Things To Do
in Lhokseumawe

Lhokseumawe is a coastal city located in Aceh province, Indonesia, known for its vibrant culture and rich history. It serves as an important economic hub in the region, particularly for the oil and gas industry. The city boasts beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, making it a hidden gem for travelers.

Its friendly locals and unique culinary offerings add to the charm of this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Visit the iconic Lhokseumawe Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural landmark, followed by a stroll along the waterfront.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant, then explore the traditional markets to experience local culture.

evening
:

Take a sunset walk at Ujong Blang Beach and dine at a beachfront café.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at the nearby Mount Geurutee, enjoying breathtaking views of the region.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Alue Naga Beach to relax and swim, then have lunch at a beachside warung.

evening
:

Experience traditional Acehnese music and dance at a local venue and enjoy a dinner featuring local specialties.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$2-5
Coffee$1-2
🚕Taxi ride within the city$1-3
🛏️Night at a budget hotel$10-20
🧺Market shopping (fruits/vegetables)$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options and entertainment.
  • Public transportation may not be extensive.
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Saya tidak mengerti" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Lhokseumawe

Visit one of these nice places.

Ujong Blang Beach

A picturesque beach perfect for capturing sunsets and local fishing boats.

Lhokseumawe Grand Mosque

A stunning mosque with beautiful architectural details, ideal for architectural photography.

Mount Geurutee

Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lhokseumawe

Lhokseumawe's culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors influenced by Acehnese traditions, featuring an abundance of seafood and spicy dishes.

Lhokseumawe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Goreng Aceh

A flavorful fried rice dish made with spices, vegetables, and often accompanied by fried chicken or seafood.

Must-Try!

Sate Matang

Grilled skewers of marinated meat served with a spicy peanut sauce.

Roti Canai

A flaky flatbread served with various curries or sweetened with condensed milk.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Pagi Lhokseumawe

A bustling morning market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food.

Warung Tenda Biru

Famous for its street food offerings, especially its grilled seafood and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lhokseumawe has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity year-round. The dry season lasts from May to September, where temperatures can reach up to 32°C (90°F). The rainy season, from October to April, brings cooler temperatures and heavy rainfall, especially in December. It’s advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during this period.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Respect the local culture by dressing modestly, especially in religious sites.

Greetings

A handshake is common; however, wait for a woman to extend her hand before shaking.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; it is a crucial aspect of Acehnese culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lhokseumawe is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep valuables secure. It’s advisable to stay updated on local news and adhere to any travel advisories.

Tipping in Lhokseumawe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; small tips for good service are common.

Payment Methods

Cash is king in Lhokseumawe; however, some restaurants accept credit cards. ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (May to September)

Expect warm weather and less rain, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Rainy Season (October to April)

Expect heavy rainfall, especially in December and January; plan indoor activities.

Festival Season

During Ramadan, expect unique cultural events and food markets, making it a vibrant time to visit.

Holiday Season

Around Idul Fitri, the city becomes lively with celebrations, but accommodations may be crowded.

Nightlife Guide

Lhokseumawe at Night

Lhokseumawe's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The scene mainly revolves around casual cafés and restaurants where locals gather to socialize. There are a few bars and karaoke spots, but they are often family-friendly. Traditional music performances can also be enjoyed in some venues, contributing to a cultural night out.

Hiking in Lhokseumawe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Geurutee

A popular hiking spot offering trails that lead to stunning panoramic views.

Gunung Leuser National Park

A bit further away, this park offers extensive trails through lush rainforest and opportunities to see wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Lhokseumawe by plane.

Malikus Saleh Airport (LSW)

Located about 10 km from the city center, this airport connects Lhokseumawe with other major Indonesian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lhokseumawe is fairly walkable, especially in the city center. Sidewalks are available in most areas, and many attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, some neighborhoods may have less pedestrian infrastructure, so it's wise to stay alert when walking near busy roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Acehnese People

The majority population of Lhokseumawe, known for their unique culture and traditions.

Migrants from Other Regions

Various migrants from different parts of Indonesia contribute to the city's diverse culture and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Lhokseumawe, with many local teams and matches drawing large crowds.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played, both recreationally and competitively, with many local clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lhokseumawe is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city. Public transportation options include small buses and shared taxis, but many visitors prefer to walk or use motorcycles for short distances. Traffic congestion is rare, but it can occur during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lhokseumawe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Several restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but always inquire about meat-based broths.

Halal Food

Most local food is halal, but it's wise to check for certification in restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Lhokseumawe are basic but adequate for minor ailments. There are several clinics and a few hospitals, but for serious conditions, it is advisable to seek treatment in larger cities like Banda Aceh. Travelers should consider having travel insurance that covers health services.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide