The Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—are a tropical paradise just off the coast of Lombok, famous for their stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and laid-back island life. Whether you’re seeking underwater adventures, island nightlife, or peaceful relaxation, the Gilis offer something for every traveler. In this guide, we’ll explore what to do on each island, how to get there, and how to make the most of your visit.
How to Get to the Gili Islands from Kuta Lombok
Getting to the Gili Islands from Kuta Lombok is simple, with a few transport options available. However, based on value for money and convenience, some options stand out over others.
By Public Boat (Recommended)
The most affordable and efficient way to reach the Gili Islands from Lombok is via the public boat from Bangsal Harbor, which is about 90 minutes by car from Kuta Lombok. Public boats leave regularly and can get you to Gili Air in just 10 minutes. The journey to Gili Trawangan or Gili Meno takes slightly longer but remains quick and easy.
- Why Choose This: Public boats are inexpensive, reliable, and get you to the Gilis in a similar amount of time as the more expensive fast boats. The price is a fraction of what you’d pay for a fast boat, and the experience is generally just as smooth.
- Cost: Public boats cost around IDR 18,000 to 45,000 (USD 1.10-2.80), depending on which island you’re heading to.
By Fast Boat (Not Recommended)
While fast boats are marketed as a quicker way to reach the Gilis, they’re overpriced for the short journey. Fast boats claim to be faster, but in reality, the time difference between a fast boat and a public boat is minimal—around 10-15 minutes. For the price you pay, the difference in time isn’t worth it.
- Cost: Fast boats typically charge IDR 100,000 to 200,000 (USD 7-14), making them significantly more expensive than the public boats.
- Recommendation: Unless you prefer a private transfer, the public boat is more than enough and offers great value for your money.
Private Boat Charter
If you’re traveling in a group or want a more flexible option, you can hire a private boat from Bangsal Harbor or Senggigi. While pricier, private boats give you control over your schedule and can be ideal for personalized island-hopping tours.
- Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from IDR 500,000 to 1,000,000 (USD 35-70) for a private boat, depending on your group size and itinerary.
Travel Tip: Arrive early at Bangsal Harbor for the best boat options, and don’t forget to bring cash, as some operators don’t accept cards.
Gili Trawangan: The Lively Party Island
Gili Trawangan, or Gili T, is the largest and most developed of the Gili Islands. Known for its lively party scene, a wide range of accommodations, and excellent water activities, Gili T offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for those seeking fun and adventure.
What to Do on Gili Trawangan
- Snorkeling and Diving: Gili Trawangan has some of the best snorkeling and diving in the area. You can swim with turtles at Turtle Point or dive at spots like Shark Point. Be mindful, though—snorkeling tours can get overcrowded, so check reviews carefully before booking to find tours that limit group sizes.
- Beach Bars and Sunset Spots: Visit popular beach clubs like Ombak Sunset to enjoy beachfront cocktails and capture photos on the famous Gili T swings at sunset.
- Nightlife: Gili T is famous for its nightlife, with bars and clubs hosting full moon parties and late-night events. If you’re looking for a night out, Sama Sama Reggae Bar and Jiggy’s are local favorites.
Where to Stay on Gili Trawangan
- Luxury: Vila Ombak offers beachfront villas and suites with stunning views, ideal for those seeking comfort and style.
- Mid-Range: Pearl of Trawangan offers mid-range accommodations with modern rooms and direct beach access.
- Budget: Gili Castle is a top pick for budget travelers, offering a fun, social atmosphere with dorms and private rooms.
Insider Tip: If you’re looking to avoid the party crowd, stay on the north side of the island, where the beaches are quieter, and you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Gili Meno: The Quiet Romantic Escape
Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest of the three islands, perfect for couples, honeymooners, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape. With tranquil beaches, less development, and fewer tourists, it’s the ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature.
What to Do on Gili Meno
- Snorkeling at the Underwater Statues: One of Gili Meno’s top attractions is the Nest—an underwater sculpture of intertwined human figures, perfect for snorkeling and photography.
