Senggigi

Senggigi was Lombok's first resort area and is still the most established. It runs along the west coast north of Mataram, with Mangsit, Malimbu and the cliffs beyond it facing straight across the Lombok Strait towards Bali's Mount Agung, which makes it one of the best sunset coasts on the island.

The strip has a broad mix of hotels, from beachfront resorts with big pools to good-value guesthouses, plus restaurants serving fresh seafood, Sasak food and Western staples. The coast road north towards Malimbu and Nipah is one of the most scenic drives in Indonesia, with lookout points over the bays.

Senggigi is also a practical base. It is about 40 minutes from the airport, close to Mataram for shopping and services, and a short drive from Bangsal and Teluk Nara harbours for boats to the Gili Islands. Many operators here run snorkelling trips, Gili day tours and drives to Rinjani and the waterfalls.