Epic Kitesurfing in Lombok & East-Indonesia

Dreaming of catching air over crystal blue waters at an exotic beach? Then, kitesurfing in Lombok and East-Indonesia spots is calling your name. This area is getting traction as a top destination for kitesurfers from across the globe.

If you’re looking for the best wind and top kitesurfing summer spots in Asia, then the Eastern part of Indonesia is where you need to be.

This part of the country boasts some of the most consistent and powerful winds, making it a dream destination for kitesurfers of all levels. From the pristine beaches to the thrilling waves, East-Indonesia offers an unforgettable kitesurfing experience that you won’t want to miss.

So pack your gear and get ready to ride the wind in this incredible region!

 

 

In this guide, we will give you everything you need to start planning your ultimate kitesurfing adventure in Indonesia.

 

#1 Kaliantan (Lombok): the all-round playground

Kaliantan is part of the larger island of Lombok, which has a history of early settlement by the Sasak people. The Sasak culture is still prevalent in the region, with traditional villages and customs that have been preserved over centuries.

The main kitesurfing in Lombok is Kaliantan spot and its lagoon itself, which stretches about 500 meters wide and several kilometers long. The beach is wide with shallow water close to shore, making it okay for beginners. More experienced riders can explore other nearby beaches like Kura Beach and Cobra Beach.

You can try Kuta area in the south or Gili islands in the north (thermic wind) but Kaliantan is definitely the best kitesurfing in Lombok you will find.

Wind Season

The best time of year for kitesurfing in Lombok is May to September. The winds are pumping at 15-20 knots consistently during these months. You can expect sweet ride and onshore gusts. But heads up – the choppy conditions also make things tricky for anyone who’s a total beginner.

Conditions

When those winds get cranking, the swell, chop, and kickers you’ll see are insane! But newbies should be prepared to get tossed around a bit and know their limits. Lessons are a smart idea so you can handle the unpredictable waters.

You will probably come across Kaliantan sold as a “wave spot” … don’t fall for it. Yes, the swell is magnificent and pretty much untouched, but the wind orientation makes it hardly surfable for a kiter. You want real wave-ridding? Then head to Sumbawa (see #2 below).

Lifestyle

This place has got the most chill, laidback island vibe ever. No pumping clubs or resorts here – just good local peeps and natural beauty as far as you can see. Take your time exploring empty beaches, swimming under cliffs, or watching unreal sunsets. You’ll love how relaxed everything feels.

Kite Schools

Foreign-run schools come and go, but the local crew at Lombok Kitesurfing will set you up right. Their packages with lodging are sweet too! They will show all the in and out of kitesurfing in Lombok.

Pros

• Having so much open space on the water all to yourself
• Dropping your jaw at the mind-blowing scenery
• Getting a taste of real village culture and connecting with nature
• Magnificent surfing in nearby Ekas break

Cons

• Accommodations on the spot are rare and pretty simple – we’re talking bare essentials
• Commute to the spot from Ekas where all accomodations are
• Complete beginners will have a hard time in the uncontrolled chops

Alternative Activities

• Snorkel or scuba dive to see underwater creatures up close
• Swim and explore weirdly beautiful sea cliffs and coves
• Trek to awesome jungle waterfalls for a refreshing dip
• Go fishing with the locals then grill up your catch after
• Cruise the countryside by bike and make friends with villagers
• Sip a cold Bintang beer and watch mind-blowing sunsets

Where to Stay

Lombok Kitesurfing is the only ones with accomodations and facilities on the spot: Kaliantan Paradise Bungalows.

For more premium service: stay in Ekas area and commute every day to Kaliantan. Though the daily commute may become a hassle after several days, especially when carrying all your kite gear, personal items, food, drinks, and other necessities.

Getting There

Fly into Lombok International Airport first. From there, you can arrange a pickup from or take a taxi to reach Ekas village. It’s like a 2-3 hour drive but that’s part of the adventure!

