If you’ve travelled to Bali often enough, you must have heard about the Gili islands.
Made up of three small islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – that lie a short distance west of Bali, the Gilis have been rising up on travellers’ radars as the next go-to destination, mainly for its untouched and laidback appeal.
From left to right – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air
It can be a little daunting when it comes to planning your trip though. Although the islands, especially Gili Trawangan, are all undergoing a massive rehaul and boost in tourism, they are still far less tourist-friendly as compared to Bali, and thus require much more pre-trip research.
But who likes planning for trips, anyway?
So we have done that for you. With this comprehensive guide, all you need to do is to just pack your bags, book your flight and villa, and go – literally.
Here’s an overview of our complete guide (click to scroll to the relevant section):
1. How to get to the Gili islands
2. How you can get around the Gili Islands
3. Best time to go to the Gilis
4. Where to stay at the Gilis
Gili Trawangan – Budget stays, Luxury stays
Gili Meno – Budget stays, Luxury stays
Gili Air – Budget stays, Luxury stays
5. 10 things you must do at the Gilis
6. Where to eat at the Gilis
Gili Trawangan
Gili Meno
Gili Air
How to get to the Gili Islands
Contrary to popular belief, getting to the Gili islands requires little to no effort at all, and there are even different ways to get there that cater to your personal preferences.
From JakartaFrom Singapore
From Jakarta, You’ll definitely have to travel to either Bali or Lombok before taking a transfer to the islands:
Route 1: The Bali Route
i) Fly to Bali via AirAsia, Sriwijaya Air or LionAir
Duration: 2 hours
Price: ~ US$110 (return flights)
ii) After you get to Bali, there are 2 ways to get to the islands
The budget route
The premium route
Take a fast boat from Amed or Padang Bai. We
recommend to take from Amed as it’s the shortest
boat ride from Bali. (less sea sickness)
How: You can book through Pacha Express as they are
one of the reputable boat services from Amed, and
they have better safety records too.
From Padang Bai, you can try BlueWater Express.
Cost: ~US$18 – US$60
Duration: 45 min – 1.5 hours
Tip:
Purchase your ticket in advance, because all fast
boats leave early in the morning, i.e. 8 – 9 am.
Although booking tickets online is convenient,
you can email in to negotiate further like we did.
Avoid travelling from Bali during the wet
season, as the currents can get really choppy,
which wouldn’t be comfortable at all.
Route 1:
Charter a luxurious sailing boat
from Bali Yacht Services
or, the South Sea Nomads.
Cost: US$1,200 – $4,200
Duration: Half – full day (with tour)
Route 2: Fly there in style with your
very own helicopter;
can be booked from Air Bali.
Cost: From US$300 (per pax)
Duration: 45 min
Route 2: The Lombok Route
i) Fly via LionAir
Duration: 2 hours
Price: ~ US$110 (return flights)
ii) After you get to Lombok, there are 2 ways to get to the islands
Route 1
Route 2
How: Take the public boat at Bangsal harbour.
Tip: The boat operates twice per day,
at 8:15 am and 4:30 pm.
You have to be on time if you’re planning
to take the public boat, as it waits for no one!
Cost: US$0.60
Duration: 2 hours
How: Charter your own private boat
with Lombok Network.
Cost: From US$11 (one way)
Duration: 10 min
Currently the recommended way to travel to the Gilis from Singapore is via Bali, as there
are no direct flights to Lombok. (as of July 2015)
You’ll definitely have to travel to Bali before taking a transfer to the islands:
1. Fly to Bali via AirAsia
Duration: 2.5 hours +
Price: ~ SGD $160 (return flights)
2. After you get to Bali, there are 2 ways to get to the islands
The budget route
The premium route
Take a fast boat from Amed or Padang Bai. We
recommend to take from Amed as it’s the shortest
boat ride from Bali. (less sea sickness)
How: You can book through Pacha Express as they are
one of the reputable boat services from Amed, and
they have better safety records too.
From Padang Bai, you can try BlueWater Express.
Cost: ~US$18 – US$60
Duration: 45 min – 1.5 hours
Tip:
Purchase your ticket in advance, because all fast
boats leave early in the morning, i.e. 8 – 9 am.
Although booking tickets online is convenient,
you can email in to negotiate further like we did.
Avoid travelling from Bali during the wet
season, as the currents can get really choppy,
which wouldn’t be comfortable at all.
Route 1:
Charter a luxurious sailing boat
from Bali Yacht Services
or, the South Sea Nomads.
