Best Lombok Surf Camps for Women Surfers: The Ultimate Guide for 2026

Last updated: March 2026

This is a complete guide to the best Lombok surf camps for women surfers in 2026. You’ll learn when to visit Kuta Lombok, how to choose a surf camp that suits you, the best accommodation options, and the top surf spots around southern Lombok.

So, you’re thinking about taking a surf trip to Lombok, Indonesia? If you’re looking for advice on the best Lombok surf camp to help you find good waves and improve your surfing as a woman, you’re in the right place. Surfing in Lombok is still a great option in 2026 because there are so many different breaks for different levels, and Kuta Lombok remains a practical base for surf travel. Intermediate surfers in particular will still find plenty of waves suited to their level.

Google “Lombok surf camp” and you’ll still find a gazillion options, but like most things in Indo, it helps to know which places actually suit your level, budget, and travel style. With so many choices and not always enough honest on-the-ground opinions, choosing the right surf camp can still feel harder than it should.

Why should you trust me? In 2013, I came to Lombok with a few girlfriends, hoping to find uncrowded waves and a different scene. I came back in 2014 and every year after to surf and hang with my local friends. In 2019, I started running Sea Hearts Surf Club retreats to Kuta Lombok, and I’ve kept coming back and staying across the surf camp scene since then.

This is a complete guide to the best Lombok surf camps for women surfers in 2025. You’ll learn when to visit Kuta Lombok, how to choose a surf camp that suits you, the best accommodation, and the top surf spots in Lombok.

Safety note: Lombok can be an excellent place for women surfers in 2026, but the experience depends heavily on choosing the right camp, break, and instructor setup for your level. Smaller coaching ratios, honest local guidance, and sensible spot selection make a huge difference.

What’s in this guide to Lombok’s BEST Surf Camps?

Our Favourite Lombok Surf Camps

Xanadu

BEST OVERALL PACKAGE SURF CAMP IN KUTA

Xanadu is definitely one of the premier surf camps in Lombok.  Both Xanadu’s Surf & Yoga Village in the heart of Kuta and Xanadu Surf & Yoga Boutique Resort feature tropical-style vibes, super comfy beds, small groups of surfers (max. 12 guests), and tasty options for breakfast.  Lots of women surfers choose Xanadu for solo or small groups because many of the staff members, including the surf manager, are female.  

The schedule for Xanadu is Sunday to Sunday, and the packages include six surf sessions and one full-day outing.  These sessions include surf coaching and video analysis. Be sure to say hello to our friend, Gong, who is a Lombok local and surf guide for Xanadu.  

Pros:

• Amazing staff, especially the lead host
• Surf instructors are great 
• Guests liked going to the “secret spot” on a full-day outing 
• Chilled out vibe, not a party scene
• Very comfortable beds 

Cons:

• Yoga was basic
• Far from the beach 
• Surf instruction is not thorough enough, especially for the safety of beginners

Trip Advisor 

Xanadu

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The Porter Kuta Lombok

BEST FOR LUXURY
The Porter is for ladies looking for a little more luxury than your average Lombok surf camp.  This would be a great option for a couple of mothers looking to surf, relax, and get away from it all.  The design of the rooms and common areas is incredibly cool, and the surroundings make you feel like you are truly out in the jungle, away from it all, even though you’re just 10 minutes from Kuta.  

The Porter is a surf camp with luxury.  Add their “Surf Package” to include daily surf guiding, yoga, and breathwork to your stay.  The on-site restaurant serves up a delicious breakfast to hungry surfers.

Pros:

• Stunning design that combines 1950s vibes with Latin style 
• Everything – rooms, pool, common areas – is exceptionally clean 
• Location is in pristine jungle, excellent for a chilled-out trip in nature 

Cons

• 10 minutes from Kuta by scooter (could be a pro), access is down a bumpy dirt road 
• A bit too peaceful for kids, not a family vibe

Trip Advisor 

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Nalua 

BEST FOR SOLO TRAVELERS OR PEOPLE LOOKING FOR COMPANY

If you’re looking for a small and intimate Lombok surf camp to progress your surfing, check out Nalua Surf Camp.  Nalua is perfect for solo travellers or a couple of female surfers who want to learn and socialise, as there are only six rooms.  Nalua organises afternoon activities like sunset sessions and waterfalls, where you can explore Lombok beyond surfing with a crew. 

