12am.
Best for chilled out hangs: Bush Radio
An industrial-chic warehouse with friendly, fun and laid-back vibes. Serving seriously tasty salads, sandwiches, smoothie bowls and juices, everything at Bush Radio is homemade, fresh and packed full of goodness. Their home-baked sourdough is a standout.
Bush Radio, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 852 5342 7611, e. [email protected]. Open daily 8am – 4pm.
Best for a peaceful oasis: Kenza
Healthy and fresh is the name of the game at Kenza. A peaceful little oasis amidst the busy crossroads of town. Admire the beautiful and calming interiors while you charge up on one of their superfood smoothies. From the vegan green wrap to chicken parmigiana, there’s something for everyone. Great little homewares treasures for sale here too.
Kenza Lombok, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok. Open daily 7.30am – 10pm.
Best for rooftop Mediterranean vibes: Markisa Restaurant
Escape the scorching streets and cool down in this breezy rooftop restaurant and pool bar – Markisa. A quick glance at the mouth-watering menu here and you’re going to want to order one of everything. Think tomato crostinis, grilled sardines, anchovy toast and octopus ragu – an ever-changing menu of Mediterranean favourites.
Markisa Restaurant, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 853 3850 5058. e. [email protected]. Open daily 7.30am – 3pm. Evenings soon.
Best for plant-based goodness: Terra
Eating to live, instead of living to eat, is the motto at Terra, serving up a colourful array of raw, vegan, vegetarian and plant-based goodness. Whether you go for a smoothie bowl or salad, you choose all the ingredients while the staff whip it up for you – then you can enjoy your creation on their beautiful and fresh rooftop terrace. Time it right and you can also catch their pop-up tasting dinners and cooking classes.
Terra, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 859 6412 3010. Open daily 8am – 8pm. Pop up dinners also.
Best for truckside local tucker: Rise n’ Rice
Nasi Campur, which means mixed rice, is an Indonesian food staple and a must try on your visit to Lombok. It’s basically rice with a variety of delicious, local meat and vegetarian side dishes. The Rise and Rice truck pumps out Nasi Campur to locals and tourists alike – get there early before it sells out. It’s home-cooked Ibu cuisine at its best.
Rise n’ Rice, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 819 0742 7666. Open daily 11am – 4pm (except Thursday).
Best for post surf refuelling: Kampung Café
Just outside of Kuta near Selong Belanak beach is this little gem – Kampung Café. The staff here make you feel right at home and the comfy rattan armchairs looking out to the beautiful garden make it difficult for to leave. A great place to refuel after surfing. The ricotta hotcakes, homemade desserts and ice cream are a must!
Kampung Café, Jl Selong Belanak, Lombok, p.+62 812 3976 5357. Open daily 9am – 9pm.
Best for village vibes: Café Fin
Located in the traditional fishing village of Gerupuk, the jump-off point for some of Lombok’s best waves, is newbie Café Fin. Smiling staff, a stunning wall mural and super tasty smoothies, smoothie bowls and epic sandwich combos. A perfect little surfing pit stop.
Café Fin, Jl Mandalika Resort Pantai Putri Nyale, Gerupuk, Lombok. Open daily 7.30am – 4.30pm.
AFTER DARK DINING
Kuta Lombok’s dining scene is surprisingly vibrant, with cuisines from around the world. With new restaurants opening up all the time, it can be hard to keep track, but here’s our favourite spots to visit after dark.
For oh-so delicious Asian street food: Bamba
No visit to Kuta Lombok is complete without a visit to Bamba. Asian street food with a loving Nordic touch is how they describe it and we concur. Drawing inspiration from every corner of Asia, the food at Bamba is oozing with unique flavour. The steamed bao buns are seriously moreish. Soft fluffy clouds of perfection.
Bamba, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 878 6051 9009. Open daily 8am – 10pm.
For a taste of Morocco: El Bazar
Longstanding favourite El Bazar is one of the most popular eateries in town. And rightly so. Step in and head straight to the back where a stunning, peaceful courtyard and fountain awaits. Known as the ‘cuisine of kings’, El Bazar perfectly emulates diverse Moroccan flavours. Think lamb tagines, vegetarian kebabs and, our fave, the Mezze platter.
El Bazar, Jl Raya Kuta No. 5, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 819 9911 3026. Open daily 7.30am – 11pm.
For the hungry, thirsty souls: KRNK
Great tunes, dirty burgers, juicy pizzas and delicious cocktails. That’s KRNK in a nutshell. Grab your mates and head down for a feast; it’s the place to kick start a fun night out. Expect good times.
