A Backpacker’s Guide to Kuta, Lombok
- Martha Pillin
- Nov 10, 2024
- 13 min read
Updated: Dec 20, 2024
Kuta, Lombok is a laid-back backpacker destination known for its stunning beaches, excellent surf spots, and affordable accommodations. It offers a relaxed vibe with budget-friendly guesthouses, local eateries, and access to natural beauty like Selong Belanak, Tanjung Aan, and Bukit Merese. With growing nightlife and adventure activities like hiking and snorkeling, it’s perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to Bali’s Kuta.
Chapters
How To Get To Kuta
Getting Around Kuta
Accommodation in Kuta
Top 4 Beaches To Visit In Kuta
Best Surf Schools In Kuta
Things To Do In Kuta
How To Get To Kuta
To reach Kuta you will first need to get to Lombok by either plane or boat. Once you have arrived on the island you will need to get transportation to your accommodation in Kuta.
Arriving by Plane
Fly into Lombok International Airport (LOP) and from here take transportation to Kuta. A flight from Bali takes less than an hour and costs around £50 depending on the time of year. Kuta is a 30 minute drive from the airport. You can take a private taxi, organise a shuttle with your hotel/hostel or use the Grab or Gojek app to find a ride.
Arriving by Boat from Padangbai (Bali)
If you choose to take a boat to Lombok from Bali, you can take a slower but cheaper public ferry or a faster but more expensive fast boat. Once you arrive in Lombok, you will then need to organise a taxi, private transfer or Grab/Gojek ride to your accommodation in Kuta. If you arrive in Bangsal Port (North) it takes about 2 - 2.5 hours to get to Kuta, compared to 1 - 1.5 hours if you arrive in Lembar.
Public Ferry Travel Time: 4 - 6 hours
Ticket Price: Starting at 60’000 IDR (£3)
Fast Boat Travel Time: 2.5 - 3 hours
Ticket Price: Starting at 300’000 IDR (£15)
Travel Tip
The boat journey from Bali to Lombok can be unpleasant and is well known for travelling through rough seas. Bring seasickness remedies if you are prone to motion sickness and if taking a fast boat, try and sit somewhere in the middle. You can get very wet sitting at the back or right at the front.
Getting Around Kuta
Getting around Kuta is relatively easy with a few common options:
Motorbike Rental
The most popular and affordable way to explore Kuta and its surroundings is by renting a motorbike. Daily rental prices range from 50’000 - 200’000 IDR (£2.50 - £10) depending on who you rent from. Many guesthouses and rental shops offer motorbikes, which are ideal for visiting nearby beaches and attractions. Make sure you have travel insurance in place before renting a bike, accidents can happen when we least expect them to.
Bicycles
For shorter distances, some travelers prefer renting bicycles. It’s a budget-friendly option, although less practical for reaching distant beaches.
Taxis, Grab and Gojek
Taxis can be found in town, and you can also use Grab and Gojek, local ride-hailing apps for short trips, although the service may be less available in rural areas.
Private Drivers
Hiring a private driver for the day is a convenient option for those who want to explore multiple spots in comfort. Costs typically range from 500,000 - 700,000 IDR (£25 - £35) for a full day of service.
Walking
Kuta itself is small enough to explore on foot, especially for visiting cafes, restaurants, and nearby shops.
These transport options allow backpackers to easily visit Kuta’s famous beaches, surf spots, and viewpoints.
Accommodation in Kuta
Mad Monkey Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and poolside.
Extras: Daily events, pub crawls, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, surf spots, and Kuta Lombok’s bars and restaurants.
Cost: £8–£20/night.
To view the hostel click here
Batatu Resort
Rooms: Private bungalows with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and modern amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, restaurant, and room service.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and lounge area.
Extras: Bike rentals, tour bookings, and beach access.
Location: Quiet area near the beach, with easy access to Kuta Lombok’s attractions.
Cost: £25–£50/night
To view the resort click here
Pipes Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Daily events, surfboard rentals, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, surf spots, and Kuta Lombok’s restaurants and bars.
Cost: £8–£18/night.
To view the hostel click here
Surf Camp 79
Rooms: Private rooms and shared dorms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and basic amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, surfboards for rent, and swimming pool.
Common Areas: Relaxed lounge, outdoor seating, and garden area.
Extras: Surf lessons, yoga sessions, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to popular surf spots and Kuta Lombok’s vibrant beach area.
Cost: £15–£30/night.
To view the hostel click here
Kaniu Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and lockers.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Surfboard rentals, bike rentals, and tour bookings.