- Turtle Sanctuary: Visit the Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary to learn about local conservation efforts and see baby turtles being prepared for release into the ocean.
- Relax on Quiet Beaches: The beaches here are serene and rarely crowded. The west side is perfect for sunset views, while the east side offers clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Where to Stay on Gili Meno
- Luxury: Meno House offers private beachfront villas, perfect for a romantic getaway.
- Mid-Range: Avia Villa Resort provides comfortable bungalows with direct access to the beach.
- Budget: Meno Dream Resort offers simple, budget-friendly rooms close to the beach.
Insider Tip: If you want the beach all to yourself, head to the west side of the island in the early morning. You’ll have the sands and stunning views almost entirely to yourself.
Gili Air: The Best of Both Worlds
Gili Air strikes the perfect balance between Gili T’s lively atmosphere and Gili Meno’s relaxed vibe. It’s popular with solo travelers, families, and couples who want to enjoy beach life with a touch of adventure.
What to Do on Gili Air
- Snorkeling and Free Diving: Gili Air offers excellent snorkeling right off the beach. The reefs are vibrant, and you can spot turtles and colorful marine life. For those looking for a challenge, free diving courses are widely available.
- Yoga and Wellness: Gili Air has a thriving yoga scene, with daily classes and retreats available at places like H2O Yoga & Meditation Center.
- Beachfront Dining: Gili Air has a range of beach bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood, international dishes, and local Indonesian cuisine. Try Pachamama Organic Café for a healthy, delicious meal.
Where to Stay on Gili Air
- Luxury: Slow Villas & Spa is a luxury option offering private villas with a focus on relaxation and wellness.
- Mid-Range: Scallywags Beach Club provides comfortable rooms with an on-site beach club.
- Budget: Captain Coconuts is a favorite for budget travelers, offering eco-friendly dorms and private bamboo bungalows.
Insider Tip: For a peaceful day, head to the north side of the island, where the beaches are less developed and quieter, offering a true escape from the crowds.
Essential Tips for Visiting the Gili Islands
Public Boats vs. Fast Boats
- Public Boat (Recommended): Take the public boat from Bangsal Harbor for a fast and affordable trip to the Gili Islands. It costs around IDR 15,000 to 20,000 and takes about 10-15 minutes to reach Gili Air. The extra cost of the fast boat isn’t worth it for such a short journey.
- Fast Boat (Not Recommended): Fast boats are significantly more expensive (up to IDR 200,000), with only a minimal difference in travel time. The public boat is just as reliable and far more budget-friendly.
Snorkeling Tours
Snorkeling around the Gili Islands is a must, but many group tours can become overcrowded, which can take away from the experience of enjoying the beautiful marine life. It’s important to check reviews carefully before booking to ensure you’re choosing a tour that limits group sizes and offers a more personalized experience.
- Snorkeling Equipment Rental: You can rent snorkeling gear directly on the islands. Expect to pay around IDR 25,000 (USD 1.50) for a mask and IDR 25,000 for fins, which is the standard rate across the Gilis.
No Motorized Vehicles
One of the things that makes the Gili Islands special is the absence of motorized vehicles. The only forms of transport are bicycles and cidomos (horse-drawn carriages), so renting a bike is the best way to get around and explore each island.
Bring Cash
While Gili Trawangan has a few ATMs, they often run out of cash during peak season or public holidays. It’s best to bring enough cash for your stay, as many smaller businesses do not accept cards.
Respect Local Culture
Although the Gili Islands are more relaxed compared to other parts of Indonesia, it’s still important to respect local customs. When you’re away from the beach, dress modestly, and avoid walking around town in swimwear.
Plan Your Gili Islands Adventure
Whether you’re looking to party on Gili Trawangan, relax on the quiet shores of Gili Meno, or find the perfect balance on Gili Air, the Gili Islands offer a unique island-hopping experience. From snorkeling with turtles to enjoying sunset drinks by the beach, these islands are the perfect addition to your Kuta Lombok adventure.
Book your transport, grab your snorkel gear, and get ready to explore the tropical paradise of the Gili Islands!