KRNK, Jl Raya Kuta No. 5a, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 819 9911 3026. Open daily 5pm – 1am.
For big burgers & burritos: Frida’s
Big burgers, bursting burritos and plenty of booze to wash it all down – need we say more? For good vibes only, Frida’s is where it’s at for the post-surf crew and pre-party animals, with potent cocktails, happy hours on the regular and 2-4-1 tacos too.
Frida’s, Jl Raya Kuta No.9, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 878 6427 5918, Open daily 6pm – 11pm.
For fancy Indonesian fare: Kemangi Bar and Kitchen
Elegant and chic, Kemangi offers sophisticated Indonesian dining in a beautiful setting. A great place to sample local food at its finest, and with an impressive and well-stocked cellar, you’l also want to sip your way through the wine collection.
Kemangi Bar and Kitchen, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 878 6152 4585. Open daily 8am – 11pm.
For hella fresh seafood & naughty desserts: SeaSalt
Bringing a slice of the Mediterranean to Kuta Lombok, SeaSalt takes the crown for the freshest locally caught seafood in town. Whether you’re tucking into the grilled baby mackerel with sawblade coriander salsa or perfectly pan seared red snapper, you won’t be disappointed. Go in a big group to take advantage of the tapas style entrees, and whatever you do, don’t leave without tasting their heart-attack-inducing deep fried desserts – a Scottish culinary phenomenon!
SeaSalt, Jl Raya Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 813 8198 7104. Open daily 11am – 10pm.
For a Mexican fiesta: The Mexican in Town
Who doesn’t love Mexican?! Run by a real Mexican, the food here is legit. Expect all the classics; mouth-watering baja fish tacos, jam packed burritos, the freshest tuna tostada, and to wash it all down, we highly recommend their tangy margaritas. Or better still, pair it with a fiery Bintang Michelada.
The Mexican in Town, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 852 3911 0552. Open daily 12pm – 10pm.
For the best pizza outside of Naples: The Bus Bar
Busting out pizza all night long and even having the vegans and coeliacs covered with homemade cashew nut cheese and gluten free pizza bases is the Bus Bar. Famous also for their parties, it’s the perfect place to dance the night away. The open-air bar gets seriously packed, especially on a Wednesday and Saturday, when they host guest DJ sessions. A must visit.
The Bus Bar, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p. +62 823 4089 7270. Open daily 6pm – 12am.
SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THESE
Catch some z’s at these cool island abodes. From simple homestays to plush private villas and boutique escapes, here’s our fave places to stay, listed (roughly) in descending price order.
Villa Sorgas
Grab your mates and book a luxury stay at this 400 square metre, hillside villa. Relax in the infinity pool while you take in the breathtaking views of Tanjung Aan beach and Gerupuk Bay. The team are on hand to make sure you have an unforgettable stay. Organising everything from private chefs and yoga classes through to fishing trips and private surf lessons. There’s nothing quite like it.
Villa Sorgas, Gerupuk, Lombok, e. [email protected]
Villa Strata
A luxury five-bedroom abode with 360 degree panoramic views of ocean and rugged hillsides, Villa Strata (just next door to Villa Sorgas) is an architectural wonder. It’s decked out with contemporary interiors and dramatic geometric framing, matched by local wood and natural stone, lining an infinity pool that appears to disappear over the horizon. Squishy sofas and an ultra-modern kitchen pepper the al-fresco ground floor lounge, while upstairs, all of the air-conditioned minimalistic rooms are sunset-facing, capturing the evening’s sundrops over Lombok’s awesome landscapes. For unobstructed views all around, head to the sprawling rooftop with a chilled bottle of vino.
Villa Strata, Gerupuk, Lombok, e. [email protected]
Seven Havens Luxury Residence
Exactly as its name suggests, this stunning boutique resort, perched high up on the hillside, is made up of seven havens, each with breathtaking views over the crystal clear Selong Belanak bay. A glittering infinity pool centres this ocean-breezy sanctuary, dotted with plush Soo Santai beanbags and a fully-stocked kitchenette and dining room. For the most panoramic view of them all, stay in the Havens of Tranquility suite, with its grand painting of nature set behind floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s a 360-degree vista of spectacular scenery and sublime luxury.
Seven Havens Luxury Residence, Jl Raya Selong Belanak, Lombok, p. +6281337388339, e. [email protected]
Sempiak Villas
Situated on the idyllic shores of Selong Belanak beach, Sempiak Villas is the perfect beachfront getaway. Using natural, local materials throughout, each villa has been carefully constructed and offers its own unique design and furnishings. With a beachside restaurant, pool, yoga and spa, it’s a truly special place to unwind.