The instructors and staff treat guests like family and invite them along to enjoy Kuta after your surf lessons are over. The price is very fair, and Nalua has an amazing boutique attached where I got my last new surf-friendly bikini.  

Pros:

• Great for beginners – instructors are a good balance of fun and expertise
• Banana bread is said to be the best in Lombok
• Great location on the main street of Kuta near all the restaurants and bars 
• Daily activities besides surfing offered – waterfalls, beaches, sunset beers as a group
• Good for solo travellers

Cons: 

• Basic accommodation
• No pool 
• Street noise 

Trip Advisor 

Nalua

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Tiu Oasis

BEST FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS

Tiu Oasis is at the top of our list for super luxurious and well-styled accommodation that has the space to accommodate a group or family.  Tiu Oasis isn’t exactly a surf camp, but you can liaise with the staff to set up surf guiding and lessons. Located in the jungle about 7 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of town, you definitely can get your slice of serenity and R&R here.  This would also be an amazing place to book out for a group.

You can browse accommodation options for Tiu Oasis and other stays in Lombok on Booking.com

Pros:

• A bit of luxury – beautiful, stylish accommodation 
• Quiet area in the jungle 
• Good for groups – can accommodate groups of different sizes 
• Delicious complimentary breakfast
• Villas have a full kitchen, and Bungalows have a mini-fridge, tea and coffee facilities. You can also check accommodation options for Tiu Oasis and other hotels in Lombok on Agoda
• Family-friendly (book a villa with a private pool) 

Cons: 

• Out of town, so it can be challenging to find, need to ride a scooter, and dirt road access, which is very dark at night
• Not surf focused – outside provider for surf lessons 

Trip Advisor 

Booking.com 

Loka

BEST FOR GETTING BACK INTO SURF SHAPE

Loka is the biggest and longest-standing gym in Kuta.  Ice baths, sauna, HIIT classes, and delicious food are all on hand here (and reason to visit even if you don’t stay here). The owner, Matt, is one of the best ex-pat surfers in the area and a super nice guy. You know how people go to Phuket to get in shape and train in Muay Thai boxing, Loka is the place for surfing.  Retreats here feature accommodation near the gym (private villa or onsite), 2 daily training sessions, health meals, and surfing.  

Pros:

• Excellent food that will make you feel amazing during your stay
• Fully equipped gym, ice baths, sauna 
• Great location
• Owner is long time Lombok resident with lots of wisdom for your trip 

Cons:

• Surfing isn’t main focus
• Don’t run retreats all the time 
• Basic accommodation on site 

Loka Lombok

Trip Advisor

Roots Lombok – surf camp in Gerupuk

BEST FOR PROXIMITY TO SURF

Book at Roots Lombok to focus on your surfing and cut down the amount of time driving to breaks.  With the Gerupuk surf beaches – Gerupuk insides, outsides and Don-Don’s – just a 5-minute boat ride away, you’ll spend more time in the water here.  Gerupuk has a cool small-town vibe with only a few restaurants and a picturesque bay at its fringe.  The surf staff at Roots surf camp is said to be exceptional, and you’ll get lots of attention from the 1:1 or 2 instructors to guest ratio. Roots offers surf and surf + yoga packages.  

Pros:

• Closest to the surf at Gerupuk Bay – be the first out at sunrise 
• Complimentary breakfast and food are 10/10
• Great instructor ratio: 1 instructor to 1 or 2 guests 
• Photo and video analysis of your surfing

Cons:

• Away from the action in Gerupuk, with fewer options for dining out 
• Prayers at the mosque are audible from 4 am

TripAdvisor

Roots Surf Camp

Ekas Surf Resort 

BEST FOR GETTING AWAY FROM CROWDS

Ekas is the reason you’d come to Ekas Surf Resort.  It is a massive bay with several waves that are away from the crowds of Kuta and Gerupuk.  Although many people come for day trips, you’d have the surf largely to yourself in the mornings and evenings.  Ekas can hold a big swell and still provide waves for all skill levels.  Dave, the owner, leads the surf instruction, so you can expect Western-style instruction and safety measures.  They also do kitesurfing lessons here as well. 

