Heading west from Kuta, a hilly road reaches Mawun, a near-perfect crescent of sand enclosed by two headlands, and then Selong Belanak, a long, wide bay with soft sand, rows of surf schools and the best beginner waves on Lombok. Further on are rugged surf spots such as Mawi, and villages where buffalo are still driven across the beach in the evening.
East of Kuta, beyond Gerupuk, the huge bay of Ekas hides more reef breaks and a few remote lodges. This coast is less developed than the west of the island; the beaches are reached by scooter, car or boat, and facilities may be a single warung under the palms.
Base yourself in Kuta for the widest choice, or at Selong Belanak to wake up by the waves.
Highlights
- A first surf lesson on the soft, sandy-bottomed waves of Selong Belanak
- Mawun’s sheltered horseshoe bay
- Buffalo herds crossing the beach at sunset
- Watching experienced surfers at Mawi
- The coast road’s viewpoints over bay after bay
- Uncrowded beaches on weekdays
In pictures: the south coast
How long to stay and where to base yourself
Two to four days is plenty. Most people stay in Kuta and ride out each day. Staying at Selong Belanak means early-morning surf sessions and quiet evenings, with a handful of villas and small resorts on the hills above the bay.