Sempiak Villas, Jl Datuk Lopan, Selong Belanak, Lombok, p.+62 821 4430 3337, e. [email protected]
Jivana Resort
Stepping into Jivana is like stepping into an endless tropical garden. You’re completely enveloped in nature with stunning tropical plants, groomed lawns and peaceful ponds. The accommodation is equally stunning. They offer a range of options from double rooms through to three-bedroom private villas. Make sure you check out the swim up bar!
Jivana Resort, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 370 615 8000, e. [email protected]
Villa Alba
A stunning two bedroom and brand new villa tucked away on a quiet and shaded back street of Kuta, Villa Alba is a tranquil, hidden gem for guests to call home. Expertly designed by the highly regarded and local sustainable architecture firm, Bambook Studio, the villa is bright, airy and bursting with style. Chill by the pool, snuggle up on the sofa or simply enjoy all the home comforts of this modern tropical oasis.
Villa Alba, lJl Baturiti, Kuta, Lombok.
Origin Lombok
Nestled in nature, this tranquil boutique resort is just on the outskirts of Kuta and a short drive to Tanjung Aan beach. Offering a range of beautifully designed rooms, many with direct pool access, you’ll feel like you’re in a top resort at a fraction of the price. With a spa, yoga and two large swimming pools, it ticks all the relaxation boxes.
Origin Lombok, Jl Raya Sengkol, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 370 615 8550, e. [email protected]
Rawa Lombok
A boutique hotel with a beautiful rustic but fresh feel, the rooms at Rawa Lombok are spacious and beautifully furnished with lots of thoughtful touches. Sip on a cocktail while the sun sets from the rooftop bar and pool, and feast at adjoining restaurant Markisa after dark – reason enough to stay.
Rawa Lombok, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 853 3850 5058, e. [email protected].
Mana Yoga Retreat
A tropical and lush oasis offering a range of beautifully appointed accommodation options fit for all budgets, Mana Retreat is the perfect place for a relaxing stay. It features two yoga studios offering daily classes, an onsite spa, swimming pool, healthy restaurant and an evening cinema. They even supply the popcorn!
Mana Yoga Retreat, Jl Baturiti, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 853 3862 8659, e. mana[email protected].
So It Goes
A beautifully designed pod hotel brought to you by the team behind the delicious Bamba, sleeping doesn’t get more inviting than this. Slap bang in the centre of town, featuring a stunning outdoor courtyard, large swimming pool and rooftop bar, it ticks all the social boxes. Room configurations include single pods, double pods and also some private doubles for those requiring snuggle space.
So It Goes, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 821 4716 4131, e. [email protected].
Pipes Hostel
One of the best budget options in Kuta Lombok, Pipes Hostel combines dormitory style rooms with an awesome skate bowl and pool. It’s the perfect option for those travelling solo or looking to get social. Great creative vibes and fun, friendly staff.
Pipes Hostel, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 878 6598 8986, e. [email protected].
WHERE TO SURF & GET SALTY
With crystal clear waters, untouched beaches and a range of surf breaks for all levels, getting salty is a must in Lombok. For those looking to test out or improve their surfing skills, there are many surf camps and surf guiding teams operating in the area. Here’s our top picks.
For the surf addicts: Surfcamp Lombok
Arguably Lombok’s first surf camp, Surfcamp Lombok is on the shores of five fantastic surf spots. Whether you’re looking to master the basics or learn advanced techniques, their courses cater to a range of levels. It’s a full-on program with surfs twice a day, video/photo analysis and lots of land-based theory. Perfect for those who want to take the next step (or first step) in their surfing careers.
Surf Camp Lombok, Gerupuk, Lombok, p. +62 821 4501 5464, e. [email protected].
For a home away from home: Nalua Surf
Offering surfing packages, rooms and a cute surf shop right in the centre of Kuta Lombok, Nalua Surf is like a home away from home. Their beginner surf package will get you on your feet in no time while their adventure package is perfect for those looking to explore the islands’ breaks with an experienced guide. Beautifully decorated, simple rooms with the added bonus of an idyllic rooftop hangout spot perfect for sunset.
Nalua Surf, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 819 0796 9162, e. [email protected].
