Best Time to Visit Lombok for Beaches, Waterfalls, & Rinjani

You can visit Lombok all year round, but the most important thing to know is that the island experiences two main seasons: the dry season (April to November) and the wet season (December to March).

While the dry season is peak tourist time, we actually recommend visiting during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October. These months offer great weather, fewer crowds, and the perfect conditions for exploring Lombok’s incredible beaches, waterfalls, and epic Mount Rinjani treks.

Our Lombok Loop adventure, for example, runs from February through November, avoiding December and January when heavy rains make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

Below, we’ll dive into the best times to visit Lombok for different types of travelers, whether you’re here to surf, hike, relax on the beaches, or simply avoid the crowds.

Overview: When to Visit Lombok

Lombok is a year-round destination, but the island’s tropical climate means your experience can vary depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Dry Season (April to November): This is the best time to visit for sunny days, clear skies, and ideal conditions for hiking, surfing, and snorkeling. June, July, and August are the busiest months, with peak crowds and higher prices. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in April, May, September, or October—when the weather is still fantastic, but the island feels more relaxed.
• Wet Season (December to March): Expect tropical downpours, particularly in January and February, which is the height of the rainy season. While the rains typically don’t last all day, they can make outdoor activities like trekking Mount Rinjani or exploring rural areas challenging. That said, the wet season offers lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, making it an option for those who don’t mind the rain.
• Shoulder Season (April-May and September-October): These months strike the perfect balance. The weather is mostly dry, and the crowds are thinner compared to the peak tourist season. It’s also the best time to explore the Lombok Loop, as the roads and trails are in great condition.
• Surfing: The dry season is ideal for beginner-friendly surf spots in southern Lombok, like Selong Belanak, while experienced surfers will enjoy the bigger swells from June to September.
• Trekking Mount Rinjani: The official trekking season for Rinjani runs from April to November, as the trails are closed during the rainy months for safety.
• Avoiding Crowds: April, May, September, and October are your go-to months for quieter beaches, better accommodation deals, and a more peaceful vibe.

Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on what you want to do on Lombok and the activities you want to enjoy. Whether you’re chasing waves, hiking to breathtaking views, or relaxing on white-sand beaches, there’s always something special waiting for you in Lombok.

Best Time to Visit Lombok for Surfing

Lombok is a surfer’s paradise, offering world-class breaks and consistent swells year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on your skill level and the type of waves you’re chasing.

Peak Swell Months: June, July, and August are the peak months for surfing, with larger and more consistent swells. However, these months also bring the biggest crowds, especially at popular spots like Gerupuk. If you’re after quieter waves, aim for April, May, September, or October.

Dry Season (April to October): This is the prime surfing season in Lombok, with consistent swells rolling in from the Indian Ocean. Beginner-friendly spots like Selong Belanak and Gerupuk are ideal during this time, with manageable waves and sunny weather creating perfect conditions for learning to surf. Experienced surfers flock to Mawi Beach and Desert Point (Bangko-Bangko), known for their powerful waves and long barrels, especially from June to September.

Wet Season (November to March): During the rainy months, the swells shift to the east coast, making spots like Ekas Bay the go-to surf destination. While the weather can be unpredictable, the winds tend to favor clean, glassy waves in the mornings before the afternoon rain showers roll in.

Read: Our Favorite Lombok Surf Hostels

Best Time to Visit Lombok for Climbing Mount Rinjani

Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, is one of Lombok’s most iconic attractions. However, trekking conditions depend heavily on the weather, making timing crucial for succesffully climbing Mount Rinjani.

• Trekking Season (April to November): This is the official climbing season when the trails are open, and the weather is ideal for trekking. The dry season offers clear skies, stable conditions, and incredible sunrise views over the crater lake. May and June are especially great for trekking, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak season in July and August.
• Avoiding the Rainy Season: From December to March, the trails are closed for safety reasons due to heavy rains, landslides, and reduced visibility. Even if trekking agencies offer tours during this time, it’s best to avoid attempting the climb, as conditions can be dangerous.
• Shoulder Season (April and November): For a quieter trek, April and November are perfect. You’ll still enjoy mostly dry conditions but with fewer hikers on the trail. November, in particular, offers lush greenery as the rainy season begins to roll in.

