Three Hidden Beaches of Lombok: A Day Among Sekotong’s Sheltered Shores
A private, all-day coastal ramble through Sekotong’s calm bays and reef-sheltered beaches
You arrive by private car before the heat has fully formed, the road unwinding past rice paddies and low volcanic ridges until the coast sharpens into a spine of black sand and reef-scalloped shore. The first thing that strikes you is the quiet—no hotel crowds, no hawkers hustling deck chairs—only a wind with a steady agenda and the scattered geometry of small fishing boats resting like insects at the waterline. On this private tour you move like a local afternoon: stops at Elak Elak, Pandanan near West Sekotong, and Mekaki Beach, each beach an act of contrast—one sheltered by reefs, another with a viewpoint for the Gili Islands, all of them somehow both intimate and enormous.
Trail Wisdom
Time your snorkeling
Ask your guide to schedule snorkeling around mid-tide for calmer water and better visibility.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and skin—use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce environmental impact.
Protect your feet
Water shoes or reef booties help on coral rubble beaches and make shallow snorkeling more comfortable.
Carry local cash
Small beach warungs and village sellers often prefer cash for snacks, tips, and small purchases.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A low-tide walk on the coral flats near Elak Elak where colorful starfish and small reef pools concentrate life
- •A quiet seafood warung in West Sekotong favored by fishermen for its grilled fish and sambal
Wildlife
Green sea turtles, Colorful reef fish like parrotfish and anemonefish
Conservation Note
The reefs around Sekotong are recovering after past pressures; choose reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and support operators who follow low-impact practices.
Ampenan Old Town, visited on the route, was an important Dutch-era port and still shows colonial architectural traces among local markets.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Shallow reef snorkeling
Challenges: Occasional early rains, Variable visibility
Spring (Apr–May) is a shoulder season with warming seas and fewer visitor crowds; expect good snorkeling some days and sporadic showers on others.
summer
Best for: Calm seas, Clear snorkeling visibility
Challenges: Peak travel and higher prices, Stronger sun exposure
Summer (Jun–Aug) is the best time for clear water and stable weather—ideal for snorkeling and photography, but also the busiest time on the islands.
fall
Best for: Warm water, Less crowded late-season days
Challenges: Increasing chance of monsoon fronts, choppier seas occasionaly
Fall (Sep–Nov) offers warm water and quieter beaches earlier in the season; conditions can become more unsettled toward November.
winter
Best for: Lush inland scenery, Off-season rates
Challenges: Monsoon rains, reduced visibility for snorkeling
Winter (Dec–Feb) is the wet season with heavier rains and rougher seas—expect limited snorkeling windows and occasional cancellations.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, camera, and spare clothes dry during beach transfers and short swims.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while minimizing damage to coral reefs.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet from coral rubble and makes wading more comfortable.
Light snorkel set
Personal snorkel gear improves hygiene and lets you jump into shallow reefs quickly.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
This private tour runs approximately eight hours, including pickup, beach stops, and return to your meeting point.
Is snorkeling included?
Yes—short swims and reef snorkeling are part of the day; many operators provide masks and snorkels but bringing a personal set is recommended.
Where does the tour start?
Pickups are commonly arranged from Mataram, Lembar Harbor, or nearby hotels; confirm your pickup point at booking.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes—families are common on this private itinerary, but young children should be supervised in the water and wear flotation as needed.
What should I wear?
Wear swimwear under quick-dry clothing, a sun hat, and water shoes; bring a light cover-up for sun protection between swims.
Do I need to tip the guide?
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated—cash tips for a well-executed private tour help support local guides and crew.
What to Pack
Swimwear (for quick dips), reef-safe sunscreen (protect reefs), water shoes (coral/pebble shorelines), dry bag (keep gear dry)
Did You Know
Ampenan Old Town served as an important port during Lombok’s Dutch colonial period and retains several colonial-era buildings that reflect its trading past.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book morning pickups to avoid afternoon winds; 2) Carry small change for beach warungs; 3) Confirm pickup location the night before; 4) Bring printed or offline directions in case of limited data.
Local Flavor
After the beach, head to a seaside warung in Sekotong for freshly grilled ikan bakar (grilled fish) and a cold Bintang. For a more urban finish, return to Mataram to explore Ampenan’s markets and try local Sasak sweets like dodol or pulut.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Lombok International Airport (LOP) in Praya; Driving time to Sekotong: ~90–120 minutes from the airport; Typical meet-up: Mataram or Lembar Harbor; Cell service: intermittent on some coastal stretches; Permits: none required for day tours.
Sustainability Note
Use reef-safe sunscreens, avoid stepping on coral, pack out all trash, and choose operators who support local guides and reef conservation initiatives.
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