A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Byron Bay for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Lombok or Byron Bay?

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 Byron Bay. 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.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a relaxed, mellow, and vegan-friendly town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Byron Bay is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Byron Bay travel costs.

Lombok and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Byron Bay?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lombok than Byron Bay, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lombok is better known for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Byron Bay is more popular for its nightlife and small town charm. Lombok is well known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Also, Lombok is famous for Mount Rinjani. Byron Bay is well known for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals.

How is Lombok different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay?

Lombok is a island with good options for its sights and museums. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.

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

Foodies will find both Lombok and Byron Bay both to be very good destinations.

Lombok has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Byron Bay is an experience not to be missed. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Byron Bay is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Byron Bay for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

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 Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

There are very good resorts to choose from in both Lombok and Byron Bay.

There are plenty of resorts in Lombok to choose from. 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.

Byron Bay is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Byron Bay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Byron Bay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Lombok and Byron Bay both offer fantastic 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 Byron Bay. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Lombok is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Byron Bay offers some nice hiking trails. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Byron Bay?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lombok and Byron Bay both offer plenty of very good 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 Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay More Beautiful?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lombok as well. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

With stunning beauty, Byron Bay attracts visitors from all around. It's pristine beaches and laid back style make it a beautiful and relaxing place to visit.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Lombok is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lombok is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly island. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Lombok is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Byron Bay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lombok. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Byron Bay. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

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

Lombok and Byron Bay both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Lombok or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Byron Bay is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Byron Bay is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Byron Bay?

Both Lombok and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than in Byron Bay. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Byron Bay 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Byron Bay?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Lombok. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Byron Bay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Byron Bay?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural destination of Lombok. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Byron Bay is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Byron Bay?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the peaceful island of Lombok. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Byron Bay. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Byron Bay?

Lombok is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one week exploring. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the mellow destination of Byron Bay. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Byron Bay, we can see that Byron Bay is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Lombok is in Asia and Byron Bay is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Byron Bay would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Byron Bay?

Byron Bay has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Lombok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Byron Bay in the Summer?

Both Byron Bay 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. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Byron Bay because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lombok is a little warmer than Byron Bay in the summer. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

Byron Bay gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lombok usually gets less rain in July than Byron Bayin January. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the dry season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Byron Bay. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Byron Bay this time of year.

In the autumn, Lombok is a little warmer than Byron Bay. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lombok in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 20°C (69°F)in April.

Byron Bay receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lombok usually receives less rain than Byron Bayin April. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Byron Bay in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Byron Bay. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Byron Bay for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lombok is generally much warmer than Byron Bayin July. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Lombok usually gets more rain in January than Byron Bayin July. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Byron Bay in the Spring?

Both Byron Bay and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Byron Bay in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Lombok is a little warmer than Byron Bay in the spring. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in October.

In April, Lombok usually receives around the same amount of rain as Byron Bayin October. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Lombok is May to September. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April.

Typical Weather for Byron Bay and Lombok