Lombok is becoming more and more popular among travelers visiting Indonesia — and for good reason. Located just east of Bali, Lombok offers a quieter, less crowded, and often cheaper alternative while still delivering incredible scenery and experiences.
From breathtaking mountain landscapes and world-class beaches to untouched islands and crystal-clear waters, Lombok has something for every type of traveler. It is also home to the famous Gili Islands, one of the most iconic tropical destinations in Southeast Asia. If you plan to visit the Gilis during your trip, check out our full guide here.
The good news is that getting from Bali to Lombok is very easy. There are two main ways to travel between the islands:
- By air (the fastest and most comfortable option)
- By sea (the most flexible and budget-friendly option)
In this guide, we cover all transportation options, prices, travel times, and tips to help you choose the best way to get from Bali to Lombok.
Flying From Bali to Lombok
For travelers looking for the quickest and easiest way to reach Lombok, flying is by far the best option.
There are many daily flights between Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali and Lombok International Airport throughout the day, making it very convenient to plan your trip.
Flight Duration
The flight itself is extremely short — usually around 40 to 45 minutes.
Many flights are operated using smaller propeller aircraft, which also makes for a scenic journey over the islands and ocean.
Flight Prices
Round-trip flights between Bali and Lombok typically cost between:
- 1.7M IDR and 2.5M IDR
Prices can vary depending on:
- Travel season
- Booking timing
- Airline
- Luggage options
Booking in advance during high season is highly recommended.
Pros of Flying
- Fastest option
- Comfortable
- Minimal travel fatigue
- Good option for travelers with sea sickness
- Multiple departures daily
Cons of Flying
- More expensive than boats
- Airport transfers required on both islands
- Less scenic than traveling by sea
Traveling From Bali to Lombok by Sea
Traveling by boat is one of the most popular ways to go from Bali to Lombok, especially among backpackers, surfers, and island-hopping travelers.
There are two main sea transportation options:
- Public ferry (slow ferry)
- Fast boat / fast ferry
Public Ferry (Slow Ferry)
The public ferry is the most budget-friendly way to travel from Bali to Lombok.
It is also the best option if you want to bring a scooter, motorcycle, or car with you.
Ferry Route
The ferry departs from:
- Padang Bai Port (Bali)
And arrives at:
- Lembar Port (Lombok)
Padang Bai is located about 1 hour from Bali's main tourist areas such as:
- Canggu
- Seminyak
- Ubud
Lembar Port is located in the southwest of Lombok, roughly 1 hour away from popular destinations like:
- Kuta Lombok
- Senggigi
Duration
The crossing usually takes between:
- 5 to 6 hours
Sea conditions and loading times can affect the total duration.
Schedule
One of the biggest advantages of the public ferry is its flexibility:
- Ferries operate 24 hours a day
- Departures are available roughly every hour
- Operates 7 days a week
Price
The public ferry is extremely affordable:
- Usually under 100,000 IDR per person one way
- Approximately $6 USD
Vehicle transport is also available for an additional fee.
Pros of the Public Ferry
- Cheapest option
- Operates day and night
- Bring your vehicle
- Good for long-term travelers and road trips
Cons of the Public Ferry
- Long journey
- Basic comfort
- Can feel crowded
- Less convenient for short vacations
Fast Boat / Fast Ferry
The fast boat is the transportation option most commonly used by tourists traveling between Bali, the Gili Islands, and Lombok.
It is significantly faster than the public ferry and often more convenient for travelers staying in Bali’s tourist areas.
Departure Locations in Bali
Fast boats can depart from several ports in Bali, including:
- Padang Bai
- Serangan
- Sanur
- Amed (seasonal and operator dependent)
Availability from Amed can change depending on weather and season, so it is best to check with operators in advance.
Arrival Destinations
Most fast boats stop at one or several of the Gili Islands before reaching Lombok:
- Gili Trawangan
- Gili Meno
- Gili Air
Final arrival points in Lombok are typically:
- Bangsal
- Senggigi
Duration
Travel time depends on the departure port and sea conditions:
- Usually between 2 and 3 hours
Prices
Fast boat tickets generally cost:
- 600,000 to 900,000 IDR one way
Prices vary depending on:
- Boat company
- Departure point
- Season
- Included hotel transfers
Comfort and Sea Conditions
Not all fast boats are equal.
Some operators use larger vessels that offer:
- More stability
- Less shaking
- Indoor air-conditioned seating
Smaller boats can feel much rougher, especially during windy conditions or larger swells.
Travelers prone to sea sickness should prepare accordingly, as the crossing can sometimes be very rocky.
Pros of the Fast Boat
- Faster than the public ferry
- Convenient for tourists
- Direct access to Gili Islands
- Scenic ocean journey
Cons of the Fast Boat
- More expensive
- Can be rough in bad weather
- Sea sickness can be an issue
- Delays possible during rough seas
Which Option Is Best?
The best way to travel from Bali to Lombok depends on your budget, schedule, and travel style.
Choose Flying If:
- You want the fastest journey
- You get sea sick easily
- You are short on time
- Comfort is your priority
Choose the Public Ferry If:
- You are traveling on a budget
- You have a scooter or car
- You want maximum flexibility
- You do not mind long travel times
Choose the Fast Boat If:
- You want a balance between speed and cost
- You are visiting the Gili Islands
- You prefer avoiding airports
- You want a more scenic experience
Final Tips for Traveling Between Bali and Lombok
- Book fast boats early during high season
- Morning departures usually have calmer seas
- Bring motion sickness medication if traveling by boat
- Always check weather conditions during rainy season
- Allow buffer time for transfers and delays
- Pack light if using fast boats, as luggage space can be limited
Whether you choose to fly or travel by sea, getting from Bali to Lombok is straightforward and part of the adventure itself. With stunning beaches, incredible mountains, surf spots, waterfalls, and island life waiting on the other side, Lombok is absolutely worth adding to your Indonesia itinerary.
