Tanjung Aan Beach: Area Guide & Current Changes

When travelers think of our beautiful island, they often picture the Secret Gilis or the challenging slopes of Mount Rinjani. But ask any local, or anyone who has joined us on the Lombok Loop, and they’ll tell you that the southern coastline is where you find Lombok’s most EPIC beaches.

Tanjung Aan is a prime example of this raw, untouched beauty. As one of the most popular beaches in Lombok, it draws visitors in with its unique “pepper sand,” perfect swimmable turquoise water, and the breathtaking panoramic views from nearby Bukit Merese viewpoint.

BUT– if you’ve seen the news, you’ll know it’s changing fast! In this quick local’s guide, we will teach you all you need to know about Tanjung Aan: how to get there, what to expect right now, and our thoughts on the changes happening right now.

Where is Tanung Aan Beach?

This breathtaking destination is officially located in the Central Lombok Regency, near the vibrant and developing area of Kuta.

For those joining us on the Lombok Loop, this means it’s conveniently situated just a short 15 to 20-minute scooter ride east of your main stop in Kuta. Geographically, Tanjung Aan is stunningly unique; it’s a vast, beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay that is naturally separated into two distinct coves.

Here is the practical info you need:

• Location: Central Lombok Regency, near Kuta.
• Proximity to Kuta: A simple 15-20 minute scooter ride east of Kuta.
• Accessibility: Easily reached via well-paved roads
• Parking & Entry Fee: 10,000 IDR per scooter/car, charged by locals upon entry. This covers parking and contributes to beach maintenance.
• Warungs & Amenities: Small, local warungs used to line the beach. This was one of our favorite spots to get delicious local food but there have been changes recently (read below).

Don’t Miss: Our FAVORITE Things to do in Lombok

What We Love About Tanjung Aan (And What to Do There)

Tanjung Aan is a living testament to the raw, untouched beauty that makes Lombok so unique. Forget Bali’s dirty grey beaches. While a popular beach, Tanjung Aan is extremely beautiful, the water clear, the sand white, and the vibes as chill as they come.

Here’s why we consider it one of the most memorable stops near Kuta on our Lombok Loop, and how to make the most of your visit here.

1. The Ultimate Viewpoint: Bukit Merese

This is the non-negotiable must-do for photographers and sunset chasers. Bukit Merese is a gentle, grassy headland that perfectly separates the two sweeping coves of Tanjung Aan.

• The Experience: A short, manageable trek up the hill (allow 10-15 minutes) is rewarded with a 360-degree panoramic view of the coastline.
• The Money Shot: It is hands-down the most cinematic sunset spot in all of South Lombok. Stake your claim on the grass and enjoy the sky shift from gold to deep orange over the Indian Ocean.

Note: we don’t always visit Bukit Merese on the Lombok Loop, we change the itinerary and mix it up with a couple of “secret” viewpoints we won’t share on this public blog 😉

2. Catch Your First Wave: Beginner-Friendly Surf

While the calm, turquoise water near the shore is perfect for swimming, Tanjung Aan is also a fantastic place to learn how to surf.

• The Wave: Located on a central reef a short distance offshore, the break is a gentle, forgiving A-frame. This makes it ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers looking to practice their turns without the intensity of bigger waves.
• Local Transport Hack: To save energy, skip the long paddle and hire a local fisherman’s boat right on the beach (typically 25,000 IDR each way) to shuttle you directly to the lineup.

3. The Unique “Pepper Sand”

This is one of the island’s most fascinating facts. Tanjung Aan’s shoreline is famously made up of round, coarse grains, giving it the nickname “pepper sand.”

• Why It Matters: The unique texture feels distinct underfoot and adds a memorable sensory element to your walk along the two-kilometer beach. It complements the crystal-clear water and secluded atmosphere.

A Local Update: The Future of Tanjung Aan

As locals here on the island, we need to be transparent: the South Coast is undergoing a major transformation.

Tanjung Aan is currently at the center of what the government calls the Mandalika Special Economic Zone (SEZ) project, which means the beautiful, rustic beach you visit today is quickly evolving.

Here are the critical updates and what you need to know before you go:

• The Big Development: A major five-star luxury resort is confirmed for the eastern side of the bay, marking a huge investment in the area. This development is part of the government’s plan to transform Mandalika into a world-class, premium tourism destination.
• Impact on Local Warungs (Amenities Alert): To clear the way for this project, many of the original local warungs and stalls have been demolished. This is the biggest change you will notice.
  • What this means for you: The beach is still stunning and accessible, but the number of sunbeds, umbrellas, and affordable food/drink options right on the sand is now significantly reduced or entirely gone in some parts of the bay.
  • f you want that classic local beach experience, chilling on a beanbag and getting a cheap coconut—you need to seek out the few remaining vendors, often near the Bukit Merese entrance, and support them while they are still operating.

Our view: The vibe of Tanjung Aan is changing from a rustic, local hotspot to a more curated, high-end destination. We recommend visiting now to experience the beach in its raw, natural state before the major resort construction begins in full swing. Get that classic sunset view from Bukit Merese while the area retains its authentic Lombok charm.

We think it’s sad when multi-million dollar conglomerates take turn our island into profits.

But the good news is that a project like this does create a lot of jobs, and there are plenty of raw, untouched beaches to discover! SO on the Lombok Loop, we will always make sure we offer the REAL Lombok experience! Join us every Thursday from Senggigi and NOW every Friday from Kuta Lombok!

Where to Stay in Kuta

Wondering where to stay in Kuta Lombok? Our recommendations change a lot due to the rapid growth we’re seeing here. However, here are some great starting points for you to consider:

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.