Gili Islands guide
turquoise water and no cars

The Gili Islands are three small islands off the northwest coast of Lombok — and most who visit them say the same thing afterward: "We should have stayed longer." No cars, no scooters, turquoise waters, white sand, and an atmosphere that makes it impossible to feel anything but good. Here's everything you need to know to experience Gili the right way.

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Which Gili Island is right for you?

There are three islands — and they are very different. Choose the right one from the start.

Gili Trawangan (Gili T) is the largest and most famous. Here you'll find everything: restaurants, bars, dive schools, activities, and a vibrant nightlife that lasts until the early hours. For those who want everything accessible, enjoy a good party, or are backpackers — this is the island.

Gili Meno is the quietest and most secluded. Limited selection, but completely picturesque and almost deserted. Perfect for honeymoons and romantic getaways.

Gili Air is in between — calm and relaxed, but with most amenities available. Good for families and those who want peace without sacrificing comfort and good restaurants.

What to do on Gili T?

Snorkeling with a private boat early in the morning is the best way to experience Gili's underwater life. Book a private boat instead of the public snorkel tour — you'll get to the best spots before the crowds arrive and have them almost to yourself. Sea turtles are common to see, and the corals here are among the best preserved in the region.

Cycling around the island takes about 1 hour and is one of the easiest and most fun things to do on Gili T. Rent a bike (cheap and easy), take a ride along the beach, and stop for ice cream or a drink along the way. No cars, no scooters — just bikes, horses, and peace.

Sunset followed by movie night in bean bags is a Gili classic. Find a good beach bar, enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand, then head to one of the bars that show movies on a screen while you sit in bean bags on the beach. Relaxed and utterly unbeatable.

Diving — Gili T is one of the best places in Indonesia to get your diving certification. The course is more affordable here than in Europe and takes 3–4 days. Already an experienced diver? There are rich reef dives just off the coast with tuna, turtles, and white-tip sharks.

Padel and tennis at Ombak Sunset — do it early in the morning or in the evening. In the middle of the day, it's too hot, and the sun is directly overhead.

Restaurants and bars

Cloud 9 Restaurant and Bar is one of the beach bars you won't want to miss. Good food, cold drinks, and direct ocean views — classic Gili vibe.

Rabbit Jump has a diving platform, pool, and when they host it — foam parties. One of the most social and energetic spots on the island.

IJO Restaurant is a great choice for a relaxed dinner with good food and a pleasant atmosphere.

Margarita Resto & Tequila Sunrise Beach Bar — for tequila, margaritas, and a good vibe by the beach.

Tír na nÓg Irish Bar & Beachfront Hotel — go here for Mexican food in a pub atmosphere. A surprisingly good combination in the middle of an Indonesian island.

Bar hopping is an institution on Gili T. Go from bar to bar along the beach promenade — each has its own vibe and music. Many of the hotels along the beach also have fire shows and entertainment in the evening.

Tip: If you want to sleep longer in the morning, choose a hotel on the west side of the island. The mosque is on the east side — and parties last until the early morning hours on the east side.

Hotels on the Gili Islands

Jambuluwuk Oceano Gili Trawangan Resort is one of the best hotels on Gili T — great location, good standard, and full service.

FRii Resort is a more affordable option offering good value for money. Good for those who want comfort without paying luxury prices.

Hotel Ombak Sunset is located on the west side of the island — a smart choice if you want to sleep in late without being woken by music and the mosque.

Bel Air Resort and Spa on Gili Air is truly unique — the hotel has an architecture reminiscent of Aladdin, with dome-like buildings and an unforgettable aesthetic. Worth a visit even if you don't stay there.

How to get to the Gili Islands

Fast boat from Padang Bai is the easiest and most direct option from Bali. Padang Bai is on the east coast of Bali and has regular departures directly to the Gili Islands — no stops. Travel time is approximately 1.5–2 hours depending on the boat.

You can also take a fast boat from Sanur, but it often makes stops at Nusa Penida and Padang Bai along the way — which makes the trip longer. Choose Padang Bai for the direct crossing.

Transport to Padang Bai: Drive a scooter yourself or book a private driver. It takes about 1.5 hours from Kuta/Seminyak.

Via Lombok: Fly to Lombok and drive to Bangsal port. From there, public boats go to the Gili Islands in about 30 minutes. A bit more elaborate, but a good option if you want to visit Lombok anyway.

Avoid wheeled luggage for the Gili Islands. Bring a bag or backpack that is easy to carry — you'll need to carry your luggage from the boat to the hotel, or hire a porter with a horse and cart.

Vegard's best tips

Book a snorkeling tour with a private boat early in the morning — you'll thank yourself for it. Get your diving certification here if you don't have it already; it's cheapest and best on Gili T. Cycling around the island is mandatory — bring sunscreen. Be aware of which side of the island you stay on: the west side is quieter and better for those who want to sleep. Check if Rabbit Jump has a foam party the night you're there. And set aside a day to just lie on the beach and do nothing — that's allowed too.

Practical information about the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are often included in our package tours to Bali. We arrange fast boat, accommodation, and activities — you just need to show up.
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