Bali Vs Lombok: The ULTIMATE Decision (2024)

Ah, the ultimate battle of Indonesian islands – Bali, perhaps one of the most visited places in Asia, and Lombok, its slightly smaller neighbor who is very much in its “up and coming” era. 

While Bali is world famous for its one-of-a-kind flavor of Hinduism, endless rice fields, and magical feels, Lombok looks a whole lot different- but trust and believe it’s absolutely worth visiting. Superb beaches and a remote, untouched north (complete with its own active volcano) make it a top choice for an Indonesia trip.

Bali

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• Size: 5780 km2
  
• What it’s famous for: Its incredibly unique culture and stunning rice fields, its penchant for being perfect for digital nomads, a heavy wellness/fitness vibe, some of the world’s best surfing, diving, and snorkeling
  
• Ease of getting there: Super easy, tons of direct flights from other parts of SEA. It’s also possible to travel overland by boat from either Java, the Gilis, or Lombok.
  
• How to get around: Your best bet is to rent a scooter to explore Bali, which should be somewhere around $5 a day or a bit less. If you don’t want to ride, you’ll be able to hop on a Grab or Gojek bike taxi. And for families who need more space – taxis are easily available for daily rent.
  
• Types of Accommodations: Everything and anything you can imagine from treehouse villas to backpacker hostels and monster hotels. 

Lombok

• Size: 5435 km2
  
• What it’s famous for: Mt. Rinjani, the Gili Islands, surfing, lots of hills, and of course, beautiful, untouched, and actually swimmable beaches for your Lombok itinerary
  
• Ease of getting there: Very! Tons of ferries go from Bali’s Padang Bai every single day. You can also opt to take a 45-minute domestic fight if the seas are rough. You can also fly in from Jakarta, Sumbawa, and a few international destinations too.
  
• How to get around: Like in Bali, a scooter is your best bet followed by the much more expensive taxi. Public transport isn’t really a thing aside from a few select destinations.
  
• Types of Accommodations: Backpacker hostels, Airbnbs, guesthouses, luxury villa options and a few resorts, too

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You don’t need me to tell you that Bali is incredibly popular these days – off-season crowds would make you think it’s high season and construction is everywhere you stay on the Island of the Gods these days.

But even so, the island has still got a certain magic to it – unique cultures will do that. On the other hand, Lombok is still more… wild – especially the rugged, jungly north. It also has (in my humble opinion) far more beautiful beaches and way fewer tourists. 

For Things to Do

While I think that Lombok has plenty of things to do, it’s pretty obvious that Bali’s the clear-cut winner here. For starters, Bali is SIGNIFICANTLY more developed than Lombok.

At the moment, most of Lombok’s tourist infrastructure is centered around Kuta and Senggigi, and even then it collectively pales in comparison to what you’ll find across the sea. Meanwhile, any Bali itinerary is deff going to take more time to properly execute. 

Though you can surf, go snorkeling on nearby islands, and even climb a volcano on Lombok, you’ve got a lot more variety if you skirt across the strait.

From high-class beach clubs with infinity pools, not one but three volcanoes, skateboard night clubs, and every cuisine you can imagine and more, Bali truly has something for every type of traveler.

Lombok is certainly no serene, remote locale (okay … maybe parts of the mountainous north are) but it’s definitely less crowded and moves at a slower pace than its infamous neighbor.

• Winner: Bali

For Budget Travelers 

Allow me to be honest for a sec: Bali is NOT as cheap as you think. If you’re on a vacation or holiday, sure, you’ll find it budget friendly, but if you’re used to the vibes and prices of the rest of Southeast Asia, you’re in for a bit of a shock. 

In Thailand, $16/night can get you a hut directly on the beach… meanwhile, that price in Canggu (for a private room) will get you a motel-looking joint permeated with the lovely sounds of a million motorbikes. 

But we’re not comparing The Island of the Gods to Thailand here… this is a Bali vs Lombok head-to-head after all.

…So let’s talk Lombok!

First off, if you’re looking for budget-friendly adventures, the lovely mountain towns of Senaru and Bayan need to be at the top of your list. It’s there you’ll find simple but comfortable homestays for $10/night as well as cheap and delicious local food.

