Flights from Bali to Lombok – 2025 Guide to the Fastest and Most Scenic Ways to Get There

Just east of Bali lies Lombok, a stunning island often called Bali’s quieter twin. With its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and the majestic Mount Rinjani rising above the clouds, Lombok offers everything from world-class surfing to serene escapes.

But how do you get there — fast, safely, and comfortably?

This 2025 guide breaks down every possible way to travel from Bali to Lombok, from luxury helicopter transfers with Balicopter to commercial flights, fast boats, and public ferries. You’ll discover the best option for your budget and travel style — whether you want to arrive in style, save time, or enjoy the scenic route across Indonesia’s breathtaking island chain.

Get ready to turn your transfer into an experience — and see Indonesia from a whole new perspective.

Quick Answer

The fastest and most luxurious way to travel from Bali to Lombok is by private helicopter flight with Balicopter.
In just 45 minutes, you’ll fly above the turquoise waters separating the two islands, pass over the Gili archipelago, and land directly in Lombok — skipping the crowds and unpredictable seas.

Here’s how all main travel options compare:

Helicopter (Balicopter) – Around 45 minutes. The fastest, most scenic, and completely private route. Perfect for those who value time and comfort.
Commercial Flight – Roughly one hour. Affordable, frequent, and ideal for travelers arriving from other destinations.
Fast Boat – Between one and three hours depending on sea conditions. A mid-range choice for those seeking a bit of adventure.
Public Ferry – Three to five hours. The cheapest but slowest option, best for budget travelers with flexible schedules.

💡 Tip: Want to make your journey part of the adventure? Choose a helicopter flight with Balicopter and experience Indonesia’s islands from the sky — the way they were meant to be seen.

Why Visit Lombok?

Just a short distance east of Bali, Lombok is often described as Bali’s untamed twin — quieter, greener, and every bit as breathtaking. The island combines pristine natural beauty with a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere.

Here, volcanic ridges meet endless white-sand beaches, and small fishing villages coexist with luxury resorts. You can trek Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, or unwind on Selong Belanak Beach, where turquoise waves roll onto untouched shores.

Lombok also offers easy access to the Gili Islands, a trio of coral-ringed escapes known for snorkeling, diving, and sunsets that seem almost unreal. And for those who love speed, the Mandalika International Circuit hosts world-class racing events surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery.

Whether you’re chasing adventure or peace, Lombok feels like a place where time slows down — and where every moment, from takeoff to landing, becomes part of the journey.

All Ways to Get from Bali to Lombok

There are several ways to reach Lombok from Bali, and the best one depends on how you prefer to travel — fast and private, quick and affordable, or slow and scenic.

Below are the four main options every traveler should know about:

Helicopter flight with Balicopter — The fastest and most exclusive route, taking about 45 minutes. Offers unmatched aerial views and complete flexibility in timing.
Commercial plane — A short 50–60 minute hop from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport to Lombok International Airport. Great for most travelers but less personal and often crowded.
Fast boat — A good middle ground. Boats leave from Sanur, Serangan, or Padang Bai and take between one and three hours, depending on sea conditions.
Public ferry — The slowest but cheapest option, with departures from Padang Bai running throughout the day and night. Travel time varies between three and five hours.

Each option offers a unique experience — whether you’re seeking luxury, convenience, or a sense of island adventure.
But if you want to save time and turn your transfer into an unforgettable experience, flying with Balicopter is the way to go.

Helicopter Flights with Balicopter (Fastest & Most Scenic Option)

If you want your journey to feel as extraordinary as your destination, nothing compares to a private helicopter flight with Balicopter. In less than an hour, you’ll rise above Bali’s lush coastline, glide over the Gili Islands, and descend toward the emerald cliffs of Lombok — all while enjoying the comfort and privacy of a premium charter experience.

Balicopter operates modern Airbus and Bell helicopters, maintained to the highest international standards and flown by experienced, certified pilots. Each aircraft features panoramic windows, air conditioning, and noise-canceling headsets — so you can fully enjoy the quiet beauty of Indonesia from the sky.

This is more than a transfer — it’s an experience designed for travelers who value exclusivity, flexibility, and unforgettable views. Flights can be customized to include aerial sightseeing, photo sessions, or direct landings near your resort or villa.

Why travelers choose Balicopter:

Fastest route from Bali to Lombok (≈45 minutes)
Private, flexible schedules with VIP service
Stunning aerial views of the Gili Islands and Mount Rinjani
Ideal for couples, families, and luxury adventurers

✈️ Tip: The best time to fly is in the morning (8:00–10:00 a.m.), when the light is soft, the air is calm, and the views are at their most vivid.

Commercial Flights

For travelers who prefer a simple, budget-friendly option, commercial flights remain the most common way to get from Bali to Lombok.
Several airlines — including Garuda Indonesia, AirAsia, Lion Air, Citilink, and Batik Air — operate multiple daily flights between Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali and Lombok International Airport (LOP).

The journey takes around 50 to 60 minutes, making it a quick and convenient choice. Most flights are direct, and fares are generally affordable, especially when booked in advance.

However, commercial air travel also means check-in lines, fixed schedules, and the usual airport formalities. It’s efficient, but far from exclusive.

What to expect:

Travel time: about one hour
Frequency: 2–3 flights per day
Best season: April–October (dry season)
Ideal for: solo travelers, families, and those connecting from international flights

💡 Tip: Choose morning or midday departures — flights later in the day are more likely to be delayed due to changing weather and busy air traffic around Denpasar.

