Ultimate guide to Lombok: 38 Extraordinary things to do you never knew existed!

Written by Elsa Marie
Co-written by Apple Chua, Jiayi Ng, Dionne Lee, Kristyna Schonova, Laura Jodoin and Aditi Mittal

Lombok is like a charming lover you kissed and you won’t tell anyone. This is a secret you would only share with your close friends.

Also read:

10 unique Lombok hotels that will convince you to travel there

The complete guide to the Gili islands – the Maldives of Lombok

15 fun things to do in Gili islands you never knew existed

Lombok provides a kaleidoscopic experience that is easy to start, difficult to finish but impossible to forget. Known for its fiery temperament with active volcano Mount Rinjani, do you know it also has a sweet spot for romantic getaways and surreal pink beach?

If Bali is an international superstar, Lombok is a shooting star you won’t want to miss.

1. On the cliff’s edge at Lingkoq Datu, Pantai Penyisok

You may have to cross a sprawling field and navigate past steep rocks just to get here, but the view from Lingkoq Datu will make you forget all about your physical endeavours.

Located near Penyisok Beach, Lingkoq Datu is a cliff that overlooks the seemingly endless seaside. As you approach the cliff’s edge (be careful when do you so!), you’ll want to close your eyes and throw your arms out to let the ocean breeze wrap you in a cool embrace.

Yes the view here is almost too good to be true, but the sensation of standing on a cliff’s edge with the sun on your skin may just feel like ecstasy brought on by the power of nature.

After your moment of nirvana, head down to Penyisok Beach for a relaxing walk along the soft sands before making your journey back.

2. Marvel at the majestic view of Mount Rinjani: Taman Wisata Pusuk Sembalun

Want to see the majestic view of Mount Rinjani among the dreamy mist and clouds but don’t want to hike?

We recommend driving up to Pusuk Sembalun Tourist Park (Taman Wisata Pusuk Sembalun), where you can enjoy gorgeous unparalleled views of the mountain without much physical activity, at an altitude of 1,250 metres above sea level.

Although the road up is windy, you will be treated to beautiful views of the forest, hills, rice paddies and strawberry garden along the way. Once you’re up there, you can rest and bask in the beautiful scenery from the gazebos.

If you are bringing some food along to picnic, be sure to keep them away from the sneaky hands of the wild monkeys here!

Advertisement

3. Revisit the Dutch colonial past: More than 85-year Old Suspension Bridge

Built in 1932, this hanging bridge (100m high) in West Lombok carries its own legacy. For instance, the solid iron used to build it was sourced from Australia, the experts who built it were brought in from Java, and it has been broken twice after being hit by a stream!

In its heydays, it played a pivotal role in connecting the remote areas before the roads came into existence. Today, it is only traversed by bikes and young people hanging out on a lazy evening.

Under the bridge flows the river that connects hamlets Kelebut and Nyurlembang. Don’t lose your balance while passing through!

4. Amazing bird eye view of Lombok and Rinjani – Bukit Pergasingan

This is one of the most poetic scenery of Lombok Island.

The rice paddy fields laying complementally next to each other makes them scintillating.

Here, you can catch a glimpse of a far stretching view with the almighty Mount Rinjani.

Pergasingan hill is also the alternative to hiking Mount Rinjani, with an altitude of 1700 metres above sea level and Sembalun village located at an altitude of 1100 metres above sea level. So you must conquer an altitude of about 600 metres.

The hike up is around 4 hours, it will take you some effort up the hill, and some parts of the slope is almost at an angle of 70 degrees.

It is recommended that you camp overnight, so you can catch the magnificent sunrise behind Rinjani.

5. A short 10-minute walk for endless panoramic views!– Bukit Selong

Catch amazing views of the surrounding mountains and vast rice fields from Bukit Selong. .

There are also various farm fields below you and they’ll turn your pictures bright and colourful.

There are two viewpoints at the hill – one higher than the other but both giving equally stunning vistas.

Best yet; you can relish on such views only by walking up to the viewpoint within a short 10-minute!.

