Lombok, a short 50-minute flight from Bali, offers turquoise beaches and stunning nature with fewer crowds. Here are my top picks:
Brunch at Milk Lombok
Milk Lombok in Kuta serves all-day brunch options in a relaxed setting. It’s one of the only spots in the area that opens early at 6:30am. Good to know: they are cashless.
Shopping at Tiga Natural
A sustainable boutique to grab your Lombok souvenirs—you’ll find a curation of handcrafted goodies made by local artisans from eco-friendly skincare, zero-waste accessories to ceramics.
Spend the day at Codium
We loved this newly opened spot in Lombok! Codium Beach Bar and Restaurant captures the boho laid-back vibes of Tulum with it’s beachside location on Tampah Beach. Mediterranean inspired coal-grilled seafood, cocktails and a pool to dive into. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the afternoon sun.
Sunset at Selong Belanak Beach
Selong Belanak Beach is a long stretch of coastline perfect for beginner surfers. Visit in the late afternoon to catch the sunset and grab a freshly grilled corn on the cob from a local stall. You’ll find plenty of surf schools offering rentals for surfboards and bodyboards, plus local warungs for a quick bite or drink. Head to Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant at the far end of the beach for satay and Nasi Goreng. Good to know: parking costs 10,000 rupiah if you’re driving.
Stay at Tia’s Villas
Perfect for families, Tia’s Villas offers one, two and three bedroom tropical hideaways, each with its own private swimming pool. I always choose villas over hotels because having a full kitchen is so convenient, especially when travelling with kids!
Workout at Xeno Fit
Xeno Fit offers HIIT and yoga classes in an open-air studio. If you stay at Tia’s Villas, you get free access to the gym during your stay.
Family Fun at The Well
The Well is a family-friendly organic café featuring a fun outdoor playground with swings, a sandpit, and a splash pool, plus a welcoming air-conditioned playroom filled with toys and books. The super-friendly staff keep an eye on the kids, so you can enjoy your meal with total peace of mind!
Padel Lessons at La Reunion Padel Club
La Reunion Padel Club offers beginner-friendly padel lessons, I had mine with coach Maria, who was great! It’s a fun way to meet locals and expats, with a laid-back lounge for post-game snacks and fresh coconuts.
Lombok isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about sinking into the rhythm of island life. We ended up extending our trip as we felt like we weren’t ready to leave yet. Whether you’re a foodie, surfer, or an adventure seeker, there’s a piece of this island for you.