Pros:

• Away from the crowds and right next to Ekas break, which has waves for all levels 
• Natural beauty – remote location with amazing snorkelling 
• Small groups with a Western-led surf coach 
• Surf as much as you want – no limit on water time or surf sessions 
• Walk to the beach

Cons: 

• Remote location – no external restaurants or bars 
• Roads nearby are in very bad condition 
• Basic accommodation – not for those looking for luxury or style 

TripAdvisor

Ekas Surf Resort

LOmbok Surf Camp Travel Tips (2026)

• Travel earlier in the day if you can, especially when connecting from Bali, as morning departures usually give you more buffer if plans shift.
• Book surf camp packages ahead in peak months and around school holiday periods, especially if you want a smaller women-friendly setup.
• Wet season can be a great option for many beginner and intermediate surfers, with lighter winds in southern Lombok and often less crowd pressure than peak dry season.
• If you are travelling with family or a non-surfing friend, look more closely at Kuta-based or villa-style stays rather than purely surf-focused camps.
• Ask about instructor ratios before booking, especially if you are newer to reef breaks or want more coaching rather than simple surf guiding. This is already a useful point the article makes and is worth reinforcing.

Why Lombok is a Female Surfers Paradise

The main reason I left Bali in search of an alternative island paradise was that I got sick of the aggro crowds.  Too many dudes with pointy shortboards shouting at each other.  The waves on the Bukit were incredibly beautiful to watch, but often out of reach.  I wasn’t skilled or aggressive enough to get myself in position for a perfect left at Uluwatu.  I wanted waves that were challenging but not overwhelming.

Lombok provided.  The waves still break over the reef, but are often not as shallow as many of the waves in Bali.  Depending on the swell, waves break both inside and outside of southern Lombok’s many bays.  Big swell? Surf in the bay.  Small swell? Surf outside.  Since the appearance of an ever-increasing number of Lombok surf camps, the crowds are definitely more of an issue.  However, you can still find uncrowded waves if you know where to look.  If you are a beginner, sharing waves isn’t really the biggest deal; just learn to keep yourself safe.

Not to state the obvious, but warm water, tropical vibes, and everyone being in a good mood because they are on holiday go a long way.  Lombok has all that and a more relaxed vibe than Bali.  Think Canggu 20 years ago.  

Surfing in Lombok vs. Bali

In 2013, I woke up on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula overlooking Bingin, a famous left-hander that breaks over shallow reef. It was just before first light, and I could see no less than 40 surfers in the water. The crowds were unbearable for a gnarly wave with only one take-off point. Plus, when the swell built on the Bukit peninsula, I was out of range of surfing ability. Crowds and big waves breaking over a shallow reef were just too much for me. Elsewhere on Bali, I encountered the same thing. I wanted to surf in Indonesia but not be scared out of my wits or intimidated by visiting and expat macho male surfers.

Thus, I booked a flight to Lombok and found what I was looking for. By the way, getting from Bali to Lombok on a flight is easy peasy, but you can also save money by travelling on the public ferry or stopping in the Gili Islands on the Fast Boat. You can easily compare and book ferries, fast boats, or buses online with 12Go Asia. While Lombok boasts the famous Desert Point, it is also home to a whole region of more beginner and intermediate-friendly waves.

Factors to Consider when Choosing the BEST Surf Camp in Lombok for You

Choosing the right Lombok surf camp or making a DIY plan is crucial to having a good time in Lombok.  The area around Kuta can be navigated on your own, but I highly recommend doing a surf camp or getting a guide if you don’t have a month or more to explore.  A guide will help you get better waves for your surfing ability and a little local flavour, which makes every surf trip way more memorable.

When choosing a Lombok surf camp, be sure to look into the location, level of surfing, type of accommodation, schedule, and experience of the instructors. Most camps are based in Kuta, Lombok, which is a good base to explore waves both to the east and the west and have restaurants and bars nearby.  However, this does mean you’ll be driving to surf every day.  If you don’t like driving to surf, try Ekas Surf Resort or stay at Gerupuk, where the waves will be a short boat ride away.  

Accommodation style is another big thing to consider.  Many of the Sea Hearts are past their backpacker days and want somewhere a little more comfortable to rest their heads.  Thus, choose a place to stay that makes you excited and fits your budget.

The reputation of the surf camp and the quality of the instructors are very important so you have a safe trip and improve your surfing.  No naming names, but some Lombok surf camp operators put their guests at risk of injury by surfing in large groups or going out at crowded breaks.

Types of Lombok Surf Camps – Budget vs. Luxury, Permanent vs. Pop-Up

These days the range of surf camps in Lombok means there is something for everyone.  One thing to consider is whether you want to attend a permanent surf camp or a pop-up retreat.  