Venture to Lombok’s best secluded beaches

If you know about Lombok, you know about the beaches. You’ve probably heard of Pink Beach (yes, it has pink sand), Senggigi Beach (where a number of the resorts are), and Kuta Beach (where cows roam free), but those popular beaches aren’t all Lombok has to offer.

Here’s the secret – check out these hidden off-the-beaten-path beaches that only the locals know about. They are absolutely pristine and they are so quiet, you’ll almost feel that they are private for you and your loved ones! Curious? Let’s introduce some:

6. Brave it at Villa Hantu, Setangi Beach

Setangi Beach looks like something of a dream paradise, especially from the right vantage point. The coastline comprises of fields of coconut palms leading up to soft sand and secluded seas.

The beach here appears rather untouched; rarely will you see another person around as you take a walk along the water’s edge. Though it has many names (Setangi, Telu and Tiga Beach), everyone agrees that it’s simply dazzling here.

If you’re feeling brave, head to Villa Hantu (Ghost Villa) for the best view of Setangi. No, we’re not kidding! Spooky as it sounds, don’t let the name discourage you. This viewpoint is nothing more than an unfinished hotel that got its name from the remaining barebone construction.

Over time, visitors have added their touch to the walls, such as artwork and graffiti, which makes the scene slightly spookier. If you can push past the fear though, you’ll come away with some fun photos and a gorgeous view.

7. Egypt Pyramids in the sea – Semeti Beach

You will feel like you are on another planet – Planet Krypton.

The many stones here resemble the crystal box in Planet Krypton where Superman is born, hence it is also called Krypton Beach. Semeti Beach has rocks that are shaped like pyramids and stand firmly in the middle of the ocean.

The path is extremely rocky and rough, so be sure to wear covered shoes that are slip-proof, as you might need to climb rocks as high as 20m to get to the other side of the rocks.

Behind the rock is where you can get the phenomenal view of Semeti Beach.

8. Tears of Angel – Tanjung Poki

Don’t be swept away by the scenic tremendous waves – literally.

While being enraptured by this natural beauty, do remain careful and vigilant and not be hit by the waves. Waves at this spot are very huge and ferocious which create a blowhole effect. The waves can reach the height of tsunamis above 10 metres!

The big waves make it unsuitable to swim, but you can still fish here. This is a popular location for the local fishing fanatics, and they actually have a weekly competition.

There are other cliff rocks around the beach which provide photo-worthy opportunities.

Check out this video by Loetfi too! Definitely not for the faint-hearted!

9. Waterfall of the Sea – Nambung Beach

Salty Niagara waterfall – this unique waterfall phenomenon is created by large waves crashing against the cliff rocks and falling like a waterfall.

The best picture is when you are actually under the cliff, so be prepared to walk through the large waves with waterproof bags. You have to bring your own surfing equipment to ride the waves, and the crystal clear water also makes it lovely to swim.

But take note – there are neither rental nor bathrooms facilities available at Nambung beach.

Check out the video below!

10. Grand Canyon of the East – Pantai Tebing

There are parts of the Earth which do not seem to really belong; Pantai Tebing is one of them.

It is an extraordinary borough unmatched to its surrounding. A fascinating beauty. This reminds us of the Grand Canyon and is definitely on the visit list!

This unique rock formation was due to the eruption of Samalas/Gunung Rinjani Tua in 1257. Hot clouds of sediment containing fragments of coral resulting from the tsunami were deposited here.

For the brave souls who want to attempt to rock climb the cliff, the limestone and rocks can be loose, so please do take extra precaution!

11. Batu Payung in Tanjung Aan

Note: As of 2019, it has been reported that the rock has been destroyed.

This solitary rock stands out like a sore thumb.

It appears like an unearthly thingummy right in the middle of the beach.

Batu Payung or the umbrella stone, it is impossible to ignore its existence but that is what makes it beguiling. The façade of this stone changes at different angles at varied times of the day, and it may appear like a human face.

This stone is located approximately 1 kilometre east of Tanjung Aan Beach. The walk to the Umbrella stone along Tanjung Aan delivers incredible views of the hills, and are inhabited by birds and bats.

