Lombok & Gili Islands
Unspoilt beaches and car-free island bliss 🐢🚲
Lombok and the Gili Islands provide two distinct but complementary experiences for families. Lombok is often described as 'Bali twenty years ago'—less crowded, greener, and slower-paced. The southern coast, particularly around Kuta Lombok, features stunning white-sand beaches with rolling waves suitable for beginner surfers. Inland, the landscape is dominated by the majestic Mount Rinjani. While climbing the summit is a strenuous trek for older teens and adults, families with younger kids can enjoy the lower slopes, visiting the cooling waters of Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls.
A short boat ride away lie the famous Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. These tiny islets are completely motorized-vehicle-free, making them incredibly safe for children to explore. Transport is by bicycle or cidomo (horse-drawn cart). Gili Air is often the favourite for families, striking a balance between the upbeat energy of Trawangan and the quiet isolation of Meno. The shallow, clear waters are teeming with marine life; it is common to spot green sea turtles grazing on seagrass just a few metres from the shore, an experience that delights swimmers of all abilities.
Culturally, Lombok offers the chance to visit Sasak villages like Sade or Ende, where houses are built from bamboo and buffalo dung (dried and odorless!). Here, families can watch traditional weaving demonstrations and learn about the unique customs of the island's indigenous people. The food in Lombok tends to be spicy—famous for its Taliwang chicken—but plenty of mild options and western favourites are available in tourist areas.
Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly beach bungalows to luxury villas. The dry season (May to September) is the best time to visit to ensure calm seas for island hopping. For families seeking a beach holiday that combines the convenience of tourism infrastructure with the charm of a car-free lifestyle, the Gilis are unbeatable, while mainland Lombok offers a dose of adventure and culture.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
The towering Mount Rinjani offers one of Southeast Asia's most spectacular volcanic trekking experiences for adventurous families. The dry season (Jul-Sep) is essential for safe summit attempts and clear views, whereas the trails are often closed during the hazardous wet season.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Home to the world-class Gili Islands and the pristine bays of South Lombok, offering exceptional snorkeling with sea turtles and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Peak months provide optimal sea visibility and dry weather, while the monsoon season (Nov-Mar) brings heavy rain and reduced water clarity.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Offers a sophisticated, serene alternative to Bali with high-end eco-luxury resorts and secluded spa retreats. The low humidity and pleasant breezes of the dry season are ideal for outdoor wellness, while high rainfall in winter can limit the tranquility of the experience.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Features world-renowned surf breaks in Kuta Lombok and premier diving sites around the Gilis with professional infrastructure. Peak conditions align with the dry season's consistent swells and high visibility, while the rainy season may disrupt boat transfers and outdoor activities.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
The coastal roads along the south and west offer breathtaking, dramatic vistas and access to remote, authentic villages. Dry months ensure safe driving conditions on winding mountain roads, which can become dangerous or blocked during the heavy monsoon rains.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
While lacking major world-class museums, the region offers authentic immersion into Sasak culture and unique Balinese-Hindu temples like Lingsar. Cultural exploration is most comfortable when the weather is dry, as many traditional villages are best navigated on foot.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Provides unique opportunities for children to learn about marine biology at turtle sanctuaries and volcanic geology at the Rinjani Geopark. These experiences are most accessible and engaging during the dry season when outdoor field centers and park rangers are fully operational.
Attractions (49 total)
Natural Hot Spring / Thermal Bath / Historic Bathhouse
Aik Kalak Hot Springs
Sembalun (Mount Rinjani)
37-43°C natural geothermal pools located on the trekking route of Mount Rinjani near Segara Anak lake. High sulfur content, considered sacred for medicinal healing.
Air Panas Bunut Ngengkang
Lingsar
Local thermal bath facility with naturally heated spring pools. Features tiered bathing areas with varying temperatures set within a tropical village landscape.
Pemandian Air Panas Sebau
Sapit
Natural volcanic hot spring facility featuring outdoor pools with high mineral content. Surrounded by forest, the water is naturally heated and used for therapeutic bathing.
National Park / Nature Reserve
Gili Matra Marine Protected Area
Gili Islands
A protected marine reserve encompassing the three Gili islands, famous for sea turtle conservation and vibrant coral reef snorkeling.
