Tanjung

Tanjung is located on the northwest coast of Lombok and is the gateway to the renowned Gili Islands and Gunung Rinjani National Park. Laid-back Tanjung is fast becoming a worthy destination in its own right, a place where you can charter a boat, venture out to waterfalls, play a round of golf or simply relax on its long, uncluttered beaches.

Spend a day or two exploring the Tanjung area or stay a week or more at the popular resort areas of Sire Beach and Medana Bay. Canoe, snorkel and swim off Sire Beach, a stunning crescent-shaped bay stretching for several kilometres. There are places to rent equipment near the beach. Featuring an 18-hole, international championship golf course, the Sire Peninsula is also a solid favourite of discerning golfers.

Hire a scooter or van and explore local villages where women can be seen weaving baskets and creating other traditional handicrafts. Explore the beautiful countryside around the village of Senaru and stop to cool off in the area’s many waterfalls.

Take a boat from the beaches of Bangsal and fish for your dinner or just admire the towering beauty of Mount Rinjani from across the waters. Bangsal is also one of the access points to the Gili Islands, which can be seen from the shoreline.

In Tanjung town, shop for souvenirs, handicrafts and fresh produce in the large public market area. At night, sample some of the island’s food specialties at the small restaurants that line the main road passing through Tanjung. Alternatively, if you prefer international cuisines, try the town’s small number of resorts and hotels.

Tanjung is about an hour’s drive north of Lombok’s capital, Mataram. Getting around Tanjung and the surrounding area is easy: simply hail a taxi or horse-drawn cart, ride with locals in a bemo, which is a type of open-air minibus, or hire a motorcycle or car.