Lombok is a surfer’s dream, combining pristine beaches with a variety of waves that cater to every skill level. Whether you’re learning the basics or chasing world-class barrels, surfing in Lombok promises an unforgettable experience. With fewer crowds compared to Bali, a warm and welcoming culture, and idyllic scenery, this guide will help you explore the best of what surf Lombok has to offer.
Why Choose Lombok for Surfing?
Surfing Lombok is about more than just waves. The island’s unique charm and accessibility make it a standout surf destination. Here’s why:
- Uncrowded Surf Spots: Unlike the busy beaches of Bali, Lombok offers a more relaxed environment for surfers.
- Stunning Scenery: From dramatic cliffs to turquoise waters, surfing here feels like a journey through paradise.
- Diverse Waves: Whether it’s mellow beach breaks or fast reef waves, there’s something for every surfer.
- Budget-Friendly: Accommodation, board rentals, and lessons are affordable, making Lombok ideal for travelers on any budget.
The Best Surf Spots in Lombok
The south coast of Lombok, especially around Kuta, boasts a variety of surf spots suitable for all levels. Here’s a breakdown of the best surf spots in Kuta Lombok, along with tips on what to expect at each one. (numbers on the list don’t represent an ordered list)
1. Selong Belanak Beach: Best for Beginners
Selong Belanak is the perfect spot for beginners looking to start their surfing journey. The waves are gentle, consistent, and break over a soft, sandy bottom, which makes it a forgiving place to practice your skills.
- What to Expect: Small, soft waves ideal for learning.
- Best Time to Surf: Early morning and late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Surf Schools: Several surf schools operate here, offering lessons and board rentals.
2. Gerupuk Bay: A Surfer’s Playground for All Levels
Gerupuk Bay is one of the most versatile surf spots in Kuta Lombok, offering five different breaks that cater to both beginners and advanced surfers. The best waves are accessible only by boat, and the experience of riding to the breaks is part of the adventure.
- What to Expect: Multiple breaks (Inside and Outside Gerupuk), each offering different wave strengths.
- Best Time to Surf: Works year-round but is best during the dry season (May to September).
- Insider Tip: Hire a local boat to take you to the different breaks. Early mornings are less crowded.
3. Mawi Beach: For Intermediate Surfers
Mawi is the spot for intermediate surfers looking for more challenging waves. The powerful left-handers here are perfect for those looking to push their skills to the next level. Be warned, though—the road to Mawi is bumpy, and the surf can be tricky depending on the tide.
- What to Expect: Powerful, consistent waves; best for intermediate to advanced surfers.
- Best Time to Surf: Mid to high tide.
- Insider Tip: The road to Mawi is rocky and tough, especially on a scooter. Be cautious or consider hiring a driver, as many people fall off.
4. Tanjung Aan Beach: Great for Beginners and Intermediate Surfers
While Tanjung Aan is often known for its stunning beauty and calm waters, the right-hand breaks here are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. The waves are mellow, and the beach is spacious, so you’ll have plenty of room to practice.
- What to Expect: Mellow waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.
- Best Time to Surf: Morning or late afternoon, when conditions are best.
- Insider Tip: You can combine surfing with a sunset hike to Bukit Merese, which offers stunning views of Tanjung Aan Bay.
5. Are Guling: A Hidden Gem for Intermediate to Advanced Surfers
Located just a short drive from Kuta, Are Guling is a hidden gem for intermediate and advanced surfers looking for uncrowded waves. This surf spot offers both left and right-hand breaks, providing variety for surfers with different preferences. Unlike some of the busier beaches, Are Guling is relatively quiet, giving you the chance to enjoy the waves without too many people around.
- What to Expect: Consistent left and right-hand waves that depend heavily on the tide. It’s great for intermediate and advanced surfers when the conditions are right.
- Best Time to Surf: Mid to high tide is ideal, and the best waves roll in during the dry season (May to September).