 

 

#2 Lakey Peak & Nungas (Sumbawa): the world-class wave-ridding

Lakey Peak is a small seaside village that has gained fame for its surf breaks.

Kitesurfing amazing swell at a laidback surf village that’s still off the beaten path, this is the Lakey Peak-Nungas area! This spot has it all – consistent surf, chill vibes, and a passionate community of wave riders.

Wind Season

Mark your calendar for August to October. This is when Lakey Peak sees cross-shore winds averaging 15-20 knots. Gusts build through the day, making for ideal kitesurf sessions. You’ll have epic conditions almost every day during the peak season.

Spots conditions

Lakey Peak’s reef break churns out a fast and hollow A-frame wave. Add to it the right wind season and you get one of the best wave in the world for kitesurfing. You can expect head high waves with glassy walls to carve up.

Surfers catch some epic morning tubes, then clear out once the wind starts pumping, leaving the perfect left-hander all to the kiters. You’ll hardly ever see waves under 2m here, and massive 4-5m monsters are common!

Other spots are:

• Lakey Peak: A fast, hollow A-frame with morning surfers and afternoon kiters, rarely seeing waves under 2m
• Lakey Pipe: A fast, hollow left-hander where you can potentially get barreled while kitesurfing
• Nungas: A gentler point break with long, smooth faces and fewer surfers
• Jalla: A flat water option when the wind direction is right
• Nangadoro: A powerful left with a sketchy launch but sometimes the only windy option

Lifestyle

This place has a super chill, friendly vibe. Lakey Peak attracts passionate wave riders who live to surf and kite. There’s a welcoming community of locals, expats, and nomads who are stoked to share the perfect waves. When the sun goes down, just kick back with new friends over Bintangs by the beach. It’s about as off the grid as you can get.

People are welcoming, but language barriers exist, so brush up your bahassa: Basic Language For Kitesurf Travelers in Indonesia

Kite Schools

Beginners will have a hard time handling the powerful surf. No proper school and no rental there.

There is some specialized kitesurf clinics organized times to times. Overall, you will be on your own.

Pros

• Amazing consistent surf with rideable waves
• Scoring waves with barely any other people around
• Welcoming community and laidback lifestyle
• Miles of empty beaches and landscapes that will blow your mind
• Next level conditions for advanced kitesurfers looking for a challenge

Cons

• Wind is side-onshore, increasing chances of kite turbulence
• Waves break over shallow reefs, so care is essential
• Small town has limited amenities and nightlife options
• Not kite schools – No professional kite instructor
• Need to be pretty self-sufficient out here!

Alternative Activities

• Surfing – Lakey is renowned as a surf paradise
• Diving and snorkeling vibrant coral reefs
• Hiking to remote waterfalls and swimming
• Experiencing Sumbawan culture like traditional villages
• Yoga classes overlooking dreamy surf breaks
• Volcano trips to climb Mount Tambora

Where to Stay

For the true Lakey experience, stay in the multitude of laidback surf camps around the spots.  Their beachfront huts put you steps from the waves.

Getting There

Fly into Bima airport on Sumbawa island’s east coast. Schedule a taxi or arrange a pickup from your accommodation. It’s a scenic 3-4 hour drive through lush jungle and rice fields before reaching Lakey Peak. The remote location enhances the getaway vibes.

 

 

#3 Rote (Timor): the remote paradise

According to legend, the island got its name when a lost Portuguese sailor asked a local farmer where he was, and the farmer, not understanding Portuguese, introduced himself as “Rote”.

Rote is part of the Rote Ndao Regency, with Ba’a as its main town. The island has developed into a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, traditional culture, and vibrant marine life.

One of the most popular kitesurfing spots on Rote Island is Loedi Beach. This beach is known for its reliable winds and beautiful surroundings, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers.

Wind Season

Mark your calendars for June to September when Rote sees its best kitesurf winds. Average side-onshore gusts of 15-20 knots. The wind is quite less predictable but when it blows it can be insane with peak at 30+ knots.

