Where to Go in Lombok (2026): Beaches, Culture & Island Highlights

Where to Go in Lombok (2026): Beaches, Culture & Island Highlights
Trans Bangsal
27 November 2025
News

Top Must-Visit Places in Lombok (2026 Travel Guide)

Lombok continues to rise as one of Indonesia’s most beautiful island destinations—less crowded than Bali, yet offering crystal-clear waters, soft white beaches, waterfalls, volcano adventures, and the iconic Gili Islands.

If you’re planning a trip in 2025, this guide covers the most essential places to visit, including beaches, mountains, cultural villages, and island-hopping spots.

Whether you’re staying in Senggigi, Kuta Mandalika, or heading to the Gilis, this guide gives you everything you need to craft the perfect itinerary.


1. Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, Gili Air)

The Gili Islands remain the most popular destination in Lombok, perfect for snorkeling, parties, or romantic getaways.

– Gili Trawangan

The liveliest island with beach bars, sunset swings, snorkeling spots, and bicycle-only roads.

Best things to do:

  • Turtle Point snorkeling

  • Sunset beach at the west side

  • Island cycling

  • Glass-bottom boat tour

– Gili Meno

Ideal for couples and honeymooners. Known for:

  • The Gili Meno Underwater Statues

  • Quiet white-sand beaches

  • Calm lagoon-style water

– Gili Air

A perfect blend of quiet and lively. Known for:

  • Local cafés

  • Good diving spots

  • Sunrise beach facing Mount Rinjani

Getting there:
Book fast boat + snorkeling tours at transbangsal.com for easy access to the Gilis.


2. Mount Rinjani National Park

One of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanoes and a magnet for adventurers.

Highlights:

  • Senaru Waterfalls

  • Crater Lake Segara Anak

  • Full trekking to the summit (technical and steep)

For non-trekkers, the Senaru waterfall route offers the best experience without intense hiking.


3. Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfalls

Located in Senaru, these are the most stunning waterfalls in Lombok.

Sendang Gile

Easy to reach, perfect for all ages.

Tiu Kelep

The famous waterfall with a canyon-like pathway and strong, refreshing mist.

Most visitors combine both in a 2–3 hour waterfall trek from Senaru.


4. Kuta Mandalika

The heart of southern Lombok, now a rapidly developing tourism hub.

Top attractions:

  • Mandalika MotoGP Circuit

  • Tanjung Aan Beach

  • Merese Hill (epic sunset spot)

  • Pantai Seger

Kuta offers surfing, beach clubs, and stylish cafés.


5. Pink Beach (Tangsi Beach)

One of the rare pink-sand beaches in the world.
The unique color comes from red coral particles mixing with white sand.

Perfect for:

  • Drone photography

  • Snorkeling

  • Private boat tours

The area is remote, so expect a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.


6. Selong Belanak Beach

Often called the best beginner-friendly surf beach in Indonesia.
Gentle waves + long coastline make it perfect for surfing lessons.

Also ideal for long relaxing beach days.


7. Mawun Beach

A hidden gem near Kuta with turquoise waters, surrounded by green hills.

It’s quieter than Tanjung Aan—great for peaceful swimming.


8. Bukit Merese (Merese Hill)

One of Lombok’s most iconic sunset viewpoints.
Located next to Tanjung Aan, this hill offers 360-degree coastal views.

Bring:

  • Hiking sandals

  • Water

  • Camera (sunset here is spectacular)


9. Sade Traditional Village

A cultural village showcasing Sasak architecture, weaving, and traditional houses made of wood, bamboo, and clay.

Visitors can learn about:

  • Sasak culture

  • Handwoven textiles

  • Local traditions

Great for history lovers.


10. Bangsal Harbour

The main gateway to the Gili Islands and northern Lombok.

Many travelers use Bangsal as:

  • The starting point for Gili transfers

  • A hub for snorkeling boat tours

  • A meeting point for private transport services

For convenience, book private car transfers + boat tickets directly through transbangsal.com.


Suggested Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2026)

3 Days

Day 1: Kuta Mandalika + Tanjung Aan + Merese Hill
Day 2: Gili Islands (snorkeling + sunset)
Day 3: Senaru Waterfalls + Rinjani viewpoints

4–5 Days

Add:

  • Selong Belanak surfing

  • Pink Beach trip

  • Cultural stops (Sade Village)


Best Time to Visit Lombok

  • Dry season: April to October (best beaches & visibility for snorkeling)

  • Peak season: July–September

  • Rainy season: November to March (waterfalls look better)


Why Lombok Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List

  • Cleaner, quieter, less crowded than Bali

  • World-class beaches and diving

  • Unique Sasak culture

  • Easy access to the Gilis

  • New & modern tourism development (Mandalika)

Lombok is perfect for couples, backpackers, families, and adventure travelers alike.


Book Your Lombok Activities, Boats & Transport

To make your trip easier, book everything in advance through:

www.transbangsal.com

Services available:

  • Fast Boat to the Gili Islands

  • Snorkeling Boat Tours

  • Private Car Transfers

  • Motorbike Rental

  • Private Speed Boat

  • Day Trips around Lombok

Secure, easy, and trusted.