There are plenty of things to do in see in the little beach town of Kuta, located in Lombok. Once a small surf town, Kuta has quickly grown into a tourist hotspot, attracting travellers trying to escape Bali’s crowds. The recently constructed USD $3 billion racetrack project outside of town has given the local infrastructure a considerable boost and made Kuta’s popularity among both domestic and foreign tourists rise.

Luckily, Kuta has managed to keep its surf town charm (with opportunities to party) and with so many things to do close by makes for the perfect base on your trip to Lombok.

Don’t confuse this quiet surfer town with the busy nightlife and souvenir store mecca that is Kuta in Bali. They’re very, very different, and chances are you’ll prefer Kuta Lombok.

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Why you should visit Kuta Lombok

Kuta is most suitable for backpackers and adventure travellers who love to be outdoors and explore. Because of the nearby racetrack, there are more and more luxury properties appearing in the area although the majority are still affordable. Here are the top reasons why you should visit Kuta Lombok:

• The incredible surf beaches, which are suitable for all levels
• The small-town feel and tightly-knit backpacker community
• The reasonable prices for attractions, parties and restaurants in Kuta
• The lack of traffic and quality of roads (for the most part)
• The natural beauty and variety of things to do in Kuta Lombok

How to get to Kuta Lombok

Kuta is located on the southern tip of Lombok and is surprisingly easy to reach, wherever you are in Indonesia. Most people come there from Bali, which offers the choice between flying and taking a speed boat or ferry.

Flights to Lombok

It takes just over an hour to drive from Lombok International Airport (LOP) to Kuta, so it can be very convenient to catch a flight if you’re planning a trip here. The airport has a decent selection of connections, including to Denpasar in Bali, Jakarta, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Since it’s only a small terminal, you don’t have to arrive extremely early, especially for regional flights.

Whether you’re booking flights spontaneously or planning ahead, Skyscanner is the best place for finding cheap deals and convenient connections. You’ll love their user-friendly interface and reliable search function that’s much easier to use than individually checking airline websites.

Not sure yet if Kuta is where you want to go? Skyscanner lets you choose the option “to everywhere” so you can find the cheapest flights to destinations around the world for your travel dates.

What are you waiting for? Book your flights to Lombok or other destinations here.

Ferries and speedboats to Lombok

Bali and Lombok are closely connected by a network of speed boats and public ferries. There are two main routes to reach Kuta Lombok by boat. One involves getting a speed boat from Padang Bai to Bangsal in north-western Lombok which usually stops at the Gili Islands first. The ride takes around 2 to 3 hours and costs approximately IDR 350,000 (~ $35 AU) per person. From Bangsal it takes a further 2 to 3 hours to drive south to Kuta Lombok by minivan or taxi.

Alternatively, travellers can take the much-cheaper slow ferry which transports trucks and scooters across. It also departs from Padang Bai and only costs around IDR 70,000 (~ $7 AU) per person (additional fees for scooters apply). The journey takes between 4 to 6 hours and drops you off at Lembar Harbour, which is much closer to Kuta and only around a 1-hour drive away.

West Nusa Tenggara also has boat connections to Lombok although they are usually local boats which will be cheap but not very fast. You’ll be dropped at Kayangan Sea Port which is around 2.5 hours from Kuta.

How to get around in Kuta Lombok

Kuta itself is a tiny town that really only consists of a handful of streets. Unlike most of Bali, it’s actually possible to walk around here although once you leave town the roads are far less pedestrian-friendly. Still, getting a scooter is highly recommended for your time in Lombok and will make you a lot more flexible. You can also consider joining a group tour, which will plan everything for you so you don’t even need to worry about it.

Renting a scooter in Kuta Lombok

It’s easy to rent a scooter in Kuta and most accommodations have some available. If not, you can also walk through town where you’ll find a handful of rental shops. A normal price is somewhere between IDR 40,000 and IDR 60,000 (~ $4 AU and $6 AU) per day and you shouldn’t pay more unless you’re getting a larger bike like an NMax. Weekly rates should be even lower, so ask for a discount if you’re staying for a while.

Kuta’s roads are generally very new and wide but road accidents involving tourists are unfortunately still common. You’ll frequently encounter sand or gravel on the roads, and many beaches only have unpaved access, which means a lot of mud and steep, rocky paths. If you’re not a confident driver, make sure to go slow and stay away from remote beaches, especially those west of Kuta.