Pop-up retreats are very popular in Lombok and are run by brands, well-known surfers, or groups of women trying to make a business out of something they love.  Choosing a pop-up surf retreat, where the operators don’t live in Lombok full-time and only operate the surf camp on certain weeks of the year, can either be a blessing or a curse. 

Operators of pop-up surf retreats are usually energetic and full of passion, but they may lack organisation or local knowledge of which waves are working best on a given day. Check out the credentials of those running a temporary surf retreat – do they surf well?  Are they a surf coach themselves?  Is it their first retreat in Lombok?  

The pros of attending a surf camp based in Lombok include the expertise of the owners, organisation, and availability.  Surf camps will offer lots of options in terms of dates because they are always there.  The cons can be that the owners are jaded and running a Lombok surf camp as a numbers game.  The larger surf camps also lack the flexibility to go wherever the surf is working the best on the days you are in Lombok.  If you want a unique and flexible approach, often a pop-up retreat with experienced operators is the way to go.  

Pop-Up Surf Retreats in Lombok

Every year, there are a few pop-up Lombok surf camps that look exciting and are a great way to meet a unique group of women.  At Sea Hearts Surf Club, we used to run surf retreats every year, and the women who attended were amazing.  These days, our retreats are on hold, but many surf retreats in Lombok are one of a kind. 

In 2025, two surf retreats that have caught my eye are the Facing Blank Pages retreat and the Same Wave Community Retreats.  

The Facing Blank Pages retreat looks awesome because they focus on improving your mindset and confidence in the surf, a lot like we used to during the Sea Hearts Retreats.  So many women surfers struggle with what’s going on in their heads while surfing. At the Facing Blank Pages surf retreat, owner Anais spends time helping you improve your mindset. You’ll also get to do on-land skate training at the amazing Tribe Park skate bowl and learn about local culture and coconut oil at Nine-Nine.  This is a longboard-focused retreat, so best for those learning to ride a log.  

As for the Same Wave Community retreat, if you’d like to book additional day tours or activities during your Lombok surf retreat, you can check options on Viator this October. This pop-up Lombok surf camp looks epic for both longboarders and shortboarders who have some experience riding green waves and paddling out through the breaking waves.  The Same Wave crew is from Byron Bay and looks like a very inclusive, welcoming, and fun group of girls. The guiding will be done by female coaches, which is rare in Lombok.  You’d be travelling with 8-12 like-minded women who all want to improve their surfing.  Plus, they are staying at the fabulous Porter Hotel! 

Lombok Surfing Lessons and Coaching at Lombok Surf Camps

Kuta Lombok has become quite a scene these days.  The local boys give surf lessons by day and run the party circuit by night (be sure to check out the Surfer’s Bar on Fridays).  You want to make sure that the Lombok surf camp you choose is serious about its surf instruction so that you can progress your skills.  

For beginner surf lessons, you’ll usually be in a group lesson at waves like Tan Juan Aan Beach or Don Don’s.  Be very careful when you are in a group like this; you want to keep yourself and others safe.   

Look for surf camps that have a fair surf instructor-to-participant ratio for their surf lessons. Ideally, this is less than 4 to 1. It is very hard for a surf instructor to give more than 4 people at a time enough attention. If you can get a private surf lesson or a lesson with just one other friend, it is well worth the money in terms of your progression and safety. If you’d like to book guided tours, lessons, or surf experiences in Lombok beyond the surf camps, you can check options on GetYourGuide

Top Lombok Surf Spots

Learn more about the top places to surf in Lombok.

