In a nutshell
- Planning a trip to Lombok but not sure which area to stay in? We’ve done the research — here’s exactly what you need to know.
- The most popular base with solid tourist infrastructure is the surfer town of Kuta in southern Lombok. Our top hotel pick: El Tropico Boutique Hotel.
- Prefer something quieter without giving up beautiful beaches? Stay in Senggigi. Our top hotel pick: Sammy Cottage Senggigi.
- For a real island paradise vibe, head to the Gili Islands — seriously great for snorkeling and beach days. Our top pick: The Koho Air Hotel on Gili Air.
The Best Places to Stay on Lombok
We’ll give you a quick overview of the best places to stay on Lombok and then introduce each one in more detail.
- Kuta: ideal if you’re looking for a popular beach resort town.
- Senggigi: perfect if you want to stay in a peaceful area with plenty of beaches.
- Gili Islands: great for snorkeling and if you love white sandy beaches and turquoise water.
- Rinjani: around the Rinjani volcano there are many small mountain villages that make great starting points for the Rinjani hike and waterfall visits.
An Overview of Lombok's Areas on a Map
To help you get your bearings, we’ve marked the different areas on a map.
Where to Stay in Kuta
Kuta is perfect for you if you love surfing and are looking for a lively, hip spot with plenty of restaurants.
For many visitors, Kuta is the first stop on Lombok in Indonesia. The town has the most developed tourist infrastructure: local and international restaurants, hotels, and tour operators.
You’ll also find plenty of beautiful beaches near Kuta for snorkeling and surfing — Kuta is very much a surfer town with hip cafés and a laid-back vibe.
Another big plus: Kuta is close to Lombok Airport.
Advantages of staying in Kuta:
- Lots of hotels in every price range
- Wide selection of restaurants
- Beautiful beaches nearby for snorkeling and surfing
- Close to the airport
Disadvantages of staying in Kuta:
- Very touristy
- Long way to the highlights in the north (Rinjani, Gili Islands)
Our Hotel Recommendations for Kuta
The El Tropico is one of the most beautiful boutique hotels on Lombok. It’s right in the heart of Kuta, the rooms are seriously stylish, and there are several pools where you can kick back and relax.
Good and affordable
Better
Luxurious
Where to Stay in Senggigi
Senggigi Beach is perfect for you if you want a peaceful beachside base and plan to explore Lombok on day trips.
Senggigi itself is actually just a small town with a beach along a main road. However, the entire area north of Mataram is often referred to as Senggigi.
Almost all accommodations here are located along the main road, which winds past beaches and viewpoints.
There are no large towns nearby, so the area stays quiet and is really great for relaxing.
Advantages of staying in Senggigi:
- Many beautiful beaches nearby
- Peaceful surroundings and very authentic in many spots
- Good base for day trips around the island
Disadvantages of staying in Senggigi:
- No larger town nearby
- Smaller selection of restaurants and bars
Our Hotel Recommendations for Senggigi Beach
We stayed at the Sammy Cottage and the value for money is honestly excellent. For more luxury and a direct beachfront location, check out the Sudamala Resort.
Good and affordable
Better
Luxurious
Where to Stay on the Gili Islands
The Gili Islands are ideal if you want to snorkel and can’t resist turquoise water and white sandy beaches.
Gili translates to “small island,” which is why all the small islands off Lombok carry the Gili name. Most of the time, though, people mean the three islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air.
They all share one thing: gorgeous sandy beaches with turquoise water and excellent snorkeling. All three Gili Islands also offer plenty of lodging options across every price range.
The largest island is Gili Trawangan — this is where you’ll find the best nightlife and the most action. Gili Meno is the quietest and is especially well-suited for couples. Gili Air is a mix of both.
Advantages of staying on the Gili Islands:
- Stunning beaches and great snorkeling
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Relaxed island vibe with little traffic
- There are ferries directly from Bali
Disadvantages of staying on the Gili Islands:
- Besides beach vacationing, there isn’t much else to do
- Very touristy
Our Hotel Recommendations for Gili Trawangan
Our Hotel Tips for Gili Meno
Our Hotel Recommendations for Gili Air
Where to Stay near Rinjani Volcano
We recommend staying in a village near Mount Rinjani if you want to hike the volcano and visit waterfalls.
If you don’t just want to stick to the beach but also want to experience the mountains, the area around Rinjani Volcano is the perfect choice. We’d suggest the two villages of Tetebatu and Senaru.
Senaru is a great starting point for the Rinjani hike. The Tiu Kelep Waterfall here is also a true top attraction on Lombok.
Tetebatu is located on the southern side of Rinjani Volcano, and here too you’ll find plenty of waterfalls as well as the popular Monkey Forest.
Advantages of staying near Rinjani Volcano:
- Great views of the mountains
- Perfect base for the volcano hike and waterfall visits
- Lots of affordable accommodations
- Authentic surroundings
Disadvantages of staying near Rinjani Volcano:
- Mostly basic accommodations
- Long drive from the other tourist areas
Our Hotel Tips for Rinjani Volcano
We stayed at the Ila Homestay in Senaru — the hosts were incredibly welcoming and organized the Rinjani hike for us. The place is also clean and super affordable.
