Thinking about a longboarding trip to Indonesia but feel like Bali is too busy, other islands are too remote or you’re simply not sure where to go? Don’t fret! A longboarding trip to Lombok might be the perfect solution.
With gentle waves, a diverse range of longboarder-friendly surf spots and way fewer people than in Bali, longboarding Lombok is a trip that offers bang for your buck and a more authentic travel experience.
In this article, we’ll give you 15 useful tips to make your Lombok longboarding trip a memorable one. So read on to learn all about:
- Lombok in a nutshell
- Important pre-flight tips before you arrive
- Tips on how to make the most of your Lombok longboard trip
- How to end your longboarding adventure on Lombok in style
Let’s go!
Lombok in a nutshell
Lombok is the island directly east of Bali and 25 minutes by plane. It offers a serene retreat from the bustling crowds of its bigger and more well-publicised sister.
This tropical paradise, which is noticeably less trodden by tourism, provides a raw yet comfortable experience for its visitors.
In our opinion, it’s a place where the tranquillity of untouched beaches meets the modernity of well-equipped amenities and authentic Indo culture – a place where you can wake up to the harmonious sounds of nature, surf on pristine waves and end your day with a stunning sunset – all in an environment that radiates an unmatched sense of relaxation.
That’s the dreamy allure of Lombok and just a few reasons why longboarders are slowly waking up to its potential. Other facts about Lombok include:
- Lombok has a rich history with influences from the native Sasak people, Balinese culture and Dutch colonial rule
- The Sasak people constitute about 85% of Lombok’s population
- Lombok is home to Mount Rinjani, which is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia and a sacred site among the locals
- Lombok is renowned for its traditional handicrafts, particularly pottery and weaving. The village of Banyumulek is famous for its exquisite pottery.
- Lombok has made significant strides in eco-tourism with initiatives to protect marine life, promote sustainable farming and encourage tourists to minimise their environmental impact
Pre-trip tips
Before embarking on your Lombok longboarding adventure, it’s important to plan and prepare. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable and unforgettable surfing trip:
Familiarise yourself with the fabled “pop-up” movement
The “pop-up” movement is a fundamental maneuver in longboarding.
It involves transitioning from a lying position to standing on the board, a technique crucial for catching waves.
Mastering this movement can significantly enhance your longboarding experience, allowing you to hit the ground running when you arrive.
Check out a few Youtube videos, roll out the yoga mat and practice before you arrive. We guarantee it’ll make that first surf session infinitely easier!
2. Make sure you have travel insurance
Purchasing travel insurance before longboarding Lombok or embarking on any trip is a critical step.
As a surfer, you’ll be exposed to certain risks that necessitate insurance coverage. This ensures you are protected against unforeseen circumstances such as injuries, loss of equipment or travel disruptions.
It’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind it brings during your adventurous journey.
Check out Passport Card or World Nomads for affordable travel insurance that also covers surfing.
3. Pack for sunny, hot, tropical weather
Lombok’s tropical climate promises sunny, hot weather which is perfect for hanging outdoors and engaging in watersport activities like surfing.
Don’t forget to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for protection against the intense sunlight.
And of course, keep in mind that hydration is key – bring a reusable water bottle and hydration sachets to stay refreshed.
4. Don’t worry about lugging a longboard to Lombok
Worried about the hassle of transporting your longboard?
Leave those concerns behind!
When you stay at Xanadu, you gain free access to a diverse range of top-quality boards. Select the perfect one for Lombok’s waves without the burden of extra baggage.
It’s a convenient, cost-saving service that enhances your surfing experience significantly.
5. Pick the right time of year to travel
Lombok experiences two main seasons: the dry season (May – September) and the wet season (October – April).
During the dry season, you can expect cooler temperatures with slightly more wind. However, if you’re looking for glassy waves and no wind, then the wet season is your best bet.
The wet season also turns Lombok lush and many more spots are working than in the dry season. In saying that, you can find waves practically all year round.
Learn more about the best time to surf on Lombok.
During-trip tips
Make the most of your adventure with these during-trip tips that cover everything from choosing the right surf spot to respecting the local culture. Dive in to ensure a seamless and enriching experience:
6. Brush up on the surf etiquette basics
Understanding and practising surf etiquette is critical when longboarding Lombok or any surf spot in the world.
It ensures a harmonious and safe environment for all surfers.