• Segar: Both rights and lefts are located near the town on the ocean side of the Mandalika track. Surfed on a small swell by all levels of surfers, including lots of local groms, but be careful on low tide as it is a reef break. Also, a great place to watch the sunset! Located 5-10 minutes from Kuta.
• Tanjung Aan: Fun right-hand wave for all levels located on a famous tourist beach.
• Gerupuk: Located about a 20-minute drive and then a 10-minute boat ride to Inside, 20 minutes to Outside waves.
  • Don Don’s: Don Don is an easy A-frame wave inside the bay that breaks left and right and requires a large to medium swell to break.
  • Gerupuk Inside: Inside right-hander that is often frequented by beginner to intermediate surfers. A very fun wave, but it can be extremely crowded. Depending on the swell and low to mid tide, here can be pumping!
  • Gerupuk Outside: Both a left-hander that breaks over shallow reef and a big, washy right-hander. Needs the right swell, not too big and good winds.
• Mawi: Located 30 minutes’ drive west of Kuta. Mawi is one of the go-to spots all year because it picks up heaps of swell and often has favourable winds. The break changes drastically from low to high tide. You can go left or right. Low tide is best suited for advanced surfers, while surfing on a higher tide on a small day can be enjoyed by all skill levels. The beach itself is very beautiful and a nice place to spend the day.
• Are Guling: Epic right-hander that needs the right winds (found during the wet season) but a far paddle for experienced surfers only.
• Selong Belanak: A 40-minute drive west of Kuta past Mawi. Beach break reserved for beginners, longboards and those wanting a less powerful wave with a sand bottom. Usually not crowded except for surfing lessons. 
• Ekas: Similar to Gerpuk, except less crowded. 40-minute drive from Kuta, then a 20-minute boat ride to break, so we will make a full day trip to Ekas if conditions allow. Extremely beautiful and desolate terrain. Often uncrowded, you may be on the only boat there.
  • Ekas Inside: Easy wave, both rights and lefts, good for all kinds of surfers, including longboards and SUPs. Requires a big swell to have sizeable waves, but can hold swell up to 12 feet.
  • Ekas Outside: Outside is a more challenging, bigger left-hander.
• “Secret” Spots: Our guides often have little-known spots to check when the conditions align.

Best Time to Visit Lombok for Surfing

Lombok is still a year-round surf destination in 2026, but the best time for your trip depends on your level and what kind of experience you want. In general, May to October brings drier weather and more consistent swell, while November to April can bring lighter winds in southern Lombok and often friendlier conditions for many beginner to intermediate surfers.

For a lot of women surfers, especially those not chasing heavy waves, the wet season and shoulder months can be a sweet spot for better winds, warm water, and a less hectic line-up.

1. Surfing in Lombok during Dry Season (April to October): This is the peak surfing season in Lombok, characterised by consistent swells and offshore winds, especially from May to August. The waves are typically larger and more powerful during this time, making it ideal for experienced surfers.
2. Surfing in Lombok Wet Season (November to March): While the wet season can bring rain and less predictable conditions, it can also offer good surfing opportunities, especially for beginners and intermediate surfers. The waves are generally smaller and more manageable during this time. More surf spots, such as Air Guling, light up the wet season. My favourite month of the year is probably March or April.
3. Crowds: The dry season tends to be more crowded, especially around popular surf breaks like Kuta and Gerupuk. If you prefer fewer crowds, avoid the European summer and consider visiting during the wet season, when the beaches are generally quieter.
4. Water Temperature: The water temperature in Lombok is warm year-round, ranging from 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F). The surf guides often wear wetsuits, but if you come from somewhere like Australia or the USA, you can leave your wetties at home

Reviews and Recommendations for Lombok Surf Camps

Before making a final decision on which surf camp to choose, it’s always a good idea to read reviews and recommendations from previous guests. Online platforms such as TripAdvisor, surf forums, and social media groups can provide valuable insights into the quality and reputation of different surf camps in Lombok.

Look for reviews that mention the surf camp’s instructors, facilities, accommodation, and overall experience. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of what to expect. Also, look at what month the reviewer visited, as the surf changes a lot from season to season.  Keep in mind that everyone’s preferences and expectations may vary, so consider reviews as a guide rather than a definitive judgment.

You can also reach out to fellow surfers who have been to Lombok and ask for their recommendations. They may have firsthand experiences and insights that can help you make an informed decision. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and gather as much information as possible to ensure that you choose the right surf camp for your adventure.

Choosing the Best Lombok Surf Camp for Your Adventure

Choosing the Best Lombok Surf Camp for Your Adventure

The best Lombok surf camp for women surfers in 2026 really comes down to what kind of trip you want. If you want a polished all-round package, Xanadu is still one of the strongest picks. If comfort matters most, The Porter stands out. If you are travelling solo and want community, Nalua is a great option. And if your priority is getting in the water with less driving, Roots or Ekas may make more sense.

Lombok is still one of the best places in Indonesia for women surfers who want warm water, varied waves, and a more relaxed feel than Bali. Just make sure you choose a camp that matches your surfing level, budget, and the kind of experience you actually want, not just the one with the prettiest Instagram feed.

If you want a more grounded understanding of what it’s actually like to surf Lombok as a woman, including local context, surf culture, and practical insights, it’s well worth reading before you book.