Mandalika, Lombok | Indonesia
Take a 30-minute drive southward from Lombok
International Airport and you’d find yourself in a beach paradise called
Mandalika. Cruise through the long stretch of beautiful white sandy beach along
the south coast of Lombok Island and stumble upon the breathtaking view of an
endless horizon.
Unlike the over-commercialised Bali, Mandalika is a
1,250-hectare sanctuary with luxurious resorts, golf courses, spas and an
abundance of nature. Once a surfers’ best-kept secret, Mandalika - also dubbed
the ‘new Bali’ - is an emerging destination thanks to the Indonesian
government’s massive investments in tourism development.
However, it is not just all about its geographical
attractions - Mandalika is also known for its vibrant bars and nightclubs,
exhilarating racing circuits and a myriad of water activities. There will also
be a Moto GP scheduled in the island by 2021.
What to do
Mandalika is home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful
white-sand beaches including Tanjung Aan, Serenting, Gerupuk and Seger Beach —
each offering something different for visitors to enjoy and experience.
The main beach is Mandalika’s Kuta Beach that
spans over 7km and it is where all the major activities take place — swimming,
wake boarding and all sorts of fun water sports. If you’re one who prefers a
peaceful and serene setting, head down to Serenting Beach.
Break the waves at Gerupuk Beach, a popular surfer’s
paradise in Mandalika.
(Credit: Indonesia Tourism)
Gerupuk Beach on the other hand is perfect
for fishing, swimming and surfing - especially loved for its challenging waves.
You can also hike the hills to check out Mandalika from a different vantage
point. Head over to Merese Hill for a much more challenging
yet rewarding trail especially during sunrise (the sunset crowd may be a little
too much for most people). Start your expedition at about 4.00am and the
morning light will leave you holding your breath as you gaze into the azure
Indian Ocean.
But if you have time for only one beach, we’d recommend going to Seger Beach for the best of both worlds — marvel the gorgeous natural phenomenon and immerse in the one of a kind cultural experience. The vibrant Bau Nyale Festival is held annually on the last week of February, when people flock to catch the appearance of Nyale sea worms in the first light of day. It is said that a successful catch promises good fortune, but the festival is not just about scooping some sea worms out of the water. The weeklong festivity also includes surfing competitions, creative dialogues, a culinary expo and a photography contest.
While you’re at Seger Beach, look for Princess Mandalika - a local legend in Lombok that is perpetualised in a form of a statue along
the beach.
Immerse in Sasak culture when in
Mandalika. (Credit: Indonesia Tourism)
What to eat
When in Mandalika, it is mandatory to try the food of
the Sasak tribe — the
indigenous people that make up 85 percent of the total population in the
island. Fiery sambal and skewered grilled beef cubes (satay rembiga) are as
easily accessible as mie bakso and babi guling in Bali. But try something
more local like bebalung (beef or mutton soup) as well as the sayur nangka
(jackfruit curry similar to the ones found in Malay cooking).
Ayam bakar Taliwang is a classic Sasak dish.
(Credit: Source)
One thing’s for sure, there’s no shortage of food stalls
and restaurants in the heart of Kuta Beach. Kemangi Restaurant offers a menu that
combines Western and Asian flavours using locally-grown and imported
ingredients. Try also Kemangi’s cocktails that are concocted using local herbs
and tropical fruits.
If healthy and fresh is the name of the game, head over
to Kenza for a change of scenery. The
relaxing interiors is paired with soothing pastels and textures of wood and
bamboo. Order anything from superfood smoothies to acai bowls that are perfect
for your IG feed. Other cafes with a similar concept include Café
Fin and Terra — both offering vegan and
plant-based options as well.
The entrance of Kenza has a rustic feel.
Care for coffee at
Kenza?
Healthy food can be sexy at Kenza.
For something more upscale, head over to Markisa
Restaurant for perfectly charred octopus and tasty pasta dishes. It is
Mandalika’s best rooftop restaurant. Otherwise, dine at Hungry Bird and
sample its Lombok Curry (house-made yellow curry with tempeh or chicken,
vegetables and coconut milk) as well as its Ayam Taliwang (marinated grilled
chicken in a blend of traditional Lombok spices).
Where to stay
The are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from in
Mandalika. The Novotel Lombok is one of the more luxurious
options, and is strategically located right where the busiest part of the city
is. The resort is accented with traditional Sasak-style rooms and private pool
villas. Enjoy the lush tropical gardens as you stroll down the beach-fronting
resort overlooking the turquoise bay.
Origins Lombok is a yoga and wellness resort for those
seeking to switch off from the hustle of the city. (Credit: Origins Lombok)
Slight north from Kuta Beach is Origin
Lombok, a gorgeous boutique-style resort that features an
all-white architecture amidst the lush tropics. We’d say check in here on the
last night of your stay to simply experience the art of doing nothing — soak in
the sun, lie by the pool and sip a cocktail (or
two) all day long.
If you’re travelling in a large group, book a luxury stay
at Villa Sorgas that’s located between
Tanjung Aan and Gerupuk Beach. The hillside villa has an infinity pool that
doubles as the perfect spot to witness both sunset and sunrise — promising you
an unforgettable stay that’s truly sublime.
Villa Sorgas is located on the hillside 20 minutes away
from Tanjung Aan. (Credit: Villa Sorgas)
Getting there
Take a direct flight to Lombok International Airport and it’s a mere
30-minute drive to Mandalika’s Kuta Beach. You can also take a ferry from Bali,
from Padang Bai Harbour to Lembar Harbour in Lombok. From there, you can hop on a bus or taxi that will take you two to three
hours to Mandalika.
(Credit: Indonesia Tourism)
