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Lombok is a tropical paradise just east of Bali, offering rugged mountains, pristine beaches, vibrant surf breaks and quiet islands like the Gilis. The time of year you visit can dramatically shape your experience. In this guide, we break down Lombok’s seasons, month by month, weather, activities and travel tips so you can decide the best time to visit based on what you want, whether that is hiking, beaches, surf or simply escaping the crowds.
We recently visited Lombok in October and the weather was reliably warm and dry to spend time at the beach, with good surfing and snorkelling conditions. With October being the end of the dry season, you can expect to have the occasional chance of rain. Mosquitos are low in October due to it still being the dry season.
How to Use This Guide
Use the contents table above to jump straight to the section you’re most interested in. This guide breaks down Lombok’s seasons and weather month by month, helping you decide the best time to visit Lombok based on weather, crowds, prices and activities.
Whether you’re looking for sunny beach days, ideal surf conditions, quieter shoulder months or a peaceful rainy season escape, this guide will help you choose the perfect time of year to plan your Lombok adventure.
Lombok’s Seasons | Dry and Wet
Lombok is a fantastic destination all year, but the timing of your trip makes a real difference.
For reliable sunshine, ideal surf and the best trekking conditions, aim for May through September.
For quieter trips and lower costs, shoulder months such as April and October offer excellent value with generally good weather.
The wet season from November to March brings lush green scenery and a slower pace. It can be enjoyable if you embrace the occasional rain.
Lombok has two main seasons | a dry season (April to October) and a wet season (November to March).
Dry Season (April to October) | Clear skies, minimal rainfall, ideal for beaches, snorkeling, hiking and outdoor adventures.
Wet Season (November to March) | Frequent tropical downpours, higher humidity, lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Shoulder Months (March, October, November) offer a balance with some rain but generally manageable conditions.
The best time to visit Lombok is typically May to September, with July and August often being peak months.
This does not mean Lombok is a poor choice outside these months. With the right expectations, it remains enjoyable year round.
Month by Month Weather in Lombok
Here is the weather and temperature you can expect month by month on Lombok.
Temperatures vary only a few degrees year round, generally between 27 and 30 °C.
Rainfall is the main differentiator. The wettest months are January and February, while the driest months are July and August.
Best Time for Beaches, Surf and Diving
If your priority is sun, sea and surf, the dry season (May to September) is the best time to visit Lombok.
July and August are the most reliable months for clear days, calm seas and consistent surf breaks. Surfing on the south coast and around the Gili Islands is most reliable during the dry months. Some waves still work in the wet season, but conditions are more inconsistent.
Diving and snorkelling is possible year round, but dry months offer better underwater visibility and calmer conditions.
Best Time for Hiking Mt Rinjani
The trekking season is generally April to October, when trails are safer and rainfall is lighter.
From November to March, the trails can become slippery, sections may close due to heavy rainfall and there is a higher risk of landslides.
For summit attempts, aim for May through September when skies are clearest and conditions are most stable.
Festivals and Events
Bau Nyale Festival (sea worm festival) typically falls in February or March depending on the lunar calendar.
Local religious and cultural ceremonies take place throughout the year. During the wet season some outdoor events may be rescheduled.
Tourism is quieter in the wet months which often leads to more authentic local experiences without large crowds.
The Secret Gili Islands
You may have heard of the famous Gili Islands to the northwest of Lombok, but have you heard of the Secret Gilis?
These small islands on the southwest coast of Lombok offer incredible snorkelling and a peaceful tropical island experience, far removed from the busier tourist spots up north.
We recently spent a week on Gili Asahan, and while the island is small, there’s plenty to enjoy. Staying at the Gili Asahan Eco Lodge was a real highlight of our trip and something we definitely recommend for anyone looking to slow down and enjoy island life at its best.
Crowds, Prices and Travel Tips
Dry Season (April to October)
Crowds are higher, especially in July and August
Accommodation and flights cost more
Book early, especially for popular areas and peak months
Wet Season (November to March)
Quieter atmosphere and lower prices
Expect afternoon showers and humid conditions
Excellent deals on hotels, flights and private villas
Where to stay when visiting Lombok?
When visiting Lombok, we recommend basing yourself in Kuta in the south. It’s the ideal base for beaches, surfing and exploring the island. Kuta has everything you need, from excellent restaurants and cafés to vibrant surf spots and white sand beaches. There’s plenty going on to make your stay memorable while still retaining that relaxed island vibe.
If you prefer somewhere a little more remote and peaceful, check out our guide to Boni Beach Boutique Hotel, located on Serangan Beach, just a short drive from Selong Belanak Beach.
If you are looking for something else, then use our interactive map below to find your perfect place to stay.
FAQs About the Best Time to Visit Lombok
When is the rainy season in Lombok?
Lombok’s rainy season runs from November to March, with the heaviest rain usually in January and February.
When is the dry season in Lombok?
The dry season is from April to October, with July and August offering the clearest skies and lowest rainfall.
Is December a good time to visit Lombok?
December falls in the wet season. Expect frequent showers, high humidity and some overcast skies. It will still be warm and the island will be more green, but you need to plan for flexible schedules and possible rain.
What is the best month to visit Lombok?
For most travellers, May to September offers the perfect combination of sunny weather, low rainfall and fewer crowds. For better deals, April and October are great shoulder months. October is our favourite time to visit as the island is quieter and the weather is still reliable.
Can you surf in Lombok during the wet season?
Yes, but conditions are less predictable. You can still find good waves but expect more inconsistent breaks and occasional storms.
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