Location: Close to the beach, surf spots, and Kuta Lombok’s local shops and restaurants.
Cost: £10–£20/night.
To view the hostel click here
The White Bay Hotel
Rooms: Private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and modern amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, restaurant, and room service.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and lounge area.
Extras: Bike rentals, tour bookings, and beach access.
Location: Close to the beach and local attractions in Kuta Lombok.
Cost: £30–£60/night.
To view the hotel click here
Mandalika Queen Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and lockers.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Surfboard rentals, bike rentals, and daily events.
Location: Close to Kuta Lombok’s beaches, surf spots, and local eateries.
Cost: £8–£18/night.
To view the hostel click here
Waiwas Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and lockers.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant.
Common Areas: Relaxed lounge, outdoor seating, and poolside area.
Extras: Surfboard rentals, yoga sessions, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach and popular surf spots in Kuta Lombok.
Cost: £12–£25/night.
To view the hostel click here
Puri Rinjani Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and lockers.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, and restaurant.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Surfboard rentals, bike rentals, and tour bookings.
Location: Close to the beach, surf spots, and local restaurants in Kuta Lombok.
Cost: £10–£20/night.
To view the hostel click here
Surfers Beachfront Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and lockers.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, beachfront access, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and beachside area.
Extras: Surfboard rentals, surf lessons, and bike rentals.
Location: Directly on the beachfront, close to popular surf spots and local attractions in Kuta Lombok.
Cost: £12–£25/night.
To view the hostel click here
Lara Homestay
Rooms: Private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and basic amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, garden, and room service.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating and relaxed communal space.
Extras: Bike rentals and tour bookings.
Location: Quiet, central location in Kuta Lombok, close to local shops and restaurants.
Cost: £10–£20/night.
To view the homestay click here
Food and Drink
Kuta is home to some great cafes, restaurants and bars perfect for relaxing in after a surf session or just enjoying a chilled-out vibe. Here are some of the best:
Cafes
1. Kenza Café
Known for its healthy, organic options and fresh juices. The café offers a great breakfast menu with smoothie bowls, salads, and fresh coffee. The relaxing vibe and stylish decor make it a favorite among visitors.
2. Milk Espresso
Popular for its top-notch coffee and hearty Australian-inspired breakfast. It’s great for brunch with options like avocado toast, eggs benedict, and gourmet sandwiches. They also serve burgers and cocktails later in the day.
3. Bush Radio
A trendy spot offering high-quality coffee, smoothie bowls, and wholesome meals. With its laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for working or catching up with friends. At night, it transforms into a lively spot for drinks and live music.
4. Terra
This eco-conscious café focuses on sustainability and offers an all-day breakfast menu with delicious vegan and gluten-free options. Its interior is minimalist and relaxing, great for a peaceful meal or coffee.
5. The Breakery
A French-style bakery and café, offering freshly baked croissants, pastries, and great coffee. It’s a go-to spot for those who love French-style breakfast or light snacks in a cozy setting.
Restaurants
1. El Bazar Café & Restaurant
Cuisine: Mediterranean and Middle Eastern
Known for its elegant decor and flavorful dishes like tagines, grilled lamb, and falafel. It’s a top choice for both dinner and brunch.
2. Ashtari Restaurant
Cuisine: Indonesian and fusion
Situated on a hilltop, Ashtari offers stunning views of the coastline. The menu features organic dishes, including a mix of Indonesian and international meals, with a focus on healthy, locally sourced ingredients.
3. Terra
Cuisine: Vegan and vegetarian
An eco-friendly restaurant focusing on plant-based meals, smoothies, and sustainable dining. The dishes are creative and full of flavour, catering to health-conscious backpackers
4. The Patio Lombok
Cuisine: Italian
Offers authentic Italian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Their wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta are standout items, along with a good selection of wines.
5. Warung Turtle
Cuisine: Local Indonesian
Famous for its affordable and authentic Indonesian food, including fresh seafood and local dishes like ayam taliwang and grilled fish.
Bars
1. The Bus Bar
A cool beach bar made from a converted bus, it offers a chill atmosphere with stunning sunset views. It’s a great spot to grab a beer or cocktail while enjoying the laid-back, bohemian vibe.
2. Surfer’s Bar
A popular spot among surfers, this bar offers a lively atmosphere with regular live music and a good range of cocktails and beers. It’s often packed with a fun, international crowd.
3. Rascals
Known for its craft cocktails and stylish decor, Rascals is a chic cocktail bar with a more upscale feel. It’s perfect for those looking for a more refined drinking experience.
