Have you ever found yourself dreaming about riding the perfect wave while discovering a hidden paradise? My recent 10-day surf adventure from Bali to Kuta, Lombok, in January 2025, was exactly that. Don’t let the wet season (November to April) trick you; the offshore winds create fantastic surfing conditions. Plus, exploring Lombok on a rental scooter gives you a unique view of this breathtaking island.

Why Lombok is a Surfer's Haven

Lombok is truly a surfer's paradise, with breaks that cater to everyone, from newbies to seasoned pros. While the island is famous for its beginner and intermediate spots, the legendary Desert Point really shines during the dry season, delivering world-class waves for advanced surfers. This makes Lombok a go-to destination for wave riders all year round.

Getting There: Bali to Lombok

Traveling from Bali to Lombok can be done in a couple of straightforward ways:

• Fast Boat: You can catch ferries that leave from Padang Bai port.

• Flight: There are direct flights available from Denpasar Airport.

If you're thinking about taking your rental scooter Lombok style from Bali, cargo ferries are an option, but just a heads up – it might take longer and be a bit less comfy. The ferries come in different shapes and sizes; you could end up on a sleek, modern boat with sleeping cabins or an older one with just the basics – all part of the Bali experience!

Getting to Padang Bai is a breeze, just a 30–40 minute ride on your rental scooter from Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu. I chose the EKA JAYA fast ferry, which is a larger and newer vessel. The journey to Senggigi port took about an hour and set me back around $35 USD. The ferry was quite comfortable, featuring air conditioning and a spacious deck where you can soak in the stunning views.

Scootering to Kuta: The Adventure Begins

When I arrived at Senggigi port, my first mission was to snag a rental scooter in Lombok. I went with MyRide Scooter Rental, which has a fantastic selection of bikes to choose from.

The journey from Senggigi to Kuta Lombok is quite the adventure, taking around 1.5 hours. The roads are in great shape, and the views along the way are simply stunning. Kuta itself is a delightful little town with a laid-back atmosphere. My accommodation, complete with a pool, was perfectly situated near the town center.

Kuta Lombok: More Than Just Surf

When I got there, the waves were on the smaller side, but I knew bigger swells were just around the corner. This gave me a chance to catch up on some work and dive into Kuta's lively café and restaurant scene.

Kuta's Culinary Delights

Kuta Lombok is a paradise for food lovers and digital nomads alike, boasting trendy cafés, a variety of restaurants, and authentic local warungs. Here are some of my top picks:

• Kensa Café & Restaurant: A favorite hangout with a chill vibe, serving up specialty coffee, smoothie bowls, and healthy brunch options.

• Jelajah Coffee Kuta: A cozy spot known for its top-notch Indonesian coffee and friendly baristas.

• Bush Radio: A stylish café offering artisanal coffee, delicious breakfast choices, and a surf-inspired atmosphere.

• NOHI (Restaurant - Fresh Food & Pastry): A modern eatery that focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients, scrumptious pastries, and excellent coffee. The upstairs seating area has a lovely view, perfect for getting some work done.

• UD Mandiri, Rumah Makan Rezeky: A traditional Indonesian warung that serves up authentic local dishes, with a wide array of freshly prepared options.

• Ryan Café: A relaxed café featuring a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes, highlighting fresh ingredients and boasting a breathtaking view of Lombok’s coastline.

• Milky Wave Japanese Fusion Restaurant: A unique fusion spot that blends Japanese flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, renowned for its sushi, ramen, and creative seafood dishes.

• SIMONETTA, Cuisine from the South of France: An elegant dining venue that brings the flavors of Southern France to to Lombok, renowned for its fresh seafood and rich Mediterranean dishes.

Staying Fit in Kuta

To keep in shape, I decided to check out XENO Gym, and I was really impressed! The place has a spacious layout, high ceilings, and a charming traditional Balinese bamboo design. They offer a great variety of classes, equipment, and amenities to suit all fitness levels.

#Surfing Kuta Lombok: Chasing the Swell

When the swell started to pick up, I made my way to Sega Reef, a well-known surf spot just a quick 10-minute drive from Kuta. Sega Reef has both left and right-hand breaks, making it a great choice for confident beginners when the swell is around 2-3 feet.

The following day, I took a trip to Are Guling, which is about 20 minutes from Kuta. This gorgeous bay has both left and right reef breaks. The right-hander can handle swells of all sizes, while the left is faster and hollow but tends to be a bit less consistent.

A Luxurious Detour

On my way to Are Guling, I stopped by Somewhere Resort, and wow, the views of Are Guling Bay are absolutely breathtaking! If you’re in the mood for a bit of luxury, this resort has private cliffside bungalows complete with a pool.

Exploring Lombok's Hidden Surf Gems

In search of a more peaceful surf session, I ventured a bit further and stumbled upon a lesser-known break that had both a right and a left. I decided to ride the right, which was shorter than Are Guling but just as much fun.

One of the best parts about Lombok is the stunning scenery. The hilly coastline, sprinkled with beautiful bays and points, makes riding a rental scooter Lombok an absolute delight. Even the occasional muddy patches during the wet season just added to the thrill of the adventure!

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For my return trip, I decided to fly with Citilink Airlines. They’ve recently started allowing surfboards as part of the regular baggage allowance, which is fantastic! My one-way ticket set me back 450,000 IDR and came with 20kg of checked baggage and 7kg of carry-on. The flight was a quick hour back to Denpasar.

For my next adventure, flying is definitely the way to go.

Looking Ahead: More Lombok Adventures

I’m planning to head back during the dry season to check out more of Lombok's surf breaks, including:

• Ekas: Known for Ekas Inside (great for intermediate surfers) and Ekas Outside (for the more advanced).

• Mawi Beach: A hidden gem with both lefts and rights, perfect for experienced surfers.

• Desert Point: Lombok's most famous surf spot, featuring a world-class left-hand break.

This upcoming trip with friends is shaping up to be another unforgettable experience in this stunning destination.

Getting Around Lombok: Why a Rental Scooter is Key

While you can find taxis and ride-sharing apps, the best way to soak in Lombok's beauty and enjoy the freedom it offers is by renting a scooter. There are plenty of rental shops in Kuta and other tourist hotspots, offering a variety of scooters at reasonable rates. Just remember to wear a helmet and have an international driver's license handy.

Tips for Renting a Scooter in Lombok:

• Inspect the scooter: Before you hit the road, take a good look at the scooter for any pre-existing damage and make sure the lights, brakes, and horn are all in working order.

• Negotiate the price: Don’t hesitate to bargain for a better deal, especially if you’re renting for several days.

• Wear a helmet: Safety first! Always put on a helmet while riding.

• Carry your driver's license: An international driver's license is a must to legally ride a scooter in Indonesia.

• Be aware of traffic: Lombok's roads can get busy, particularly in tourist areas. Stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings.

• Fill up the tank: Gas stations are easy to find in Lombok, so keep your tank topped

Conclusion: Lombok Awaits

Lombok is a fantastic mix of surfing, rich culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're riding the waves, discovering secluded beaches, or just soaking up the island's relaxed atmosphere, renting a scooter is the ideal way to soak in everything Lombok has to offer. So, get your bags packed, grab your surfboard, and prepare for an unforgettable journey on two wheels. And remember, it's a good idea to book your rental scooter in Lombok ahead of time, especially during the busy season!