Mount Rinjani National Park
Sembalun
A breathtaking UNESCO Global Geopark featuring Indonesia's second-highest volcano and the stunning Segara Anak crater lake.
Visit website →Kerandangan Nature Park
Senggigi
A peaceful forest reserve near the main tourist strip, perfect for spotting tropical birds and monkeys on easy walking paths.
Gunung Tunak Nature Park
Kuta
A scenic coastal reserve offering family-friendly trekking trails, dramatic limestone cliffs, and a butterfly conservation center.
Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Gili Trawangan Beaches
Gili Trawangan
Pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for family snorkeling and spotting sea turtles.
Benang Kelambu Waterfall
Aik Berik
A unique waterfall where water emerges from thick foliage like a curtain of silk, providing a magical backdrop for family photos.
Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls
Senaru
Two spectacular jungle waterfalls located at the foot of Mount Rinjani, offering a refreshing natural dip for adventurous families.
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Gili Trawangan Coastal Area
Gili Trawangan
The largest of the three Gili Islands, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and famous underwater statues.
Visit website →Kuta Beach Lombok
Kuta
A popular white-sand beach famous for its dramatic coastal scenery and world-class surfing breaks.
Visit website →Selong Belanak Beach
Selong Belanak
A stunning crescent-shaped bay with shallow, calm waters ideal for families and beginner surfers.
Tanjung Aan Beach
Kuta
A breathtaking pair of white-sand bays separated by a scenic viewpoint hill, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Mawun Beach
Kuta
A secluded and picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay featuring deep blue waters and pristine white sand.
Pink Beach (Pantai Tangsi)
Jerowaru
One of the few beaches in the world with distinct pink-tinted sand created by microscopic coral organisms.
Senggigi Beach
Senggigi
Lombok's primary coastal resort area, known for its palm-fringed shoreline and spectacular sunset views over the Bali Strait.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Islamic Center Mataram
Mataram
The largest mosque in the province, this landmark features grand architecture with vibrant domes and a minaret offering panoramic views of the city and mountains.
Pura Batu Bolong
Senggigi
A beautiful Hindu temple situated on a jagged volcanic rock outcrop with a natural arch, providing iconic views of the Lombok Strait.
Taman Narmada
Narmada
A historic royal garden built as a replica of Mount Rinjani, featuring terraced pools and lush gardens designed for the ancient kings of Mataram.
Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Lombok Wildlife Park
Tanjung
An interactive wildlife sanctuary where families can feed exotic birds, meet elephants, and interact with various animals in a lush garden setting.
Visit website →Sade Traditional Village
Pujut
A living museum and rural settlement of the Sasak people, featuring traditional thatched-roof houses and demonstrations of age-old weaving techniques.
Tetebatu Village
Tetebatu
A tranquil rural destination offering guided walks through stunning rice terraces, vanilla plantations, and local farms on the slopes of Mount Rinjani.
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Malimbu Hill Scenic Drive
Senggigi
25km paved coastal road (1-2 hours) along the west coast. Features dramatic cliffside views, overlooking the three Gili Islands and Bali's Mount Agung in the distance. Key stops include Malimbu Hill 1 and 2 and Nipah Beach.
Visit website →Sembalun Highlands Route
Aikmel
45km paved mountain pass (2.5 hours) ascending to the foothills of Mount Rinjani. Features steep hairpin turns, the Pusuk Sembalun viewpoint at 1,500m, and views of the patchwork agricultural valleys and volcanic peaks.
Visit website →Pusuk Pass Monkey Forest Road
Gunungsari
15km paved jungle pass (45 mins) connecting Mataram to Pemenang. A winding mountain road through dense tropical rainforest known for its large population of wild macaques and panoramic views of the northern coastline.
Visit website →South Lombok Coastal Drive
Kuta Lombok
30km paved rural road (1.5 hours) connecting Kuta to Selong Belanak. Passes through traditional Sasak villages and provides access to spectacular beaches like Mawun and Mawi, characterized by rolling green hills and turquoise bays.
