Selong Belanak Beach: The Crown Jewel of South Lombok

If you have ever imagined a perfect Indonesian beach — wide, white sand sweeping in a gentle crescent, turquoise water impossibly clear, green hills framing the bay, and barely another tourist in sight — you have imagined Selong Belanak. Located on Lombok's south coast, Selong Belanak consistently ranks as one of Indonesia's most beautiful beaches, and rightly so. Unlike Bali's overcrowded beaches, Selong Belanak remains refreshingly uncrowded, authentic, and genuinely spectacular.

Where is Selong Belanak?

Selong Belanak is located in South Lombok, approximately 60 kilometres from Mataram (Lombok's capital) and about 15 kilometres west of Kuta Lombok. The drive from Mataram takes around 1.5–2 hours through increasingly dramatic southern landscapes. From Kuta Lombok, it's a scenic 20-minute drive along the coast.

Why Selong Belanak is Special

What sets Selong Belanak apart from other Indonesian beaches is its perfect combination of characteristics. The bay is naturally sheltered, creating waves that are gentle and manageable near the shore — ideal for beginners and families — while offering more powerful breaks at the eastern and western headlands for experienced surfers. The water is a vivid turquoise, the sand is white and fine, and the surrounding hills provide a stunning natural amphitheatre.

The beach has developed slowly and thoughtfully. There are no massive resort hotels here, just a collection of warungs (small local restaurants) serving fresh grilled fish, cold coconuts, and cold Bintang beer. This local character is precisely what makes it so appealing.

Surfing at Selong Belanak

Selong Belanak is widely regarded as Lombok's best beginner surf beach. The long, gently peeling waves in the middle section of the bay break slowly and softly over a sandy bottom — perfect for first-timers and those working to improve their technique. Local surf schools operate right from the beach and offer affordable lessons (typically USD 15–25 per hour including board rental).

For more experienced surfers, the right and left reef breaks at the headlands offer more challenging waves, particularly during the dry season swell (April–October).

Swimming and Water Activities

The calm central section of the bay is excellent for swimming at most times of year. The water is warm (around 27–29°C), clear, and inviting. You can wade out far before it gets deep, making it ideal for children. Bodyboarding and paddleboarding are also popular activities available to rent from beach vendors.

Best Time to Visit

Selong Belanak is accessible year-round but conditions vary:

Dry season (April–October): Best for surfing, clearest water, most reliable sunshine. June–August peak season brings more visitors but the beach is still never crowded by any reasonable standard.

Wet season (November–March): Occasional heavy rain can affect visibility and sea conditions. However, green season offers lush hillsides, fewer tourists, and lower prices. Many days are still perfectly sunny.

Best time of day: Early mornings offer the calmest water and best light for photography. Sunsets from the western headland are spectacular.

Where to Eat and Drink

The beach is lined with small warungs serving excellent local food. Must-tries include:

• Grilled fresh fish (ikan bakar) with rice and sambal
• Fresh young coconut water served directly from the coconut
• Nasi campur (mixed rice with various side dishes)
• Cold Bintang beer watching the sunset

Don't expect gourmet restaurants — and that's exactly the point. The food is honest, fresh, and delicious.

Getting to Selong Belanak

By scooter: The most popular option. Rent from Kuta Lombok or Mataram and enjoy the scenic coastal road. Petrol stations are available in nearby Selong town.

By private driver: Widely available from Mataram, Senggigi, or Kuta Lombok. Cost is approximately USD 25–50 for a half-day hire depending on starting point.

By local bemo: Public minibuses (bemo) run from Selong town to the beach area but schedules are infrequent.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation near Selong Belanak is limited (which keeps it peaceful), but options include small guesthouses and homestays in the surrounding village. Kuta Lombok, 15 kilometres away, has a much wider range of accommodation from budget hostels to boutique resorts and serves as the most practical base for exploring the south coast.