While the more popular Kuta Lombok in the south of the island is definitely not THAT cheap, it’s still more budget-friendly than what I experienced anywhere in Bali – where most restaurants have seemingly adopted the American practice of adding an 18-20% gratuity onto all bills…

• Accommodation in Bali: $15-$3000+ (Urban + Rural)
• Accommodation in Lombok: $10-$1000 (Urban + Rural)
• Main mode of transport in Bali: Scooter/Gojek/Grab
• Main mode of transport in Lombok: Scooter/local taxi
• A local restaurant meal in Bali: $4-$10
• A local restaurant meal in Lombok: $2-$8
• Beer in Bali: $1.80 – $2.45
• Beer in Lombok: $1.80

• Winner: Lombok 

Tribal Hostel Bali – Where to Stay in Bali

Tribal Bali is the island’s first custom-designed digital nomad hostel, and after staying there for a few days all I can say is it is a truly 11/10 space. Spend the day coworking in the HUGE working area where you can take a dip in the (always sunny!) pool when it’s time for a break.

Fuel up on the onsite cafe’s iconic (and nutritious) food menu or sip on a dragonfruit-flavored cocktail. I’ve been to a lot of hostels,
but never one quite as amazing as this one – book it for a night
but don’t be surprised if you end up staying a whole lot longer. 

Senaru Garden Homestay – Where to Stay in Lombok

This backpacker-friendly homestay is one of my faves in Indonesia, not just out of stays in Lombok! For around $11/night (!!) you’ll get a super comfy little bungalow that has the softest bed I encountered in the country and a whole lot of local vibes.

Another thing I LOVED is that even when it was boiling by the coast, the temperature was cool and breezy here to the point you won’t even miss an AC. The owner Adi and his family are great to
spend time with. Chat with him to learn a little bit about what life is like in the rugged north of the island.

For Couples

I think this really depends on what your idea of a perfect couple’s getaway really looks like, but if you’re envisioning a truly bougie, tropical paradise-style trip, I’m going to go with Bali. There are some truly UNREAL hotels there, complete with the floating breakfast and infinity pool views I know you’ve seen on Instagram.

The entire island is filled with epic bungalows, resorts, and other honeymoon-coded accommodations for any and all budgets. So whether you’re envisioning waking up to Mt Agung, the lullaby of crashing waves, or a neverending view of emerald rice fields – Bali’s got it.

Lombok definitely has some iconic spots for couples too – just a bit toned down. While you won’t really find any “aesthetic” rice field swing spots just yet, there are some fan-freaking-tactic villas tucked away into the island’s south coast.

We’re talking abodes that are literally hanging off the side of mountains but still somehow managed to keep the infinity pool. Adventurous couples will also love the iconic jungle volcano paradise to be found in the north. So yeah… I will say don’t sleep on Lombok if you’re a couple keen to get a bit off the beaten path 😉

• Winner: Bali

Four Seasons Resort – Where to Stay in Bali for Couples

This absolutely insane resort is THE place to go for a truly unreal couples trip. Set in the jungle of Ubud, you’ll be completely surrounded by forest (quite literally). Multiple infinity and plunge pools await in this true Bali paradise that’s unlike anywhere else on the island. You can also expect impeccable service (the rating is almost at 10 stars) and plenty of activities like yoga classes, mountain biking, and a spa!

Villa Grazia Anima Eco Lodge – Where to Stay in Lombok for Couples

This is absolutely the BEST spot in Lombok for couples. These private pool villas overlook the lush emerald hills of the Selong Belanak area. A blend of stone and traditional thatched roof architecture, you’ll be far away from the sounds of Kuta town here. Don’t be surprised if you feel downright enchanted by the landscape, it’s truly a dream spot for any honeymooners planning a trip!

For Getting Around

Now one of the worst aspects of Bali is the TRAFFIC. I truly felt like I was in a mega city – I mean, I found Jakarta to be less stressful to move about. Getting from one of Bali’s many things to do to another was nothing short of a chore.

Bali is also plagued by some truly insane taxi mafias that do everything they can to prevent you from riding Grabs and Gojeks (the local versions of Uber.) In all my extreme travels, I NEVER had seen anything quite like this. Okay well maybe in New Delhi but you get the point…

While a taxi mafia clearly still exists in Lombok too, it’s more lowkey due to the fact that the apps really just don’t operate, so your only option is the taxis or renting your own two-wheeled ride. 

Public transport is basically not existent on both islands too, unfortunately – underscoring my point about why having your own ride ends up being so clutch. 

