Looking to pick between Bali vs Lombok for your next getaway?
Bali is all about vibrant nightlife, stunning temples, and a lively digital nomad community, while Lombok provides a peaceful escape with incredible surf spots and breathtaking natural beauty.
In this guide, we’re here to compare activities, budgets, accommodations, and so much more to help you compare Bali vs Lombok to decide which island is the perfect fit for you in 2025.
Let’s jump in and explore!
Jump to:
- Bali vs Lombok: Key Differences
- Getting to Bali vs. Lombok
- Bali vs Lombok: Things to Do
- Bali vs Lombok: Nature & Scenery
- Surfing in Bali vs Lombok
- Costs & Budget
- Digital Nomad Scene
- Getting Around Bali & Lombok
- Bali vs Lombok Culture
- What to Eat in Bali & Lombok
- Visiting Bali AND Lombok
- FAQ
- Final Thoughts: Which Island is Better?
Bali vs Lombok: Key Differences
Choose Bali if…
Bali is an absolutely fantastic choice for anyone who loves a lively nightlife, chic cafes, and a bustling social vibe!
Whether you’re in the mood for beach clubs in Canggu, rooftop bars in Seminyak, or all-night parties in Kuta, Bali has got you covered when it comes to entertainment.
For digital nomads, Bali is truly a dream come true!
With a plethora of coworking spaces, speedy WiFi, and a vibrant expat community, spots like Canggu and Ubud make it super easy to blend work with the laid-back island lifestyle.
Bali also boasts a well-developed tourism scene, offering plenty of hotels, restaurants, and tours to fit every budget.
Getting around is a breeze, whether you prefer luxurious resorts or cozy budget hostels.
And let’s not forget about the stunning sights!
From the enchanting rice terraces of Ubud to the breathtaking cliffs of Uluwatu and the surf-friendly beaches of Canggu, Bali is home to all the iconic spots you don’t want to miss.
No wonder it’s Indonesia’s most beloved island!
Choose Lombok if…
Lombok beckons everyone who loves a laid-back vibe and a genuine local experience, steering clear of the bustling crowds that can be found in Bali.
It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a slower pace and a real island getaway!
If you’re a nature enthusiast, Lombok won’t disappoint.
With its hidden waterfalls, stunning cliffs, and secluded white-sand beaches, you’ll discover breathtaking treasures like the majestic Sendang Gile Waterfall and the beautiful shores of Selong Belanak.
Nature lovers will truly feel at home here.
Adventure seekers will also find Lombok a fantastic playground.
Whether you’re up for trekking to the summit of Mount Rinjani, zipping around the rice fields on a motorbike, or exploring the nearby Gili Islands, there’s an abundance of outdoor excitement waiting for you.
And let’s not forget the surfers!
Lombok is like a surfer’s dream come true, offering incredible waves at Kuta Lombok, Gerupuk, and Desert Point.
You can enjoy the thrill of surfing without the large crowds that often accompany Bali.
So, if you’re looking for an untouched, wild, and adventurous island experience, Lombok is definitely the spot for you!
Getting to Bali vs. Lombok
How to Get to Bali
Bali is Indonesia’s most accessible island, with direct international flights from major cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, and Dubai.
If you’re flying from North America or Europe, expect a layover in one of these hubs.
Visa Information:
Most travelers can enter Bali with a Visa on Arrival (VOA), which costs IDR 500,000 (~$35 USD) and is valid for 30 days with a one-time extension option.
Some nationalities may require a visa in advance, so always check Indonesia’s latest entry requirements before you fly.
Arriving at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS):
Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) is Bali’s main airport, located near Kuta.
Once you land, you can get to popular areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu via taxis, private transfers, or ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek.
Expect to pay around IDR 150,000–350,000 ($10–$25 USD) depending on your destination.
How to Get to Lombok
Option 1: Flying into Lombok International Airport (LOP)
Lombok has its own international airport (LOP), with direct flights from Jakarta, Bali, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
A flight from Bali to Lombok takes just 40 minutes and costs around $30–$70 USD one way.
Option 2: Taking a Fast Boat from Bali to Lombok
If you prefer traveling by sea, fast boats run between Bali and Lombok daily.
Boats depart from Padang Bai, Serangan, Amed, and Sanur, with routes to Bangsal, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands.