4. Bush Radio Bar
By day, it’s a trendy café, but at night it transforms into a lively bar with a great selection of drinks and live music. It’s one of the most popular spots for evening hangouts.
5. Terra’s Rooftop Bar
Located above the popular Terra restaurant, this rooftop bar offers scenic views, craft cocktails, and a laid-back ambiance. It’s a great place to unwind in the evening.
Top 4 Beaches To Visit In Kuta
1. Tanjung Aan Beach:
Location: About 30 minutes' drive from Kuta.
Features: Known for its picturesque landscape with a crescent-shaped bay and clear turquoise waters. The beach has soft white sand and gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are also some local warungs (small restaurants) where you can enjoy fresh seafood and other local dishes.
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach combing, and snorkelling.
2. Selong Belanak Beach:
Location: Approximately 45 minutes' drive from Kuta.
Features: A long, wide beach with fine white sand and clear waters. The shallow waters make it suitable for beginner surfers and families. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills, adding to its scenic beauty.
Activities: Surfing (especially for beginners), swimming, sunbathing, and taking scenic walks along the shoreline.
3. Mawi Beach:
Location: About 45 minutes' drive from Kuta.
Features: Known for its excellent surf conditions and relatively uncrowded atmosphere. The beach is more rugged and less developed than some of the other beaches, which adds to its charm.
Activities: Surfing (intermediate to advanced levels), relaxing, and enjoying the natural surroundings. It’s also a good spot for watching the sunset.
4. Pink Beach:
Location: On the island of Komodo, which is a bit further from Kuta Lombok, so it requires a more significant travel effort, typically involving a flight or a boat trip.
Features: Famous for its unique pink sand, which is created by the mixing of white sand with red coral fragments. The beach has crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs.
Activities: Snorkelling, swimming, relaxing, and taking in the stunning natural beauty. It’s also a great place for photography due to its distinctive color and scenic landscape.
Best Surf Schools In Kuta
Several surf schools are well-regarded for their quality instruction and surf conditions. Here are some of the best:
1. Kuta Lombok Surf School:
Known for its friendly instructors and personalised lessons. They offer surf lessons for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers.
Facilities: Provides surfboards, rash guards, and transport to the best surf spots.
2. Lombok Surf House:
Offers a variety of surf packages, including private lessons, group sessions, and multi-day courses. The school is noted for its professional instructors and focus on safety.
Facilities: Surfboard rentals, surf gear, and transport services.
3. Kura Surf Camp:
Provides surf lessons in a relaxed and fun environment. They cater to all levels and emphasize hands-on teaching methods.
Facilities: Includes surfboard rentals, rash guards, and transport to local surf spots.
4. Happiness Surf School:
A reputable surf school with a strong presence in Kuta. They offer comprehensive surf lessons and have experienced instructors.
Facilities: Surfboards, rash guards, and transportation. They also have a bar and restaurant on site.
Each of these schools provides a range of options to suit different needs, from single lessons to extended surf programs, and they all offer equipment and transport to nearby surf spots.
Things To Do In Kuta
1. Surfing
Surfing is one of the top activities in Kuta thanks to its variety of surf spots that cater to all skill levels. Surfing allows for the opportunity to meet fellow surfers and locals in scenic tropical setting.
Beginners: Head to Selong Belanak or Tanjung Aan for smaller, gentler waves. Surf schools offer lessons here, and the beach has a friendly, laid-back vibe.
Intermediate to Advanced: Gerupuk and Mawi Beach are well-known for consistent surf breaks, offering larger waves with reef and point breaks.
2. Beach-Hopping:
Visit stunning beaches like Tanjung Aan for sunbathing, Mawun Beach for its tranquility, and Pink Beach for its unique pink-hued sand.
3. Bukit Merese Hill:
Bukit Merese Hill is one of the best spots in Lombok for panoramic views of the coastline. The hill is located just a short drive from Kuta and offers easy hiking with gentle slopes. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the turquoise waters, nearby beaches, and rugged cliffs.
Sunrise and Sunset: The hill is famous for its sunrise and sunset views, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Relaxation: The wide, grassy areas are ideal for picnicking or relaxing while soaking in the scenery.
After your hike, you can explore nearby beaches like Tanjung Aan or Seger Beach, which are just a short distance away from Bukit Merese.
4. Explore Traditional Sasak Villages:
Exploring Sasak villages like Sade and Ende gives you a glimpse into the traditional life and culture of the indigenous Sasak people of Lombok. These villages are known for their distinctive architecture, with thatched-roof houses made from bamboo, wood, and clay.
