From Bali to Sumbawa
Sumbawa is an island of Indonesia in the province of the Lesser Sunda Islands, located 13.8 km east of Lombok and 20.3 km west of Komodo in the Lesser Sunda Islands. From Bali to Sumbawa island takes 1h 35 mn by plane (direct flight).
The island of Sumbawa, we call it also as Sumbawa Besar, is one of paradise land among the many islands of the Indonesian archipelago, will not fail to amaze you. Discover the culture, history and extraordinary nature of this ideal destination.
If there is one of the small islands of the Lesser Sunda Islands which tour operators almost never offer to discover, it is Sumbawa. The development of Islam combined with the terrible eruption of the Tambora volcano in 1815, at the origin of what was called the year without summer, in fact got the better of the original cultures which shared this island located between those from Lombok and Flores. However, there are still some traces of it west of Sumbawa where you can still admire the traditional habitat.
To travel from Bali to Sumbawa, you have several options:
By plane from Bali to Sumbawa
You can take a flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali (DPS) to Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport in Sumbawa (SWQ). The flight takes 1 hour 35 minutes and is operated by several airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Wings Air, and Lion Air.
Airlines from Bali to Sumbawa (SWQ Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport):
Example flights from Bali to Sumbawa:
- Direct flight: From Bali (DPS) to Sumba (WGP airport) takes only 1h 40mn flight and it is a direct flight.
- With a stop:
- From Bali (DPS) to Lombok (LOP) takes 2h 35 mn (including layover).
- From Bali (DPS) to Jakarta (LOP) to Sumbawa (SWQ) takes 4h 35 mn (including layover).
By Ferry
You can also take a ferry from Bali to Sumbawa. The ferry departs from Padangbai harbor in Bali and arrives at Poto Tano harbor in Sumbawa. The journey takes around 4-6 hours, depending on the weather conditions and the ferry operator.
By Private Boat
If you prefer a more customized and private experience, you can hire a private boat from Bali to Sumbawa. This option is usually more expensive but can offer a unique and memorable way to travel between the two islands.
It’s important to note that travel times and schedules may vary depending on the season and availability, so it’s always a good idea to check with the transportation providers directly for the most up-to-date information.
Sumbawa Island Adventure: Best Things to Do and See
Discover the Best Things to Do and See on this breathtaking Indonesian island, from hiking to Mount Tambora volcano to relaxing on pristine beaches and exploring the rich cultural heritage of Bima and beyond.
Sultan’s Palace (Istana Dalam Loka Samawa)
Located in the heart of Ternate city, the Sultan’s Palace (Kedaton) is a beautiful example of traditional Indonesian architecture. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and learn about the history of the sultanate of Ternate.
This former palace of Sultan Mohammad Jalaluddin III built in 1885, all in wood, stands proudly on stilts. The palace is said to be an incredible feat of Indonesian engineering, as it was erected without using a single nail. The building contains a museum where you can admire the “pusaka”, sacred objects received as an inheritance.
How to get there: The Sultan’s Palace is located in Ternate city and can be reached by taxi or motorcycle.
Popular spots nearby: Ternate Market, Fort Oranje.
Sultan’s Palace (Istana Dalam Loka Samawa), Sumba – Indonesia. Torbenbrinker, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ai Lemak Beach
Ai Lemak Beach is a stunning beach located on the western coast of Sumbawa Island, Indonesia. It is known for its clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and scenic views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Ai Lemak Beach is relatively secluded, which makes it a perfect destination for those who are looking for a peaceful and tranquil beach experience. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach, or explore the nearby reefs for snorkeling and diving.
To get to Ai Lemak Beach, visitors can take a taxi or rental car from Sumbawa Besar Airport (SWQ), the capital of Sumbawa Island. The drive takes about 16 minutes, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Once at the beach, visitors can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and other facilities for a comfortable stay. There are also several small restaurants and food stalls that offer local snacks and meals.
Ai Lemak Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic beach experience on Sumbawa Island, away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular beaches.
AI loang beach
Ai Loang Beach is a secluded beach located on the southern coast of Sumbawa Island, Indonesia. The beach is known for its clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Ai Loang Beach is relatively untouched, making it an ideal destination for those who are looking for a quiet and peaceful beach experience. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach, or take a walk along the shoreline to explore the unique rock formations and tide pools.
One of the highlights of Ai Loang Beach is the stunning coral reefs that can be found just offshore. Visitors can go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the colorful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
To get to Ai Loang Beach, visitors can take a taxi or rental car from Sumbawa Besar, the capital of Sumbawa Island. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Once at the beach, visitors can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and other facilities for a comfortable stay. There are also several small restaurants and food stalls that offer local snacks and meals.
