How to Get to Lombok from Bali: A Local’s Guide
Getting to Lombok has never been easier, whether you’re flying directly to the island or taking the scenic route across the water.
While Lombok has its own international airport, many travelers choose to arrive by boat. With a well-connected network of fast boats and ferries from Bali and the nearby Gili Islands, you can reach Lombok’s shores quickly, making it a popular choice for those eager to begin their adventure.
Below, we’ll walk you through the best options for getting to Lombok so that you can join us on the Lombok Loop from Senggigi, or explore on your own!
Getting to Lombok: Overview
1. Flight
The fastest way to get to Lombok is by air, with several daily direct flights.
- Arrival Point: Lombok International Airport (LOP)
- Travel Times:
- Bali: 30 minutes
- Surabaya: 1 hour
- Jakarta: 2 hours
- Kuala Lumpur, Singapore: 3 hours
- Transfer to Senggigi: 1.5 hours from the airport by car, with pick-up services often included by hotels.
- Transfer to Kuta Lombok: Just 30 minutes from the airport by car.
- Airlines: Garuda (recommended), Lion Air, Wings Air, Batik Air, AirAsia
Note: This is the fastest option if you’re flying from another Indonesian city or internationally but fast boats are the more convenient way of getting to Lombok from Bali or the Gili Islands.
2. Fast Boat
Our recommended transport route to Lombok (especially if you’re joining the Lombok Loop since you’ll arrive near Senggigi)– perfect for those traveling from Bali or the Gili Islands and looking for an easy scenic route across the water.
- Arrival Point: Bangsal Harbour
- Travel Times:
- From Gili Islands: 15 minutes
- From Bali (Padang Bai): Approximately 2 hours
- From Bali (Serangan): Approximately 3 hours
- Transfer to Senggigi: About 30 minutes by car/taxi from Bangsal. Private pick-up is available for around 400,000 IDR.
- Transfer to Kuta Lombok: Around 1 hour 45 minutes by car/taxi from Bangsal.
- Boat Operators: Blue Water Express, Eka Jaya, Gili Getaway, and more. We recommend and use Eka Jaya.
Tip: Fastboats are the quickest water option, with frequent departures from multiple ports (suggestions below). Book in advance during peak season.
3. Public Ferry
This is the most budget-friendly way to reach Lombok, ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind the extended journey.
- Arrival Point: Lembar Harbour
- Travel Time: From Bali (Padang Bai) – around 5 hours on the ferry
- Transfer to Senggigi: 1 hour by car from Lembar.
- Transfer to Kuta: 1 hour by car from Lembar.
- Best For: Travelers on a budget or those bringing their scooter from Bali.
Note: While affordable, the ferry is a slower option. It’s a great choice if you have extra time and want to save on travel costs. You can also book an overnight ferry but it’s not a full night.
Our Recommended route: Fast Boat to Lombok from Bali via Padang Bai Harbor
We recommend the Eka Jaya Fast Boat the most ideal choice for travelers heading from Bali to Lombok.
It’s popular for being easy, convenient, and affordable, making it a top pick among our travelers looking for an easy, safe, and affordable boat transfer.
The boat departs from Padang Bai Harbor and arrives at Bangsal Pier in around 1.5 hours, which is just 30 minutes from Senggigi—perfect for starting your Lombok Loop journey.
With tickets priced at about 440,000 IDR per person, this route combines great value with a smooth travel experience. If you’re based in areas like Canggu, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Ubud, Seminyak, or Sanur, remember to arrange transport to Padang Bai for an easy departure.
Public Ferry timetables from bali to Lombok
If you’re traveling from Bali to Lombok on a budget, the public ferry is a solid option. Operating 24/7 from Padang Bai in Bali to Lembar in Lombok, this ferry departs roughly every hour, weather permitting.
The journey usually takes about 4-5 hours, although loading and unloading can add extra time. Facilities on board include basic amenities like a prayer room, canteen, and various seating options, with both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned areas.
Tickets can be purchased at the terminal (first come, first served) with no need for reservations. During peak times or bad weather, expect delays or possible cancellations.
Here’s the Bali-Lombok ferry timetable:
| Departure Port | Arrival Port | Frequency | Travel Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Padang Bai (Bali) | Lembar (Lombok) | Every hour, 24/7 | 4-5 hours |
| Lembar (Lombok) | Padang Bai (Bali) | Every hour, 24/7 | 4-5 hours |
Read: Bali Vs Lombok
Alternative Ferry Ports in bali
For fast boat routes to Lombok, consider these options, which will all have ferry transfer options to Bangsal Pier near Senggigi.
- Padang Bai: Located on Bali’s east coast, about a 2-hour boat ride to Lombok. Slightly farther from tourist areas but offers a quicker sea journey.
- Serangan Pier: Closer to popular spots like Kuta and Seminyak but the trip takes around 3 hours by boat.
- From Gili Islands: Just a 15-minute ride to Lombok.
Tip: You can compare prices and book tickets on the 12Go Asia Website. Or, contact us and we can help book your ferry tickets for you.