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Find out more about SafetyWing here.

Top tip: Consider renting a scooter with at least 155 cc if you’re going to have two people on your bike. The area around Kuta has a lot of hills and steep slopes and smaller scooters might not be able to make it up the hills if you’re too heavy. Bigger bikes are also a lot more comfortable.

Hiring a driver in Kuta Lombok

If you’re not ready to drive a scooter but still want to explore the area around Kuta you should hire a driver for a day who will take you around wherever you want. You’ll be able to make your own itinerary or the driver can act as a guide and show you around. Prices are surprisingly affordable and you’ll be a lot more comfortable in the back of an airconditioned car away from the sun and rain than on the back of a scooter. You can find options for drivers below or ask the staff at your accommodation on arrival for help.

How long should you spend in Kuta, Lombok?

If you’re short on time around three to four days will be enough to see the main things to do in Kuta Lombok. Life here is all about going to the beach and surfing so planning a tight schedule is not the right approach. If you enjoy surfing and little road trips along the coast you can easily spend a week or more in Kuta without being bored. However, since the town is so small, it can become boring after a while if you’re the type of person who gets tired of going to the same handful of restaurants and bars every day.

Where to stay in Kuta, Lombok

Kuta is very budget-friendly and you’ll find a great variety of affordable places to stay. There are also more luxurious hotels, some of which are beachfront so don’t miss out on those.

Where to eat in Kuta, Lombok

You’ll love Kuta’s small but exciting selection of restaurants which includes both western and local options suitable for any budget. Most are located in the heart of town but some may require a quick 5-minute drive. Luckily, with so much available within walking distance you’ll be spoilt for choice in Kuta. Some of our favourites include:

• Bush Radio – This coworking-friendly restaurant has a variety of delicious western food and a cool atmosphere.
• Ashtari – Come here for incredible organic and healthy slow food with a focus on Indian cuisine.
• Half Moon Restaurant – Affordable and delicious Arabian food and seafood BBQ.
• Herry Warung – Delicious and cheap Indonesian food prepared with love.
• Satu Lagi – Mexican restaurant with great deals and live music.

How to visit Kuta Lombok on a budget

Kuta Lombok is an affordable travel destination with plenty of free things to do. Here are some tips to keep your trip budget-friendly.

• Stay in a guesthouse if you’re travelling with a partner. This can often be cheaper than two beds in a hostel and you’ll have a private room.
• Eat at small warungs in side streets instead of the popular restaurants in Kuta. You’ll find meals as cheap as IDR 15,000 (~ $1.50 AU)
• Rent a Honda Vario or Beat scooter, which will be much cheaper than an NMax
• Find a place to stay that includes breakfast
• Take the slow ferry from Bali, which is the cheapest way to get to Lombok
• Negotiate the entrance price at the Bat Cave, especially if you’re visiting as a group

Our tip: Read our complete guide to travelling Indonesia on a budget for more tricks to save money.

When is the best time to go to Kuta, Lombok?

The weather in this part of Lombok is very similar to Bali, which has a wet and a dry season. Dry season which is the most popular time for tourists lasts approximately from June to September while wet season takes place from October to May. However, the seasons tend to blend into each other and especially the transition months can go either way in terms of weather.

High season is generally a bit more expensive and you might have to book your accommodation further in advance to secure a good deal. Kuta will be slightly more lively during this time, with more tourists and backpackers around.

Luckily, you can visit Kuta Lombok year-round and have a good chance of sunny days even during the wet season, which will be cheaper to visit. Just be prepared for the occasional rain shower which usually takes place in the afternoon. Make sure to buy a plastic rain poncho which costs around IDR 30,000 (~ $3 AU), and drive carefully as the roads can be slippery and muddy.

20 things to do in Kuta Lombok

There are plenty of things to do in Kuta Lombok and you’ll be pleased to know that most of them are free or very affordable, even if you want to party. Since the town itself is so small, you’ll have to take a scooter or car to reach the majority of attractions, but it is possible to walk to the beach in Kuta, making it convenient for those not willing to drive.

Don’t miss out on these activities if you’re wondering what to do on your next trip to Kuta Lombok.

Our tip: Read more “things to do” guides about popular places in Indonesia such as Yogyakarta, Komodo National Park, or Central Sulawesi.