- Insider Tip: The road to Are Guling is unpaved but much easier to navigate than the one to Mawi. You can easily reach it by scooter without much trouble.
| BEACH | REQUIRES BOAT? | PARKING/ACCESS FEE? |
| 1. Selong Belanak | No | Yes, 10.000 rupiah |
| 2. Gerupuk Bay | Yes, two-way boat as it’s far from the beach. It cost 200-250k but it’s shared with 4-5 people. | No, you can find free parking. |
| 3. Mawi | No, the surf point is like 100m away. | Yes, 10.000 rupiah to access. |
| 4. Tanjung Aan | Optional. The surf point is 500m away. Many people take the boat to go there and then paddle back. The boat costs around 25k one way. | Depends on where you park. If you park in front of some warungs you don’t have to pay. A free parking warung is Turtle warung. |
| 5. Are Guling | Optional. The surf point is 500m away. Many people take the boat to go there and then paddle back. | Yes, now it’s 5.000 rupiah for bikes and 10.000 for cars. |
6. Desert Point (Bangko Bangko): World-Class Barrels for Advanced Surfers
Desert Point, located further from Kuta Lombok, is one of the most famous surf spots in Indonesia, known for producing some of the longest and best barrels in the world. This spot is for experienced surfers only, as the shallow reef can be dangerous, and the waves are fast and challenging.
- What to Expect: Fast, hollow waves that break over a sharp reef.
- Best Time to Surf: During the dry season, especially from June to August, when swells are strongest.
- Insider Tip: Desert Point is a commitment—it’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Kuta, so plan to spend the day (or even a night) there if conditions are good.
7. Eka’s Beach: For Advanced Surfers
Located about 40 minutes from Kuta Lombok, Eka’s Beach offers two main breaks—Eka’s Inside for intermediate surfers and Eka’s Outside for advanced surfers. Known for its powerful waves, Eka’s is a great spot for surfers looking to catch solid left-handers away from the crowds.
- What to Expect: Consistent, powerful left-handers.
- Best Time to Surf: Mid to high tide for the best conditions.
- Insider Tip: If you’re staying near Eka’s Beach, try to catch a session early in the morning when the conditions are calm, and the waves are clean.
Planning Your Surf Trip to Lombok
When planning a trip to surf Lombok, consider these essentials:
- Accommodation:
- Stay in Kuta Lombok for easy access to the island’s top surf spots. Options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts.
- Getting Around:
- Rent a motorbike to explore the coastline, but check road conditions before heading out.
- Board Rentals and Surf Schools:
- Boards can be rented at most beaches, with prices starting around IDR 50,000 per hour.
- Beginners should book lessons with reputable surf schools at Selong Belanak or Gerupuk Bay.
- Packing Tips:
- Reef-safe sunscreen is essential for protecting both your skin and the environment.
- Pack booties to avoid injuries when surfing over coral reefs.
Insider Tips for Surfing in Lombok
- Respect Local Etiquette: Always yield to locals who have priority on waves and show respect for the island’s culture.
- Start Early: The best waves often roll in during the early morning when winds are calm.
- Stay Safe: Many spots are reef breaks, so be cautious and mindful of tides.
How much does a Surfboard Rental cost in Lombok?
There are several places in Kuta Lombok to rent surfboards if you don’t have your own gear. Most of the surf schools mentioned above offer board rentals as part of their packages, but you can also find standalone rental shops along Kuta Beach.
- Average Rental Costs: IDR 50,000 – 100,000 (approx. USD 3 – 7) per day, depending on the type of board.
Surf Schools in Lombok
If you’re new to surfing or want to brush up on your skills, Kuta Lombok has several highly rated surf schools that offer lessons for beginners and intermediate surfers alike.
1. Heartbeach Lombok Surf Academy
Description: Heartbeach Lombok Surf Academy offers a relaxed yet professional approach to surfing instruction. They focus on creating a fun and safe environment for surfers of all levels, providing tailored lessons that enhance skills and confidence in the water.
