Explore Selong Belanak – Complete Travel Guide
Selong Belanak is a charming destination located on the southern coast of Lombok. It is famous for its stunning crescent-shaped beach and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas.
This comprehensive guide provides you with all the information you need to know about Selong Belanak, including the best activities, dining options, accommodations, and travel tips.
Exploring the Charm of Selong Belanak
Selong Belanak is a place where you can enjoy both scenic beauty and serene relaxation. The beach is famous for its powdery white sand and clear waters, which make it ideal for various activities or simply unwinding by the sea.
Activities and Attractions in Selong Belanak
Selong Belanak, located in south Lombok is perfect for those who want to relax or learn to surf. Some spend their whole trip in Lombok here, while others come on day trips from Kuta Lombok.
Learn To Surf In Selong Belanak
The waves and the sandy beach make Selong Belanak the best beach for learning to surf in Lombok. Do you want to learn to surf in Selong Belanak? Read our full guide here!
Beach Exploration and Relaxation
Aside from the well-known surfing spots, Selong Belanak Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The gentle waves make it a safe spot for swimming, and the expansive beachfront ensures plenty of space for relaxation.
Rent a sunbed for a day, and you will have food and drinks served to you whenever you want. Perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
Local Cultural Experiences
For a taste of local life, visit nearby traditional villages where you can observe the daily routines and crafts of the Sasak people, Lombok’s indigenous community. Engaging in these cultural experiences provides a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage.
Where to Eat in Selong Belanak
Selong Belanak’s culinary scene, while modest, offers delightful dining experiences. Local warungs (cafes) serve up traditional Indonesian dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.
For a more upscale dining experience, some resorts and restaurants offer a fusion of international and local cuisines, catering to diverse palates. Make sure to try Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant!
For cheaper food you should go to the little town of Selong Belanak, you drive past it on the way to the beach. Warung Corner has great Indonesian food at a very reasonable price, it’s also clean and run by very nice people!
Accommodation Options in Selong Belanak
The area boasts a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Budget travelers can find comfortable homestays and guesthouses, while those seeking more luxury can opt for upscale resorts or boutique hotels that offer amenities like pools, spas, and private beach access.
You can find quite reasonable bungalows close to the beach, but not on the beach. If you don’t want to drive a scooter then you will need to take a taxi every time you want to go outside of Selong Belanak. There isn’t any Grab or Gojek in 99% of Lombok, it’s either renting a car/scooter or using a taxi.
Planning Your Stay: Day Trip or Overnight?
Whether Selong Belanak is a day trip destination or a place to stay overnight depends on your travel itinerary. A day trip is feasible if you’re staying in nearby areas of Lombok, but an overnight stay is recommended to fully experience the tranquil beauty of the beach at different times of the day.
Selong Belanak is not a big place, but it’s good for those who want to relax or learn to surf. If you want to party and have more people around you, then you should stay in Kuta Lombok!
Getting to Selong Belanak
Selong Belanak is accessible by road from various parts of Lombok. The drive from Lombok International Airport takes about an hour and a half. Renting a scooter or car is a popular option for flexibility, but taxis and private drivers are also available for a more relaxed journey. If you are staying in Kuta Lombok it’s only around 30 minutes away by car or scooter.
Exploring Nearby Beaches and Attractions
Mawi Beach and Pantai Mawi Beach
Close to Selong Belanak, Mawi Beach and Pantai Mawi Beach offer distinct experiences – Mawi is known for its surfing, while Pantai Mawi is great when you want to relax by yourself. These beaches provide a quieter alternative to the more popular spots.
Its easy to get to Mawi Beach by scooter, but there is a fee for the private road (IDR 10,000) for scooter. The beach is not for beginner surfers, but its a good place to watch really good surfers!. Its only a 5 minute walk to Pantai Mawi Beach. You can drive a scooter to Pantai Mawi beach, but its a 15 minute walk from the parking. Unfortanently there is a lot of trash here sometimes.
Day Trips and Excursions
From Selong Belanak, you can easily venture out to other attractions in South Lombok. If you have a scooter, which is the best and easiest way to travel Lombok, then use it to explore! Every 10 minutes you pass a new beach ready to be explored.
I always recommend using MAPS.ME to find sights and interesting places when your out exploring. Its often better than Google Maps!
Practical Tips for Travelers
When visiting Selong Belanak, it’s important to be mindful of local customs and environmental conservation. Dress modestly when away from the beach, and always dispose of trash responsibly. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to September, for optimal weather conditions.
FAQs About Visiting Selong Belanak
Weather: Expect a tropical climate with a wet and dry season.
Language Barrier: Basic English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Indonesian phrases can enhance your experience. Download Google Translate to your phone.
Cash Is King: Make sure to carry cash with you, there is ATM in Selong Belanak, but getting cash is not always easy when you suddenly need it.
Selong Belanak is more than just a beach destination; it’s a place where natural beauty, cultural richness, and tranquil vibes come together to create a memorable travel experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Selong Belanak has something to offer everyone.