Visit website →Hiking & Cycling Routes
Mount Rinjani Trek (Sembalun to Senaru)
Sembalun
37km challenging 3-to-4-day trek with approximately 3,000m total elevation gain, reaching the 3,726m summit. Features the Segara Anak crater lake and hot springs. Equipment rental: Rinjani Samalas (rinjanisamalas.com).
Visit website →Gili Trawangan Island Loop
Gili Trawangan
7km easy perimeter loop on a flat sandy and paved track. Takes 1 hour walking or 30 minutes cycling. Bike rentals are available at almost every hotel and shop on the island.
Visit website →Gunung Tunak Coastal Trail
Kuta Lombok
5km easy/moderate coastal loop with 150m elevation gain, typically taking 2 hours. Leads through a nature reserve to the dramatic Sari Goang limestone cliffs. Access via the TWA Gunung Tunak visitor center.
Visit website →Senggigi to Pemenang Coastal Route
Senggigi
25km moderate cycling route along the coastline with roughly 450m elevation gain, including the steep Malimbu Hill. Typical duration 2-3 hours. Bike rental: Lombok Biking (lombokbiking.com).
Visit website →Pergasingan Hill Trail
Sembalun Lawang
6km moderate loop hike with 600m elevation gain, taking 3-4 hours. Famous for sunrise views over the patchwork agricultural fields of Sembalun and Mount Rinjani. Guide services: Sembalun Trekking (sembaluntrekking.com).
Visit website →Water Park / Splash Park / Aquatic Centre
Narmada Park
Mataram
A historic royal summer palace and water park featuring terraced gardens and large spring-fed swimming pools designed to replicate the shape of Mount Rinjani.
Kura Kura Waterpark
Mataram
Lombok's primary dedicated aquatic amusement center featuring multiple swimming pools, winding water slides, and a dedicated children's splash area.
Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Narmada Park (Taman Narmada)
Mataram
A historic 18th-century royal summer palace featuring beautiful gardens and a holy spring designed to replicate Mount Rinjani.
Pura Meru
Mataram
The largest and oldest Hindu temple in Lombok, built in 1720, featuring distinctive multi-tiered thatched-roof shrines.
Mayura Water Palace
Mataram
An 18th-century royal palace complex featuring a floating pavilion surrounded by a large artificial lake and historic statues.
Pura Lingsar
Lingsar
A unique 18th-century temple complex and historic site where Hindus and Muslims worship together, symbolizing Lombok's religious harmony.
Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Sade Traditional Sasak Village
Central Lombok
A well-preserved traditional Sasak village where families can see unique thatched-roof houses and learn about local weaving culture.
Ampenan Old Town
Mataram
A historic port district showcasing weathered Dutch colonial architecture and a glimpse into Lombok's maritime history.
Ende Traditional Village
Central Lombok
An authentic Sasak cultural village offering a peaceful look into traditional agrarian life and ancestral building styles.
Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Autore Pearl Discovery Centre
Pemenang
An educational facility explaining the marine science and biological processes involved in South Sea pearl cultivation.
Visit website →Rinjani Geopark Information Center
Sembalun
A discovery hub for the UNESCO Global Geopark detailing the volcanic history and unique ecology of Mount Rinjani.
Visit website →Aquarium / Sea Life Centre
Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary
Gili Meno
A dedicated conservation center where families can observe various species of sea turtles in outdoor pools before their release.
Gili Trawangan Turtle Hatchery
Gili Trawangan
An accessible marine conservation site featuring tanks of hatchlings and informative displays about sea turtle protection efforts.
Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Mandalika Adventure
Kuta Lombok
An outdoor activity center offering exhilarating ATV and dirt bike tours through the rugged coastal hills and scenic vistas of southern Lombok.
Stud Horse Riding
Gili Trawangan
A well-established equestrian center providing guided horse riding excursions across the white sand beaches and inland trails of Gili Trawangan.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Lombok Botanic Garden (Kebun Raya Lombok)
Suwela
A sprawling conservation area dedicated to preserving the diverse flora of the Lesser Sunda Islands, offering scenic walking paths and educational plant displays.
Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Museum Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat
Mataram
The island's premier cultural institution showcasing a rich collection of Sasak artistic heritage, including traditional Songket textiles, ceremonial masks, and intricate wood carvings.