12. The forgotten Heaven – Tanjung Bloam

Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.

Angels must have missed this spot.

This natural beauty of flanking cliffs and rock stones that stretches beyond the coastline makes it exotic. It has stunning view of contrasting black rock with the golden cliff against the clear blue waters.

Tanjung Bloam is not easy to reach and offers challenging waves for surfing and swimming.

In order not to be a fool, waterproof your personal belongings and wear sturdy shoes, as the rocky path leading to the cliff is slippery and wet.

Here’s also a Turtle Conservation area, so you might spot turtles on the beach or get to swim with them!

13. Fantasy comes true – Pink Beach

Yes you read it right – pink beach.

Outlandish, picturesque pink beach that look like they are straight out of a fantasy movie. Pink Sand is a result of the tiny red organism that grows on the dead coral reefs.

The best time to go is before 8 am and after 4 pm when the sand catches the morning sunrays, presenting a nature fascia of grandeur.

The condition of the road can make the trip challenging. If you don’t want to ride on the bumpy road, you can rent a boat at Telong-Elong (village nearby).

The area is still natural and undeveloped, so there’s neither toilet nor shades. Bring your own meals, drinks and cutleries.

14. Boundless outlook into the ocean – TWA Gunung Tunak

Be electrified by the sweeping panoramic view of the infinite sea – by climbing this platform that bears a resemblance to a power transmission tower.

This viewpoint is located in Taman Wisata Alam, Gunung Tunak Nature Park. The natural rock trail is about 3km and the lighthouse is right at the cliff end. Strong wind makes the climb more stimulating and challenging.

There are 2 beaches there which you can explore – Bilasayaq Beach and Ujung Tanjung Beach. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there’s no food stalls around.

Discover majestic waterfalls

15. Torean’s Hidden Treasure: Penimbungan Waterfall Viewpoint

Have you planned your trek to Rinjani? If so, you’ll want to make sure that you add Penimbungan Waterfall Viewpoint to your itinerary.

Though the summit of Rinjani at sunrise is the ultimate goal of your hike, the view of the Penimbungan Waterfall from the Torean entrance almost rivals Rinjani’s beauty.

The pathway from Torean is literally the road less traveled as it can be compared to the entrances at Sembalun and Senaru on the way up to Rinjani. And don’t mention Penimbungan Waterfall, few tourists even know about the Torean entrance itself.

After a two-hour trek from the Torean entrance, you’ll reach the viewpoint of the 75-metre-high waterfall. And as you set your eyes on the rush of cascading waters and the surrounding view, you’ll feel as though you’ve gone back in time.

You could even imagine a dinosaur passing through the jungle beneath you!

16. A nature art sculpture – Mangku Sakti waterfall

A natural art sculpture out of Antoni Gaudí collection – the gorge formation is impressive.

The natural erosion has carved a marble-like canyon that the water meanders gently through.

The river runs down from Lake Segara Anak (Mt Rinjani), and the water is milky because of the sulfur content and is believed to able to treat different kinds of skin diseases.

17. Stunning water curtain – Benang Kelambu waterfall

Made up of 6 ‘falls’ through the trees, similar to water curtains, that’s how Benang Kelambu waterfall got its name.

It is easily accessible from the carpark but well hidden in the rice fields.

This waterfall is located at the foot of Mount Rinjani, so you can get up close and personal by going behind the water.

It’s a 500m mountainous walk to the waterfall, so be sure to bring water and some snacks along. You can visit its twin waterfall, Benang Stokel, which is 1 km away.

Cozy up in unique stays in Lombok

Imagine staying in dome villas overlooking the sea, or in a luxurious over-large tent for a special glamping experience. How about a hotel steeped in traditional heritage, where everything from rooms to restaurant to spa is decked and decorated with rich cultural influences?

We all love a unique experience, especially when it comes to accommodation! So why not check out our pick on the most interesting hotels you need to check out in Lombok?

18. Stay in a pictureque futuristic ‘Hobbiton’ at Mentigi Bay Dome Villas

On the cliffside overlooking the island’s big, blue bay sits this dreamy resort.

