Local’s Gude to Mawi Beach Near Kuta Lombok
We’ve watched Mawi Beach change over the years, and while the south coast keeps developing fast, Mawi has somehow kept its wild, rugged feel. It’s one of the most dramatic beaches near Kuta Lombok, known for its powerful waves, steep cliffs, and that unmistakable turquoise water that makes the whole bay glow on a sunny day.
We like to change up our Lombok beach itinerary on our famous Lombok Loop, and we’ve noticed Mawi Beach has always been a hit with our travelers! Even without surfing it’s a great spot to grab a coconut (or Bintang) and watch surfer’s shred up!
Whether you’re joining us on the Lombok Loop and getting stoked for your trip – or if you’re staying in Kuta Lombok and want a beach that’s a bit more adventurous, Mawi deserves a spot on your list!
Where is Mawi Beach?
Mawi Beach sits on Lombok’s south coast, about 25 minutes west of Kuta, tucked between Selong Belanak and Mawun. We ride this route all the time, both for our own beach days and while guiding guests on the Lombok Loop.
The bay is small, rugged, and surrounded by cliffs and local farmland which is why it still feels untouched even as nearby areas continue to develop.
The last section of road can get a bit bumpy, but it’s still a straightforward trip if you take it slow. Most travelers staying in Kuta visit Mawi for exactly this reason, you get that raw south-coast energy without needing to venture too far!
Quick Facts:
- Distance from Kuta: 12 km / ~25 minutes by scooter
- Location: Between Selong Belanak and Mawun Beach
- Road quality: Smooth until the final 1–2 km dirt track
- Parking: Simple open parking area by the beach shacks
- Nearby landmarks: Tampah Beach and Lancing Beach
- Best for: Surfers, photographers, and travelers wanting a more remote beach vibe
What to Expect at Mawi Beach (And Tips for Visiting)
Mawi is one of the rawest beaches on the south coast. Expect steep headlands, long powerful waves, and water that shifts from turquoise to deep blue depending on the tide.
We bring guests here when they want something wilder than Selong Belanak or Tanjung Aan. It’s beautiful, but it’s also rugged: strong currents, sharp reef, and a vibe that’s more “surf outpost” than “relaxing beach day.”
From the sand, you’ll usually see a mix of local surfers, a few traveling pros, and the occasional beach dog sleeping in the shade. The warungs here are basic but friendly, selling coconuts, mie goreng, and cold drinks.
Why do we love it? Even in high season, Mawi Beach never feels busy.
What to Expect:
- A dramatic crescent bay surrounded by steep green cliffs
- Consistent surf with fast lefts and punchy rights, depending on the swell
- Strong currents at mid–low tide (swimmers should stick to the inside of the bay)
- A quieter, more local vibe. This coast says NO to big beach clubs or resorts
- Basic facilities: small warungs, cold drinks, simple Indonesian food – local guys here are super friendly and always make our guests laugh
- Photogenic views from both headlands, especially at golden hour
Tips for Visiting Mawi Beach:
- Check the swell forecast if you plan to surf; Mawi gets heavy fast
- Come at mid or high tide if you want safer swimming
- Wear reef-safe sandals—the inner reef can be sharp when the tide drops
- Avoid the last 1–2 km after rain; the dirt road becomes slippery
- Bring cash (Rp 5k–10k for parking + snacks)
- Watch your valuables; leave the scooter storage open to avoid break-ins
- Walk up the western headland for the best panoramic photos of the bay
Can You Stay at Mawi Beach?
Mawi is still one of the most undeveloped beaches in South Lombok, which is part of why we love bringing guests here. There are no hotels, villas, or beach bungalows on the sand, and honestly, that’s what keeps the area feeling wild and untouched.
Most travelers pick one of the awesome places to stay in Kuta Lombok, only 20–25 minutes away, and visit Mawi as a day trip.
Here are our current recommendations for different budgets (updated regularly as we see a huge shift in Kuta Lombok area!).
Luxury Stay: Pullman Lombok – If you’re after a 5-star experience, this option offers private pools, ocean views, and spa amenities that make it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Mid-Range: El Tropico Boutique Hotel – This boutique stay balances comfort and affordability, with easy access to Kuta Beach and nearby cafes. A great choice if you want to stay close to the action without the high-end price tag.
Budget-Friendly: Kaniu Capsule Hostel – Ideal for surfers and budget-conscious travelers, this cozy spot is 2 km from Kuta’s main surf spots and offers breakfast each morning.
Local Update: What’s New & Important to Know About Mawi Beach
Emerging development pressure and road upgrades
- There’s a development project in the valley behind Mawi called Mawi Valley. They are proposing and starting to show the main access road through the valley as been completed, and villa construction is slated to begin soon.
- We’ve seen land advertisements listing beachfront plots for sale near Mawi Surf Spot this year which means there is a rising interest from investors and outsiders. This quaint and secluded surf spot will change, and fast!
Our take is that we love the laid back local vibes of Lombok and we don’t want the heart and culture to shift. But with investment comes a lot of opportunity for the local people of our island. The great news is that our island is HUGE and there are plenty of epic and hidden places to explore that aren’t changing anytime soon!
If you want to join us to explore the REAL Lombok for the adventure of a lifetime, join us on the Lombok Loop– departing Senggigi every Thursday and Kuta Lombok every Friday!
If you want to explore by yourself, have a read of our blog for more inspiration for epic things to do in Lombok!
