Escape Bali and island-hop to neighbouring Lombok where the happening little town of Kuta awaits with cool cafes, spas, bars and world-class surf…
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. Enter: Lombok. This Indonesian island is just a 20 minute flight from Bali, and it’s blessed with white sand beaches, turquoise bays and rugged hillsides. It really is a jaw dropping island paradise. And our favourite town in Lombok? Kuta Lombok, packed full of cool cafes, stunning boutique hotels, and the kind of surf you only see in magazines.
Here’s everything you need to know about Kuta Lombok, and how to make the most of your stay.
Where is Kuta Lombok?
Tucked away on the southern coast of Indonesia’s Lombok Island, Kuta is a surfy town known for its raw natural beauty, untouched beaches, and laid-back charm. It’s often called “Bali before the crowds”, and the difference in traffic is incredible. Think wide, palm-fringed roads that wind through dramatic hills and past hidden bays. Just driving along the coastline is a treat!
How to get to Kuta Lombok
The easiest way to reach Kuta Lombok is by flying into Lombok International Airport (LOP), then it’s just a 30-minute drive to town. Direct flights run from Bali, Jakarta, and a few major Southeast Asian hubs. Alternatively, you can take a fast boat from Bali to Lombok’s west coast (like Bangsal or Senggigi), then grab a car or scooter for a scenic two-hour ride south.
How long should you stay in Kuta Lombok?
I recommend staying at least 3 to 5 days to really soak up the vibes. But honestly, once you’re here, you’ll probably wish you’d booked longer. With stunning beaches like Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak, plus hiking trails, beach clubs, and epic sunsets, Kuta Lombok is an complete holiday destination of it own.
KUTA LOMBOK – TOP PICKS
BEST CAFE: Kenza
Kenza is best for a wholesome brunch in air-conditioned surrounds
You can’t miss Kenza – it sits on the corner of Kuta Lombok’s main intersection, and it’s a gorgeous bright-white building that’s always buzzing. I always head here after a surf, because it’s one of the few cafes in Kuta Lombok with air-conditioning. Inside, it’s cool and chic, but still laid-back enough that you can turn up with salty hair. There’s also a garden and outdoor area, but honestly, the air-conditioned dining room is a godsend!
Inside it’s an oasis of calm, with the smell of good coffee, and one of the best breakfast bowls I’ve had in a while. Scrambled tofu, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, avo, and a slick of tahini. I’ve also tried their smoothie bowls and the sourdough toasts stacked with poached eggs and greens. Whatever you choose, everything is fresh, the prices are fair, and there are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans.
Best for: Post-surf brunches, digital nomads and air-conditioned interiors.
Price: Breakfast plates start from IDR 65,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta No. 5, Kuta, Lombok
BEST RESTAURANT: Markisa Restaurant
Markisa is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with delicious share plates
The first time I tried Markisa, I couldn’t stop talking about the bread. They serve an entire, freshly-baked loaf with every meal, to dip and dunk into real olive oil. Fast-forward a few years, and I found that same bread in Bali at Artisan in Uluwatu. Turns out, Markisa was their first outpost, with Artisan now being one of Bali’s best cafes. The fact you can get this same quality in Lombok? It’s a game changer.
It’s a breezy, semi-open space with no-frills. The magic is on the plate. There are share-style starters (like charred ingredients loaded onto bruschetta), and some of the freshest fish in town. I always order the aubergine crostini, the calamari fritti, and the grilled yellowfin tuna (medium rare). Roll in for lunch or dinner – you won’t be disappointed.
Best for: Group dinners, fresh fish, and anyone who appreciates proper bread.
Price: Mains start from IDR 100,000
Where: Markisa at Rawa Lombok, Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok
BEST HOTEL: Sempiak Seaside Resort
Sempiak Seaside Resort is a boutique hotel that spotlights natural beauty & Indonesian culture.