1. Watch the sunset at Bukit Merese

Bukit Merese is a small hill located east of Kuta Lombok on a narrow headland. Sometimes described as the Kelingking Beach of Lombok, this spot is very popular for sunset and extremely underrated for sunrise if you’re an early riser.

You’ll encounter quite a few people here during sunset but sunrise and the early morning hours are very quiet, with barely anyone around before 9:00 AM.

Since the headland is so narrow here you can see both the famous Tanjung Aan beach to your left and the pretty Pantai Torok Bare to your right. There are also lots of smaller bays hidden away below the hill making this a beautiful spot to take photos for Instagram which will go well with our quotes about Indonesia, romantic travel captions or one-word travel captions.

Bukit Merese is lush and green during the rainy season and usually more brown and dry in summer when it barely rains. Bring a blanket to sit on for sunset but be careful with any snacks and drinks since there are monkeys around who love to steal from unsuspecting tourists. Tanjung Aan is just a short walk away, so definitely go there next.

2. Learn how to surf

Kuta is a prime surfing destination suitable for any experience level including complete beginners. Most breaks are located away from the beach which means you’ll have to take a boat out. The round-trip ride usually costs around IDR 200,000 (~ $20 AU) per boat, which can fit approximately four people. The boat will wait for you at the break and then take you back to the beach after around two hours.

Surf lessons in Kuta cost around IDR 350,000 (~ $35 AU) and are great for learning the basics so you can go out on your own. You can rent surfboards on some of the more popular beaches, but if you’re hoping to go to some of the more remote ones, you might want to rent a board long term that you can take with you.

Here are some of the best beaches for surfing in Kuta Lombok.

• Best for beginners: Selong Belanak, Tanjung Aan
• Best for intermediates: Areguling, Gerupuk
• Best for advanced: Mawi Beach

3. Visit the beautiful Selong Belanak beach

Selong Belanak is one of the most famous beaches located close to Kuta Lombok and a popular destination for surfing, swimming and relaxing. This vast beach has very fine, white sand that is unlike the larger, yellowish grains you’ll find on most of Kuta’s other beaches. It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive to Selong Belanak from Kuta and the road is decent although it has some tight bends and curves.

Selong Belanak is known for its parade of buffalos that walks along the beach regularly. These are the same buffalos you’ll see in many places in Lombok and they’ve become somewhat of a tourist attraction. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to say when exactly the buffalos come and they don’t appear every day but when they do it’s usually around sunset or at mid-day.

Luckily, Selong Belanak is a beautiful beach with or without buffalos and the perfect place to learn how to surf for complete beginners. There are lots of warungs around where you can sit or rent a sun bed so it’s the perfect place to spend an entire day.

Address: Selong Belanak, Kec. Praya Bar., Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83572
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: ~ 35 minutes
Opening hours: 24 hours
Best time to go: On a sunny day or just before sunset
How much time to spend here: 1 hour
Price: IDR 10,000 (~ $1 AU) parking fee
What else to see close by: Pantai Mawi

4. See pythons at the Lombok Bat Cave (Goa Bangkang Prabu)

Goa Bangkang Prabu is a large cave located just a quick drive from Kuta Lombok making it an easy thing to do in the area. There are over 2 million bats living in the cave and visiting it is quite an experience. There is a narrow staircase leading down into the main chamber which has a large hole in the roof which lets in a beam of light between 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM which is the best time to visit. The lighting makes for fantastic photo conditions and the cave staff often light a small fire with dry coconut husks inside the cave to make the beam even more visible with smoke. There will be thousands of bats hanging from the ceiling and flying around which is an incredible spectacle to witness.

In addition to being a great spot for taking photos, Goa Bangkang Prabu is actually home to a wide variety of pythons which like to sleep in the cave during the day. They’re non-venomous snakes so they don’t pose a danger to visitors and the guides will be happy to point them out to you.

The general cave tickets, which cost around IDR 50,000 (~ $5 AU), will only let you access the main chamber where you can see the bats and a snake or two, but the cave is actually much bigger than most visitors realise. You can join an extended tour for around IDR 200,000 (~ $20 AU) per person, which will lead you through the tunnels to the other exit in the hillside.

As much as we found the Bat Cave fascinating, it’s worth noting that the smell inside the cave is absolutely terrible and the extremely hot temperatures, mosquitos and large amounts of cockroaches are not for the faint of heart. Prepare yourself for this when you visit.

