Kuta Lombok

A surf town and the Mandalika resort area on Lombok's south coast, with one white-sand bay after another; sunset from Bukit Merese and traditional Sasak villages are the highlights.

Kuta Lombok lies on the south coast of Central Lombok Regency in Indonesia's West Nusa Tenggara province. It is the heart of the Mandalika Special Economic Zone, just about 20 km (a 30-minute drive) from Lombok International Airport. Unlike the bustle of Kuta in Bali, it is still a laid-back surf town, though it has grown quickly in recent years with the Mandalika circuit (home of the Indonesian MotoGP) and new beachfront hotels. The area breaks down into three parts. To the east are Tanjung Aan beach, Bukit Merese, Batu Payung and Gerupuk Bay—watching the sunset from Bukit Merese is the signature experience. To the west, along the coast, come Mawun, Selong Belanak, Mawi and Semeti, with everything from sandy-bottomed beginner waves to advanced reef breaks. North along the main road, the villages of Sade and Ende showcase traditional thatched Sasak houses and weaving. Further afield, Ekas Bay and Pink Beach in East Lombok make good day trips by private car or boat. April–October is the dry season, with sunny weather and good roads, and the south-coast swell is biggest May–September; November–March is the rainy season with frequent showers and muddy dirt roads. Every February–March the Sasak people hold the Bau Nyale sea-worm festival. Getting there: from Bali, fly (about 40 minutes) or take a fast boat to Lombok. In town, most people rent a scooter (Rp 70,000–100,000 per day) or hire a car with driver; there is no public transport. Stay 3–4 nights. Note: most beaches have no lifeguards and rip currents are strong; some beaches charge a parking fee; the local population is mainly Muslim, so dress modestly away from the beach and be mindful of eating and drinking in public during Ramadan.

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