Bali has long been considered the ultimate destination for digital nomads. From its lush jungles and pristine beaches to its thriving coworking scene and active expat community, it’s no wonder so many remote workers have flocked to Bali in search of the perfect work-life balance.

But in recent years, another Indonesian island has been quietly gaining attention as a potential rival to Bali: Lombok.

Just an hour’s flight or a few hours by boat from Bali, Lombok is increasingly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads who want to experience the best of Indonesia without the crowds that Bali is known for. But is Lombok truly the next Bali for digital nomads? Let’s explore what makes Lombok unique, what it has to offer remote workers, and why it’s quickly gaining popularity.

1. Why Lombok Is Gaining Popularity Among Digital Nomads

Lombok is a stunning island located just east of Bali, known for its unspoiled beaches, stunning waterfalls, and towering mountains. It’s an island that’s both laid-back and adventurous, making it ideal for digital nomads looking to mix work with nature.

A Quieter Alternative to Bali

While Bali has long been a digital nomad haven, its popularity has led to overcrowding, especially in popular areas like Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu. In contrast, Lombok offers a more peaceful alternative. The island still offers plenty of natural beauty and adventure, but it remains much less commercialized than Bali, which can make for a more relaxed and authentic experience.

Growing Infrastructure for Remote Workers

Lombok is also rapidly developing its infrastructure to cater to the growing demand from remote workers. In recent years, new coworking spaces have opened up in areas like Senggigi and Kuta Lombok, offering fast Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and opportunities for networking with other remote workers. Many of these coworking spaces are integrated with coliving facilities, making it easy for nomads to live and work in the same place.

2. What Lombok Offers Digital Nomads

Affordable Living

One of the most attractive aspects of Lombok for digital nomads is its affordable cost of living. Compared to Bali, which has become more expensive in recent years, Lombok offers much lower accommodation and food prices, making it an appealing option for those looking to stretch their budget.

Accommodation: You can find beautiful villas, guesthouses, and coliving spaces for a fraction of what you’d pay in Bali.
Food: Lombok has a great food scene, with fresh local produce and traditional Indonesian dishes at affordable prices.

Incredible Natural Beauty

Lombok is known for its stunning landscapes, including its famous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and iconic Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano. The island is perfect for remote workers who love adventure and want to balance work with exploration. From hiking through lush forests to swimming in secluded waterfalls, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities.

Less Crowded Coworking Spaces

Because Lombok is still emerging as a digital nomad destination, you won’t find the overcrowded coworking spaces that are common in Bali. This means faster Wi-Fi, more desk space, and a quieter environment for focused work.

Example: Ponderosa Coworking is one of the most popular spaces in Senggigi, offering high-speed internet, a comfortable atmosphere, and a community of digital nomads.

3. Lombok vs. Bali: What’s the Difference?

While Bali is already well-established as a remote work destination, Lombok offers a fresh, off-the-beaten-path alternative that combines adventure, peace, and affordability. Here’s a quick comparison between the two islands:

Crowds Bali: High, especially in touristy areas Crowds Lombok: Quiet, less crowded

Cost of Living Bali: Higher (especially in tourist areas) Cost of Living Lombok: More affordable

Coworking Spaces Bali: Plenty of options, but often crowded Coworking Spaces Lombok: Emerging but with growing options

Nature & Adventure Bali: Gorgeous beaches, rice terraces, culture Nature & Adventure Lombok: Stunning beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes

Nightlife Bali: Vibrant, with plenty of options Nightlife Lombok: Quieter, but still some options

4. Is Lombok the Right Choice for You?

If you’re looking for a quieter, more affordable destination that still offers the beauty and adventure of Bali, then Lombok could be the perfect fit. It’s ideal for digital nomads who want to experience Indonesia’s natural beauty, meet other remote workers, and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.

If you are now convinced to book your next trip to Lombok and are looking for the perfect accommodation for digital nomads, check out The Ripbowl in Selong Belanak!

Is Lombok the Next Bali for Digital Nomads? Here’s What You Need to Know