Novices can book a surfing lesson directly from any of the stalls along the beach. You’ll be guided in the basics such as paddling and learning to stand on the beach before trying out the techniques in the water.

The surf instructors here are friendly and patient, and genuinely encourage new surfers to learn to catch the waves.

On any given day, there are dozens of people trying out surfing on the small waves but, because the beach is so wide, the waves are rarely crowded and so it is relatively safe. Best of all, there is no coral to cut your legs when you inevitably fall off!

Further down the beach, the crowds thin out as you reach Laut Biru Bar & Restaurant – the flagship restaurant at Sempiak Seaside Resort.

Perched right on the sand, Laut Biru (the name means “Blue Ocean” in Indonesian) is the only truly beachfront restaurant in the area.

The white wooden building pays homage to its idyllic location with a light and airy interior decorated in white and aqua, reflecting the colours of sand and sea.

Inside is cool and elegant, while outside wooden tables and casual seating arrangements allow guests to sit under the shady trees growing on the foreshore and look out over the stunning beach scenery.

In front of Laut Biru, the waves are calmer and the sea invites swimmers to cool off the clear blue water.

People from all over the island come to enjoy surfing, swimming, boogie boarding, sunbathing, and long strolls along this idyllic beach and looking out at the ever-changing scene is a favourite pastime from the cool shade of the restaurant.

Of course, the other attraction is the superb food and service available at Laut Biru Bar & Restaurant!

The menu has something to suit everyone, with a great mix of traditional Indonesian, Asian and Western food, while the bar serves an extensive range of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Creative cocktails and mocktails, freshly blended juices, brewed coffees and teas, cold beers, and local and imported wines are all on the list.

If you are looking for some local flavour, the restaurant also serves very well executed Indonesian dishes such as Nasi Padang ala Lombok (slow cooked spicy beef served with traditional cassava leaves, potato fritters and rice).

After a day of soaking up the sun and sea, Laut Biru is the perfect place to relax with a drink and watch the glorious colours of sunset play across the sky.

One of the most iconic views of Selong Belanak Beach is the sight of a herd of water buffalo strolling down the beach at the end of the day as their herder leads them back to the village.

Set against the backdrop of the sky painted in pinks and orange, the daily ritual that has continued for generations at this beach is yet another reminder that you are in a very special place.

Sempiak Seaside Resort is the premier beachfront accommodation in the area, offering luxurious villas perched on the hillside above Selong Belanak. Each of the private villas feature stunning architectural design and are positioned to take in the magnificent views over the beach and the valley below.

Some feature private infinity pools with sublime views, while all enjoy the use of the resort pool perched on the hillside overlooking the ocean, as well as access to the private Beach Club right on the sands of Selong Belanak Beach.

The resort also offers family-friendly holiday houses close to the beachfront, a bespoke Spa and gym, and the lovely Dalam Interiors – a delightful homewares and gift shop (definitely worth a browse if you are visiting the beach).

Away from the beachfront, the small village of Selong Belanak has been enjoying a boom over the past few years, with villas, cafés and tourism businesses being created to meet the demand of so many people visiting this special area.

Accommodation in the area has blossomed with lovely choices available at Mango Lodge, Tropik Resort, Kayuma Villas, Burudika Bungalows, Pandan Villas, and Tiki Lodge. All are within easy reach of the beach and offer a variety of options ranging from luxurious private pool villas to comfortable mid-range hotels and budget surfing hangouts.

One such option is the lovely Bruga Villas, located on the main street leading to the beach. This small boutique hotel offers exceptional value with eight large and comfortable rooms surrounding a central swimming pool.

Each room is equipped with modern conveniences such as free WiFi, air conditioning, cable tv, mini-bar, semi-outdoor western bathroom with hot water showers and safety deposit boxes. Inside the room is spacious and airy with a large bed and a relaxing day lounge, while outside a private patio overlooks the pool and sun deck.

Bruga Villas Restaurant & Spa features two dining areas. The downstairs coffee shop is roadside with comfortable tables and seating areas screened by plants, perfect for enjoying a snack or a drink, as well as delicious cakes and barista coffees.

Upstairs, Surf Kitchen enjoys fresh sea breezes and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. There is a good selection of western and Asian meals on offer and guests can dine at the tables, or sit at the bar for a cold beer and watch live sports from all over the world.

Surf Kitchen is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and all-day dining every day from 7.30am to 10pm. There is also a popular happy hour from 5 – 7pm daily.

Surf Spa at Bruga Villas has a well-deserved reputation in the area for relaxing massages. After a day at the beach or exploring the area, guests can enjoy a massage by the trained therapists in private air-conditioned rooms located behind the swimming pool.

One of the best things about Bruga Villas is the personalised service of a small boutique hotel and the friendly staff who will help make the most of your stay, whether it’s organising a massage, motorbike rental or pick-up from the airport.

If you are looking for a comfortable and affordable stay within walking distance to Selong Belanak Beach, Bruga Villas is an excellent option. Book direct for the best deals.