From the moment you step in, you are instantaneously transported to a mythical land with unique architecture that looks like you’ve just stepped onto a Lord of the Rings movie set.

While these unusual dome-shaped villas may resemble chicken eggs, the interior is a luxurious space that allows you to enjoy the panoramic view of the natural scenery, while you lie on your bed.

And you can even get connecting dome villas with your own private pool to soak in.

Can you imagine a better heaven on earth?

19. Live like ancient royalty immersed in traditional arts at Tugu Hotel

The Tugu Hotel chain has carved out a name for itself for being one of the most illustrious art hotels in Indonesia. In Bali, it’s one of the best affordable luxury stays that would whisk you back to ancient Indonesia.

The one in Lombok is no exception.

Inspired by the spirituality and the lavishness of the ancient Hindus of Majapahit, the architecture and decor of the hotel transports you back to the magical days of horse and carriage.

You’d feel like royalty with the personalized touch in every aspect of the hotel.

Local artisans carefully curate every room, suite and villa. This means your experience in each room will be distinctly different!

So do take some time to appreciate the intricacies of your living space – it literally is a work of art. (And don’t be surprised if you find that all the decor in your room are real antiques from the owner’s private collection!)

Even the hotel’s spa lounge is designed to resemble a Hindu temple, to reflect the spiritual bliss and tranquility here.

For those who are romantically inclined, you can have a one-of-a-kind sunrise breakfast on Hotel Tugu’s traditional wooden dragon-head boat – Naga MesemYou can charter the boat for private picnic parties, cocktail cruises or romantic sunset sailing too.

Alternatively, you can also try their lotus pond dining.

If you are lucky to stumble upon a wedding there, you will be able to see this quirky little sedan-carrier.

Where else can you find a hotel so steeped in symbolism and mythology?

Go island hopping: Experience the Gili Islands around Lombok

Lombok is not just about rugged landscape and beautiful beaches. If you wander slightly offshore, you’ll find that the main island is surrounded by many smaller islands, also known as ‘gili’, where you can find crystal clear waters and soft white sand beaches.

The most well known islands are without a doubt Trawangan, Air, and Meno.

Gili Trawangan (also known as ‘Gili T’) is where you’ll find the best parties. Think magic mushrooms, beers on the beach, parties on boats, in bars and clubs. When you travel to Trawangan you can expect bikinis and boardshorts, and drinking and partying all day long.

Then there’s the more relaxed Gili Air. With the music, atmosphere, and overall attitude of Gili Air, you’ll experience what feels like a hippy vibe. On the island’s east side, you can still find a fair number of bars, but nightlife here is tame compared to Trawangan. Beyond the bars, you can rent bikes, go snorkeling, and enjoy the slow pace of island life on Gili Air.

Gili Meno has gained the reputation of being the ‘honeymoon island’ for its pristine beaches and quiet ambience. As the smallest of the three islands, Gili Meno is more intimate. There are fewer restaurants, bars, and resorts, so you’ll have more privacy out on the white sand beaches. But the best feature of Meno might just be the astounding dive sites around the island.

If you’re keen to find out more about the three gilis, check out our guide to the Gili Islands!

20. Swing across the sunset at Ombak Sunset and Ombak Paradise

Hotel Ombak has two beautiful hotels on two of the Gili Islands.

On Trawangan, you’ll find Hotel Ombak Sunset where you’ll find the acclaimed Instagram destination – Datu Sunset Swing. If you’ve seen photos of Gili Trawangan, you’ll likely have seen the well-known Sunset Swing. A few steps from the shoreline, you can sway over the sea with a loved one while watching the sunset.

Jumping over to Gili Air, there is Hotel Ombak Paradise. Here you have a nest swing that’s currently rising in Instagram-popularity. As a guest at Hotel Ombak Paradise, you can effortlessly walk from the beach into the life-size nest and gently rock along with the waves.

21. Set sail on a glass-bottomed kayak at this lagoon-access resort – Gili Air Lagoon Resort

If you’re looking to make your experience on Gili Air a special one, Gili Air Lagoon Resort fits the bill perfectly.