Address: 4773+8V Prabu, Central Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: ~ 15 minutes
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Best time to go: Between 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM
How much time to spend here: 30 minutes
Price: IDR 50,000 to IDR 200,000 (~ $5 AU to $20 AU)
What else to see close by: Ashtari and Siwa Cliffs

5. Visit Benang Kelambu and Benang Stokel Waterfall

Benang Kelambu and Benang Stokel Waterfall are twin waterfalls located around 1.5 hours north of Kuta, in central Lombok close to Mount Rinjani. There are actually several waterfalls in the area but these two are the most popular. Pricing for entrance tickets can be confusing and will depend on how good you are at haggling.

The official ticket office will try to sell you tickets for a guided tour to the falls, which costs IDR 120,000 (~ $12 AU) per person and is not necessary and is essentially a scam. Technically, the entrance is supposed to cost only around IDR 10,000 (~ $1 AU), but in recent years most foreign visitors have been charged IDR 60,000 (~ $6 AU) which is still reasonable. Just refuse to go to the falls with a guide and purchase single-entry tickets instead.

It takes around 30 minutes to walk to the waterfalls, and there is an option to take a motorbike down, which will be much quicker and will cost around IDR 30,000 (~ $3 AU).

Make sure to avoid coming here on weekends or during the afternoon as the waterfalls can become very crowded.

Address: F88R+QH Aik Berik, Central Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: 1,25 hours
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:30 AM to 6 PM
Best time to go: Mornings during the week
How much time to spend here: 2 to 3 hours
Price: IDR 10,000 to IDR 60,000 (~ $1 AU to $6 AU)

6. Go on a snorkelling tour to the Secret Gilis

The Secret Gilis is a collection of islands located in southern Lombok. As their name suggests, they’re not as well known as the three Gili islands further north which consist of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. The Secret Gilis include islands such as Gili Kedis, Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, Tangkong, Layar and Rengit, all of which are located on the south-western tip of Lombok not too far from the harbour town Lembar.

It takes around 1 hour to get to Lembar harbour from where most snorkelling tours depart. You’ll be taken to the beautiful Secret Gilis, many of which are little more than a patch of sand with some palm trees. Swim in the crystal-clear water, spot exotic fish and enjoy a local lunch with fresh seafood. The Secret Gilis are the perfect day trip from Kuta although you can also stay here for a few nights if you have the time.

Day tours should be priced somewhere between IDR 600,000 and IDR 1.5 million (~ $60 AU and $150 AU) per person depending on what is included and whether you’re joining a group or going on a private tour. You can buy tickets at one of the small tourism offices in Kuta or book in advance here: Secret Gilis Day trip

Address: See links above
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: ~ 2 hours
Opening hours: 24 hours
Best time to go: On a sunny day
How much time to spend here: One day
Price: $60 AU and $150 AU

7. Swim at Pink Beach

Only a few pink beaches exist in the world and Lombok is lucky enough to have one of them. Located 1.5 hours east of Kuta, this beach is unfortunately not as pink as those that can be found in Komodo National Park but it definitely has a pinkish hue. In any case, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Lombok and a prime tourist destination so make sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

The access road used to be small but has recently been extended and paved which increased the number of visitors coming to the beach considerably. Luckily, Pink Beach is so large that you’ll always be able to find a quiet spot. You can even snorkel here if you have the time and some scuba diving schools take their groups to locations close to the beach for diving trips.

My tip: Adjust your expectations on how pink the sand actually is. It’s more of a slight hue than a vibrant colour and most photos you see online are heavily edited.

Address: Sekaroh, Jerowaru, Kabupaten Lombok Timur, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83672
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: ~ 1,5 hours
Opening hours: 24 hours
Best time to go: Mornings on a sunny day
How much time to spend here: 1 hour
Price: IDR 10,000 (~ $1 AU)

8. Visit Sade or Rambitan traditional villages

There are several traditional villages located close to Kuta Lombok, such as Sade or Rambitan village. The drive there takes only around 15 minutes from Kuta so it’s a quick and easy thing to do in Lombok. These villages portray the lives of the local Sasak people and some of the settlements date back to the 14th century. Sade village is the most popular village so if you only have time to visit one go there.