It’s not often that a resort is both luxurious and steeped in nature, but Sempiak Seaside Resort breaks that mould. It was the first luxury hotel to open in Selong Belanak – the sprawling white-sand bay just 25 minutes from Kuta – and yet, it feels more like a boutique stay than a resort. It’s quaint, refined, and you can tell it’s deeply rooted in the community. So much so, you get to experience Lombok’s local crafts, cuisine and culture at every turn.
There are just 18 Scenic Villas and Holiday Houses, each one individually designed to avoid that cookie-cutter resort feel. I stayed in one of the Scenic Villas, which sit high in the hillside with sweeping views over the bay. Waking up to the sounds of waves and birdsong was pure bliss, followed by a relaxing massage at the onsite spa.
I also love that staying here means you have direct access to Selong Belanak’s powdery sands – genuinely some of the softest I’ve walked on during my morning strolls. Guests also get private access to the loungey beach club next to Laut Biru, the resort’s laid-back beachfront restaurant.
As for the vibe, it’s effortless and authentic, with an East-meets-West feel. Not to mention, the all-Lombok team brings a real warmth to every stay, most of whom remember your name, which is such a lovely, personal touch. In fact, most guests here are repeat visitors who return year after year – and I can totally see why.
Best for: Families and couples who appreciate luxury, and want a true Lombok experience.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 960,000
Where: Selong Belanak, Lombok
BEST RETREAT: Roots Lombok
Roots Lombok is a retreat-only hotel hidden amidst tropical greenery in Gerupuk village
Gerupuk is where you’ll find the best waves in Kuta Lombok, but the town itself is a small and dusty local fishing village, which means most people stay outside of Gerupuk and travel each day to the waves. But that’s where Roots Lombok steps in. It’s hidden away from the dusty streets in a tropical corner of Gerupuk – it really feels like stepping into a secret sanctuary, with blooming palms and gorgeous Pinterest-worthy interiors.
I stayed here for a week-long surf retreat (you can’t book nightly rooms here – it’s for retreats only), and every morning I was treated to a homemade breakfast, excellent coffee, and some of the best surf coaching I’ve ever experienced. In between surf sessions, you can enjoy restorative yoga in the alfresco shala, sunbathing by the pool, and friendly chats with the staff and owners who end up feeling like family.
Best for: Beginner to intermediate surfers, solo travellers and yogis.
Good to know: You can’t book nightly stays here – Roots is for week-long inclusive surf retreats.
Where: Jl Mandalika Resort Pantai Putri Nyale, Gerupuk, Lombok
Cool cafes in Kuta Lombok
Here’s where to eat in Kuta Lombok for breakfast, brunch and lunch
1. Bush Radio
Bush Radio is best for a quick and easy breakfast or lunch
An industrial-chic warehouse with friendly, fun and laid-back vibes, Bush Radio serves seriously tasty salads, sandwiches, smoothie bowls and juices. Everything at Bush Radio is homemade, fresh and packed full of goodness – psst… their home-baked sourdough is a standout.
Best for: Healthy brunches.
Price: Breakfast plates start from IDR 55,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok
2. Milk
Milk is best for expert coffee & Aussie café vibes
Rise and shine at Milk for darn good coffee and classic Aussie brekkie combos in tropical homely surroundings. Think avo toast, BLTA sandwich and colourful smoothie bowls. Coffee is also their thing, so expect a balanced hit of caffeine in your cuppa courtesy of the quality beans by Expat Roasters.
Best for: Expertly brewed coffee.
Price: Breakfast plates start from IDR 70,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok
3. Bara Pool Club
Bara Pool Club is best for all-day poolside bites and hangs.
If you never want to leave the pool (after all, you are on vacation…), head to Bara on Kuta Lombok’s main strip. Pool club meets restaurant and bar at Bara – a spot for grazing the day away whilst dipping your toes in the water.
Start the morning with Bara bakery’s famous breads and croissants, and a hot latte at the cosy indoor space. Then as the day goes by, nab a seat on a poolside sunbed and graze on the lunch menu. It features crave-worthy bites, small and large plates which are perfect for sharing (or not, no judgement!). Psst… Keep an eye on Bara’s calendar for weekly events like live music and Happy Hour.