Best Time to Visit Lombok for Beaches

Lombok’s beaches are among the most beautiful in Indonesia, known for their pristine sands, turquoise waters, and fewer crowds compared to Bali. The best time to enjoy them depends on the type of experience you’re looking for.

• Dry Season (April to November): This is the ideal time to visit Lombok’s beaches. The sunny weather and calm seas are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Beaches like Selong Belanak and Tanjung Aan shine during this period, offering postcard-perfect conditions for relaxation or beginner surfing.
• Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): For those looking to avoid the high season crowds, these months offer the same beautiful weather with fewer visitors. It’s a great time to explore more secluded spots like Mawun Beach or the Secret Gilis near Sekotong.
• Wet Season (December to March): While the rainy season can bring sporadic downpours, there are still sunny days to enjoy. Beaches on the south and east coasts, like Pink Beach (Pantai Tangsi) and Ekas Bay, are often less affected by the rain and remain great options for exploration.

Best Time to Visit Lombok for Waterfalls

Lombok’s waterfalls are an absolute must-see, tucked away in lush jungles and offering a refreshing escape from the island’s tropical heat. The timing of your visit can make a big difference in what you’ll experience.

• Wet Season (December to March): This is when the waterfalls are at their most impressive. Heavy rains transform spots like Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile into roaring cascades, with the surrounding jungle glowing in vibrant shades of green. However, be prepared for muddy trails and slippery rocks—it’s an adventure, but one worth taking if you’re after that full, dramatic flow.
• Dry Season (April to November): If you’re more about easy access and safer hikes, the dry season is ideal. The waterfalls might not be as powerful, but places like Tiu Kelep and Benang Kelambu are still stunning, and the drier trails make for a more relaxed trek.
• Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): For the best of both worlds, visit during the shoulder months. You’ll still catch decent water flow, the trails won’t be too muddy, and you can enjoy the waterfalls with fewer crowds.

We always recommend starting your trek early in the day to avoid the heat and have these natural wonders all to yourself. Whether you’re swimming beneath the falls or just soaking up the scenery, Lombok’s waterfalls are an unforgettable highlight of any trip.

Best Time to Visit Lombok to Avoid Crowds

If you’re seeking a more tranquil experience, avoiding the peak tourist season is key. While Lombok is generally less crowded than its neighbor Bali, certain times of the year still attract more visitors.

• Avoiding Peak Season (June-August): These months align with the summer holidays in Europe and Australia, making it the busiest time to visit. Popular destinations like Mount Rinjani and Selong Belanak Beach can feel more crowded, and accommodation prices tend to rise.
• Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): These months are the sweet spot for escaping crowds while still enjoying great weather. The beaches, hiking trails, and surf spots feel more peaceful, making it the perfect time for a laid-back getaway. Accommodation prices are often more affordable during these months as well.
• Wet Season (December to March): Although the wet season isn’t ideal for all activities, it’s one of the quietest times to visit. Popular spots like Kuta Lombok, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands are far less crowded, and you’ll often have entire beaches or waterfalls to yourself. Keep in mind, though, that rain may limit your ability to explore certain outdoor attractions.

Read: Lombok Vs Bali (Bali is still way more busy btw 😉 )

No matter when you visit, Lombok offers something special year-round. Whether you’re surfing world-class breaks, climbing Mount Rinjani, relaxing on pristine beaches, or chasing waterfalls, timing your trip to suit your interests will ensure an unforgettable adventure.

For the ultimate Lombok experience, why not join our Lombok Loop? This 4-day motorcycling journey—our take on Vietnam’s Ha Giang Loop (but we think it’s even better!)—takes you through Lombok’s most stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and authentic cultural experiences. We depart Senggigi every Thursday night, so be sure to reach out to secure your spot!

Prefer to explore independently? Check out our guides below to help plan your adventure:

• Boat Trip to Komodo From Lombok: Our one-stop guide for one of the most incredible boat trips in Indonesia!
• Where to Stay in Lombok: Find the best areas and hotels for every budget across the island.
• Where to Stay in Senggigi: Plan your accommodation in Lombok’s favorite coastal town and the starting point for the Lombok Loop.
• Where to Stay in Kuta Lombok: Visit the surf capital of Lombok and discover the best hotels and hostels in this laid-back southern town.