Conditions

The island’s south coast has a sandy seabed with smaller chop – perfect for beginner and intermediate kitesurfers.

Lifestyle

Things move at a relaxed pace on Rote with various surf spots. Head north for barreling waves reaching overhead heights that advanced surfers love, but not for kitesurf.

• Bo’a spot, the best right-hand wave of Rote, just 2 km from our place.
• Nemberala (T-Land), a few kms away.

Kite Schools

Please correct me if we are wrong but we didn’t find any proper kitesurf school here. Loedi Bungalow on the spot are kitesurfers and might be able to set you up when the wind is soaring.

Pros

• Various surf spots in Rote, the famous T-Land.
• Way less crowded than Bali or Lombok
• Many snorkeling spots

Cons

• Reef risks on the northern coast waves
• Wind can get lighter in shoulder seasons
• No beginner-focused schools

Alternative Activities

• Surfing at renowned Nemberala Beach
• Snorkeling pristine waters and seeing marine life
• Exploring Rote’s string of idyllic beaches
• Learning about the native culture and traditions
• Stand up paddleboarding mangrove rivers
• Hiking to breathtaking cliff viewpoints

Where to Stay

Stay right by the kitesurf break at Loedi Bungalows. Their beachfront bungalows are a kiter’s dream. For nightlife, consider the beach town of Nemberala near legendary surf.

Getting There

Fly into Kupang airport on Timor, then take a short hopper flight to Rote island’s airport. Arrange airport pickup or taxi to your accommodation. Driving from Kupang is also an option if you have time to spare.

 

#4 Jeneponto (Sulawesi): the wind machine

The main kitesurfing spot in Sulawesi is Jeneponto, located in Mallasoro village. This location offers a safe and shallow lagoon, perfect for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers.

Wind Season

Mark your calendars for May through October. During these months, Jeneponto sees the most consistent wind ranging 15-30+ knots. Gusts are side-onshore, blowing over the lagoon without interruption. Some say you could kite here 360 days a year – the wind is that reliable!

Conditions

Picture a giant, shallow lake with knee to waist deep aquamarine water that goes on for miles. Since the lagoon is protected by reef, the water is lightly choppy at most. You’ll have endless space for boosting massive airs or kiteboarding at lightning speeds for hours.

Lifestyle

This is a sleepy fishing town, so amenities are limited. But the simplicity enhances the remote getaway vibe. Kiters are drawn to Jeneponto solely for the epic wind and relaxed culture. You’ll meet passionate riders from around the world too.

Kite Schools

Jeneponto Kitesurfing is renowned for specialized clinics and perfecting your skills on the lagoon. The local schools really know how to harness Jeneponto’s wind power.

Pros

• Some of the most powerful and consistent wind on Earth
• Massive lagoon provides endless space
• Warmer than most Indonesian spots year-round
• Intensive kite training conditions ideal for progression
• Still an untapped paradise without huge crowds

Cons

• Isolated location with limited infrastructure
• Can get exhausting handling 30+ knot winds
• Some seaweed here and there
• No wave-ridding
• Need to be an intermediate+ level to enjoy

Alternative Activities

• Island hopping and snorkeling emerald bays nearby
• Visiting traditional villages and trying local cuisine
• World-class scuba diving abundant sea life
• Surfing beginner waves on nearby Tanjung Bira
• Stand up paddle boarding inside the lagoon
• Simply relaxing and recharging after intense kiting!

Where to Stay

Stay right on the lagoon with BATIKITE Resort for easy water access and no commute.

SALMİRA COTTAGE opened in 2024 facing the bay 500m from the main beach and offers more budget options.

Getting There

Fly into Makassar, then arrange a taxi or pickup to reach Jeneponto – about a 3 hour drive. The remote location makes the perfect windy getaway for dedicated kiters!

 

 

What’s the deal with kitesurfing at high tide vs low tide here?