Best for: All-day poolside brunches.
Price: Breakfast plates start from IDR 40,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok
4. Restaurant Segara Lombok
Segara Lombok is best for a long and lazy all-day grazing session with stunning sea views.
Sitting in prime view of Serangan’s pristine white-sand bay and world-class wave, Restaurant Segara Lombok is best known for its million-dollar vista and authentic homemade food. Expect a mix of flavours from breakfast all the way through to dinner. Laze and graze your way through the menu, and sample everything from smoothie bowls and pancakes alongside barista coffees and fresh juices, to tuna tataki and grilled tenderloin steak with imported wines and fancy cocktails. And yes, sunsets here shouldn’t be missed either!
Best for: Beachfront dining.
Price: Breakfast plates start from IDR 65,000
Where: Serangan Beach, Lombok
5. Terra
Terra is best for a healthy feast of custom-made plant-based goodness.
Eating to live, instead of living to eat, is the motto at Terra. They serve 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.
Best for: Nourishing plant-based brunches.
Price: Breakfast plates start from IDR 55,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok
The best restaurants in Kuta Lombok
Here are my favourite spots for dinner after dark in Kuta Lombok
1. Cantina Mexicana
Cantina Mexicana is best for: Mexican bites, lively vibes and epic margaritas.
Cantina Mexicana is a technicoloured backyard cantina, fuelled by epic margaritas, ice-cold beer buckets and live music each week. Fill up on family-sized nacho plates, cheesy enchiladas, and whatever you do, don’t miss the deep fried deliciousness of the ‘puffy’ taco menu. Top it off with a handful of churros, and of course, a round of margaritas because they complete a Mexican feast. Arriba!
Best for: Mexican food and margaritas.
Price: Large plates start from IDR 45,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta No. 6, Kuta, Lombok
2. El Bazar
El Bazar is best for wholesome Mediterranean food, touched by fire.
The longstanding favourite El Bazar is one of the most popular eateries in town. And rightly so. Step in and pick your spot on the terrace, salon or head straight to the back where a stunning, peaceful courtyard and fountain awaits. You’ll spot the busy open kitchen with its Santa Maria grill, cooking up crowd favourites with a touch of fire. My top tip? Check out the wine cellar too, or make it a signature cocktail instead!
Best for: Grilled Mediterranean food.
Price: Mains start from IDR 180,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta No. 6, Kuta, Lombok
3. Mama Pizza
Mama Pizza is best for a buzzing sourdough pizza date with mates.
With its trademark sourdough pizzas baked in brick ovens, Mama Pizza has quickly become the favourite Italian restaurant in town. The kitchen uses premium ingredients to give you homey Italian pizzas and handmade pastas, just like how nonna makes them. And if you recognise this Italian icon – you’re right, because Mama Pizza was first made famous on Gili Air, and this second address in Kuta Lombok is just as popular. So much so, you’ll need to book ahead and even reserve dishes in advance if you don’t want to miss out on the deep-pan gnocchi or burrata pizza.
Best for: Sourdough pizzas meant for sharing.
Price: Pizzas start from IDR 70,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta, Kuta, Lombok
4. KRNK
KRNK is best for no-fuss pizzas, burgers and margaritas.
Great tunes, dirty burgers, juicy pizzas and delicious cocktails. That’s KRNK in a nutshell. Grab your mates and head down for a feast, because it’s the place to kick start a fun night out. Expect good times, happy hours, and big, beautiful portions fresh-from-the-oven.
Best for: Casual dinner and drinks with friends.
Price: Pizzas start from IDR 60,000
Where: Jl Raya Kuta No. 5, Kuta, Lombok
The best hotels & resorts in Kuta Lombok
From simple homestays to plush private villas and boutique resorts, here are my favourite places to stay in Kuta Lombok and beyond.
