Bangko Bangko Beach, often referred to as Desert Point, is a remote stretch of coastline located at southwestern edge of Lombok Island in Indonesia’s West Nusa Tenggara Province, falling under the administration of West Lombok Regency. The shoreline extends for roughly 500 meters and is composed mainly of coarse golden sand mixed with small stones. It faces the Indian Ocean, where strong swells break over a shallow reef and form powerful left-hand waves that are regarded as technically demanding even by experienced surfers.
The land behind the beach consists largely of dry hills with the sparse plant cover, which gives the area a stark almost desert-like appearance despite its tropical setting. Bangko Bangko is situated at a considerable distance from major settlements, lying about 80 kilometers from Mataram, the capital of Lombok, and around 50 kilometers southwest of Senggigi. Because of this isolation and the nature of the waves, the site mainly appeals to skilled surfers rather than general visitors.
Management of the area is handled by the West Lombok Regency Tourism Office in cooperation with the West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Tourism Authority. Their involvement is mostly limited to maintaining basic access and setting general environmental guidelines aimed at protecting the reef. Facilities remain quite minimal and the beach continues to be valued for the wave quality and its undeveloped character rather than comfort or convenience.
Fun Fact About Bangko Bangko Beach
A notable aspect of Bangko Bangko Beach relates to the wave commonly called “Desert Point,” which is widely regarded among surfers for its length and consistency as a left-hand break. Under suitable conditions, rides can extend for several hundred meters, though this varies with swell and tide. The local name “Bangko Bangko” is understood to mean “many turns” in the Sasak language, a reference often linked to the shape and sections of the wave. Since the 1990s, the spot has gained wider recognition after appearing in international surf films, which gradually brought attention from surfers around the world.
Things to Do at Bangko Bangko Beach
Activities at Bangko Bangko Beach are limited in scope and are shaped largely by the area’s exposed and undeveloped character. The main draw is surfing, particularly the well-known left-hand reef break, which is generally attempted only by experienced surfers during the dry-season swells. Formal instruction is uncommon, and most visitors arrive with their own equipment or arrange simple rentals through nearby surf camps.
Swimming is sometimes possible in quieter parts of the bay, especially around low tide, although currents can be unpredictable and care is needed. Short walks along the shoreline are often undertaken to observe tide pools, reef rock patterns, and natural coastal features. In certain sections near the reef edge, snorkeling may be done when sea conditions allow, with limited marine life visible in clear water; basic gear is occasionally available from small camps.
Periods of rest are commonly spent close to the shoreline, often beneath simple shade coverings or on basic seating arranged by nearby small warungs. Food available at these places is limited but adequate, usually consisting of grilled fish, plain rice meals, and coconut water, with costs remaining fairly low. As the day ends, many visitors choose to stay on, observing the sunset either directly from the beach surface or from slightly elevated areas on the surrounding slopes, facing the wide Indian Ocean. In some cases, local fishermen may arrange short boat outings to nearby coves or fishing areas, depending on weather and demand.
How to Get to Bangko Bangko Beach
The months from May through October are generally regarded as the drier part of the year. During this period, temperatures commonly range between about 27 and 31 °C, rainfall is relatively limited, and ocean swells tend to be more regular, which is favorable for surfing as well as general beach use.
From November until April, conditions shift into the wetter season, when rainfall occurs more frequently and visitor numbers are usually lower. Even so, early hours of the day are often still workable for outdoor activities, although access may be affected at times, as the unpaved approach road can become soft or muddy after heavier rain.
Best Time to Visit
The period between May and October is generally identified as the drier season, during which temperatures usually stay around 27 to 31 °C. Rainfall is comparatively low, and ocean swells tend to be more regular, conditions that are considered favorable for surfing as well as general beach use.
From November through April, the area experiences the wetter season, marked by increased rainfall and a noticeable reduction in visitor numbers. Even so, early hours of the day are often still usable for outdoor activity, although after heavy rain the unpaved access road may become soft or muddy in sections.
Practical Recommendations
It is generally advisable to make arrangements in advance with local surf camps or small guesthouses, as accommodation options are limited and fairly basic, with nightly costs often falling between IDR 200,000 and 500,000 usually including simple meals. Cash in Indonesian rupiah should be carried since automated teller machines and card payment services are not available in the immediate area.
Visitors are expected to follow the environmental rules including avoiding litter and using reef-safe products in order to limit impact on the coastal ecosystem. While the beach area is considered generally safe, personal items should still be kept under watch, and swimming close to rocks is not recommended during unsettled sea conditions. Boat connections to nearby locations may change according to weather, so schedules are best confirmed one day in advance.
