Kuta Lombok is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Indonesia. Whether you’re a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a traveler looking for secluded bays, or simply someone who wants to relax on pristine sand, Kuta Lombok’s beaches offer something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best beaches in and around Kuta Lombok, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
Tanjung Aan Beach: The Gem of Kuta Lombok
Tanjung Aan Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Kuta Lombok, with its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and calm waves. Stretching over two kilometers, this beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing by the sea.
What to Do at Tanjung Aan Beach:
- Swimming & Snorkeling: The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll often see families with children enjoying the safe conditions here.
- Relax and Soak in the Views: The beach’s long stretch of sand is perfect for laying out a towel and basking in the sunshine.
Hike Bukit Merese for Sunset: For one of the best views in Kuta Lombok, take a short hike up Bukit Merese Hill just behind Tanjung Aan. The hill offers panoramic views of the beach and is the perfect place to catch the sunset.
Insider Tip:
- The beach has two sections: the right side has powdery white sand, while the left side has slightly coarser sand made from coral fragments. Try both for a unique experience!
Mawun Beach: A Secluded Paradise
If you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful escape, Mawun Beach is the perfect spot. This crescent-shaped beach is nestled between two hills, offering a tranquil atmosphere far from the crowds. Its turquoise waters and soft sand make it one of the most picturesque beaches in Lombok.
What to Do at Mawun Beach:
- Swimming: Mawun’s calm waters are perfect for swimming, especially near the middle of the beach where the waves are gentler.
- Relaxation: This beach is a quiet retreat, perfect for those who want to unwind, enjoy a book, or simply lie in the sun without any distractions.
- Exploration: The hills surrounding Mawun Beach offer great hiking opportunities for those who want to explore and enjoy breathtaking views of the coast.
Insider Tip:
- Bring your own snacks and water, as there are limited facilities at Mawun. There are a few small warungs, but they primarily offer coconuts and local snacks.
Selong Belanak Beach: Stunning Views
Selong Belanak Beach is a long, golden-sand beach known for its gentle waves and stunning scenery. It’s a favorite among beginner surfers, as the waves are consistent but not too intimidating. This beach also offers an authentic glimpse into local life, as you’ll often see fishermen launching their boats from the shore.
What to Do at Selong Belanak Beach:
- Surfing: If you’re new to surfing, this is the perfect spot to start. There are several surf schools on the beach, that offer lessons for beginners.
- Sunset Views: As the day winds down, Selong Belanak becomes one of the best spots to catch the sunset over the water. The golden sands and gentle waves create a perfect setting.
- People Watching: Watch local fishermen head out to sea, a unique aspect of daily life at Selong Belanak.
Insider Tip:
For beginners, head to the southern end of the beach where the waves are smaller and more manageable. If you want a bit more challenge, try surfing the middle part of the beach where the waves pick up slightly.
Mawi Beach: A Hidden Gem for Intermediate Surfers
Mawi Beach is a bit more rugged and adventurous compared to the other beaches in Kuta Lombok. Known for its powerful left-handers, Mawi is a hotspot for intermediate surfers looking for a challenge. However, getting to Mawi requires some effort as the road is rough and rocky, but the payoff is well worth it.
What to Do at Mawi Beach:
- Surfing: Mawi’s powerful and consistent waves attract surfers from all over. The left-hand breaks here can get quite powerful, especially when the swell is big, making it perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers.
- Relax on the Beach: If you’re not surfing, Mawi’s raw, untouched beauty makes it a peaceful spot to relax. It’s much less crowded than other beaches, offering a tranquil escape.
Insider Tip:
- The road to Mawi is rocky and difficult to navigate, especially on a scooter. Many visitors report falling along the way, so drive carefully or hire a local driver if you’re unfamiliar with off-road conditions.
Seger Beach: Surf and History Combined
Seger Beach offers a unique mix of adventure and history. Known for its reef breaks, Seger attracts experienced surfers looking for challenging waves. The beach is also home to Bukit Seger, a historical hill that offers panoramic views of Kuta Bay and is closely tied to the local Bau Nyale legend.
What to Do at Seger Beach:
- Surfing: Seger’s reef breaks are more challenging than other beaches in Kuta, making it ideal for advanced surfers looking for a bit more adrenaline.
- Hike Bukit Seger: The nearby Bukit Seger Hill is a great place to hike for stunning views. It’s also the site of the annual Bau Nyale Festival, where locals gather to celebrate the legend of Princess Mandalika and the Nyale sea worms.
Insider Tip:
- The best time to surf Seger is during the mid-tide, as the reef becomes exposed at low tide, making it difficult to surf safely.
Desert Point (Bangko Bangko): Legendary Tubes for Advanced Surfers
Desert Point, also known as Bangko Bangko, is a world-renowned surf spot located about 2.5 hours from Kuta Lombok. It’s famous for its long, fast, hollow waves and is considered one of the best places to catch barrels in the world. This spot is for experienced surfers only, as the waves break over a shallow reef.
What to Do at Desert Point:
- Surfing: The waves at Desert Point are legendary, offering some of the longest barrels in the world. When the conditions are right, surfers can ride the waves for hundreds of meters. However, this spot is not for beginners, as the reef is shallow, and the waves can be intense.
- Relax and Enjoy the View: Even if you’re not surfing, Desert Point offers a stunningly rugged coastline, perfect for soaking in the views of the powerful ocean.
Insider Tip:
- The journey to Desert Point is long, but it’s worth it for serious surfers. There are a few basic accommodation options near the point, so it’s a good idea to spend a night or two to make the most of your time there.
Exploring Hidden Beaches in Kuta Lombok
There are several hidden beaches near Kuta Lombok that offer privacy and unspoiled beauty. Some of these beaches are more remote and harder to access, but they provide a quiet escape from the more popular spots.
Tampah Beach: A Secluded Spot
- Tampah Beach is a long, quiet stretch of sand located a few kilometers from Kuta. It’s less developed than some of the more famous beaches, making it perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
Gerupuk Beach: A Surfing Haven
- Gerupuk Beach is famous for its surf, offering five distinct surf breaks. However, for non-surfers, it’s also a great place to relax by the water or take a boat ride around the bay.
Plan Your Beach-Hopping Adventure in Kuta Lombok
Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, or simply relax, Kuta Lombok’s beaches are some of the best in the world. From beginner-friendly spots like Selong Belanak to the challenging waves of Desert Point, there’s a beach for everyone. Grab your sunscreen, your surfboard, and get ready to explore the stunning coastline of Kuta Lombok!