This resort’s compound is uniquely shaped like a circle, with little wooden cabins surrounding a clear blue lagoon. Those who are not fans of saltwater will love jumping into the cool pool right from your room.

You’ll even be able to get up close to the sea on the resort’s special glass-bottomed kayaks. It’s exactly as its name describes, the kayak has a clear glass bottom so you can peer through and conveniently explore the ocean from above!

You won’t even have to get yourself completely wet – unless you’re terrible at rowing, but we have more faith in you than that.

22. Dive and explore the artistic underwater world of Nest

Keen to visit a new underwater sculpture in the ocean?

Designed by the illustrious artist Jason deCaires Taylor, the eco-friendly project Nest is a 48-piece underwater sculpture of human figures laying down and standing up in an embrace. If you can believe it, the human statues that now live on the Meno seabed were sculpted with casts of real human bodies!

The message of this exhibition? Sustainability. The artwork was created to help restore and rebalance marine life and encourage local business and tourism. In a year’s time, sea sponges and corals will begin to form a reef where sea creatures can live in, so keep an eye out in 2018!

If you dive, this is definitely a spot you can’t miss! There’s no entrance fee, so come and experience the delicate natural environment beneath the sea.

23. Sail away to an almost-private island: Gili Kedis

If you’ve explored the three main Gili Islands and think that’s all to island-hopping around Lombok, you’re wrong!

There’s many more exotic islands with lovely crystal clear waters and white sandy shores, one of which is Gili Kedis, an island so quiet it will almost feel like your own private island!

A lesser known island, Gili Kedis is located south of Mataram, just a quick boat ride from Lombok. Though Gili Kedis is small (you can circle the island on foot in about 10 minutes), it’s well worth the visit.

As you alight from the boat at Kedis, you’ll be stepping onto a gorgeous soft sand beach that spans around the island’s edge, and because very few tourists know about this gili, you may even have the whole island to yourself!

You can sunbathe or swim out and snorkel around the remarkably colorful coral reefs around the island and explore the rich marine life!

Gili Kedis isn’t the only underrated island around Lombok; in fact, there are several more. Instead of heading to the usual Trawangan, Meno, or Air, consider island-hopping around the lesser known gilis such as Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis.

24. Out of a movie set – Bangkang Cave

Doesn’t this look like a cave straight out of an Indiana Jones movie?

This hundred-years-old cave is located in a local village that remains unexplored by tourists. Treasures and loot are long gone, but do have your fisheye or wide-angle lens to capture valuable photos!

This cave is also home to thousands of bats, and best time to visit is before sunset. You can witness the spectacular occurrence of thousands of bats leaving their nest and flying out of the cave at dusk.

25. Climb the fiery active volcano to the best view in Indonesia – Mount Rinjani

Everyone should have this in his or her bucket list – climb an active volcano.

Volcano Rinjani is just one of those heavy smokers that just won’t quit, but also trying to be at its greenest.

This mighty volcano has an extraordinary panoramic view that makes it one of the greatest volcanological attractions of the world.

Standing at 3,726m, the second highest mountain in Indonesia, the 4-day-3-night trek to the summit is not a walk in the park. Those loose lava rocks, sand and high altitude will require certain physical fitness to make it an enjoyable trek. It is recommended that you start training by walking at least 5 km every other day with weights before the actual trek.

Despite not able to shower for 4 days, and endlessly walking for 3 days while sweating like a tap, the magnificent summit view is all worth it!

5 stars hotel? You get to sleep under 5 billion stars and marvel at the Milky Way.

Some travel tips from us:
The best season to climb Mount Rinjani is April to December. Mount Rinjani National Park is closed from January to March due to heavy rain. The last eruption was in 2010, but please do check the volcano activity and weather forecast before any summit attempt.

While it is possible to climb Rinjani without a guide, it is highly recommended to go with a tour, unless you are experienced, well prepared, very fit, and fully equipped, ready to carry all your food supplies, sleeping bags, camping tents for 4 days. If not, definitely hire a guide who can do all these for you.