Cost: US$1,200 – $4,200
Duration: Half – full day (with tour)
Route 2: Fly there in style with your
very own helicopter;
can be booked from Air Bali.
Cost: From US$300 (per pax)
Duration: 45 min
Just a tiny tip: Try to avoid travelling to the islands from Lombok’s Bangsal harbour, as the cunning locals are more than capable of swindling your money with a few exaggerations about lack of seats and long waiting times.
Chances are, if you leave your stuff with them, you’ll end up having to pay an arm and a leg just to get your things back.
Also, it’s a 2 hours ride from Lombok airport to Bangsal harbour and it costs around 200,000 Rupiah via a private car or Blue Bird taxi.
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How you can get around the Gili Islands
The Gili islands are really small – you can explore the whole of Gili Trawangan in just one hour if you rent a bike. But don’t judge the excitement you can get from its size!
Each Gili island has its own specialities and unique characteristics:
Gili Trawangan is a happening island where you can find lots of beach bars and night life.
Photo via lisanimhaille, traveljunkieid
Gili Meno is loved for its gorgeous untouched beaches and pure island life
Photo via ugo.monticone
Gili Air strikes the perfect balance with hip lifestyle and rustic atmosphere rolled into one.
Photo via fashionsurprises
Your schedule might be rather loose if you choose to have a relaxing time on only one of the islands, but why not explore all three, while you’re at it?
Check out the map here too! Click below to download higher resolution copy.
There’s a island-hopping boat service that loops between all three islands twice daily:
Island-hopping shuttle schedule
Itinerary
Departure time
Price
Gili Meno to Gili Trawangan
8:15 am & 3:20 pm
US$1.43
Gili Meno to Gili Air
9:50 am & 4:20 pm
US$1.43
Gili Air to Gili Meno
8:30 am & 3:00 pm
US$1.36
Gili Air to Gili Trawangan
8:30 am & 3:00 pm
US$1.89
Gili Trawangan to Gili Meno
9:30 am & 4:00 pm
US$1.43
Gili Trawangan to Gili Air
9:30 am & 4:00 pm
US$1.74
Tip: Do check with the offices located at each of the islands’ beach/harbours
(where you can also get your tickets) for the latest shuttle schedules,
as they are always subject to changes.
You can also rent your own boat at a fixed price of IDR225,000 (approximately US$17), with a maximum of 10 passengers allowed.
Just keep in mind to dress appropriately (i.e. sandals and shorts) when you have to board a boat, as they mostly dock along the main stretch of the beach, where you will be required to step into the water in order to reach the boat!
Photo via lornatravellinglight
Best time to go to the Gilis
Any time of the year is a good time for this little escapade and have some time to yourself, but depending on the season and weather, each trip to the islands can be a completely new experience.
Whether you’re up to meeting new people, going for a solo retreat, or even dancing in the rain, check out our season chart to decide on when you should apply for leave!
High season
July, August, September and December
Tip: Book early if you’re planning to travel during this period,
or risk being disappointed!
Low season
February, March, April and November
Tip: This season is for the people-haters.
You can have the whole beach to yourself.
Rainy season
November – April
Tip: Don’t travel during this period if you want to dive and see wildlife.
Underwater visibility is reduced greatly during the wet season.
Read till the end to find out how you can have a movie date in a hut on the beach! Don’t miss out our things to do and where to dine suggestions in the Gilis.
Where to stay at the Gilis
In the past, it is not easy to find accommodation on the Gili islands, as too few places were let out to tourists. But now a tourism development boom, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
You can actually find unique Airbnb listings ranging from luxury resorts and villas to homey private accommodations.
Wanna indulge in the island life or spoil yourself with villas fit for a king?
You only have to make the call, and it won’t be easy, not with all these beautiful places calling out to you.
Gili Trawangan – Accommodation on the most happening island
Gili Trawangan is the fastest developing island among the three, and has the largest variety of villas and resorts.
But that doesn’t mean you’ll burn a hole in your wallet. There are plenty of budget to mid-range villas that’s suitable for backpackers or families.
Budget stays – Gili Trawangan
1. Surfaholics ahoy: Le Pirate Beach Club (from US$100 per night)
So you’re in the Gili islands for only one reason – to enjoy its beautiful beaches and have a smashing time surfing. So why spend too much money on your accomodation?
For the perpetually broke student out to have fun with friends, Le Pirate Beach Club is both budget-friendly and a convenient choice. Not only is the beach right at your doorstep, you’ll also have a myriad of activities – including tennis, volleyball, horseback riding, outdoor cinema – to choose from.