Fast Boats

If you prefer to travel by sea and enjoy the journey as much as the destination, fast boats are a popular middle option between flights and ferries.
These boats depart daily from Sanur, Serangan Harbor, and Padang Bai in Bali, arriving at ports such as Senggigi, Bangsal, or Lembar in Lombok.

Travel time ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the route, operator, and sea conditions. On calm days, the ride is smooth and scenic — offering views of the sparkling sea, small islands, and the silhouettes of Bali and Lombok in the distance.

However, during the rainy season (November–March), the waves can get choppy, which may make the trip uncomfortable for some passengers. Still, it’s a flexible and widely available option, ideal for those looking to balance cost, experience, and convenience.

Details to know:

Duration: 1.5–3 hours
Departure times: from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Frequency: about one departure every hour
Recommended operators: BlueWater Express, Gili Getaway, Ekajaya Fast Boat
Best travel season: dry season (April–October)

🌊 Tip: Book morning departures for smoother seas and better visibility — and confirm your schedule a day in advance, as sailing times often change with the weather.

Public Ferry

For travelers who don’t mind taking their time, the public ferry from Padang Bai (Bali) to Lembar (Lombok) is the most budget-friendly option.
These large ferries operate around the clock, typically departing every hour, and are used by both locals and tourists.

The crossing takes between 3 and 5 hours, depending on sea conditions and port traffic. Although it’s the slowest option, the ride is relatively comfortable — especially if you’re prone to seasickness, since the vessels are large and stable.

On board, you’ll find basic seating, snack bars, and rest areas, and you can even bring motorbikes or small vehicles for an extra fee. It’s not the most luxurious way to travel, but it’s reliable and inexpensive, perfect for travelers who aren’t in a rush.

Good to know:

Duration: 3–5 hours
Departures: every hour, 24 hours a day
Route: Padang Bai → Lembar
Comfort: basic but stable ride
Ideal for: budget travelers, long-term visitors, or those transporting vehicles

🚢 Tip: Avoid late-night crossings during the rainy season — while ferries run 24/7, seas are rougher and schedules may shift without notice.

Best Time to Visit Lombok

Lombok’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but the dry season (April–October) is by far the most pleasant time to visit. During these months, you can expect clear skies, calm seas, and warm sunshine, perfect for helicopter flights, beach days, and outdoor adventures.

The dry season also offers ideal flying conditions for Balicopter’s aerial routes, giving you stable weather and excellent visibility over Bali, the Gili Islands, and Lombok’s dramatic coastline.

Meanwhile, the wet season (November–March) brings short, heavy tropical rains — usually in the afternoon — and a more humid atmosphere. Although boat schedules can be affected, the landscape transforms into a lush, vibrant green. It’s also a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and lower hotel rates.

Summary:

🌤 Dry season (Apr–Oct) → Best for flights, beaches, and sightseeing
🌧 Wet season (Nov–Mar) → Fewer crowds, greener scenery, occasional rain
☀️ Best months to fly: June to September — perfect light, minimal wind, crystal-clear skies

💡 Tip: For the ultimate experience, pair your Lombok trip with a helicopter flight over the Gili Islands — the turquoise contrast from above is unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you fly directly from Bali to Lombok?
Yes. You can fly directly either with Balicopter’s private helicopter transfers or via several commercial airlines operating daily flights between Denpasar (DPS) and Lombok (LOP). The helicopter option is the fastest — around 45 minutes — and offers an entirely private, scenic experience.

How long does it take to travel from Bali to Lombok?
That depends on how you travel:

About 45 minutes by Balicopter helicopter
Around 1 hour by commercial plane
Between 1.5 and 3 hours by fast boat
Or 3 to 5 hours by public ferry

Is it safe to travel to Lombok by helicopter?
Absolutely. Balicopter follows strict international aviation safety standards. All flights are piloted by highly trained, certified captains, and helicopters undergo regular maintenance. Flying also avoids unpredictable sea conditions, making it the safest and smoothest way to reach Lombok.

Do I need a visa to visit Lombok?
If you’re entering Indonesia from abroad, check whether your country qualifies for Visa on Arrival (VoA). You can obtain it at Lombok International Airport or apply for an e-Visa before arrival to speed up the process.

What’s the best way to book a helicopter flight to Lombok?
You can book directly through Balicopter.com. The team will help you choose your preferred departure time, customize your route, and arrange optional add-ons — such as aerial tours, photo sessions, or return flights.

✈️ Tip: For smooth planning, reserve your flight at least two days in advance, especially during the dry season when availability is limited.

Plan Your Flight with Balicopter

Your trip to Lombok deserves to begin in style — and with Balicopter, the journey itself becomes a highlight. Instead of waiting in airports or navigating crowded harbors, you’ll lift off from Bali’s southern coast and glide over a panorama of turquoise water, coral reefs, and lush islands.

Within 45 minutes, you’ll touch down in Lombok feeling refreshed and inspired, ready to explore the island’s beaches, mountains, and culture.

Why choose Balicopter:

🚁 Fastest connection between Bali and Lombok (≈45 minutes)
🌅 Unmatched views over Bali, the Gilis, and Mount Rinjani
🛫 Private and flexible itineraries — fly when it suits your schedule
👨✈️ Certified, experienced pilots with world-class safety standards
💎 Luxury comfort from takeoff to landing

Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business, or a romantic escape, Balicopter ensures every detail of your flight is seamless — from booking to touchdown.

✈️ Ready to see Indonesia from the sky?
Visit Balicopter.com to book your private helicopter flight from Bali to Lombok, and start your island adventure before you even land.

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