High altitude sickness is common at this height (which can happen at about 2,500m), so be fully aware of the symptoms and have the necessary check ups before the climb. Do not attempt the summit if you develop any of the symptoms, descent immediately. It can be fatal within hours.

The temperature can get as low as 0°C at the summit, so bring along windproof and warm clothes for the summit day. Take only the things that are absolutely necessary – you won’t want to carry a 10kg luggage for 4 days!

26. The cauldron of miracle – Aik Kalak Hot spring

Cure all your illness and soreness without any pills or medication – that’s what the locals believe.

This hot spring is blessed by the local Hindu community and is believed to have an enigmatic healing power.

Myth or truth, diving into the warm water is revitalizing enough to sweep away all the fatigue from a full day hike! Just located 200m from the camping site, it’s a popular place for hikers to rest their feet in the therapeutic water.

While we hikers are asleep during full moon, the local perform rituals and bless the blades of their kris (swords) in the sacred waters and hot springs of the caldera lake.

27. Return to innocence – Lake Segara Anak

Want to know your future life? The answer is in this lake.

There’s a local myth that if the lake looks wide to you it is a sign you will live to an old age; or if the lake seems narrow it is a sign of a short life.

What do you see?

The name Segara Anak means child of the sea. Segara Anak Lake holds various mysteries and invisible power.

No matter what, just sitting by this jade serene lake and warming yourself with a drink after your hike will make all your worries fade away.

And here’s the catch – there’s actually another volcano within Mount Rinjani. Gunung Samalas, the former twin peak of Mount Rinjani, was destroyed after the explosion in 1257, but remains dormant in the middle of Segara Anak.

Segara Anak is a crater lake contained at the west of Mount Rinjani. A 8-10 hours trek will take you to the lake at 2,000m elevation.

28. Travel 5,000 years BC – Bayan Sasak

Time travel back in time is made possible right here in Lombok.

Sasak village is still home to the indigenous people of Lombok, who have been living the same way since 5,000 years BC.

Villagers have continued to live in their old traditions despite the modernizing surroundings. The most ancient village can be found at the foot of Rinjani, Bayan Village. Rinjani Lodge is located 1 km away, so you can be become neighbours.

Plasters of mud and cow-dung make the huts. The distinctive traditional huts – rice barns – were built using 100% natural resources, a craftsmanship developed since the 17th Century.

Be respectful when visiting their compound – it’s their private property.

Alternatively, Sade Village, located in Kuta, is more welcoming to tourists. You can get to meet and greet the Sasak people and understand their way of life. Traditional woven handicrafts by the women are also available for sale.

29. Celebrate the legendary story at Bau Nyale Festival

A 16^th Century tradition celebrates the legend of ‘Princess Mandalika’, the daughter of King Tonjang Baru, ruler of a prosperous kingdom in South Lombok.

According to the story, many princes from different kingdoms wanted to marry the princess, and this resulted in strife amongst them. To prevent further discord, the princess decided give herself to everyone rather than to just one person by jumping in the sea. When people tried to save her, their fingers got entangled with Nyale worms, which they assumed were her hair, hence Bau Nyale (which means ‘to catch worms’) is the name given to this festival.

The annual celebration occurs between February and March, mainly on Seger beach but extends to Kaliantan and Kuta as well.

During the event, festivities include catching worms, giving souvenirs to your loved ones and singing folk songs. You can also catch theatrical dance and music drama that tells the legendary tale of this festival.

30. Learn traditional weaving at Sukarara Village

Tired of the white sand beaches and other natural attractions in Lombok? How about getting up close and personal with the island’s traditional culture and heritage?

At Sukarara Village, one of the few villages left on Lombok, you can learn the traditional craft of “songket” (weaving) from the locals themselves.

Having carried on the tradition of their ancestors, the village women are taught at a young age to weave beautifully patterned fabric, which is rich in colour. If you take a closer look, you will notice the traditional Sukarara motifs, such as the gecko.

And when you visit, you too can step up to the loom and learn the traditional weaving techniques.