Sade Village: Offers a cultural immersion, where locals showcase their weaving skills and traditional dances. Visitors can purchase handwoven textiles (ikat).
Ende Village: Similar to Sade but quieter, offering a more intimate experience of Sasak traditions.
Both villages provide an authentic cultural experience and are a great way to learn about Lombok's rich heritage.
5. Snorkelling and Diving:
Snorkelling and diving near Kuta offer access to vibrant coral reefs, clear waters, and diverse marine life. While Kuta itself doesn't have the best underwater spots, nearby islands like Gili Nanggu, Gili Kedis, and Gili Sudak are top choices for snorkelers. These islands are home to healthy coral gardens, colorful fish, and even sea turtles. Dive sites like Belongas Bay and the Blue Hole offer thrilling experiences for more advanced divers, with the chance to see larger marine creatures like reef sharks and rays.
Many tour operators in Kuta organize day trips, providing snorkeling gear and guided experiences to these spots.
6. Yoga and Wellness Retreats:
Kuta offers several yoga studios and wellness retreats where you can relax and rejuvenate.
Desa Dunia Beda: This retreat offers a combination of yoga, meditation, and wellness programs in a tranquil setting. They provide accommodation in traditional-style bungalows and offer various packages that include yoga classes, healthy meals, and wellness treatments.
Rascals Surf Camp: While primarily a surf camp, Rascals also offers yoga classes as part of their wellness package. It's a good option if you're interested in combining yoga with surfing.
Kuta Lombok Yoga: Known for its relaxed atmosphere, this place offers yoga classes and wellness workshops. They often have short-term and long-term retreat options that cater to different needs and levels.
Sama Sama Yoga: This retreat focuses on providing a peaceful environment for yoga practice, meditation, and personal growth. They offer a variety of programs including detox diets and holistic therapies.
Kuta Beach Club: This resort provides wellness-focused activities including yoga sessions, often integrated into their stay packages, which can include access to wellness amenities and healthy dining options.
7. Waterfalls:
Near Kuta there are several beautiful waterfalls worth visiting:
Tiu Kelep Waterfall: Located in the northern part of Lombok, near Senaru village, this waterfall is known for its impressive height and lush surroundings. It's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Kuta, followed by a short trek through the jungle.
Sendang Gile Waterfall: Also situated in Senaru, this is one of Lombok's most famous waterfalls. It's a twin waterfall with a powerful flow, and you can reach it via a relatively easy hike.
Benang Stokel Waterfall: Located in the central part of Lombok, this waterfall consists of multiple cascades and is surrounded by a picturesque landscape. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Kuta, followed by a short walk.
Benang Kelambu Waterfall: Close to Benang Stokel, this waterfall is notable for its curtain-like appearance and is often visited together with Benang Stokel. It requires a short trek through the forest to reach.
Tiu Pupus Waterfall: Situated near Tiu Kelep, this waterfall is less frequented but offers a serene and beautiful environment. The trek to this waterfall can be combined with a visit to Tiu Kelep for a fuller experience.
For the best experience, it’s a good idea to go with a local guide who can help navigate the trails and ensure a safe visit.
8.Kuta Market:
Experience the local culture by visiting Kuta’s bustling markets, where you can find fresh produce, local textiles, and handmade crafts.
9. Moto-Touring:
Rent a scooter and explore the scenic coastal roads and lush hills around Kuta, visiting nearby villages and hidden beaches.
10. Fishing and Boat Tours:
Experience traditional fishing or book a boat tour to explore hidden beaches and islands along the coast.
Fishing tours in Kuta, Lombok, offer a great opportunity to experience the region’s rich marine life. Here are some options and considerations for fishing tours:
Charter Services: Several local operators offer private fishing charters. These tours can be tailored to your preferences, whether you’re interested in deep-sea fishing, trolling, or reef fishing. Operators often provide all necessary equipment and guide services.
Local Fishing Tours: Some local businesses and resorts offer guided fishing trips as part of their activities. These might include half-day or full-day tours and can be a convenient option if you prefer a package deal.
Common fishing experiences include:
Deep-Sea Fishing: For larger game fish such as tuna and marlin.
Reef Fishing: Targeting smaller fish around coral reefs, which is often a more relaxed experience.
Fly Fishing: Available in some areas if you’re interested in this specific technique.
You might want to check reviews and compare options to find a tour that best fits your needs and ensures a good experience.
Comments