Planning a Surf Trip from Canggu to Lombok? Read This First

Swapping Crowds for Clean Waves?

If you’ve been surfing Canggu lately, you know the drill: the gridlock on the shortcut, the 40-person fight for a single wave at Batu Bolong, and the constant hum of construction. The vibe? Chaotic. The surf? Good… if you can actually catch one.

But what if you could trade all that for open lineups, reef perfection, and zero stress?

Lombok is just across the water, and it is everything Canggu used to be 15 years ago—plus a whole lot more. Here is everything you need to know before making the jump East.

1. How to Get from Canggu to Lombok

You have three main options to cross the Wallace Line. Choose wisely based on your budget and patience.

Option 1: The Flight (Fastest)

• Route: Taxi from Canggu to Denpasar Airport (DPS) → Fly to Lombok Airport (LOP).
• Duration: ~30 Minute Flight (+ 20 min drive to Kuta Lombok).
• Best For: Surfers who want to maximize water time.
• Note: Check your airline’s surfboard policy (Citilink/Wings Air usually charge a fee).

Option 2: The Fast Boat (Scenic)

• Route: Taxi from Canggu to Padang Bai Harbor → Fast Boat to Bangsal or Senggigi.
• Duration: ~2 hours on the boat + 1.5 to 2 hours drive south to Kuta.
• Best For: Travelers without heavy board bags who enjoy the ocean view.
• Warning: The ocean can get choppy; not recommended if you get seasick easily.

Option 3: The Slow Ferry (Budget)

• Route: Taxi to Padang Bai → Public Ferry to Lembar Port.
• Duration: 4–6 hours on the boat + 1 hour drive to Kuta.
• Best For: Backpackers on a strict budget or those traveling with a motorbike.

2. What to Expect When You Land

Lombok is slower, wilder, and way more surf-focused. Instead of beach clubs and influencers, you’ll find warungs, roaming buffalo, and empty roads. But don’t worry—Kuta Lombok has exploded with an incredible culinary scene, offering everything from authentic Italian to world-class espresso.

Base yourself in Kuta Lombok, and you act as the hub for the entire south coast:

• Gerupuk Bay: A massive bay with multiple peaks accessible by boat.
• Mawi: High-performance reef barrels for the brave.
• Selong Belanak: A gentle sandy bay perfect for cruising.
• Tanjung Aan: A stunning A-frame peak; longboard heaven on small days, rip-able walls on big days.
• Are Guling: An underrated right-hander with serious power.
• Ekas: Remote, pristine, and featuring some of the clearest water in Indonesia.

3. Where to Stay

You want a place that bridges the gap between the social vibe of Bali and the chill energy of Lombok. LMBK Surf House is that spot.

• Oasis in Town: Walkable to all the best food, but tucked away from street noise.
• Surf Ready: Daily coaching, guiding, and scooter rentals on site.
• Community: A real social vibe that feels like a family, not a hostel.
• Comfort: Choose between stylish private suites or luxury dorms.

4. What to Pack for the Transition

• Reef Booties: Unlike Canggu’s sandy beaches, many Lombok spots are reef breaks.
• Zinc/Sunscreen: The sun hits harder here.
• Cash: While many places take cards now, cash is still king at local warungs and boat parking.
• Patience: Lombok runs on “island time.” Embrace it.

5. Final Word

Canggu was fun—but Kuta, Lombok is freedom. No traffic jams. No aggressive lineups. Just you, your board, and more waves than you can count.

So if you’re thinking about making the jump—don’t hesitate. Book your stay at LMBK Surf House, and we’ll make sure your first session in Lombok is one for the books.

6. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)