Pantai Tanjung Aan is located on the southern coast of Lombok Island in West Nusa Tenggara, under Central Lombok Regency. The beach stretches about two kilometers and forms two adjacent bays with gentle curves, separated by a small grassy hill. The sand changes from very fine white grains to coarser, pepper-like textures. It opens to the Indian Ocean, where the water is usually clear with a greenish-blue hue and waves that are moderate.
The bay on the eastern side is usually more sheltered and is commonly used for swimming, while the western section is more exposed and tends to produce steadier surf conditions. Situated about 60 kilometers southeast of Mataram and around 20 kilometers east of Kuta Lombok, Pantai Tanjung Aan forms part of the developing tourism zone along Lombok’s southern coast.
Management of the area is handled by the Central Lombok Regency Tourism Office together with the West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Tourism Authority. Their role includes setting basic environmental rules, overseeing waste handling, and regulating access during certain periods in order to limit damage to the shoreline. The beach is visited by surfers, families and short-term visitors who are drawn by the natural setting and water-based activities. Development remains limited, with mostly small food stalls and a small number of guesthouses, which has helped the area retain a relatively quiet character when compared with more heavily built beaches in southern Bali.
Fun Fact About Pantai Tanjung Aan
Pantai Tanjung Aan is famous for its so-called “pepper sand,” where fine white grains mix with tiny black volcanic bits, giving the beach a speckled look like ground pepper. The sand comes from nearby volcanic rocks and broken coral and it often feels cool underfoot. Walking on it produces a slight crunch, which makes the beach popular for barefoot walks and photos.
Things to Do at Pantai Tanjung Aan
Pantai Tanjung Aan offers a range of activities focused on its natural bay environment:
Swimming is best in the eastern bay, where the shallow, clear waters are gentle and suitable for families and beginners.
Surfing can be done on the western bay’s more consistent waves, ideal for intermediate surfers; lessons and board rentals are available from local operators (IDR 300,000–500,000 per session).
A brief walk up the central hill, Bukit Merese, gives broad views over both bays and the ocean and usually takes around 10–15 minutes.
Snorkeling near the headlands lets visitors see small coral areas and reef fish, with equipment sometimes rented for IDR 50,000–100,000.
People may rest beneath the shade of palm trees or on the sunbeds, enjoying the calm and quiet of the beach.
Small beachfront warungs offer meals such as grilled seafood, nasi goreng, satay and fresh coconut, usually costing between IDR 50,000 and 150,000.
Sunsets can be watched from the sand or the hilltop, offering broad views over the Indian Ocean.
Short boat trips to nearby coves or local fishing areas are sometimes arranged (IDR 200,000–400,000 per group).
Beachcombing at low tide allows collecting the unique pepper-like sand or small shells.
How to Get to Pantai Tanjung Aan
From Lombok International Airport (LOP): about 45–60 minutes by taxi or private car using the southern bypass to Kuta Lombok, then continue east on local roads (cost around IDR 400,000–600,000).
From Mataram: roughly 1.5–2 hours by car along the southern coastal road.
From Kuta Lombok: 20–30 minutes by scooter or taxi going east.
Motorbike rental is common for independent travel (IDR 70,000–100,000 per day); parking at the beach entrance is IDR 5,000–10,000.
Public transport: bus from Mataram to Praya (about 1 hour, IDR 50,000–100,000), then local ojek (motorcycle taxi) to the beach, around 30 minutes (IDR 100,000–200,000).
Best Time to Visit
The period from May to October is generally the dry season, with temperatures usually between 27 and 31 °C, limited rainfall, and calmer sea conditions, making it favorable for surfing, swimming, and photography. From November to April, the wet season begins, bringing more frequent rain and higher humidity, though fewer visitors are present. Mornings during this time are often still suitable for beach activities, but the dirt access road can become muddy after heavy rain.
Practical Recommendations
It is recommended to book accommodations and surfing lessons in advance during the busy season (May–September).
Cash(Indonesian rupiah) is required for purchases as ATMs are only found in nearby Kuta Lombok or Praya.
Sun protection (SPF 50+), hats and plenty of water are important because of strong sun exposure on the open beach.
Surfing lessons and board hire is better arranged through local schools that are known, mostly for safety.
Visitors should not throw trash and use sunscreen that is safe for the reef to protect the nearby waters.
The beach is mostly safe, but keep an eye on your belongings and do not swim near rocks when the waves are strong.
Places to stay are few, mostly small guesthouses and villas along the access road (IDR 400,000–1,500,000 per night), so it is better to book in advance in busy season.