Plus – it’s SO much easier to get around by way of scooter here than it is in Bali. You’ll even find you just about have the roads to yourself on the way to many of Lombok’s beaches. This increases even more when you take into account the gloriously peaceful northern part of the island.

• Winner: Lombok  

For Digital Nomads:

These days, Bali is basically synonymous with the words digital nomad so I feel like you won’t be surprised who the winner of this Bali vs. Lombok comparison is.

But let’s get into WHY it’s Bali… because after finally visiting for the first time, I can understand why so many remote workers fall for the island. First up, Bali’s digital nomad infrastructure is second to none. I’ve NEVER encountered a coworking space quite like Tribal Hostel, which also has an incredible pool (that always gets sun), a clean and delicious menu, and a vast coworking space that just pops with inspiration. 

Add in dozens of cheap (by Western standards) cafes serving delicious meals from dozens of cuisines, and all the beach, waterfall, and general “island vibes” you could ever want, and you’ll see why so many people end up never leaving the place. 

Lombok (particularly Kuta) is a lot like Bali, BUT on a much, much smaller scale. You’ll find tons of delish cafes and a few coworking spaces, but you won’t see the same size of the community you’ll find in places like Ubud or Canggu. 

• Winner: Bali

For a Week-Long Trip

For a week long trip, some people might think Bali should be my pick, but honestly, I think Lombok wins this round! Bali is a bit bigger than Lombok, and there’s a TON more to do there.

I think you need 2+ weeks to really get to know Bali, but you can get a real solid taste of Lombok’s things to do in just one.

Frankly, the island is just a whole lot less hectic and it’s easy to choose where to go: I’d spend a bit of time up north to really chase all the waterfalls and rice fields it has to offer. Then, head down south to kick back and surf on some really pristine beaches west of Kuta. 

Considering north Lombok is a good 3 hours away from the south, one of these days can really be about making the trip + relaxing and settling in. If you went to Bali, you’d be spending a whole lot more time in a taxi (and in traffic) trying to see it all. Not exactly a relaxing holiday…

• Winner: Lombok

Got time? Then why not visit both islands? Bali and Lombok are neighbors after all!

This is what I did on my recent trip and I couldn’t have been happier. In just around 3-4 hours, you’ll be able to pop between the two – and that timeframe becomes even shorter if you opt for a flight instead of the boat.

Since Bali tends to be more convenient to fly into, I recommend starting there before you head east. After seeing all that the Island of the Gods has to offer, there’s just one pit stop you NEED to make before officially touching down in Lombok: some serious island time on the Gilis!

Though not OFFICIALLY a part of Lombok, the super small Gili Islands are just minutes away, and trust and believe they should be on your itinerary. Crystal-clear waters, cycles instead of motorbikes, and some of the best snorkeling I’ve ever encountered are just a few things that make these mini isles so extra special.

While some competing locales may not both be worth a visit, I can assure ya’ that these Bali and Lombok (plus the Gilis) are. They’re both relatively cheap, pretty close together, and are different enough to make you feel like you’re really expanding your Indonesia experience. 

So definitely plan for both – and don’t forget about the Gilis!

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Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Lombok

I actually had to use my travel insurance while traveling in Lombok and it saved me $250! Don’t forget to grab some.

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A few questions I’m usually asked about Bali and Lombok…

Deciding between Bali Vs Lombok is not as easy as it seems – while your first thought may be Bali, I hope this post has proved that the famous island’s “little” neighbor has a whole lot to offer. 

While Bali is a Mecca for digital nomads, surfers, yogis, and vacationers alike, Lombok is a bit more chill, a bit less crowded, and gives you a look into what the rest of Indonesia is like. 

So which one should you visit?

If you and your other half are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime romantic getaway, head straight for a luxurious, IG-worthy villa in Bali.

Backpacker craving more of an off-the-beaten-path vibe? North Lombok is where you’ll fill your cup. Family with kids looking for activities everyone will enjoy? Bali’s got your back. 

While they certainly overlap in a lot of ways, trust and believe that these are two very different islands that are both fan-freaking-tastic. So why not do what I did and visit both?

Though it may still be a bit rushed, you can even make it happen within a 2 week time frame. If you’re on an open-ended trip though, don’t even think about deciding between Bali vs Lombok and just plan to spend some time on each!

And even if you’re not entirely sure right now… don’t be surprised if your trip to Bali takes you across the Lombok Strait like mine unexpectedly did 😉

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