Ai Loang Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a secluded and picturesque beach experience on Sumbawa Island, away from the crowds and tourist crowds.
Moyo Island
Moyo Island is a small, pristine island located off the north coast of Sumbawa Island in the West Nusa Tenggara Province of Indonesia. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a quiet and peaceful retreat.
The waters surrounding Moyo Island are home to a variety of colorful fish and other marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the coral reefs and see a variety of underwater creatures.
Beach on Moyo Island, North Sumbawa. Katiebowl, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mata Jitu waterfall – Moyo island
The place is peaceful, the waterfall is nestled in the forest. Takes quite a motorbike ride from Labuhan Aji village to reach the falls.
Go on an adventure on this 8.9-km round trip route near Sumbawa’s kabupaten, West Nusa Tenggara. Generally considered a moderate course, it takes an average of 2 hrs 21 mins to complete. It’s a popular route for birdwatching, hiking and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some quiet time. You will need to leave your dog at home as they are not allowed on this trail.
You can hire a motorbike taxi and it takes about 20-25 minutes, but if you have the energy and want to enjoy your trip, you can choose to walk. walk to the waterfall.
The way to get to Mata Jitu Waterfall is to hop on a boat from Sumbawa to Mayo Island, which is a 1 hour 30 minute boat ride.
Be prepared, some operators don’t offer a day trip service, you may need to book 1 whole boat to get in and out in 1 day without needing to stay a night in Mayo Island.
Labuna’e Beach
Labuna’e Beach is located on the northern coast of Sumbawa island and is another hidden gem that is rarely visited by tourists. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and pristine white sand, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the nearby fishing village to learn more about the local way of life.
To get to Labuna’e Beach, visitors can fly to Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport in Sumbawa Besar and then take a taxi or rental car to the beach, which is about a 2-hour drive from the airport. Alternatively, visitors can take a ferry from Lombok island to Sumbawa island and then travel by car to the beach.
Kenawa Hill Sumbawa
Kenawa Hill is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Sumbawa Island in the West Nusa Tenggara Province of Indonesia. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a quiet and peaceful getaway.
The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and is home to a variety of marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the coral reefs and see a variety of colorful fish and other marine creatures.
Kenawa Hill Sumbawa. Located on the island of Sumbawa, surrounded by mangrove forests and panoramic views of Kenawa Island, a distance of approximately 7.5 km (4.6 miles) from the port of Pototano, Sumbawa. Nuctuslasheca, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
One of the main attractions on Kenawa Hill is the hill itself, which offers stunning panoramic views of the island and its surroundings. Visitors can hike to the top of the hill and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean and neighboring islands.
To get to Kenawa Hill, visitors can fly to Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport in Sumbawa Besar and then take a taxi or rental car to the harbor, where they can catch a boat to Kenawa Island. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding waters. Visitors can also arrange boat tours to explore the nearby islands and coral reefs.
Mount Tambora Volcano
Mount Tambora is an active volcano located on the island of Sumbawa in the West Nusa Tenggara Province of Indonesia. The volcano is known for its historic eruption in 1815, which was one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history.
How to get there
The closest city to Mount Tambora is Bima, which is located on the eastern side of Sumbawa Island. Visitors can fly to Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport in Sumbawa Besar and then take a taxi or rental car to Bima. From there, visitors can take a 4×4 jeep to the starting point of the Tambora trekking trail.
Why visit
Despite its destructive history, Mount Tambora has become a popular destination for adventurous travelers who want to experience hiking to the top of an active volcano. The mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby islands and the Flores Sea. The trek to the summit is a challenging but rewarding experience that takes visitors through lush forests and volcanic terrain.
Mount Tambora Volcano, Sumbawa Island, Indonesia. This image was taken by the NASA Expedition 20 crew., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Caldera
The huge caldera—6 kilometers in diameter and 1,100 meters deep—formed when Tambora’s estimated 4,000-meter-high peak was removed, and the magma chamber below emptied during the 1815 eruption. Today the crater floor is occupied by an ephemeral freshwater lake, recent sedimentary deposits, and minor lava flows and domes emplaced during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Layered tephra deposits are visible along the north-western crater rim. Active fumaroles, or steam vents, still exist in the caldera
Attractions
Aside from the hike to the summit, visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which includes several hot springs and waterfalls. There are also several traditional villages in the area that offer a glimpse into the local way of life.
