A beginner's guide - Lombok
Brief spot overview: Selong Belanak Beach is the best surf spot in Lombok if you’re surfing for the very first time, due to its mellow waves and sandy bottom. Most other spots in Lombok are reef breaks, which is why I think Selong Belanak is the best spot for complete beginners. Just be aware it can get crowded.
What you’ll learn in this guide: This Selong Belanak surf spot guide covers general spot info, wave characteristics, and the best surf conditions at Selong Belanak Beach to help you plan your surf sessions.
The area
Surf spot name: Selong Belanak Beach
Geographical location: Selong Belanak Beach is located in south Lombok, about a 40 minute drive from Kuta Lombok where many tourists stay.
The bay is surrounded by lush green hills and features a long, white sand beach. While the beach can get crowded, the surrounding area remains relatively quiet and less developed compared to more popular destinations in Lombok.
What you need to know
Perfect for beginner surfers learning to stand up on a board or practicing basic maneuvers due to the spot's soft, rolling waves that break consistently over a sandy bottom. More experienced surfers may find the waves too mellow.
Moderate, but it gets very busy during high-season between July-August and during the Christmas period. Look out for other beginners and flying boards, as the lineup can become chaotic with many learners practicing for the first time.
Ranges from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) – a wetsuit is not needed, but I recommend that you wear a rashguard to protect yourself from getting rashes and irritated skin from the board if you surf on a foam board.
what the waves are like
Wave type: Beach break with mellow waves.
Wave direction: Both left and right
When to surf
Basic facilities available
At Selong Belanak Beach you can find everything you need as a beginner surfer and beachgoer. There are surf schools and rentals, basic facilities like toilets and showers, local warungs that serve Indonesian dishes, and sunbeds that you can rent for a small fee. There are also nice cafés within walking distance, like Driftwood Café, perfect for a post-surf coffee or snack.
Other activities
1. Watch the buffalos walk on the beach: Witness the daily spectacle of buffalos being herded along the beach, a unique and charming sight in Selong Belanak.
2. Visit nearby cafés: Explore cafes just a short distance from the beach. Spots like Driftwood Café offer a more commercial vibe than the warungs on the beach.
3. Explore Sasak villages: Visit local Sasak villages to immerse yourself in the culture and see traditional weaving or pottery making.
Test your knowledge
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