Best things to do for Families (Seniors and Children) in Lombok 2024

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Lombok, an Indonesian island located next to Bali, offers a range of attractions and activities that are suitable for both children and seniors.

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Lombok island is often overlooked as party-goers head to Bali. Here’s why you should head to Lombok for your next holiday.

Tourism Development: Bali is more developed and established as a tourist destination compared to Lombok. Lombok, on the other hand, is less developed and offers a more laid-back and serene atmosphere. If you want to enjoy the real landscape of the Java islands, Lombok is the real deal.

Beaches: Both islands are known for their stunning beaches. Bali is famous for its lively (sometimes overly noisy) beach scenes, such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, which offer a vibrant nightlife, beach clubs, and water sports activities. Lombok, on the other hand, offers more secluded and pristine beaches like Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak, which are perfect for relaxation and tranquility.

Culture and Traditions: Bali is renowned for its unique Hindu culture and vibrant traditional ceremonies, such as the famous temple festivals and daily offerings. Lombok, predominantly inhabited by the Sasak people, showcases a distinct Muslim-influenced culture and traditions, including traditional Sasak villages and handicrafts.

Natural Landscapes: Both islands boast stunning natural landscapes. Bali is known for its lush rice terraces in Ubud, scenic waterfalls like Gitgit and Tegenungan, and iconic Mount Batur volcano. Lombok offers the majestic Mount Rinjani, pristine Gili Islands with crystal-clear waters, and beautiful waterfalls like Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile.

Surfing: Bali is a overserved surfing spot. Lombok is gaining popularity among surfers, particularly with spots like Desert Point and Gerupuk Bay offering excellent waves.

Crowd and Tourism Experience: Bali tends to be busier and more crowded with tourists, especially in popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. Lombok, being less developed and less crowded, offers a more serene and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Here are some recommendations for visiting Lombok with children and seniors:

Beaches: Lombok is renowned for its stunning beaches with clear waters and white sand. Some family-friendly beaches include Kuta Beach, Senggigi Beach, and Tanjung Aan. These beaches offer calm waters and are ideal for swimming, building sandcastles, and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.

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Gili Islands: Take a day trip to the nearby Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air), which are known for their picturesque beaches and snorkeling opportunities. The islands are car-free, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Seniors can relax on the beaches while children can enjoy snorkeling and spotting colorful marine life.

Sasak Traditional Village: Visit a traditional Sasak village, such as Sade or Ende, to learn about the local culture and customs. Seniors and children can witness traditional architecture, see handwoven textiles, and experience traditional Sasak music and dance performances.

Waterfalls: Lombok is blessed with several beautiful waterfalls that make for great family outings. Tiu Kelep Waterfall and Sendang Gile Waterfall in Senaru, and Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls near Aik Berik, are worth a visit. Enjoy the refreshing ambiance and, if suitable, take a dip in the natural pools.

Monkey Forest: Explore the Pusuk Monkey Forest, located on the slopes of Mount Rinjani. Seniors and children can observe long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat while driving or walking through the forest. It’s important to exercise caution and follow the guidelines provided by the local authorities.

Mataram City Tour: Take a city tour of Mataram, the capital of Lombok, to visit attractions like Mayura Water Palace, Narmada Park, and the Islamic Center. These sites offer a blend of history, culture, and architectural beauty, providing educational experiences for children and seniors alike.

Traditional Handicrafts: Lombok is known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and silverwork. Visit craft villages like Banyumulek (pottery), Sukarara (weaving), and Penujak (silverwork) to witness artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own crafts.

Snorkeling and Diving: If your children and seniors are comfortable in the water, Lombok offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The waters around the Gili Islands and the South West Coast are teeming with colorful coral reefs and marine life.

Wildlife Sanctuary: See its exotic animals at Lombok Wildlife Park! Home to over 45 species of 195 animals, Lombok Wildlife Park seeks to give visitors a chance to experience animals first-hand through their various attractions and experiences. Treat your whole family to an exciting wildlife adventure at the zoo, where the kids will meet all kinds of animals. For a memorable snap, have your family photos taken while you interact with live parrots, elephants, and reptiles. Don’t forget to capture every moment of your kids’ delight as they handle exotic animals.