Dreaming of a tropical escape that’s a bit quieter than Bali? Lombok is your answer. With untouched beaches, epic surf breaks, hidden waterfalls, and friendly locals, Lombok serves up the best of island life without the big crowds. Whether you’re chasing luxury villas, backpacker hostels, or something in between, there’s a spot here for every budget and vibe. From buzzing coastal hubs to serene mountain villages, each area offers its own flavour. So, pack your swimmers and get ready to find your perfect base in this island paradise.

Best for: First-timers and sunset chasers

Senggigi is where it all kicks off. This beach town has an easygoing vibe and is the perfect warm-up to Lombok life. You’ve got everything close by: beachfront bars for a sunset Bintang, warungs dishing up spicy local eats, and a long coastline that lights up every evening. It’s super handy for day trips up north or hopping over to the Gilis. Accommodation ranges from big-name resorts to friendly homestays.

Best for: Surfers and the boho crowd

Forget everything you know about Bali’s Kuta. This one is all about white sand bays, rolling hills, and an easygoing surf scene. Kuta Lombok is the heart of the island’s south coast, with chilled cafes, smoothie bowls galore, and motorbike rides to hidden beaches like Tanjung Aan and Mawun. The surf here pulls in wave chasers from around the world, but there’s plenty to love even if you just want to laze on the sand. Stays range from breezy hostels to plush cliffside villas with dreamy ocean views.

Best for: Party starters and island dreamers

Just a short boat hop from Lombok, the Gilis are where you go to switch off and soak up that barefoot vibe. Gili Trawangan (aka Gili T) is the life of the party, Gili Air offers a mellow balance, and Gili Meno is the slowest and most romantic. No cars, no worries; just bikes and horse carts. Think snorkelling with turtles straight off the beach, sipping coconuts in bean bags, and dancing under the stars. From backpacker hostels to boutique bungalows, there’s heaps of choice.

Best for: Nature buffs and peace seekers

Tucked up near Mount Rinjani, Tetebatu is like Lombok’s version of Ubud before the crowds rolled in. It’s all rice paddies, monkey forests, and hidden waterfalls. You can join a local guide for a stroll through the lush terraces, cool off under secret falls, or just kick back and watch the clouds drift over the volcano. You won’t find big hotels here; just warm homestays and eco-lodges where you’re treated like family. Perfect if you want to swap salty hair for mountain air.

Best for: Hidden beach hunters

If you want your own private patch of sand, Sekotong is the go. Down in the southwest, this area is all about quiet coves and offshore islands few tourists know about. Hop on a boat and explore the secret Gilis (Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis) where you’ll often have the beaches all to yourself. Accommodation here is simple, with beachfront bungalows and laid-back resorts that feel miles away from anywhere.

Best for: Couples and chill-out vibes

Just up the road from Senggigi, Mangsit has a softer, slower feel. The beach here is more secluded, perfect for long lazy swims and sunset strolls. Many stays are small boutique resorts and villas designed for romance and downtime. There’s yoga in the mornings, cocktails at sunset, and the kind of hush that makes you forget the rest of the world exists. You’re close enough to Senggigi if you want a bit of action, but Mangsit is really all about recharging in style.