The fast ferry is going to cost ~$25–$50 USD per person, depending on the company and route and it will take 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on sea conditions.
The best companies to go with are Eka Jaya, BlueWater Express, and Gili Getaway.
Bali vs Lombok: Things to Do
Top Things to Do in Bali
- Ubud – Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, explore temples like Goa Gajah, and see monkeys at the Ubud Monkey Forest.
- Uluwatu – Relax on Padang Padang Beach, surf at Bingin Beach, and watch the Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple.
- Nusa Penida & Gili Islands – Take a day trip to Nusa Penida for stunning cliffs and beaches, or visit the Gili Islands for snorkeling and nightlife.
- Waterfalls & Volcanoes – See Bali’s best waterfalls like Sekumpul, hike Mount Batur for sunrise, and snorkel in Amed.
Top Things to Do in Lombok
- Mount Rinjani – Hike to the top for incredible crater lake views.
- Secret Gilis – Visit Gili Nanggu, Gili Kedis, and more for quiet beaches and snorkeling.
- Waterfalls – See Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, two of Lombok’s most beautiful waterfalls.
- Kuta & Beaches – Relax at Selong Belanak, Tanjung Aan, and Mawun Beach, perfect for swimming and surfing.
Bali vs Lombok: Nature & Scenery
Beaches
- Bali: Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, Canggu
- Lombok: Selong Belanak, Mawun, Pink Beach
Rice Fields & Landscapes
- Bali: Tegallalang, Jatiluwih
- Lombok: Tetebatu
Volcanoes
- Bali: Mount Batur (easy sunrise hike)
- Lombok: Mount Rinjani (multi-day trek)
Surfing in Bali vs Lombok
Surfing in Bali
Bali is truly a surfer’s dream! With a variety of surf spots catering to every skill level, it’s the perfect getaway for both newbies and seasoned pros.
You’ll find plenty of surf camps and schools throughout the island, so you can easily get started or polish your skills.
Many of these camps offer all-inclusive packages that cover surf lessons, board rentals, and cozy accommodations.
The hotspots for catching waves are mainly around Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu, making it a fantastic place to hang ten and soak up the sun!
Popular Surf Spots in Bali:
- Canggu – Great for beginners and intermediates with mellow waves at Batu Bolong and more challenging breaks at Echo Beach.
- Uluwatu – A world-renowned spot for advanced surfers, featuring long, fast reef breaks.
- Padang Padang – Known for powerful, hollow waves, perfect for experienced surfers.
- Kuta – Ideal for beginners, with long sandy beaches and consistent small waves.
Surfing in Lombok
Lombok is becoming a fantastic surf destination where you can enjoy less crowded waves than you’d find in Bali.
It’s an ideal place for surfers who want a more relaxed vibe while riding some great waves.
While most of the waves here are perfect for intermediate surfers, there’s also plenty available for beginners and advanced surfers alike.
The surf scene on the island is really picking up, with more surf camps and schools popping up, especially in the Kuta Lombok area.
Popular Surf Spots in Lombok:
- Kuta Lombok – A great base for surfers, with easy access to multiple breaks.
- Gerupuk – Known for gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for beginners and intermediates.
- Mawi – A challenging spot for advanced surfers, with strong, hollow waves that are best surfed at mid to high tide.
- Selong Belanak – A quieter, beginner-friendly spot with soft waves perfect for learning.
Costs & Budget
Is Bali or Lombok Cheaper?
If you’re trying to decide between Bali vs Lombok, you’ll find that Lombok is usually the friendlier option for your wallet!
Of course, prices can fluctuate based on your choice of accommodations and activities.
Both islands boast a variety of places to stay and eat, but since Bali is a well-established tourist hotspot, you’ll typically see higher prices in popular spots such as Canggu and Seminyak.
On the flip side, Lombok provides a laid-back vibe and more budget-friendly choices, making it a perfect choice for those looking to save a bit while enjoying their getaway!
Digital Nomad Scene
Best Places to Work
- Bali: Canggu and Ubud are hotspots for digital nomads, offering plenty of coworking spaces and cozy cafes with reliable WiFi.
- Lombok: Kuta Lombok and Selong Belanak are emerging areas for digital nomads, but coworking options are still limited.