The towns are known for their traditional fabric making which is unique to the area. The small houses are made from woven bamboo mats and visitors can learn about the different types of buildings as well as the fabric-making process. There are dance performances and of course plenty of opportunities to buy souvenirs and clothing.

You can get a guide to show you around the villages which usually doesn’t have a fixed price but operates on a donation basis so you can choose what to give.

Keep in mind that both Sade and Rambitan are designed as tourist attractions and can feel inauthentic in some cases. However, try to see beyond the souvenir shops and appreciate these Lombok villages for what they are so you can still have an enjoyable and memorable experience here.

Address: See links above
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: 15 minutes
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 7 PM
Best time to go: Before noon
How much time to spend here: 1 hour
Price: Free but donations are expected

9. Visit Kuta’s modern beach promenade

Going to most beaches in Kuta Lombok usually means you’ll have to drive for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Luckily, there is a much closer beach promenade located within walking distance so you don’t need to rent a scooter or hire a driver to get there.

The Kuta beach promenade is brand-new and was constructed to match the Mandalaika race track, which is located nearby. There are modern public bathrooms and showers, and the space is sometimes used for special events. The beach in Kuta is nice although the ones outside of town are even more beautiful. Since the Kuta Beach promenade is so easily accessible it’s often crowded whereas the beaches further out of town are far more quiet and deserted.

My tip: This part of Kuta has a lot of beach vendors and children selling souvenirs so it can be overwhelming as you’ll be approached a lot. Stay polite and avoid buying from children which will only encourage them to continue selling on the streets instead of going to school.

Address: 474M+G3 Kuta, Central Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: 2 minutes
Opening hours: 24 hours
Best time to go: All day
How much time to spend here: 1 hour
Price: Free
What else to see close by: Kuta Beach

10. Find the best beaches in Kuta Lombok

One of the best things to do in Kuta Lombok is to drive around and explore remote beaches which can be found along the surrounding coastline. If you head west from Kuta, you’ll follow a winding road through the hills which will essentially take you to some of the best beaches in the area. Since there is only one road and most beaches are signposted it’s difficult to get lost and you can enjoy driving around.

Towards the east, the roads in Kuta Lombok are huge and newly constructed for the Mandalaika Circuit. There is a big highway with very little traffic making these beaches even more accessible by scooter. Make sure to head to the most popular beaches like Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak but don’t miss out on the small, lesser-known ones which often don’t even have a name but are always deserted and just as beautiful.

My tip: Kuta’s main roads are paved and great for driving a scooter but be careful with smaller beach access roads which can be muddy or have a lot of loose rocks. Google Maps is often wrong in this area so you’re better off following road signs. If you’re not confident on a scooter stick to beaches like Selong Belanak, Tanjung Aan, Pantai Lancing or Pantai Torok Bare which have great access roads.

11. Enjoy the view at Ashtari and Siwa Cliffs

A must-do when you visit Kuta is to have lunch or a drink at either Ashtari or Siwa Cliffs. These two hillside restaurants are located just a quick 10-minute drive from town and the views are absolutely breathtaking. Ashtari is a yoga retreat with a focus on healthy food, organic ingredients and a holistic approach. Despite their prime location their menu is reasonably priced and they also have homemade ice cream which can be the perfect sweet treat after a day of exploring. Come here to enjoy the view, relax or maybe even join a yoga class if you have the time. They also offer cooking courses which is a fantastic activity in Kuta.

Siwa Cliffs is located just a few minutes from Ashtari, with even better views from their panoramic mountain-top location. This brand-new day club with adjacent private villa rentals is perfect for a sunset drink or a delicious lunch. They have a large pool with a submerged platform which is perfect for taking photos so don’t forget to pack your swimsuit. Their menu is slightly more expensive than Ashtari but they still have reasonably-priced lunch deals so don’t miss out on this beautiful place even if you’re on a budget. The views are worth it.

Address: ASHTARI and SIWA
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: 15 minutes
Opening hours: 8 AM to 8 PM
Best time to go: Lunch or sunset
How much time to spend here: 1 hour
Price: Free but make sure to order something
What else to see close by: Bat Cave

12. Experience the massive Mandalika Circuit

The Mandalika Circuit is a giant racetrack that was recently constructed just a few minute’s drive from Kuta. Designed to host international racing events, this track completely changed tourism in Lombok and is meant to attract thousands of visitors to the area. There is still ongoing construction around the track as new luxury hotels are being built and a massive road system is being developed.