The tides can really change up conditions and access. High tide means more depth over reefs and hazards, but also choppier and stronger currents to watch for.

Low tide can awesome with pure flat waters, but might make launches and exits trickier through shallow zones. You’re forced to walk over sand and coral heads.

Your best bet is to aim for mid-tide when risks are minimized but it’s deep enough to ride smoothly. Or just be flexible based on the daily tides – there are upsides and downsides to both!

What would be the best choice for wind in Indonesia?

Jeneponto for sure! Wind statistics is definitely THE criteria for kitesurfing holidays and maximize time on the water. You can check out wind websites and their archives, Jeneponto is by far the windiest during summer in whole İndonesia, and beyond.

Then, nature is never a garantee and some seasons might be better than others. Also, start & end seasons are hard to predict, so manage your expectations for May & October.

I’m terrified of sharks when kiting. Should I be worried in Indonesia?

It makes total sense to feel nervous with all the ocean action here! But realistically, sharks are not much of a threat, especially at busier beaches. Just avoid swimming out at dawn/dusk when hunting is more likely.

If schools of fish pass by, steer clear so you don’t attract any curiosity. Reef sharks in the shallows are harmless unless provoked. Focus on that rush of riding perfect waves, and hopefully your shark worries will start to fade!

I’m a total newbie. Can I learn kitesurfing in Lakey-Peak (Sumbawa)?

In short: No! Sumbawa is famous for its world-class waves, making it a prime destination for advanced kitesurfers. However, its powerful surf and challenging conditions are not suited for beginners. Spots like Lakey-Peak feature steep and fast-breaking waves that require expert wave-riding skills, precise kite control and ability to read the ocean.

For beginners, attempting to ride these waves represent a significant risk: unexpected wipeouts, difficult water starts, and tricky wave maneuvers are common hazards that can lead to serious injury.

If you’re an advanced kitesurfer looking for a high-adrenaline experience, Sumbawa is the place to be. But for those just starting out, the conditions here are simply too dangerous to learn in.

I’m a total newbie. Can I learn kitesurfing in Lombok?

For sure! Kitesurfing in Lombok is good for beginners. Good, but not perfect cause of the choppy waters. The lagoon provide large space to practice and drift safely, the time you learn to ride upwind.

There are 1-2 kiteschools in Lombok providing lessons for complete beginners.  They’ll start you off on land nailing kite control and safety basics. You will get experience body dragging on a board in shallow water before using the board.

With step-by-step guidance and patience, most first-timers are shredding the lagoon in 10-15 hours over a few days. Let the awesome local teachers at Kitesurf Lombok show you the kitesurf ropes!

Is it safe for solo female travelers to kitesurf here?

Totally! Indonesia is super welcoming to solo female kiteboarders. Spotters and instructors make sure to keep close tabs on your safety. Avoid any isolated beaches for privacy reasons. Use common sense traveling alone like you would elsewhere.

But you’ll likely feel way more included by the friendly locals here than apprehensive. Lots of women feel empowered pushing their limits kiting solo in new places!

How can I find the most secluded, uncrowded kitesurf spots?

For that off-the-grid remote vibe, think about heading to islands like Sulawesi, Sumbawa or Rote where tourism is still new. Ask local schools about undiscovered spots with gorgeous empty beaches but no amenities. Befriend seasoned expat kiteboarders for their secret insider tips.

Or explore by boat to scope out uncharted coves. Sumba, Karimunjawa and Papua are contenders but still uncharted as far as kitesurf is concerned. Getting away from it all takes effort but embracing the rawness is so rewarding.

 

Final thoughts

You will have an epic time kitesurfing in Lombok and East Indonesia with diverse conditions and each spot its strenghts.

Wherever you end up kiting, remember to be respectful. Take time to connect with the communities, support local businesses, and give back. Learn some basic Bahasa to build real bonds.

And always follow sustainable practices to protect Indonesia’s natural beauty above and below the surface. The tropical awesomeness will stick with you long after your trip.