31. Dare a traditional Sasaknese massage at Jeeva Beloam Beach Camp

If you love massages, especially in Indonesia, you need to seriously consider the island’s exotic and traditional Sasak massage.

We don’t want to scare you, but these massages are intense! You may have to endure some serious massage strokes, but the payoff is definitely worth it, when your tense muscles are all unknotted and you’ll feel much lighter in the following days.

One of the best places to get a traditional Sasaknese massage is at Jeeva Beloam Beach Camp, at their Jeevinaya Massage Beruga Spa, which offers the Ngurut Sasak Sasaknese Lombok Massage.

The massage entails 60 to 90 minutes of skin rolling, thumb and palm pressure, stretching, kneading, acupressure, and more. But we can’t emphasize this enough – do only try it out if you are accustomed to very strong therapeutic pressure massages.

The Beach Camp itself is located in the heart of a 55-hectare nature forest reserve, so it’s the perfect spot to escape for a tranquil retreat.

Built from wood, bamboo and alang alang, the villas (or what they call the “Beruga Pantai”) were inspired by the indigenous Sasak fishing villages. But the interiors are decked in modern and comfortable homeware and decor.

As the Beach Camp is perched on a sand dune that overlooks a private beach, you can even get an unobstructed view of the sea right from your room!

Dine at restaurants where you can bask in a magnificent view

Love dining with a view?

Whether you’re on holiday with family, friends, your significant other, or even by yourself, it’s hard to beat an evening overlooking the ocean with a glorious plate of food.

Around Lombok, you’ll find some delectable restaurants with extraordinary views. So to save you from having to do the extra research, we’ve narrowed down the three best seascape restaurants!

Check out our other recommendations where you can dine with magnificent views in Lombok!

32. An energizing start at the top of a hill: Horizon Restaurant and Lounge

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Start your day right with homemade granola, fresh fruit salad and delicious fruit juice (or lassi, if you want something a little sweeter).

Photo Via helo.lombok

What better way to start your day than with an energizing hilltop breakfast as the sun rises?

Photo Via yvonnetham,ekavalentiaa

Photo Via pandenandita, hrckdws

The menu here ranges from curries and pasta, to vegetarian options, to everything in between – so you’ll never have a shortage of options here! If you’ve got a sweet tooth (and who doesn’t?), the dark chocolate cake with coconut cream is sinfully decadent.

Photo Via seninguediet

Feel like doing a little cooking yourself? Try the “sweet and spicy” cooking class! You’ll get to pick fresh herbs from the restaurant’s own garden and use them in your dishes.

There are also 5 daily yoga classes, running throughout the day from 7am to 6pm, if you feel like squeezing a little bit of zen into your day!

And as the sun goes down, plop down in comfy beanbags, or at the cosy little tables, and soak up the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

33. Royal dining atop Batur Layar hill: Libra Café Resto n’ Villa

Note: This restaurant is now permanently closed

You’ll find a good variety of villas on Batur Layar Hill. But not all villas are created equal. At the top of the hill, you’ll find Villa Libra, which has its own cafe.

The trek to the top of the hill is definitely worth it for both the culinary experience and the view that awaits you. Spread out below are lush green trees and the white sand of Senggigi beach – everything that a hungry and tired traveller needs in a view!

Are you a meat lover? Don’t miss the Bakso Bernak (a meatball bowl), and if you dare, order the extra spicy Chicken Wing Kamikaze.

The romantic bridge over the pool is an amazing place to take a picture – with the tree canopies and orange skies at dusk, you can’t ask for a better natural backdrop!

34. A hidden dining paradise: Artati Lombok Bungalow and Restaurant

Looking for a real secret hideaway or a hidden gem? Artati Lombok Bungalow and Restaurant offers a quiet and relaxing dinner experience paired with a beautiful view and friendly service.

Nestled amongst emerald green hills and overlooking Selong Belanak Bay (a famous spot for surfing enthusiasts), this culinary paradise is only an hour’s drive from Mataram City.

