Why more families are choosing Lombok over Bali

While Bali remains a popular option for families, some are now looking to Lombok for a slower life, more space, and nature. Lombok offers many of the same natural perks such as stunning beaches, waterfalls, jungle, hikes. One advantage Lombok has over Bali is the absence of traffic and the lower pressure from intense tourism.

You can discover places like Kuta Lombok, Selong Belanak, and Tetebatu, where life is lively and yet relaxed. It’s easier to get around, you will run into familiar faces often, and your children can grow up surrounded by nature and community.

One of the main concerns of any parent moving abroad is safety, and Lombok is a place with a very low crime rate. The local communities are friendly, warm and often protective of children. Families who have settled here emphasise the kindness and respect of the local population, especially towards children.

In expat-friendly area like Kuta, you will find a growing number of international families, forming WhatsApp groups for gatherings, activities, and community events. While it’s still in development compared to Bali, Lombok’s expat family community is growing organically, and it’s one of the reasons many early movers feel so connected here.

Education is often a major concern for families moving abroad. Lombok is still developing in this area, but you’ll easily find suitable options for your children. The most popular choice is the Mandalika intercultural school in Kuta Lombok. Families appreciate its balance between international standards and an environmentally friendly approach.

For those looking for flexibility, home schooling is also a common practice. Many families use online programmes or combine learning with life on the island, from surfing lessons to nature study. Small learning groups and private tutors are also common, creating a supportive alternative for a more personalised education.

Whether formal education or home schooling, Lombok offers children a safe and inspiring place to learn and grow.

One of the main advantages of raising children in Lombok is the direct access to nature. Imagine your children learning to surf on white dreamy beaches, hiking through jungle and rice fields, swimming under waterfalls… This kind of outdoor immersion is priceless and can be enjoyed every day in Lombok.

For many families, time spent in front of the screen is replaced by time spent outside and children have the chance to grow up curious, active and connected to the world around them.

There are many outdoor and varied activities available to expatriate families.

Lombok has decent basic healthcare, with clinics and hospitals in Mataram and some international-level facilities in Kuta and Senggigi.

For more advanced or specialist treatment, families often travel to Bali (which is only 1 hour’s flight away) or Singapore.

Families living in Lombok are also advised to take a good international health insurance as a precautionary measure.

Whether you’re looking to rent long-term, build your own villa, or invest in a family home near the beach, Lombok’s real estate market is opening up fast, especially around the south coast where expat communities are growing.

• Kuta Lombok is the main center for expat families. It has international schools, basic healthcare, cafés, and shops.
• Are Guling is just 10 to 15 minutes from Kuta. It’s quieter, with more space, but still close to schools and daily needs. A good choice if you want more privacy without being too far.

Finding a villa to suit families can be tricky, but we’re here to help you build or find your dream home with the right advice.

Another benefit to raising kids in Lombok is the rich and cool cultural experience. Children growing up here have the chance to learn another language such as the Bahasa Indonesia, experience other traditions and ceremonies, and form deep connections with the community. It’s common for foreign kids to be invited to local weddings or village events as Lombok’s people are welcoming and inclusive.

While there are loads of cultural differences, many families turn it into learning opportunities, helping their children grow into more open-minded, globally aware humans.

Lombok offers something precious: a safe, natural and inspiring place where children can grow up in harmony with the community.

Whether you’re thinking of moving here full-time, spending part of the year or investing, Lombok is well worth exploring. And as the island continues to grow and evolve, more and more family-friendly facilities and communities are popping up every year.

At Maju Properties, we specialise in helping families and long-term residents find the home that’s right for them, whether it’s a beachfront villa or a quiet plot close to schools. We understand the needs of families on the move because we live here too and are here to help you every step of the way.

Get in touch if you’d like to find out about family-friendly properties in Lombok, find out more about the local schools or simply find out more about life on the island. We’ll be happy to share our knowledge and help your family feel at home here.