For jungle surf stays: Drop In Surf Lodge and Surfcamp
A peaceful jungle oasis perfect for those looking to completely switch off and enjoy tropical surroundings. Offering small group surf packages tailored to different levels, cute bungalow style accommodation, a swimming pool and café serving delicious homemade cakes and treats perfect for refuelling after a long day of surfing. Check out some of the amazing community projects they’ve helped to set up in the local village.
Drop In Surf Lodge and Surfcamp , Jl Mandalika Resort Pantai Putri Nyale, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 819 0723 4673, e. [email protected].
For the water adrenaline junkies: WhatSUP Lombok
WhatSUP Lombok has the adrenaline junkies covered offering a range of activities including one-on-one surf lessons, kite surfing, paragliding, SUPboarding tours, kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling adventures. If you’re looking to discover lesser known spots in Lombok, these guys will take you there. Make sure you also jump onboard their evening Senja Sunset Cruise – there’s no better place to watch the sun go down.
WhatSUP Lombok, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 878 6597 8701, e. [email protected].
For the local surf experience: Sasak Soul
Run by locals, let Sandy and the Sasak Soul team take care of your time in Lombok. Offering a range of surf packages and off the beaten path tours, including an overnight camping trip to the completely uninhabited island Gili Kondo, this place lets you discover Lombok like a local.
Sasak Soul, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 853 3780 0970, e. [email protected].
For weekly surf escapades: Kura Kura Surf Camp
Offering weekly surf camps for the complete novice through to the advanced surfer staying in quaint homestay style accommodation. Their camps start on the same day each week to ensure they can follow each surfers’ progress and make sure all beginners get the necessary theory lessons before hitting the water. It also must be mentioned that they are the first surf camp in the area to have a local female surf instructor – hang five to that!
Kura Kura Surf Camp, Jl Mawun, Mengalung, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 813 3722 6477, e. [email protected].
RELAX RECHARGE OR GET YOUR SWEAT ON
Because there’s more to Kuta Lombok than just epic cafes, surf and tropical stays, here’s where you can hit the spa, gym, yoga studio or boutique shops.
Bliss out at Matcha Spa
With two locations in Kuta Lombok, there’s ample opportunity to bliss out at this little oasis. Indulge in a day of pampering with a wide range of treatments, including divine massages, facials, body scrubs and nail treatments. Go on, treat yo’ self!
Matcha Spa, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 823 3905 0182, Open daily 10am – 7:30pm.
Stretch it out at Mana Yoga Retreat
So much more than just a place to practice yoga, at Mana Yoga Retreat you can swim, chill out with a good book, master the slackline, or bliss out at the beautiful Matcha Spa. Offering a range of yoga styles four times a day in beautiful tropical surroundings, friendly, experienced teachers are ready to guide the novice through to the experienced yogi.
Mana Yoga Retreat, Jl Baturiti, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 853 3862 8659, e. [email protected].
Align those chakras at Ashtari Yoga
Set atop the hills overlooking Kuta Bay, practice yoga while you enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The open air, almost-floating yoga shala is also a great place to spot monkeys swinging in the nearby trees! Ashtari also offers yoga classes at a number of hotel locations around Kuta Lombok – check their schedule for details.
Ashtari Yoga, Jl Mawun, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 818 0570 3928, e. [email protected].
Break a sweat at Loka Surf and Fitness Lodge
Don’t worry gym junkies, Loka has your workout needs covered. Their daily Crossfit and Muay Thai classes offer a solid workout for those looking to balance out those holiday munchies. Post workout, pull up a beanbag and recover in their scrumptious adjoining health café.
Loka Surf and Fitness Lodge, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok, p.+62 821 4454 6783. Open daily 7am – 7pm.
Shop at Flow Surf Store
If retail therapy is how you like to relax then a visit to surf store Flow is a must. Stocking an unrivalled range of premium surf board brands, including Channel Islands and Hayden Shapes, not to mention all the latest trends in surfing apparel and island wear, you’ll be looking your best in and out of the water.
Flow Surf Store, Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok. Open daily 8am – 10pm.
Happy island hopping Honeys!
Words by Lucy Elliott, Reef Property Lombok
With a serious passion for globetrotting, adventure and surfing, Lucy stumbled upon Lombok a number of years ago and from there the love affair began. Australian grown with Scottish roots, she is now lucky enough to call Kuta Lombok home. With her partner Tom, she makes up the team at Reef Property Lombok, a boutique real estate agency specialising in the sale of high quality property in the South Lombok region. Follow Lucy and Reef Property Lombok on Facebook and Instagram, or visit their Blog about Lombok for regular updates on all things Lombok.