- Location: Located near Kuta Beach, this academy is in close proximity to some of the best surf breaks in the area.
- Highlights: Heartbeach emphasizes small group lessons for personalized attention and offers comprehensive packages that include surfboard rentals and transportation to various surf spots.
More information can be found here.
2. Kuta Lombok Surf School
Description: Kuta Lombok Surf School is renowned for its experienced instructors and tailored lessons. They cater to both beginners and advanced surfers, focusing on building confidence and enhancing technique in a supportive environment.
- Location: Centrally located in Kuta, the school is easily accessible and offers lessons at nearby beaches.
- Highlights: They provide both group and private lessons, along with surfboard rentals and local wave knowledge to maximize your surfing experience.
Find out more here.
3. LoTide Surf Camp
Description: LoTide Surf Camp combines surfing lessons with a unique camp experience, making it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in surf culture. They offer lessons for all skill levels, focusing on both technique and fun.
- Location: Situated in Kuta Lombok, the camp organizes excursions to various surf spots, including Kuta Beach and surrounding areas.
- Highlights: LoTide provides accommodation, meals, and social activities, creating a vibrant community atmosphere for surfers and travelers alike.
Learn more about LoTide Surf Camp here.
When is the best Time to Surf in Lombok?
The best time to surf in Kuta Lombok is during the dry season (May to September) when the winds are offshore and the swells are consistent. However, many of the surf spots—like Gerupuk Bay—are surfable year-round, thanks to the sheltered nature of the bay and the diversity of breaks.
- Dry Season (May to September): The best conditions, with offshore winds and consistent swells.
- Wet Season (October to April): The waves can still be good, but the winds are less predictable, and the rainy weather can make some breaks less accessible.
Tidal Considerations
Many of the surf spots in Kuta Lombok are tide-dependent. For example, Mawi and Eka’s are best surfed at mid-to-high tide, while Selong Belanak and Tanjung Aan are more forgiving and can be surfed at any tide.
Surfing Tips for Beginners in Kuta Lombok
If you’re new to surfing, Kuta Lombok is a great place to start. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your surfing experience:
- Start with Selong Belanak: The waves here are perfect for beginners, and the sandy bottom makes it more forgiving if you fall.
- Take a Lesson: Surfing can be tricky to learn on your own, so it’s best to take a lesson from one of the many surf schools in Kuta. They’ll teach you the basics and help you improve your skills.
- Mind the Reef: Some surf spots, like Gerupuk, Tanjung Aan, Are Guling, and Desert Point, break over reefs. If you’re new to surfing, stick to the sandy-bottomed beaches until you gain more experience.
- Be Respectful of Local Surfers: Kuta Lombok has a growing surf culture, and it’s important to respect local surfers and follow the rules of surfing etiquette in the lineup.
FAQs About Surfing in Lombok
1. Is Lombok good for beginner surfers?
Absolutely! Beaches like Selong Belanak and Inside Gerupuk are perfect for beginners with their gentle waves and accessible surf schools.
2. How does surfing in Lombok compare to Bali?
While Bali is more famous, Lombok offers less crowded surf spots and a more relaxed vibe, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful experience.
3. What is the best time of year to surf in Lombok?
The dry season is best for advanced surfers, while the wet season is better for beginners and intermediates.
4. Do I need a boat to access surf spots?
Some spots, like Gerupuk Bay and Ekas Bay, require a short boat ride, which can be arranged with local guides.
5. Are there risks when surfing in Lombok?
Be aware of sharp reefs, strong currents, and occasional sea urchins. Always surf with caution and check the conditions beforehand.
Conclusion
Surfing Lombok offers an unparalleled mix of adventure, beauty, and challenge. From beginner-friendly breaks to world-class waves like Desert Point, the island caters to surfers of all levels. Respect the local culture, embrace the laid-back vibe, and enjoy the incredible surfing opportunities that Lombok has to offer. Whether you’re catching your first wave or seeking the ride of a lifetime, Lombok won’t disappoint.
