A Travel Price Comparison for Indonesia Lombok vs. Bali for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Lombok or Bali?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Bali. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a stunning, peaceful, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty in Lombok as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Lombok travel costs.

Bali

Bali is a cultural, stunning, and tropical island. Many visitors also come to Bali because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Bali travel costs.

Lombok and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Bali?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bali than Lombok, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bali is better known for its food, nightlife, and resorts, while Lombok is more popular for its museums and attractions. Bali is more touristy than Lombok and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Also, Bali is famous for Pura Lempuyang. Lombok is well known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture.

How is Lombok different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bali and Lombok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Bali?

Lombok is very good for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Lombok offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Bali? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Bali, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Dining out in Lombok is an experience not to be missed. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Nightlife?

Bali is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

People head to Bali just to party. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lombok. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Resorts?

Bali is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Bali for its luxury resorts. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Lombok is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find first-rate places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Lombok and Bali.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Lombok. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Bali a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Beaches?

Lombok and Bali both offer first-rate beaches.

Lombok offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Bali. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Bali, and they are high quality.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Bali is a popular spot for hiking. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Bali?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lombok and Bali both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Lombok is well-known for its shopping. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Is Lombok or Bali More Beautiful?

Lombok and Bali are somewhat similar when it comes to the first-rate scenery.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

You'll find world class beauty in Bali as well. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Bali are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Bali is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Couples?

Lombok and Bali both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Lombok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Bali makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Lombok and Bali are first-rate places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lombok is extremely popular for backpackers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Bali is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Is Lombok or Bali Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bali is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Bali offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Lombok or Bali a more walkable city?

Lombok and Bali are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Lombok is generally not a very walkable island. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

Bali is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Bali Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bali or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Bali?

Lombok and Bali both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. In our opinion, Bali has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bali than Lombok. In general, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 7-14 days is enough time in Bali.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Lombok. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bali, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bali than Lombok. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bali that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Lombok if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bali.

One day in Lombok or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lombok. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bali. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Bali?

Lombok is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bali is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Lombok. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the peaceful island of Lombok. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, one week is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Bali. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Indonesia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Bali, we can see that Bali is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lombok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lombok and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bali would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bali than you might in Lombok.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lombok Expensive? and Is Bali Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Bali?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Lombok or Bali in the Summer?

Both Bali and Lombok during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round.

May to September is the dry season in Lombok. April to September is the dry season in Bali. Lombok usually gets less rain in July than Bali. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Bali receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Lombok is around the same temperature as Bali in the summer. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Lombok or Bali in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Bali. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali. Lombok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lombok usually receives more rain than Bali. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Lombok is around the same temperature as Bali. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lombok in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Bali averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Lombok or Bali in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Bali. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year.

October to March in Bali is the rainy season. Lombok usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bali. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Lombok often gets more sunshine than Bali. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 170 hours of full sun.

In January, Lombok is generally around the same temperature as Bali. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Bali fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Lombok or Bali in the Spring?

Both Bali and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Lombok is May to September. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April. The dry season in Bali is April to September. In April, Lombok usually receives more rain than Bali. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Lombok is around the same temperature as Bali in the spring. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Typical Weather for Bali and Lombok