Active Pursuits in Kuta, Lombok

Surfing on Lombok's Southern Peninsula: Ekas Bay -- The south coast is where the gentle Lombok waters meet the Indian Ocean, forming great swells and surf breaks. It's easy to hire a board and a surf guide to learn to surf or access the more challenging surf breaks in the area.

Ekas Bay (Teluk Ekas; best season: dry Apr -- Oct; best swell: west/southwest; best size: 3 -- 5 ft.; best winds: southeast) on Gili Melayu, Lombok's islandlike southern peninsula, is home to a variety of breaks. "Outside Ekas" is a powerful left-hander to satisfy the most power-hungry chargers. "Inside Ekas" has a much mellower wave breaking both left and right. Those not wanting an extreme challenge can surf the left-hander, with its great conditions for beginners. Ekas is never crowded and is often only surfed by guests at Heaven On the Planet (tel. 08/123705393 or 08/123751103; www.heavenontheplanet.co.nz; minimum 2-night stay; rates per night all-inclusive for twin share: high season AU$120 for more than 5 nights, AU$150 less than 5 nights; low season AU$100 for more than 5 nights, AU$130 less than 5 nights; no credit cards) as the surf charter boats rarely pass these waters.