How to hike
The Tambora trekking trail is around 50 kilometers round trip and takes about 3-4 days to complete. Visitors are required to hire a local guide and obtain a permit before beginning the trek. The trail starts in Doro Ncanga village and follows a steep ascent through lush forests and rocky terrain. The final ascent to the summit is a steep and challenging climb that requires a good level of physical fitness and proper equipment. Visitors are advised to plan their trip carefully and bring enough food, water, and other necessary supplies for the trek.
Batu Bulan Dam
Batu Bulan Dam is a large reservoir located in Sumbawa Regency, in the West Nusa Tenggara Province of Indonesia. The dam is situated in the mountainous region of Sumbawa Island and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor adventures.
The dam was built to provide irrigation water for the agricultural sector and to generate hydroelectric power. It is the largest dam in the province and covers an area of around 17,000 hectares. The water from the dam is used for irrigation to support the growth of various crops such as rice, corn, and vegetables.
Aside from its practical uses, the Batu Bulan Dam is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The surrounding area offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, making it a great place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
To get to Batu Bulan Dam, visitors can fly to Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport in Sumbawa Besar and then take a taxi or rental car to the dam, which is about a 2-hour drive from the airport. Alternatively, visitors can take a ferry from Lombok island to Sumbawa island and then travel by car to the dam.
Medang Island
Located off the coast of Sumbawa island, Medang Island is a small but beautiful island known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.
The island is also home to a number of ancient temples and ruins, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs. Visitors can stay in one of the few small resorts on the island or camp on the beach for a more adventurous experience.
To get to Medang Island, visitors can first fly to Lombok International Airport, located on Lombok island. From there, they can travel by car or taxi to Labuan Lombok, where they can take a boat or ferry to Medang Island. It is also possible to hire a private boat from Labuan Lombok to Medang Island, which takes about 2-3 hours depending on weather conditions.
Bima (East Sumbawa)
Bima is a city located on the eastern coast of Sumbawa Island in the West Nusa Tenggara Province of Indonesia. It is the second-largest city on the island after Sumbawa Besar and serves as the capital of the Bima Regency.
The city of Bima is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts, such as woven textiles and pottery. Visitors to Bima can explore the local markets and shops to see these unique handicrafts and learn about the local culture.
Attractions in Bima
Lariti Beach
Lariti Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located in Bima, Sumbawa Island, Indonesia. It is located in the southern part of Bima Regency and is known for its pristine white sand, crystal-clear water, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The beach is still relatively unknown to many tourists, which makes it a perfect destination for those who are looking for a peaceful and tranquil getaway. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach, or explore the nearby reefs for snorkeling and diving.
Lariti Beach is also a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species that can be caught in the waters. Visitors can rent a boat or join a fishing tour to experience this activity.
To get to Lariti Beach, visitors can take a taxi or rental car from Bima city center. The drive takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Once at the beach, visitors can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and other facilities for a comfortable stay. There are also several small restaurants and food stalls that offer local snacks and meals.
Bima Museum Asi Mbojo
For history enthusiasts, the Bima Museum is a must-visit attraction. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the Bima people.
It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Bima people, who are the dominant ethnic group in the region.
The museum features a collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, and other exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the Bima people. Visitors can learn about the traditional way of life, customs, and beliefs of the people through the displays and exhibits.
One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of traditional textiles and weaving tools, which are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. Visitors can see the process of making these textiles and learn about the significance of the designs and patterns.
The museum also features a collection of traditional musical instruments, weapons, and household items that were used by the Bima people in the past. There are also exhibits that showcase the traditional dance and martial arts of the region.
The Museum Asi Mbojo is located in the city center of Bima and is easily accessible by car or motorcycle. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum or explore the exhibits on their own. The museum is open daily from 8 am to 3 pm, and admission is free. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the culture and history of the Bima people.
From SALAHUDIN Airport in Bima (BMU)
From Kaharuddin Airport in Sumbawa (SWQ)
Photo credit (main picture): Katiebowl, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Photo description: Moyo island.
Idea to hire a private boat and go to Komodo island from sumbawa
The Komodo archipelago is located in east part of Bali, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. It is home to the prehistoric Komodo dragon. You can hire a private boat and leave in the direction of Komodo. For example: Lombok > Sumbawa > Sumba > Moyo Islands to the famous Komodo Islands, a combination of surf – dive and exploration.
From Bali to Komodo | Complete guide to visit the Komodo Islands in Flores, Indonesia
Ready to book your villa in Seminyak center?
Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or with family, Villa Carissa’s three-bedroom villas offer comfortable and luxurious accommodations in the heart of Seminyak center. With modern amenities and beautiful Balinese design, the bedrooms at Villa Carissa are the perfect place to relax and unwind during your stay in Bali.
