🌴 Best Day Trips from Kuta Lombok — Waterfalls, Secret Islands & Pink Beaches
Let’s be honest: Kuta Lombok is already paradise. But if you ever manage to pull yourself away from its beaches and smoothie bowls, you’ll find that the rest of the island is even more magical. From snorkeling with turtles to discovering secret islands and cotton-candy-colored beaches: these are the best day trips from Kuta Lombok you don’t want to miss!
🐠 1. The Gili Islands (Trawangan, Air & Meno) — Turtle Paradise Awaits
Yes, you can visit the famous Gili Islands from Kuta Lombok in just a day and it’s absolutely worth the trip.
- 🚗 Drive about 2.5 hours to Bangsal Harbor on the north coast
- 🛥️ Hop on a short 10 minute boat to reach Gili T, Air, or Meno
Once there, spend your day snorkeling with turtles, diving coral reefs, or cruising around on a bicycle with no cars in sight.
💡 Tip: Book a tour starting early in the morning and you’ll be back in Kuta by sunset: salty, happy, and probably craving another dive trip. Book your Gili snorkeling tour or text us to organize some scuba diving for you!
🏝️ 2. The Secret Gilis — Southern Lombok’s Hidden Islands
Forget the crowds: the Secret Gilis near Sekotong are the real hidden gems of Lombok. From Kuta, you can book a snorkeling tour inlcuding pickup. It’s about a 2-hour scenic drive west through hills and coastal villages, but once you’re there… paradise.
These small islands are perfect for a day of snorkeling, picnicking, and pretending you’re in a private island commercial.
Expect calm turquoise water, white sand, and maybe a passing fisherman or two.
💡 Pro tip: Bring snacks, sunscreen, and a dry bag. There aren’t many shops, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
🌸 3. Pink Beach — Where the Sand Blushes for You
Yes, it’s real! Pink Beach (or Tangsi Beach) on the southeast coast of Lombok gets its rosy hue from crushed coral mixed into the sand and it’s one of the most unique spots on the island.
From Kuta, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive through winding roads and small coastal villages, but when you finally see that soft pink shimmer against turquoise water, it’s totally worth it.
You can snorkel right off the beach, visit the nearby Pink Beach 2 (yes, there are two!), or take a local boat to Gili Petelu for even better coral gardens.
💡 Tip: Go early: the pink color shows best under morning sunlight.
💦 4. Waterfall Adventures Near Benang Stokel & Benang Kelambu
Need a break from the beach? Head inland! The Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu waterfalls are about 1.5 hours from Kuta, surrounded by lush jungle and rice fields.
You can visit both in one trip! One’s tall and dramatic, the other flows gently over green moss like something out of a nature documentary.
- Swim under the falls
- Take a local guide to explore the jungle trails
- Enjoy the cooler mountain air before heading back to the coast
💡 Bring sandals with grip or wear proper shoes: it’s slippery, and your flip-flops will definitely regret the decision.
🌊 5. South Coast Beach Hopping — Because One Beach Is Never Enough
You don’t have to go far from Kuta for a perfect day trip. Some of the best beaches in Lombok are practically on your doorstep.
Hop on a scooter or hire a driver and explore:
- Selong Belanak – gentle waves and perfect for beginner surfers
- Mawun Beach – calm bay surrounded by hills
- Tanjung Aan – turquoise perfection and home to the famous Bukit Merese viewpoint
Finish your day watching the sun dip behind the cliffs, preferably with a coconut (or a Bintang) in hand.
🌅 Final Thoughts
Kuta Lombok might be the island’s trendiest hub, but the best part about staying here is how easy it is to escape.
In just a few hours, you can go from rice fields to pink beaches, secret islands to turtle reefs, all without changing hotels.
Pack your towel, some snacks, and your sense of adventure: the best of Lombok is just a day trip away.