These unwritten surf etiquette rules involve respecting the locals, the environment and fellow surfers, and ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the waves.
7. Surf the spots that match your skill level
Lombok’s waves cater to surfers of all skill levels, making it an ideal destination for longboarding.
However, choosing the right spot that matches your skills when longboarding Lombok is crucial. For beginners, Tanjung Aan and Gerupuk are two of our favourites. For anyone seeking waves that offer a bit more of a challenge, Ekas Outside and Desert Point will be on the cards.
No matter where you surf, remember to stay within your limits – this ensures your own surf safety as well as the safety of those around you.
8. Learn to surf with instructors
Learning to surf with an instructor is paramount to mastering the sport effectively and safely.
Fortunately, Xanadu’s highly experienced instructors offer personalised guidance tailored to your skill level, ensuring you progress at a steady pace while avoiding common beginner mistakes.
Moreover, their in-depth knowledge of surfing means you can pick their brain about any aspect of this beautiful pastime.
From the different forms of surfing besides longboarding to the best surf spots, they’re always happy to impart their wisdom to budding surfers!
9. Remember… there’s fun in numbers
Longboarding in Lombok is all about camaraderie and shared experiences.
It’s safer, more enjoyable and more rewarding to surf in groups. You can learn from each other, share tips and look out for each other’s safety… or simply enjoy laughing at each other’s awesome wipeouts.
So whether you’re a novice or a seasoned surfer, remember that longboarding Lombok is more fun when you’re hanging with a crew!
10. Respect local customs and traditions
Lombok’s rich cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its daily life.
If you’re longboarding Lombok, it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing appropriately, like anywhere else in the world, (no bikinis while walking into restaurants or around town – shorts and a tank top will do – leave bikinis to the beach).
These actions promote harmonious interactions with the locals and enrich your cultural understanding.
11. Sun protection is your greatest ally
Lombok’s sunny, tropical climate is what makes it so ideal for longboarding and watersports… but it also calls for ample sun protection.
Longboarding in Lombok means you’ll be in the sun for extended periods, so applying a high-SPF water-resistant sunscreen or reef-safe zinc is vital. You can buy those at Xanadu if you prefer to travel light.
Also, don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours or after each surf session to ensure maximum skin protection. Dealing with gnarly Indonesia sunburn while on holiday is nobody’s idea of fun!
12. Don’t be discouraged if you wipeout often
Wiping out is an inevitable part of the longboarding journey, especially when longboarding Lombok’s dynamic waves.
Don’t let it discourage you.
Instead, consider each fall as a stepping stone to mastery. With continued practice and perseverance, your skills will drastically improve, turning each wipeout into a learning opportunity.
Keep pushing forward and remember… every pro surfer was once a beginner too.
Post-trip tips
Before we wrap up, let’s discuss how to end your Lombok longboarding adventure with the style of a surfer who’s unlocked the secret of walking on water (or at least how to make it look that way in your Instagram photos):
13. Leave reviews for local guides or tour operators
If you’ve had a remarkable experience longboarding in Lombok, don’t forget to leave reviews for your local guides or tour operators.
Sharing your thoughts can help future surfers and travellers make informed decisions. As an aside, it also helps these local businesses thrive by attracting more people and longboarding enthusiasts to Lombok’s exquisite waves.
14. Think about investing in a surf skate
Surf skating can be a great investment post your longboarding Lombok adventure if you’re heading back home to a place far from waves or the ocean.
It provides a fantastic way to refine your surfing skills on land.
With its similar motion to longboarding, a surf skate can significantly improve your balance, coordination and agility, preparing you for your next longboarding Lombok journey or any other surfing expedition.
Btw, Mako Surfskates are available at Xanadu shop should you wish to take one home.
15. Start planning your next Lombok longboarding trip
Once you’ve experienced longboarding in Lombok, planning a follow-up trip is a strategic move.
As you’ll be navigating familiar territory, you’ll feel more comfortable surfing Lombok waves and therefore able to push yourself and make fast progress.
Better yet, with each subsequent visit, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Lombok’s surf spots and a better appreciation for the local surf scene and broader culture.
So that’s about it when it comes to top longboarding Lombok tips for surfers and travellers.
Remember, safety, respect and a positive attitude are the foundations of a successful longboarding adventure, so make sure these guide your actions at all times.
Now, enough reading – book a trip, pack your clothes and get ready to hang ten in Lombok with Xanadu!
