Surf Days in Lombok, Indonesia

After exploring the wild waters of Komodo, our next stop was Lombok, Indonesia. An island that feels like a secret kept by surfers and sea lovers. Here, the days move slower and the beaches stretch the south coast as people discover more and more surf breaks. Of course there is the sound of scooters and chatter from tourists and locals alike.

It’s Bali’s laid back sister. Less polished, more peaceful, and the kind of place where you can still find coconut lined shores all to yourself.

ISLAND CALM

From the moment we arrived, Lombok felt different. The air was hot but breezy and life here seemed to follow the tide instead of the clock. Our first stop: Tanjung Aan Beach, where turquoise water meets blush sand and colorful beach chairs sit under palm fringed huts. Prepare to take a deep breath, and think “okay, this is paradise.”

SURF DAYS

If there’s one word that sums up Lombok, it’s surf. From beginners catching their first waves to pros chasing reef breaks, this island has it all! We started our surf days at Tanjung Aan, a cool spot that feels local but (watch out) is not undiscovered! You’ll be competing with tons of surfers as you wait for long rolling waves here. But once you ride a small wave for a minute, you’ll be glad you came.

I remember paddling out for the first time: sun glistening on the water, a few soft peaks rolling through and feeling that quiet, salty kind of joy that only the ocean gives…and my instructor yelling paddle, paddle! Everyone cheers each other on here. Whether you wipe out or ride your longest wave, someone’s clapping for you.

TIP: If you’re learning to surf, Selong Belanak is perfect. The waves are gentle, the surf schools are run by locals, and you’ll probably end the lesson laughing more than paddling.

COLORS EVERYWHERE

What stood out most to me wasn’t just the surf. It was the color. Everywhere you look, Lombok bursts with inspiration: the coral hued boards leaning against palm trees, the minty green surf shacks, the bold blue of the sea. The whole island is like a painter’s palette. Bright, sun faded, and perfectly imperfect. It’s no wonder so many creatives and surfers end up staying longer than planned.

POST SURF MOMENTS

Afternoons in Lombok are for slowing down. After hours in the water, we’d collapse into the red loungers at Tanjung Aan, sip fresh coconuts, and watch the sunlight turn golden. Sometimes I’d sketch or journal, other times we’d just float in our hotel pool, feeling island life engulf us.

Of course, I hit up almost every cafe I could find and these coffee spots could definitely compete with Bali’s scene, I was so impressed! I feel like Lombok is not far away from being the next Bali, so visiting now is definitely the right choice.

What I love about Lombok is that it’s not trying too hard. It doesn’t need beach clubs or big resorts to impress you. It just is. It’s the smiles of the surf instructors and the freedom of long days spent outside. It’s that perfect balance of adventure and peace, the kind that fills you up creatively and reminds you how good simplicity can feel.

MORE SURF SPOTS…

If you’re dreaming of a surf trip that feels easy, warm, and endlessly inspiring, Lombok, Indonesia deserves a spot at the top of your list. We went to a more undiscovered spot to surf after Kuta, but you’ll have to watch the vlog for that one:)

Catch a few waves, chase a few sunsets, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself staying longer than you planned.

🎥 Watch my Lombok Surf Vlog to see the full adventure, surf sessions, road trips, and the island life.
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Missed the earlier adventures? Start here.