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Planning a trip to Lombok in December? This guide is designed to give you everything you need to make the most of your visit during the island’s wet season. From detailed weather information to the best places to stay, top activities, and travel tips, you’ll find all the essential advice in one place.
December in Lombok brings a mix of sunshine and short, heavy showers, creating lush green landscapes, flowing waterfalls, and vibrant rice paddies. While the occasional rain might alter your afternoon plans, mornings are generally bright and perfect for exploring beaches, villages, and cultural sites. The month of December also offers fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation, making it ideal for travellers seeking a quieter, more authentic island experience.
Whether you are chasing winter sun, planning a surf adventure, or simply looking for a peaceful tropical escape, this guide breaks down where to go, what to do, and how to prepare for Lombok in December.
How to Use This Guide
Use the contents table above to jump straight to the section you are most interested in. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about visiting Lombok in December, including weather conditions, where to stay, what to do, and whether December is a good time to visit.
Lombok Weather in December
December in Lombok marks the middle of the wet season, but that doesn’t mean it rains all day. Mornings are usually bright and sunny, while short, intense rain showers often arrive in the afternoon or evening. Temperatures remain warm throughout the month, making it a great time to visit if you prefer lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.
The rain transforms Lombok’s hills and rice paddies into vibrant shades of green, and waterfalls like Tiu Kelep and Benang Stokel are at their most powerful. The sea can be choppy on some days, but swimming and snorkelling are still possible in sheltered areas.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Lombok?
December can be a fantastic time to visit Lombok if you are looking for fewer tourists, affordable accommodation, and a slower pace of travel. The island is much quieter than neighbouring Bali during this month, which means you can enjoy popular spots like Kuta, Selong Belanak, and the Gili Islands without the crowds.
The main trade-off is the weather. Expect occasional heavy rain, especially in the late afternoon or evening, but sunshine is still common most mornings. The sea can be rough, so if you plan on visiting the Gili Islands, try to travel earlier in the day when conditions are calmer.
If you love green scenery, local life, and great deals on hotels, December might be one of the best times to experience the island.
Best Places to Visit in Lombok in December
Kuta Lombok
Kuta is the main hub for travellers visiting the south of the island. Even in December, Kuta remains lively with a good selection of beach bars, restaurants, and boutique hotels. The beaches around Kuta, such as Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak, are perfect for beginner surfers and those wanting soft white sand and turquoise water.
The surrounding hills turn bright green during December, creating beautiful backdrops for photos and day trips.
Senggigi
Senggigi on the west coast offers a more relaxed pace with plenty of mid-range resorts and ocean-view restaurants. While some beach bars slow down during December, it remains a pleasant area to base yourself if you want easy access to both the Gili Islands and Mount Rinjani region.
Gili Islands
The Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno) are quieter in December but still open for visitors. Expect smaller crowds and cheaper accommodation, making it ideal for a peaceful beach escape. The sea around the Gilis can be choppy, so plan ferry trips earlier in the day.
Snorkelling is still good, with sea turtles often spotted near Gili Meno’s famous underwater statues.
Tetebatu
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Rinjani, Tetebatu offers a cool mountain atmosphere, terraced rice fields, and traditional Sasak villages. December brings lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, ideal for hiking or photography.
It’s one of the best places to experience Lombok’s culture and rural charm without tourist crowds.
Selong Belanak
This crescent-shaped beach near Kuta is famous for its long sandy shore and gentle surf. During December, it’s beautifully quiet and perfect for beginners learning to surf or those who just want to enjoy a relaxing beach day.
Local warungs line the beach, serving nasi goreng and fresh coconut juice, perfect after a morning swim.
Gili Asahan
Gili Asahan is one of Lombok’s lesser-known “secret” Gili Islands, perfect for travellers seeking peace and seclusion in December. The island is small and largely undeveloped, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
With very few tourists, it’s a great spot for couples or solo travellers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy authentic island serenity. Access is typically by private boat usually provided by the hotels on the islands.
BOOK | Gili Asahan Eco Lodge & Restaurant
If you are looking for something else, then use our interactive map below to find your perfect place to stay.
Things to Do in Lombok in December
Even though it’s the wet season, Lombok still has plenty of things to do. Mornings are usually bright and perfect for exploring, while the afternoons can be reserved for slower-paced activities.
Surfing | The south coast, especially Selong Belanak and Gerupuk Bay, offers great waves year-round. Surf lessons are still available daily, weather permitting.
Waterfalls | Visit Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls near Senaru. They are spectacular in December when water flow is at its peak.
Snorkelling & Diving | Head to the Gili Islands for calm morning dives and snorkel trips. Marine life is abundant and visibility is still good despite the season.
Cultural Experiences | Visit Sasak villages near Tetebatu or Sukarara to see traditional weaving and pottery.
Hiking & Nature | Short treks around Mount Rinjani National Park or Bukit Pergasingan offer breathtaking scenery during the wet season.
Explore local islands | Explore the secret Gili Islands, some of the best places to snorkely in Lombok
Costs, Crowds & Festivals
December is considered low season for Lombok, except for the week leading up to Christmas and New Year when domestic tourism increases. Outside of those dates, you can expect far fewer tourists, quieter beaches, and great hotel deals.
Average hotel prices drop by 20–40% compared to July or August. Flights from Bali to Lombok are also cheaper and easier to book last minute.
There are fewer festivals during this month, but you may come across local ceremonies in the villages or beach offerings after rain. These are authentic glimpses into Sasak culture and worth observing respectfully.
What to Pack for Lombok in December
Packing for Lombok in December is all about balancing tropical heat and occasional rain showers.
Lightweight breathable clothing
Waterproof jacket or poncho
Swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen
Sandals and comfortable walking shoes
Dry bag for day trips and ferry rides
Mosquito repellent
If you plan on riding a scooter, bring a lightweight waterproof backpack and a long-sleeve shirt to protect from the sun and rain.
Travel Tips for Visiting Lombok in December
Plan morning activities to avoid the afternoon rain.
Carry cash as smaller towns may not have ATMs or accept cards.
Be patient with ferries as sea conditions can delay crossings from Bali.
Respect local customs by dressing modestly away from the beach.
Book flexible accommodation in case your travel plans shift due to weather.
Is Lombok Worth Visiting in December?
Absolutely. While December brings rain, it also brings a quieter and more authentic side of Lombok. The landscapes are lush, prices are low, and you’ll likely have beaches almost to yourself.
If you are looking for calm mornings, green hills, and a slower pace of island life, December is a wonderful time to explore Lombok. Just pack a rain jacket and a sense of adventure, and you’ll see why many travellers prefer the island’s off-season charm.
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