Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
Focusfeel, Wikimedia Commons
Lombok International Airport (LOP), also known as Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport, serves as the primary air gateway to Kuta. For sea travel, Lembar Harbour is the main entry point for public ferries, while Bangsal Harbour primarily handles fast boats from Bali and the Gili Islands.
By Air (to Lombok International Airport - LOP):
Direct flights are available from major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta (CGK), Surabaya (SUB), and Denpasar (DPS) in Bali. From Bali, flights typically take 30-50 minutes and can cost around 1.1 million IDR (approximately $68-$75 USD).
International flights connect from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Singapore (SIN), with flights from Kuala Lumpur taking about 3 hours and 10 minutes.
From Lombok International Airport (LOP) to Kuta:
Taxi:: A taxi ride to Kuta takes approximately 20-45 minutes and typically costs between IDR 75,000 and IDR 150,000 (around $5-$10 USD). Official taxi counters are available at the airport.
Private Transfer:: Pre-booked private transfers offer a direct and comfortable journey, often costing around IDR 345,000 (€18) and taking about 30 minutes.
DAMRI Bus:: Public bus services connect the airport to Mataram, where a transfer can be made to Kuta Mandalika. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around IDR 42,000 (IDR 25,000 to Mataram + IDR 17,000 to Kuta Mandalika).
By Sea (from Bali to Lombok):
Fast Boat:: Services operate from Padang Bai, Serangan, and Sanur in Bali to Bangsal or Senggigi in Lombok. The journey duration varies from 1.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the departure port and sea conditions. Tickets generally range from IDR 440,000 (around $30 USD) to $67 USD, often including hotel pick-up in Bali.
From Bangsal Harbour to Kuta, a taxi ride is about 2 hours and can cost around IDR 250,000 (approximately $18 USD).
Public Ferry (Slow Boat):: Available from Padang Bai, Bali, to Lembar Harbour in Lombok. These ferries operate hourly, 24/7, taking approximately 4-5 hours. Tickets are more budget-friendly, around IDR 75,000 (about $4-5 USD). This option allows for vehicle transport.
From Lembar Harbour to Kuta, a car or taxi journey takes about 1-1.5 hours. Public buses are also available, taking about 2 hours and costing IDR 30,000-50,000.
Getting Around Kuta and South Lombok:
Scooter Rental:: Renting a scooter is the most popular way to explore Kuta and its surrounding areas, offering flexibility. Daily rental prices typically range from IDR 50,000 to IDR 150,000 (approximately $3.50-$10 USD).
Taxi/Private Driver:: Taxis are available for local trips, and private cars with drivers can be hired for full-day excursions around the island, costing around IDR 350,000 to IDR 700,000 per day.
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