Getting to Lombok from the Gili Islands
The Gili Islands’ proximity to Lombok makes transfers quick and straightforward. Each island’s main harbor offers several daily options, including affordable public boats that depart once full.
Fast boat services also connect the Gili Islands to Lombok, in fact, most speedboats from Bali will stop at the GIli Islands before arriving in Lombok.
Not sure which Island? Read our guide to Lombok vs Gili Islands.
Key Routes and Travel Times:
- Gili Air to Bangsal or Teluk Nare (Lombok): A brief 10-minute boat ride, with easy access to onward land transfers to Senggigi, Kuta, Senaru, or Lombok Airport.
- Gili Meno to Bangsal or Teluk Nare: Approximately 15 minutes by boat.
- Gili Trawangan to Bangsal or Teluk Nare: About a 20-minute journey.
Each Gili Island has a primary departure point, which makes the process of boarding a boat to Lombok easy. Upon arrival at either Bangsal or Teluk Nare (very close together), you can continue by road to your destination across Lombok, whether you’re staying in Senggigi, staying in Kuta Lombok, or staying in Tetebatu.
We recommend booking your transfer online to avoid local bartering, ensuring a hassle-free start to your Lombok adventure.
Read: Where to Stay in Lombok
Public Boat Prices (as of 2024):
- Gili Air to Lombok: IDR 19,500
- Gili Meno to Lombok: IDR 21,500
- Gili Trawangan to Lombok: IDR 22,500
Important: Contact us if you need a transfer to the Lombok Loop starting point from Bangsal or Teluk Nare! If you’re traveling independently, don’t miss our epic guide to the best things to do in Lombok!
FAQs
How long is the Public ferry from Bali to Lombok?
The public ferry from Bali (Padang Bai) to Lombok (Lembar) typically takes around 4-5 hours, though this can vary depending on loading times and weather conditions. While it’s a budget-friendly choice, it’s slower than fast boats, making it ideal if you’re not in a rush and don’t mind the extended journey. The ferry operates 24/7, departing roughly every hour, so you’ll have plenty of flexible options.
Where do you fly to for Lombok?
Fly into Lombok International Airport (LOP), located in the southern part of the island. The airport has direct flights from major Indonesian cities like Bali, Jakarta, and Surabaya, as well as international connections from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Once at the airport, it’s a 30-minute drive to Kuta or around 1.5 hours to Senggigi, both popular areas with great accommodation options.
What is the best way to get to Lombok?
The best way depends on your schedule and budget! For the quickest and most scenic route from Bali, we recommend taking a fast boat from Padang Bai to Lombok. It takes about 1.5-2 hours and is convenient if you’re staying in Bali’s tourist areas. Flying is the fastest option if you’re coming from other Indonesian cities, with direct flights landing in Lombok from various hubs daily.
What is the best fast boat to Senggigi?
Eka Jaya Fast Boat is a popular and reliable option if you’re heading to Senggigi. The boat departs from Padang Bai and arrives at Bangsal Harbor on Lombok’s northwest coast, which is just a 30-minute drive from Senggigi. You’ll enjoy beautiful coastal views, and taxis or transfer services from Bangsal to Senggigi are readily available.
What is the best fast boat to Kuta Lombok?
Eka Jaya Fast Boat is also a great choice if you’re headed to Kuta. The fast boat arrives at Bangsal Harbor, and from there, it’s roughly a 1 hour 45-minute drive to Kuta. Transfer options, including private taxis, are available at Bangsal to make the trip as smooth as possible.
Can you fly directly to Lombok from Bali?
Yes! There are several direct flights each day from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport to Lombok International Airport. The flight takes only about 30 minutes, making it an incredibly convenient option. This is especially useful if you’re short on time and want to skip the longer boat ride. Ticket prices vary depending on the season and airline but are generally affordable.
How much does a public ferry from Bali to Lombok cost?
The public ferry from Bali to Lombok costs around IDR 62,000 (approximately $4 USD) per person for a one-way trip. It’s a fantastic budget option for travelers who don’t mind the longer journey. No reservations are needed, but it’s best to arrive early, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
How do I get to Lombok from the Gili Islands?
Traveling from the Gili Islands to Lombok is quick and easy. Public boats connect Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air to Teluk Nare or Bangsal Harbor on Lombok. These crossings are short—roughly 10-20 minutes—and tickets are around IDR 20,000-25,000 ($1.30-1.60 USD). Fast boats from Bali also make stops at the Gilis before heading to Lombok, so you’ll have plenty of options to suit your schedule.
Do I need to book fast boat tickets in advance?
While it’s not strictly necessary to book in advance, we highly recommend it, especially during the peak travel season (June to August) and on weekends. Booking online is easy and helps secure your preferred departure time, avoiding last-minute hassles. You can also compare options for the best rates and routes.
Can I bring a scooter on the ferry to Lombok?
Yes, you can bring a scooter on the public ferry from Padang Bai to Lembar. The fee is around IDR 100,000 ($6.50 USD) for a scooter, and it’s a practical option if you plan to explore Lombok independently. Just arrive early to ensure a smooth boarding process, as the ferry can get busy with both passengers and vehicles.