Internet & Infrastructure
- Bali: Fast and reliable WiFi is widely available in coworking spaces, cafes, and accommodations.
- Lombok: The internet is slower, with fewer cafes offering strong connections, but options are improving.
Getting Around Bali & Lombok
Transportation in Bali
- Grab/Gojek: Popular for taxis and scooter rentals in busy areas like Canggu and Seminyak.
- Scooter Rentals: Widely available and affordable ($5-10 USD/day), offering flexibility to explore.
- Private Drivers: Convenient for full-day tours, typically costing $40-70 USD/day.
Transportation in Lombok
- Scooter Rentals: Essential for getting around, especially in areas like Kuta Lombok. Rentals cost around $5-10 USD/day.
- Taxis: Available in tourist areas but less common outside of them.
- Public Transport: Limited to bemos, which are shared minivans but not as easy for tourists to navigate.
Bali vs Lombok Culture
Bali and Lombok offer distinct cultural experiences shaped by their dominant religions and traditions.
Bali is predominantly Hindu, with temples, ceremonies, and rituals integrated into daily life.
The island is known for its Hindu temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, and vibrant festivals like Nyepi (Day of Silence) and Galungan.
In contrast, Lombok is mainly Muslim, with the Sasak people preserving traditional practices in their villages.
The island celebrates Islamic holidays and the colorful Bau Nyale Festival, which honors a local legend.
While Bali’s culture revolves around Hindu rituals, Lombok offers a more rural and Islamic cultural experience.
What to Eat in Bali & Lombok
Must-Try Balinese Dishes
In Bali, don’t miss the rich flavors of Nasi Campur (mixed rice with a variety of meats and vegetables), Babi Guling (suckling pig, often served during ceremonies), and Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck in spices).
Must-Try Lombok Dishes
Lombok’s cuisine is known for its bold flavors, with must-tries including Ayam Taliwang (grilled chicken with spicy sauce), Plecing Kangkung (water spinach with sambal), and fresh seafood from the island’s coastal areas.
Visiting Bali AND Lombok
Instead of choosing between Bali vs Lombok, why not experience the best of both worlds by visiting Bali AND Lombok?
You’ll get to soak in Bali’s vibrant culture and lively atmosphere, then unwind in Lombok’s serene landscapes and authentic vibes.
A fantastic way to plan your trip could be to spend around 3-4 days in Bali, exploring highlights like Ubud, Uluwatu, and the beautiful Gili Islands.
After that, you can head over to Lombok for another 3-4 days to trek Mount Rinjani, relax on its charming secluded beaches, and dive into the local Sasak culture.
This blend perfectly balances Bali’s bustling charm with Lombok’s tranquil, off-the-beaten-path appeal.
Plus, the two islands are just a quick 1.5-hour boat ride apart, making it super easy to combine both in one unforgettable adventure!
FAQ
What’s better, Bali or Lombok?
It depends on what you’re looking for—Bali offers a lively atmosphere with more activities, while Lombok provides a quieter, more laid-back experience.
Is Lombok as touristy as Bali?
No, Lombok is much less touristy than Bali, offering a more authentic and tranquil experience.
Is Lombok as cheap as Bali?
Lombok tends to be slightly cheaper than Bali, especially in terms of accommodation and food, but it still depends on where you stay and what you do.
Is it worth going to Lombok?
Yes, Lombok is worth visiting if you’re looking for fewer crowds, natural beauty, and a more relaxed vibe compared to Bali.
Final Thoughts: Which Island is Better?
Bali vs Lombok both have something special to offer!
If you’re after a vibrant cultural scene, bustling nightlife, and famous attractions, Bali is the place for you.
It’s perfect for those who thrive in energetic environments—think digital nomads, couples, and anyone eager to soak up diverse experiences.
On the other hand, Lombok is your go-to if you’re seeking peace and tranquility.
It’s all about stunning nature, remote beaches, and exciting adventures like trekking Mount Rinjani, away from the tourist crowds.
In the end, both islands are definitely worth a visit.
Bali buzzes with energy and iconic spots, while Lombok showcases unspoiled nature and a genuine local vibe.
Instead of choosing Bali vs Lombok, why not combine both in one trip and enjoy the best of both worlds?