The circuit is hard to miss when you visit Lombok, and you should stop by at least once. Sometimes they host track walks, and you can, of course, purchase tickets for races if one happens to be taking place during your time in Kuta. Check out the Mandalika website for up-to-date information.

13. Spend the day at Tanjung Aan Beach

Tanjung Aan Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area and is conveniently located right next to Bukit Merese. It takes around 15 minutes to drive here from Kuta, and the road access is modern and new. This beach is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters as well as being a prime surf spot. Due to the shallow reefs, the waves at the beach are calm, making it ideal for swimming. The best place for surfing is located on the reef break, a little further into the bay. You’ll find local boats along the beach that can take you out with your surfboard.

Tanjung Aan is very long, so you’ll always find a quiet spot even when it’s crowded. There are warungs scattered along the beach where you can get a simple lunch, drinks or rent a sun bed.

My tip: This part of Indonesia faces extreme plastic pollution, which is especially visible during the rainy season. Adjust your expectations when it comes to the cleanliness of these beaches, especially quiet ones without any staff to clean them up. This is an unfortunate side of Lombok and one that will continue to be a problem as tourism in the area grows.

Address: Tanjung Aan Beach
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: 15 minutes
Opening hours: 24 hours
Best time to go: Mid day or for sunset
How much time to spend here: 1 hour
Price: IDR 10,000 (~ $1 AU) parking fee
What else to see close by: Bukit Merese

14. Take in the views at Bukit Seger

Bukit Seger is another hill located close to Kuta and is in some ways similar to Bukit Merese. This is a prime sunset spot with fantastic views of the coastline and the surrounding beaches. Depending on where you park, you might have to cross a small bamboo bridge where local kids often fish. The adjacent parking lot has a lot of souvenir shops and some warungs where you can get a cold drink for sunset.

There are a few different hills at Bukit Seger, each one is easy to climb, and the walk shouldn’t take more than 10 minutes. Keep in mind that this is a very popular place for sunset, so it may be crowded in the early evening.

My tip: Bukit Seger is popular for sunset, but since it has panoramic views, it’s just as beautiful for sunrise. Skip the crowds and come early in the morning instead for a more serene experience.

Address: 37RX+VR3, Jl. beach walk, Kuta, Kec. Pujut, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83573
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: 15 minutes
Opening hours: 24 hours
Best time to go: Sunset or sunrise
How much time to spend here: 30 minutes
Price: IDR 10,000 (~ $1 AU) parking fee
What else to see close by: Mandalika Circuit

15. Rent a scooter and explore

The best way to explore Lombok is by scooter, and you’ll be able to see the area at your own pace. Rent a bike somewhere in Kuta or ask at your accommodation. Don’t pay more than IDR 60,000 (~ $6 AU) per day and haggle if necessary.

The roads in Kuta are great quality for the most part, and there are really only two routes you can take along the coast. This makes Kuta perfect for a road trip, and you’ll love how rural Lombok is with its small villages and untouched nature. Make sure to drive east and west from Kuta to see the best things to do in Lombok. You can also head north towards the waterfalls close to Mount Rinjani. or if you have the time, make a multi-day road trip out of it.

Top tip: Buy a plastic rain poncho before you go on your road trip. Rain always occurs unexpectedly in Lombok, and you’ll want to be prepared.

16. Visit the morning markets

In the mornings, you’ll often encounter street markets in and around Kuta selling fresh fruits and vegetables. The most notable one is located close to the port in Kuta and takes place most mornings before 10:00 AM. While this isn’t a huge market, it’s a nice spot to talk to locals and shop for some fresh produce. If you’re staying in Kuta for longer it can be a nice part of your morning routine to stop by the markets and buy some fruit for the day.

You’ll also occasionally find market stalls along the road on the western coastal route, especially in the early mornings. These smaller street markets are not touristy at all and are the perfect spot to pick up some fruit to enjoy at the beach.

17. Experience Kuta’s dining scene

Kuta has a growing selection of western restaurants, offering different cuisines like Mexican, middle-eastern or Italian food. With more appearing every year, you’ll have quite a few places to try and can easily eat out at a different location every day for a few weeks. Since Kuta is still so small, it’s much cheaper than popular places like Seminyak or Canggu in Bali. This makes it perfect for budget travellers who want to enjoy delicious food without breaking the budget. Some of the must-try restaurants include:

• Bush Radio – This coworking-friendly restaurant has a variety of delicious western food and a cool atmosphere.
• Ashtari – Come here for incredible organic and healthy slow food with a focus on Indian cuisine.
• Half Moon Restaurant – Affordable and delicious Arabian food and seafood BBQ.
• Herry Warung – Delicious and cheap Indonesian food prepared with love.
• Satu Lagi – Mexican restaurant with great deals and live music.

