A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Atami for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Lombok or Atami?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Atami. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a peaceful, laid back, and cultural island. Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lombok travel costs.

Atami

Atami is a nostalgic, authentic, and overlooked town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Atami travel costs.

Lombok and Atami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Atami?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lombok than Atami, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lombok is more touristy than Atami and is known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Also, Lombok is famous for Mount Rinjani. Atami is well known for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

How is Lombok different from Atami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Atami and Lombok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Atami?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Lombok and Atami.

Lombok offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Atami. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Atami? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lombok is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lombok has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Atami area. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Lombok and Atami.

If you're looking for night time activities Lombok has a few options to choose from. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Atami. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Atami is not a resort destination.

In Lombok, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Atami is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Beaches?

Lombok is renowned for the beach. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Lombok is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Atami offers a nice beach destination. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Atami is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lombok. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Atami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Atami?

Lombok is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Lombok is well-known for its shopping. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Many visitors go to Atami to go shopping. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Is Lombok or Atami More Beautiful?

Lombok is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Families?

Lombok is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Couples?

Lombok is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lombok is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Atami is a good island for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lombok is extremely popular for backpackers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Is Lombok or Atami Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atami is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Atami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Lombok or Atami a more walkable city?

Atami is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Atami is a somewhat walkable place. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Atami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atami or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Atami?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lombok or Atami to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Atami because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 1-2 days is enough time in Atami.

Families should spend more time in Lombok than Atami. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lombok, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lombok than Atami. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lombok that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Atami if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Atami?

In Lombok, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Atami. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lombok or Atami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Atami is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Atami?

Lombok is a fun place to experience. In Lombok, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atami. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Atami?

In Lombok, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this peaceful destination offers. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one week exploring.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the nostalgic destination of Atami. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Atami, we can see that Atami is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lombok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lombok and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Atami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atami than you might in Lombok.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lombok Expensive? and Is Atami Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Atami?

Atami has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Lombok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Atami in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Atami. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Atami because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Lombok is around the same temperature as Atami in the summer. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Atami fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Atami receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Atami. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Atami receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer. May to September in Lombok is the dry season.

Should I visit Lombok or Atami in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Atami. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Atami this time of year.

In the autumn, Lombok is much warmer than Atami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lombok in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Atami averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Atami. Lombok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok usually gets less rain in October than Atami. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Atami receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season.

Should I visit Lombok or Atami in the Winter?

Both Atami and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Atami for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lombok is generally much warmer than Atami. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Atami fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Lombok usually receives more sunshine than Atami during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lombok usually receives more rain than Atami. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Atami receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lombok or Atami in the Spring?

Both Atami and Lombok during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Atami in the spring for the beaches.

Lombok is much warmer than Atami in the spring. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Atami fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lombok usually gets less rain in April than Atami. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Atami receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the dry season in Lombok. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Typical Weather for Atami and Lombok