Lombok doesn’t ask for your time—it demands your attention. One island over from Bali, yet worlds apart in pace and energy, Lombok is rugged, raw, and real. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, summiting volcanoes, or just weaving your way through sleepy coastal villages, Lombok brings that edge of adventure that travelers crave and tourists often miss.
If you’re short on time—maybe you’re on a Bali trip and contemplating a quick escape—don’t write off Lombok. One full day here can pack in a week’s worth of highlights if you do it right. In this complete one-day itinerary, I’ll walk you through exactly how to maximize 24 hours in Lombok, from sunrise on the coast to sunset over the rice paddies.
Getting to Lombok
The easiest and most scenic way to arrive in Lombok is by ferry from Bali. The boat ride gives you time to watch Bali’s skyline fade while Rinjani’s jagged silhouette rises ahead. You can book a direct ferry from Bali to Lombok through Ferryhopper, which compares routes and prices, and gives you a stress-free option to lock in your ticket before you even pack your bag.
Pro tip: Take the earliest ferry possible—ideally before 7 AM. This ensures you hit the ground running once you land on Lombok’s shores.
Sunrise: Tanjung Aan Beach
After docking in Bangsal or Lembar, head straight to the southern coast. You’ll want to make your way to Tanjung Aan, one of the most serene beaches in Lombok. It’s a two-kilometer crescent of powdery white sand, and in the early morning, it’s almost always empty. The water here is calm and turquoise—perfect for a quick dip to shake off the ferry ride.
If you’re feeling active, hike up the nearby Merese Hill, which gives you a panoramic view of the coastline. It’s a gentle 10-minute walk and totally worth the perspective it offers on the untamed beauty of southern Lombok.
Breakfast: Kuta Café Culture
After sunrise, roll into Kuta Lombok—not to be confused with its chaotic namesake in Bali. This is the backpacker-meets-surfer enclave of the island, and it’s got a mellow café scene that’s starting to rival Bali’s Canggu or Uluwatu.
Grab breakfast at Milk Espresso, one of the best spots in town. They do a solid avocado toast and consistently good coffee. If you’re more of a smoothie bowl person, check out Kenza Café just down the road.
Spend an hour here soaking in the vibe, chatting with locals, or maybe catching up on your travel journal. Kuta is laid-back but full of stories.
Late Morning: Surf or Swim at Selong Belanak
Lombok’s southern beaches are what surfers dream about: uncrowded, glassy waves, and mellow lineups. Even if you’re a total beginner, Selong Belanak is the perfect place to try your hand at surfing. There are soft, consistent waves and plenty of instructors along the beach who can give you a one-hour crash course.
Not into surfing? No worries. The beach is stunning even just to hang out on. The backdrop is pure jungle-covered hills, and fishermen regularly herd water buffalo across the sand—seriously, it feels like a NatGeo moment.
Lunch: Local Sasak Flavors
By midday, hunger will be setting in, and it’s time to dig into some local food. For a taste of traditional Sasak cuisine, head to Warung Flora in Kuta. Try the Ayam Taliwang, a spicy grilled chicken dish that’s a Lombok specialty, or Plecing Kangkung, a spicy water spinach dish served with sambal and crunchy peanuts.
The meals are simple but packed with flavor—and best of all, they’re usually under $3 USD.
Afternoon: Benang Kelambu Waterfall
After lunch, it’s time to chase one of Lombok’s lushest waterfalls. From Kuta, you’ll need about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Benang Kelambu, but it’s absolutely worth the drive. This waterfall isn’t your typical drop—Benang Kelambu cascades through a curtain of vines, making it look like water is pouring directly out of the jungle walls.
There’s also a second waterfall—Benang Stokel—just a 15-minute walk from Kelambu, so you can easily tick off two epic spots in one go. If you’re comfortable riding a scooter, the journey there is part of the experience: winding roads, local villages, rice fields, and the occasional monkey crossing.
Wear sturdy shoes, bring swimwear, and pack a dry bag for your electronics. The mist here is relentless (in the best way).
Sunset: Bukit Selong or Sembalun Rice Terraces
If you’ve still got energy (and daylight), make your way toward Sembalun in the north. It’s a bit of a stretch on a one-day trip, but catching the golden hour over Bukit Selong is nothing short of magic. You’ll stand above a patchwork quilt of vibrant rice terraces, with Mount Rinjani looming in the background.
Alternatively, if the drive is too much, loop back to the coast and catch the sunset from Mawi Beach or Seger Point near Kuta. Either way, Lombok sunsets will blow you away.
Evening Wind Down: Back to Base
After sunset, you’ll want to wind down with a laid-back dinner and maybe a Bintang or two. El Bazar in Kuta is a cozy Mediterranean-Lombok fusion spot that’s perfect for reflecting on a wild day. Or, if you’re on a budget and want something local, try Nugget’s Corner, a backpacker favorite known for good food and even better vibes.
If you’ve booked a late ferry or are staying overnight, Kuta is the best place to base yourself—it’s central, safe, and full of affordable guesthouses and stylish boutique stays.
Final Thoughts: Is One Day in Lombok Enough?
Honestly? No. Lombok deserves more. But if all you’ve got is one day, it’s still possible to walk away with salt in your hair, dirt on your shoes, and a heart that’s a little fuller than it was yesterday.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, surfing perfect waves, or just soaking in the rhythm of rural Indonesia, Lombok reminds you what real travel feels like—raw, unpolished, and unforgettable.
So next time you’re looking at that Bali itinerary and thinking of something extra—go. Book the ferry through Ferryhopper, rise early, and squeeze the juice out of every hour on this island that rewards curiosity and punishes hesitation.
Got more time? Consider hiking Mount Rinjani or exploring the Gili Islands just off the coast. But even if you only get one day, Lombok delivers.