18. Go scuba diving

Kuta Lombok is an up-and-coming scuba diving destination and perfect for all levels of experience. Since it’s located so close to the Gili Islands, which are one of the best dive destinations in the world, you can easily extend your trip and head south to Kuta Lombok next, where you’ll encounter fewer other divers and an untouched underwater world.

Blue Marlin, Adventure Divers and Scuba Froggie are some of the most popular dive schools in Kuta and should be your first point of contact when looking to book a diving trip. Expect to pay around IDR 1 to IDR 3 million (~ $100 AU to $300 AU) for a day of diving, depending on the experience level and number of dives involved.

19. Party in Kuta Lombok

Kuta is a true surfer town with no loud clubs but plenty of laidback bars which come alive on the weekends. You can dance until the early morning hours, although the selection of venues is limited. During rainy season the nightlife is mostly concentrated to the weekends, although high season brings more people and, with that, the opportunity to go out any day you want.

Still, keep in mind that Kuta Lombok is not a party hotspot like Gili T or even Kuta in Bali. It’s a backpacker town, and therefore the nightlife is more subdued and relaxed.

Some of the best places to party in Kuta Lombok include:

• Surfer’s Bar: Beach bar with cheap prices and big parties on the weekend
• Rasta Bar: Reggae bar with live music and occasional parties
• Mad Monkey’s Kuta: Party hostel hosting events and pre-drinks
• Circuit Sports Bar: Sports bar which stays open late for events
• The Hive Bar: Cheap bar, which is either completely full or completely empty
• Rere Bar: Affordable bar with DJ and pool tables.

20. Run the Mandalika 100

The Mandalika 100 is an annual race taking place in Kuta Lombok in September. It follows a trail along the coastline which takes runners to deserted beaches and beautiful viewpoints. You can choose between a 25, 53 and 119 kilometre race which can be completed in multiple days. Make sure to register in advance and check out the official Mandalika 100 website for more information. Even if you’re in Kuta outside of the Mandalika 100 racing weekend you can still enjoy the trail which is well marked with concrete pillars.

Address: Official starting point of the Mandalika 100 race is Selong Belanak beach
Driving time from Kuta Lombok: ~ 35 minutes
Best time to go: September
How much time to spend here: 4 to 8 hours
Price: Race fee is between IDR 500,000  (~ $50 AU) and IDR 1.25 million (~ $125 AU) depending on the duration

What else to see in Lombok

Kuta is our favourite place in Lombok, but there is so much more to see on the island. If you have time definitely make sure to visit the following places as well.

Mount Rinjani

Mount Rinjani is the most famous tourist attraction in Lombok and a must-do for those visiting Indonesia. This volcano is the second-largest in Indonesia and there is even a lake at the crater which makes this an especially spectacular location. You can choose between different routes lasting between 2 to 5 days.

Tiu Kelep Waterfall

This beautiful waterfall is located in northern Lombok, close to Mount Rinjani. It costs just IDR 20,000 (~ $2 AU) per person to come here, and is great for taking photos or swimming. Just keep an eye on the monkeys.

Senggigi

Senggigi is another small beach town in Lombok, which is very similar to Kuta in some ways, although you’ll find fewer backpackers and more couples and families here. Senggigi is a lot smaller and has more resorts, but there are fewer things to do in this part of Lombok, although the beaches are absolutely fantastic.

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands which are located off the shore of north-western Lombok are known for nightlife, turtles and beautiful villas. Ride a bike around a tiny island, enjoy the beautiful underwater world and relax by the beach. You’ll love it.

Bukit Pergasingan

If you don’t want to commit to hiking all the way up to Mount Rinjani, Bukit Pergasinga might be the perfect place for you. This small mountain is 1,700 metres high and has amazing views of the volcano. Some hikers even camp at the top which makes it an even more exciting trip.

Kuta Lombok frequently asked questions

Did I miss anything?
If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post, please leave a comment below or contact me.