1. Segara Lombok Beach Resort
Bright white sands, a sparkling ocean and untouched natural surroundings for as far as the eye can see. Segara Lombok is like something straight out of a postcard, and that’s before I even mention the gorgeous resort. Segara’s luxurious beach bungalows with natural thatched roofs pepper the palm-studded horizon, fronted by an on-site restaurant and glittering infinity pool which overlooks Serangan’s pristine bay and world-class surf break. Situated slightly out of town in the peaceful village of Serangan, Segara is the perfect place to switch off, unwind, and soak up the very best bits of South Lombok – in all her natural beauty.
Best for: Surfers who want to stay in beachfront, humble bungalows.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 2,400,000
Where: Serangan Beach, Selong Belanak, Lombok
Book Segara Lombok Beach Resort
2. Amber Lombok
Head slightly out of town to Amber Lombok in Serangan, where gorgeous sea views, bohemian chic rooms and the very first beach club in south Lombok awaits. The resort is blessed with beautiful minimalist architecture, where natural elements and textures meet designer touches and spacious outdoor living areas.
But if you ask me, the gem of the resort has to be Amber’s beach club, which includes a restaurant, bar and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Take a dip and try your hand at surfing, kitesurfing and scuba diving, or simply kick back and feast on truffle dumplings and hand-tossed pizza. Add to that a craft cocktail or three, and you’ve got yourself a picture-perfect beachfront vacay amidst an Insta-worthy setting.
Best for: Bohemian chic stay with its own beach club.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 5,325,000
Where: Torok Bay, Selong Belanak, Lombok
Book Amber Lombok Beach Resort
3. Sikara Lombok Hotel
Nestled between palm trees and lush gardens is Sikara, a topical yet modern hotel that screams island escape. If you can, nab yourself the 40-square metre Supreme Room which has its own private terrace, extra comfort and space, and a giant bathtub, too! Taking centre stage within the resort is the tranquil tropical pool, where you can relax and mingle with other travellers on sleek white lounges.
Best for: Affordable rooms with modern amenities.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 1,882,800
Where: Jl Mawum, Kuta, Lombok
4. Seven Havens
Exactly as its name suggests, Seven Haven is a stunning boutique resort, perched high up on the hillside. It’s 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 right at the front of the resort, with its grand natural backdrop set behind floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s a 360-degree vista of spectacular scenery and sublime luxury.
Best for: Couples and groups who love a stay with panoramic views from the hillside.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 1,800,000
Where: Jl Raya Selong Belanak, Lombok
5. Rawa Lombok
A boutique hotel with a rustic but modern feel, the rooms at Rawa Lombok are incredibly spacious and beautifully furnished with lots of thoughtful touches. I particularly love how cold the air-con is, how hot the showers are, and how many movies come pre-loaded on the big TVs!
My top tip: sip on a cocktail while the sun sets from the rooftop bar and pool. Then feast at Markisa (the downstairs Mediterranean restaurant) after dark, because it’s reason enough to stay.
Best for: Budget-friendly stay right on the beach.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 850,000
Where: Jl Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Lombok
The best surf schools in Kuta Lombok
With crystal clear waters and a range of surf breaks for all levels, surfing is a must in Lombok. There are many surf camps and surf guiding retreats operating in the area. Here’s my top picks.
1. Surfcamp Lombok
Arguably Lombok’s first surf camp, Surf Camp 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.
Price: EUR 890 or EUR 1,290
Duration: One or two weeks
What’s included: Accommodation in a shared dorm, meals
Where: Jl Putri Pantai Mandalika, Gerupuk, Lombok
2. Drop In Lombok
A peaceful lodge teetering high on a hill with breathtaking views over rice paddies and local villages, Drop In is ideal for those looking to completely switch off and enjoy Lombok’s natural surroundings. It offers small group surf, dive and yoga packages tailored to different levels. You’ll also find cute bungalows with private verandas, a swimming pool, BBQ area, a workspace and a restaurant to refuel after a long day of surfing. Bonus: check out some of the amazing community projects they’ve helped to set up in the local village.
