The mountains, volcanoes, and scenery of Bali will impress nature lovers while Lombok’s mesmerizing temples will appeal to cultural explorers. Both islands have plenty of stunning beaches but Lombok’s more pristine stretches give its rival a run for its money.
Both have a beautiful culture but the predominately Muslim Lombok has a more distinct vibe to it.
1. Budget
Lombok and Bali are very similar in cost when it comes to food and accommodation, with the latter having a slightly higher price point. The same is true for transport. You can get cheap motorbike rentals in Bali, while in Lombok you’ll pay a little more for private cars.
Luckily, Lombok has escaped the mass tourism that has tainted its sister island, so you’ll still be able to find pristine beaches, delicious Indonesian cuisine, and unique Sasak culture. This island also offers spectacular coastal views, challenging volcano hikes, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Beach lovers should stick to the dry season of April to September. Then, you can expect sunny weather and low rainfall. This is the best time to enjoy the beaches, and you’ll be able to surf or dive without any problems.
If you’re a keen scuba diver, then Lombok is the better choice. You’ll be able to see more marine life on this island than in Bali, including sharks and stingrays. Plus, the beaches are often emptier and cleaner.
2. Places
Both Bali and Lombok are tropical islands with gorgeous beaches and natural attractions. They also have world-class attractions and vibrant culture. However, they differ in many ways. Bali is a tourist-oriented island and can get quite crowded. In contrast, Lombok is less crowded and has more pristine beaches. These beaches are less affected by plastic pollution and are often ranked among the best in the world.
Bali offers a wide variety of restaurants and bars, a lively nightlife scene, and top-quality hotels. Its many attractions include stunning temples, beach clubs, and beautiful rice terraces. It also has a large expat community and networking opportunities. Moreover, it has many exciting activities for travellers, such as hiking Mount Rinjani or learning about traditional crafts.
Lombok is a more tranquil place that resembles Bali 20 years ago before tourism boomed. It has a more relaxed vibe and is better for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali. Its pristine beaches and natural scenery make it an ideal destination for those who want to relax and unwind.
The food in both places is delicious, but they have different styles. For example, Lombok uses beef instead of pork because of religious beliefs. Some popular dishes are babi guling, satay lilit, and ayam betutu. Both cuisines use spices and complex seasonings, but the flavor differences are distinct. Lombok’s cuisine is less spicy than that of Bali.
3. Accomodation
Both Bali and Lombok have a wide variety of hotels, resorts, villas, homestays, and hostels in varying price ranges. However, Bali has a more developed transport system with ride sharing apps like Gojek and Grab as well as public buses that have a regular schedule and affordable prices.
Bali also has a wider range of restaurants that serve both Indonesian and Western cuisines, while also catering to dietary requirements such as gluten-free and vegan. In terms of a nightlife scene, Bali is the winner with plenty of bars and lounges to enjoy until the early hours.
Lombok on the other hand, offers a more secluded experience with a pristine nature and unique Sasak culture. This less-touristy version of Bali is a more authentic experience, with fewer people and a slower pace. It is the gateway to beautiful beaches and the islands of Gili and Nusa Lembongan, while its quieter and more untouched environment is a paradise for snorkellers and divers.
While both Bali and Lombok are influenced by Hinduism, there is a difference in the cultures between them. While Bali is a cultural melting pot, Lombok remains more traditional and observant of Islamic practices. You can see this in the many beautiful mosques, in their adherence to Ramadan, and by the call to prayer heard all over the island. This is a major selling point for Lombok in comparison to Bali, which has a reputation for being overly commercialized and crowded.
4. Food
Both Bali and Lombok have a wide variety of restaurants with both Indonesian and Western cuisine. However, due to the larger size of Bali, it offers more culinary options for foodies. In addition, it is easier to find vegetarian and vegan friendly options in Bali. You should try dishes such as babi guling, sate lilit and tipat cantok in Bali. On the other hand, in Lombok, you should try ayam taliwang and sate pusut.
Diving enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to Lombok as it has more dive spots where you can see marine life such as turtles, rays, and colourful fish. On the other hand, if you are more interested in surfing and sunbathing, then Bali might be a better choice for you.
Bali is the perfect destination for couples and honeymooners as it has many romantic resorts and gorgeous beaches. It is also a great place for those looking to relax and unwind during their holiday.
However, it’s important to note that Bali has a huge tourism industry and this can cause problems with environmental issues, over-tourism, and loss of culture in some areas. In addition, tourists should respect the local Muslim culture by covering up and not drinking alcohol in public. This is especially important in areas where you can hear the call to prayer several times a day. In addition, you should avoid going to beach clubs and nightclubs unless you are with a group of friends.
5. Culture
Bali has a unique culture that is quite different from other Indonesian regions. It’s a destination that is known for its spiritual and relaxed vibe.
It is also a great place for nature lovers and has numerous beautiful beaches.
But despite the many attractions, Bali can sometimes get overcrowded with tourism and traffic.
Lombok is a more remote island that is becoming more popular with international tourists. It has less tourist infrastructure than Bali but it is still developing and expanding.
It is a perfect spot for travellers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic Indonesian experience. But that’s not to say that it lacks cultural activities or events.
In fact, it is home to a rich history that has influenced the local cuisine and traditions. You can explore the local Sasak culture and experience their beliefs, customs and traditions.
It is also a good choice for divers as it has amazing underwater landscapes that are filled with vibrant coral reefs and exotic fish. Plus, it’s much cheaper to visit than Bali. As for food, both islands have delicious local dishes but Lombok tends to serve spicier foods. Both islands have a lot to offer in terms of food and culture so it really depends on what you’re looking for in your holiday.
6. Traffic
Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. The "Island of the Gods" offers vibrant nightlife, a rich cultural heritage, bustling tourist spots and luxury resorts and spas. However, it also suffers from over-tourism and traffic congestion, especially in the most popular beaches and attractions.
In contrast, Lombok has pristine beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere. It is a great option for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature and local culture in peace. The island is also home to Mount Rinjani, one of the highest volcanoes in Indonesia, offering a challenging trek and stunning views.
The best time to visit Lombok is from April to September, when the weather is dry and sunny with minimal rainfall. This is ideal for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities, such as surfing and hiking.
Although the traffic situation in Bali is worse than in Lombok, it’s still better than other large Indonesian cities. The roads are paved and there are lane markings, so driving is less stressful. The only downside is that many of the smaller roads are not tarmaced, so you may encounter some potholes. However, this is a small price to pay for a stress-free driving experience. The strait connecting Lombok to the Gili Islands is narrower than the strait between Bali and Malaysia, making it less likely for ships to run aground.
