Sources TripAdvisor
Selong Belanak Beach is one of the most popular coastal destinations in Lombok, located in the southern part of the island, approximately twenty kilometers from the town of Kuta, Lombok. This beach is often described as one of the most beautiful in Indonesia because of its long curved coastline, soft white sand, and calm turquoise waters. Surrounded by gentle hills and lush greenery, the scenery at Selong Belanak feels peaceful and inviting, making it a perfect place for both relaxation and adventure.
The beach stretches for about one kilometer, forming a graceful crescent shape that looks stunning from above. The sand is clean and smooth, soft to walk on even under the midday sun. Unlike some beaches that are crowded with tourists, Selong Belanak maintains a sense of tranquility and simplicity. The combination of natural beauty, easy access, and friendly local atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for families, solo travelers, and anyone seeking to experience Lombok’s authentic coastal charm.
One of the most distinctive characteristics of Selong Belanak is its calm, shallow water, which makes it an excellent spot for beginner surfers. Every day, visitors can see local instructors giving surfing lessons to travelers who want to try riding the waves for the first time. The waves are gentle and consistent, allowing beginners to learn safely. Surfboards are available for rent at affordable prices, and the instructors are known for their patience and hospitality. For more experienced surfers, the deeper parts of the beach offer slightly stronger waves, providing more challenge without being dangerous.
Beyond surfing, Selong Belanak offers many other relaxing activities. The sea water is clear and calm, making it suitable for swimming or simply floating near the shore. The beach is wide and clean, so visitors can easily find a quiet spot to sunbathe, read a book, or take a nap while listening to the soothing sound of the waves. During the afternoon, the light becomes warmer and the view of the setting sun over the western hills is breathtaking. The golden rays reflect on the sea surface, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere that attracts both travelers and photographers.
What makes Selong Belanak special is not only its natural beauty but also its connection with the local community. At the eastern side of the beach, small fishing boats line the shore. These boats belong to local fishermen who go out to sea every morning and return in the afternoon with their daily catch. Visitors can often see them cleaning nets, sorting fish, or preparing their boats for the next trip. This simple daily routine adds a cultural touch to the beach, giving travelers a glimpse into the traditional life of coastal Sasak people. Some visitors even enjoy talking with the fishermen, learning about their work and local traditions.
Several small cafés, warungs, and beach huts are available along the coastline, serving a variety of food and drinks. Freshly grilled fish, fried rice, and traditional Lombok dishes such as plecing kangkung are popular choices among tourists. For those who prefer Western-style meals, some cafés also offer burgers, sandwiches, and smoothies. Eating while watching the waves and feeling the sea breeze creates a relaxing dining experience that perfectly complements the beach’s natural beauty.
In addition to its laid-back charm, Selong Belanak is also a favorite location for photography and videography. The contrast between the white sand, clear blue water, and green hills makes it one of the most photogenic spots in Lombok. Many travelers visit early in the morning to capture the soft light and quiet atmosphere, while others prefer the golden hour before sunset for dramatic landscape shots. Drones are often used to record the curved shoreline, which looks almost like a painting from above.
Visitors who enjoy walking can explore both ends of the beach, where the terrain becomes slightly rocky and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. From the western point, travelers can see a beautiful view of the entire bay and the nearby smaller beaches such as Mawi and Mawun. These nearby beaches are also worth visiting, especially for those who want to experience more secluded and untouched locations around the southern coast of Lombok.
The local community around Selong Belanak has become more involved in tourism in recent years. Many of them work as surf instructors, café owners, or souvenir sellers, while still maintaining their traditional fishing lifestyle. This balance between tourism and local culture makes Selong Belanak a model for sustainable coastal tourism in Lombok. The residents are known for their friendliness and hospitality, often greeting visitors with smiles and helping them feel at home.
The best time to visit Selong Belanak Beach is during the dry season, between April and September, when the weather is sunny and the waves are most consistent. The beach is open all year round, but during the rainy season the sea may be slightly rougher, and the sky is often cloudy. Visitors are advised to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and enough drinking water, as the sun can be quite strong during midday. However, the beach remains enjoyable at any time of the day, whether for morning surfing, afternoon swimming, or evening sunset watching.
Overall, Selong Belanak Beach represents the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful atmosphere. It captures the essence of Lombok’s coastal charm — simple, clean, and full of warmth. Whether visitors come to surf, relax, or simply watch the fishermen at work, the experience leaves a lasting impression of harmony between people and nature. The beach continues to grow in popularity, yet it retains its authenticity as one of the most serene and beautiful places on the island.