Top Activities & Things to Do in Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia
Lombok and the Gili Islands are tropical paradise destinations offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. From pristine beaches and diving spots to volcano treks and traditional villages, here are the best activities and things to do:
Top Things to Do in Lombok
1. Climb Mount Rinjani (Gunung Rinjani)
- Indonesia’s second-highest volcano and a must-do for adventure lovers.
- Trek to the summit (2-3 days) for breathtaking sunrise views over the crater lake.
- Visit Segara Anak Lake & Hot Springs for a refreshing soak after trekking.
- Best time: April - December (dry season).
2. Visit the Stunning Beaches of Lombok
- Tanjung Aan Beach – Soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water.
- Mawun Beach – A peaceful bay, great for swimming and sunbathing.
- Pink Beach (Tangsi Beach) – Famous for its unique pink-hued sand.
- Selong Belanak Beach – The best beach for beginner surfers.
3. Learn to Surf in Kuta, Lombok
- Kuta is Lombok’s surfing capital with waves for beginners & pros.
- Best spots: Selong Belanak, Gerupuk Bay, Mawi Beach.
- Surf schools & rentals are widely available.
4. Explore Sasak Culture & Traditional Villages
- Sade & Ende Villages – Home to the indigenous Sasak people, known for traditional woven fabrics and unique houses.
- Try the Sasak-style handwoven fabric (Ikat and Songket).
- Watch the traditional Peresean stick-fighting performance.
5. Chase Waterfalls in North Lombok
- Tiu Kelep Waterfall – A magical jungle waterfall near Mount Rinjani.
- Sendang Gile Waterfall – Easier to reach and perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Benang Stokel & Benang Kelambu – Twin waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery.
6. Snorkeling & Diving at Sekotong & South Gilis
- Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis – Less crowded islands with incredible coral reefs.
- Sekotong Bay – A hidden gem for snorkeling & diving with colorful fish and sea turtles.
7. Sunset at Malimbu Hill & Bukit Merese
- Malimbu Hill – The best viewpoint for sunset over the Gili Islands.
- Bukit Merese – A scenic hill near Kuta with panoramic ocean views.
8. Visit the Floating Mosque of Lombok (Masjid Bayan Beleq)
- One of the oldest mosques in Lombok, with a unique traditional architecture.
- A spiritual and historical site reflecting Islamic heritage in Lombok.
Top Things to Do in the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno & Gili Air)
9. Snorkeling & Diving in Gili Islands
- The Gili Islands are world-famous for snorkeling and diving.
- Best Snorkeling & Diving Spots:
- Turtle Heaven (Gili Meno) – Swim with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters.
- Gili Meno Underwater Statues – A stunning underwater sculpture garden.
- Bounty Wreck (Gili Meno) – A sunken shipwreck for diving enthusiasts.
- Shark Point (Gili Trawangan) – Spot blacktip reef sharks.
10. Ride a Bicycle Around the Gili Islands
- No motorized vehicles on the Gilis – only bicycles and horse carts (Cidomo).
- Rent a bike and explore Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, or Gili Air at your own pace.
11. Experience Gili Trawangan Nightlife
- Gili Trawangan (Gili T) is the party island of the Gilis.
- Best Beach Bars & Party Spots:
- Sama Sama Reggae Bar
- Sunset Ombak Bar
- Jungle Party (weekly)
12. Relax on Gili Meno (The Honeymoon Island)
- The quietest & most romantic Gili Island, perfect for couples & honeymooners.
- Enjoy secluded white-sand beaches & calm waters.
13. Sunset Watching at Gili Trawangan Swing
- Iconic ocean swings at Ombak Sunset Beach.
- One of the best Instagram spots in Indonesia.
- Enjoy stunning sunset views over Bali’s Mount Agung.
14. Yoga & Wellness in Gili Air
- Gili Air is the most relaxed island, perfect for yoga retreats & wellness activities.
- Best yoga centers:
- H2O Yoga & Meditation
- Flowers & Fire Yoga Garden
15. Try Fresh Seafood at a Beach BBQ
- Each Gili Island has fresh seafood night markets.
- Enjoy grilled fish, squid, prawns, and local sambal sauces.
Why Visit Lombok & Gili Islands?
Less crowded than Bali but just as beautiful.
World-class snorkeling & diving with crystal-clear waters.
Authentic Sasak culture & traditional villages.
Stunning waterfalls, volcanoes, and adventure activities.
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