Price: Starting from IDR 16,900,000
Duration: One week
What’s included: Accommodation in a private bungalow, daily breakfast and dinner
Where: Jl Kener, Sukadana Village, Kuta, Lombok
3. Kura Kura Surf Camp
Offering weekly surf camps for the complete novice through to the advanced surfer, Kura Kura Surf Camp invites you to stay 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 were the first surf camp in the area to have a local female surf instructor – hang five to that!
Price: Starting from IDR 12,272,379
Duration: Five nights to one month
What’s included: Accommodation in a private bungalow, daily breakfast
Where: Jl Kener, Sukadana Village, Kuta, Lombok
Things to do in Kuta Lombok
Because there’s more to Kuta Lombok than just epic cafes, surf and tropical hotels, here’s where you can hit the spa, gym, yoga studio or boutique shops.
1. Bliss out at Matcha Spa
Sitting on one of the main Kuta Lombok strips with an incredible number of highly-trained spa therapists, there’s ample opportunity to bliss out at Matcha Spa. Indulge in a day of pampering with a wide range of treatments which includes divine massages, facials, body scrubs and nail treatments. Go on, treat yo’ self!
2. Stretch it out in a yoga class
A yoga shala you can’t miss while in Lombok, is Ashtari. It sits atop the hills overlooking Kuta Bay, and it’s where you can 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! FYI, Ashtari offers yoga classes at a number of hotel locations around Kuta Lombok, so you’ll want to check their schedule for details.
3. Break a sweat at a Lombok gym
Don’t worry gym junkies, Loka has your workout, healthy eating and relaxation 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 – the menu has been curated by a nutritionist, and it is simply delish!
4. Shop your surfing must-haves at Flow Surf Store
If retail therapy is how you like to relax, then a visit to Flow Surf Store is a must. You’ll be looking your best in and out of the water, because they stock 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.
FAQs on Lombok, Indonesia
What is Lombok known for?
Lombok is known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, the majestic Mount Rinjani, and its famous little sister islands, the Gili islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air). This hidden gem in the Lesser Sunda Islands offers a peaceful alternative to Bali’s bustling scene, making it a top destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
How do I get to Lombok from Bali?
You can reach Lombok via direct flights from Bali (as well as Jakarta, and other major Indonesian cities). Alternatively, fast ferries from Bali provide a scenic route to Lombok for those who enjoy a leisurely sea journey.
What are the top attractions in Lombok?
Lombok boasts world-class attractions such as Mount Rinjani for trekking enthusiasts, pristine beaches like Kuta Lombok and Tanjung Aan, world-class surf breaks, vibrant coral reefs for those who love snorkelling, and cultural sites in Mataram. Don’t miss the traditional Sasak villages and stunning waterfalls that highlight Lombok’s natural beauty.
When is the best time to visit Lombok?
The best time to explore Lombok is during the dry season (May to September), when sunny days, calm seas, and excellent conditions for hiking and water sports make for an ideal travel experience.
Where can I stay in Lombok?
Areas like Senggigi and Kuta Lombok are popular choices, offering easy access to stunning beaches, a wide range of accommodation options (from luxury beachfront resorts and private villas to budget-friendly guesthouses) and local attractions for a memorable island retreat.
Is Lombok safe for tourists?
Yes, Lombok is generally considered safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, standard precautions apply (securing valuables, staying informed about local weather and so on).
How much does it cost to travel to Lombok?
Lombok is known for its affordability, with budget-friendly options for accommodations, dining, and activities. Prices vary depending on your travel style, but many visitors find Lombok to be a cost-effective alternative to Bali’s tourist hotspots.
What is the local culture like in Lombok?
Lombok’s culture is richly influenced by the indigenous Sasak people, whose traditions, handicrafts, and architecture offer a unique insight into the island’s heritage. Cultural experiences in local markets and village tours are a must for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Indonesian life.
How do I get around Lombok?
Renting a scooter, car, or hiring a local driver are popular ways to explore Lombok’s diverse landscapes.
So there you have it: a complete guide to Kuta Lombok, Gerupuk, Selong Belanak and beyond!