Don’t Go to Lombok — You Won’t Want to Go Home

WARNING: reading this post might cause sudden urges to book a flight, quit your job, and move to a tropical island forever.

Lombok: Bali’s Laid-Back (and Less Crowded) Sibling

You’ve probably heard of Bali — Instagram certainly has. But just across the water lies Lombok, Indonesia’s underrated paradise that’s been quietly minding its own business while Bali soaks up all the spotlight.

If Bali is that friend who’s always at the party, Lombok is the chill one sipping coconut water on the beach — no crowds, no chaos, and no traffic jams longer than your vacation.

Why You Shouldn’t Go (Because You’ll Never Want to Leave)

Let’s be honest: Lombok is dangerously charming. Here’s why it’s too good for your own good.

1. The Beaches Look Photoshopped (but They’re Not)

The beaches in Lombok are so stunning, your camera roll might file for overtime. Think white sand that squeaks under your feet, water so clear it looks filtered, and sunsets that could win awards.

You’ll find your new happy place at Tanjung Aan, Selong Belanak, or Mawun Beach. But be warned — once you lay down your towel, you’ll start Googling “how to extend my visa.”

2. The Waterfalls Are Straight Out of a Fantasy Movie

Imagine trekking through lush jungle trails, only to find Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls cascading from the heart of Mount Rinjani. It’s like nature built an air-conditioned spa just for you.

You’ll get mist on your face, magic in your soul, and about 500 new photos that all look like National Geographic covers.

3. Mount Rinjani Will Steal Your Heart (and Your Breath)

This majestic volcano is the island’s crown jewel — and climbing it is the kind of “fun pain” that earns bragging rights for life.

When you reach the summit and see the crater lake glowing at sunrise, you’ll forget every muscle ache. You might even start planning your next hike up before you’ve climbed down.

4. The Gili Islands Are Too Close for Comfort

Lombok’s not done tempting you yet. Just a short boat ride away are the Gili Islands — three little gems where time slows down and cars are banned.

You’ll get around by bicycle or horse cart, snorkel with sea turtles, and party barefoot under the stars. Basically, it’s a place that whispers: “What’s a return ticket?”

5. The Locals Are So Friendly, You’ll Feel Adopted

The Sasak people of Lombok have smiles that could power solar panels. They’ll welcome you with warmth, teach you to weave, cook, and dance, and probably invite you to a family celebration if you stay long enough.

Before you know it, you’ll have more friends than you did back home — and more excuses to keep coming back.

When to Visit Lombok

The best time to visit Lombok is during the dry season (May to September) — perfect beach weather, clear skies, and calm seas. But even in the wet season, you’ll find fewer tourists, greener landscapes, and cozy afternoons for sipping Lombok coffee while pretending you’re writing your novel.

How to Get There

You can fly directly into Lombok International Airport (LOP) from Bali, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a fast boat from Bali — just long enough to question your life choices, and short enough to be worth it.

Warning

If you’re looking for reasons NOT to go to Lombok, here they are:

• You’ll forget what stress feels like.
• You’ll stop checking your email.
• You’ll daydream about opening a beach bar called “Still Here.”

So, seriously — don’t go to Lombok… unless you’re ready to NEVER want to go home.