A wide selection of meal options means there’s something for everyone at Artati; not only Indonesian dishes but Western meals are also offered on the menu. Endless options and maximum affordability if you happen to be on a budget!

Don’t want to leave? We wouldn’t blame you! You can spend a night in the bungalow and take advantage of the sunset before you head to bed, and before waking up to the dawn rising over the sea in the morning.

Bask in stunning ocean views in affordable luxury beachfront villas

Want to wake up to the soothing views of the vast blue ocean? You don’t need to pay a hefty sum to be able to indulge in these dreamy luxuries.

Check out our recommendations for affordable luxury beachfront villas in Lombok, where you can bask in stunning views from your room!

35. A Tropical Oasis: Katamaran Resort

If you’re after accommodation fit for royalty, we’re confident you’ll love Katamaran Resort.

Though it’s located in the heart of Senggigi, this resort is by no means crowded. A quiet spot in a world of its own, Katamaran offers breathtaking ocean views the moment you step out of your private villa.

Good news for beachcombers – the sand is only steps away from your doorstep, so it’s easy to answer when the ocean is calling!

Should you get tired of the white sand and crystal-clear waters (though we doubt you would!), feel free to spend a day at the in-hotel Soul Bliss Spa or by the poolside, sunning on a recliner at the huge above-ground glass infinity pool.

If you want to stretch your legs a bit, a taxi to central Senggigi costs less than USD $2 for a day of shopping and exploring.

Return in the evening, when the two onsite restaurants are also perfectly set up to provide ocean views, making dinner and drinks while watching the sunset an unforgettable way to spend the evening!

36. Sunrise Yoga by the Sea: Qunci Villas Hotel

Are you ready for Happy Hour? Or happy week, rather, since you’ll be all smiles for the entire length of your stay at Qunci Villas Hotel.

Between its three swimming pools and a truly happy Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm with an extensive cocktail menu, who wouldn’t be happy?

Sip a frosty margarita or a sweet, tropical piña colada as you lounge on the sun chairs only metres from the ocean’s edge.

If you start to get a little warm, enjoy a dip in one of the pools or the warm salty waters of Lombok!

If you’re not in the mood for a swim, feel free to take advantage of the onsite Qamboja Health Spa for a massage or a mani-pedi, or even the early morning yoga classes (with an amazing view of the sea!) that are offered right here in the hotel premises.

Affordable hotels with a view of Rinjani

So maybe you don’t want to climb Mount Rinjani, we understand, we don’t judge.

Would you prefer to admire the view of Rinjani from the bottom of the volcano rather than the summit? If so, a hotel in Sembalun Village is what you need. This village is located at the base of Rinjani, and boasts of a beautiful and tranquil countryside.

Even if you are planning to trek up Rinjani or heading back from your hike, Sembalun is a convenient location for you to rest up. And what can be better than a stay with such a majestic view?

37. Among the hills and the volcano at Nuansa Rinjani

Although former guests have warned that the road up to Nuansa Rinjani might be a little confusing, the views make up for any inconvenience.

Nuansa Rinjani is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing environment among the mountains.

The hotel is located on a farm in Sembalun Village, where you will be blessed with majestic views of the surrounding hills. Take a walk through the garden – you may find ripe-red strawberries and other carefully cultivated produce.

Who knows, with such a view of Rinjani here, you might even be motivated to hike the nearby Mount Pergasingan to watch the sunrise over the volcano – a spectacular sight!

38. Swim up to the looming volcano at Rudi’s Villa

Located in the cool mountain village of Sembalun is Rudi’s Villa, which offers a selection of accommodation options – you can find everything from a bed in a dorm room to a private bungalow.

What can be better than enjoying a morning dip in the pool, where you can stare at the majestic unobstructed view of Mount Rinjani right in front of you?

This is the perfect place to get some rest, especially if you are returning from a Rinjani trek!

Have we inspired you to take that leap of faith and travel to Bali’s lesser known sister, Lombok? Put on your adventurous spirit and explorer cap – it’s time to go!

Where in Lombok would you love to visit? Share with us!

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

• share on facebook
• twitter
• google+
• linkedin

Advertise with us