I was born and raised in Lombok – here’s how to experience it like a local

Many travellers to Indonesia flock to Bali and the nearby Gili Islands, missing Lombok entirely, despite it being right next door. But those who do visit are rewarded with unspoiled beaches, lush jungle and serene rice paddies, as well as delicious food and culture in its laid-back towns and cities.

Getting here is easy, with direct flights from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Darwin (starting at the end of February 2026), as well as domestic connections from other Indonesian destinations.

Most tourists stick to Kuta and Senggigi, but there are plenty of places on the island that aren’t on the tourist trail. As a local, I encourage visitors to head to other places, especially in the north, such as Senaru and Sembalun. Here are my personal recommendations for experiencing Lombok like a local.

What to see and do

The best way to see Lombok is region by region. The south coast, centred around the town of Kuta, is best known for its incredible beaches and excellent surfing – spots like Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak are famous, but my lesser-known go-tos are Pantai Torok Bare and Pantai Tampah for their quieter atmosphere. 

On the west coast is Senggigi, Lombok’s original tourist hub. You’ll find everything you need here, but I recommend exploring further out. Follow the winding coastal road north of Senggigi for sleepy fishing villages like Nipah, set along quiet, palm-fringed beaches – you can get fresh seafood cooked at the many beach shacks. For a taste of city life, venture into Mataram, a 20-minute drive south of Senggigi. The city has traditional markets like Pasar Kebon Roek and Pasar Cakra, and street food along Jalan Majapahit and Jalan Udayana, which have a lively atmosphere in the evening. 

In north Lombok, adventure seekers can do the three-day hike up Indonesia’s second-tallest volcano, Mount Rinjani. If that sounds a little too hardcore, a stroll through the farmlands and flower fields of Sembalun will give you incredible views of the mountain. As for my favourite place to soak up nature – the village of Tetebatu in central Lombok. Wake up for a sunrise walk through the rice paddies and into the lush forests, ending in Sarang Walet Waterfall.

Where to eat and drink

Lombok has a burgeoning food scene, with everything from amazing street food to international cuisine. For local Lombok dishes like spiced fish satay mixed with coconut and spicy grilled Taliwang chicken, my favourite place in Senggigi is Begibung Restaurant, right on the beach. 

International offerings are plentiful in Kuta, and some of my go-tos are Mama Pizza for authentic Neapolitan pizza, La Cabana for Spanish tapas, and Jiang Nan for Chinese dumplings, noodles, and stir-fries. In Mataram, coffee shops are a big thing, and a couple of my favourites include Lugna, Harmosbrew and Rota – if you’re keen to try Indonesian coffee, these spots all have a wide choice of beans from across the archipelago.

Where to stay

For mid-range travellers, Qunci Villas is located on the west coast, just a five-minute drive from Senggigi. Right on the beach and surrounded by tropical gardens, the rooms and pool villas have island living in mind – think outdoor bathrooms, thatched roofs and views of the sunset over Bali’s Mt Agung. 

Further north along the coast is The Sira, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa. It’s Lombok’s fanciest digs, but its suites and pool villas are well worth it for their beachside location on the tip of a quiet peninsula.

Just a short walk from the centre of Kuta, Rascals offers mid-range, adults-only boutique rooms with balconies and terraces overlooking the garden, plus two large pools with cabanas. 

For a high-end secluded hideaway on the south coast, Somewhere Lombok is a 20-minute drive from Kuta. Its standalone villas, each with a plunge pool, are set into the hillside facing out towards the peaceful Are Guling Bay.

Have you heard? A new NIHI resort is opening on Indonesia’s Rote Island in May 2026

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