The cosy huts with their closely connected bunk beds are also the perfect place for some late night heart-to-heart talks and horror storytelling sessions. Nobody’s ever went to bed bored, that’s for sure.
Le Pirate Beach Club
From $100 per room per night
Location: Gili Trawangan, Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Timur 83352, Indonesia
Check Rate on Airbnb
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2. Glamping with nature: La Cocoteraie Ecolodge (from US$70 per night)
Although Gili T is now mainly known for its quality nightlife and parties, the Gili islands were first and foremost known for the awe-inspiring nature they house. Isn’t it a waste, then, to not experience this nature in all its full glory?
If you’re after the experience of another side of Gili T, away from the parties and social events, why not try out this glamping experience with La Cocoteraie Ecolodge? At this fully air-conditioned glamping site, you’ll be able to enjoy the serenity of living in a coconut plantation, but with all the modern amenities that you need at the same time.
The lodge is also a short 400m away from the beach, where you can make full use of the snorkelling gears and bikes provided. Or better yet, you can just sit back, listen to the sound of the wind, and enjoy the warm glow of the sun.
La Cocoteraie Ecolodge
From $70 per room per night
Location: Pemenang, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Check Rate on Airbnb
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3. In the middle of it all: Belukar Resort (from US$80 per night)
The Belukar Resort has lovely villas tucked a mere five minutes away from the beach. It’s also a short 15-minute bike ride away from the heart of Gili T, where all the nightlife action happens.
Despite that, this villa still remains cut off from the noise and bustle of the island, offering you the perfect balance between peaceful solitude and a wild, crazy night out.
Belukar Resort
From $80 per room per night
Location: Gili Trawangan, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Check Rate on Airbnb
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4. Beach lover: Sunset Beach Bungalow (from US$66 per night)
If you love the beach, you’re bound to love this scenic beachfront bungalow, which features unobstructed views of Gili T’s crystal clear waters.
Just a few steps away from the beach, you’ll be able to get your suntan any time you want, and marvel at the gorgeous sunset from your perch on the beach pavilion.
Sunset Beach Bungalow
From $66 per room per night
Location: Gili Trawangan, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Check Rate on Airbnb
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Luxury Stays – Gili Trawangan
If you’re more interested in some hardcore pampering for yourself after months of intensive gruelling work, these luxury beach villas will take away every remaining vestige of your stress and heal your spirit.
1. Island life in luxury: The Bhuvana (from US$250 per night)
This exotic villa, with its own private garden and pool, is the dream stay for those who would like to experience the local flavour without giving up on the little comforts.
Located on the Northern side of Gili T, The Bhuvana stands on the more untouched part of the island, away from the modernised atmosphere and parties that now characterise Gili T.
You’re practically tucked away into your own little haven (except for the fact that the villa is also extremely close to the beach), and the unique infrastructure will make you feel like you’re in another world entirely.
Not only that – you’ll also have your own service staff, including a maid, gardener and manager, to cater to your every need. What else could you possibly need?
The Bhuvana
From $250 per room per night
Location: Gili Trawangan, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Check Rate on Airbnb
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2. Self healing: Sama Lama Villa (from US$247 per night)
This secluded villa in Gili T is the best place for you to unwind and enjoy some time with yourself.
The atmospheric lighting in the villa and its artistic decor are all part of a healing experience. If you lounge in the pool near evening, when the lights of the villa are turned on, you’ll even get to witness the beautiful sight of the whole building ensconced in a warm orange glow.
The villa is also 10 minutes away from the beach, making it extra convenient for you to sneak down to the beach and settle down with your favourite book.
Sama Lama Villa
From $247 per room per night
Location: Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
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3. Perfect family getaway: Gili Beach Resort Villa (from US$495 per night)
Want to take your kids on a holiday and enjoy some family bonding time?
Located in the North side of Gili T, the Gili Beach Resort Villa, with its own stretch of private beach, is the perfect place for a short family getaway.
While you and your spouse lounge in the private pool, the kids will be able to make full use of the complimentary bikes and snorkeling equipment and go on their own mini adventures.
Or you can have some family fun snorkeling together or playing volleyball on your own beach.
Gili Beach Resort Villa
From $495 per room per night
Location: Pemenang, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
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Read till the end to find out how you can have a movie date in a hut on the beach! Don’t miss out our things to do and where to dine suggestions in the Gilis.
Gili Meno – Accommodations on untouched land
Gili Meno, the most untouched of the three Gili islands, also has its fair share of interesting accommodations, although it has fewer and more expensive choices as compared to the modernised Gili T.
Budget stays – Gili Meno
1. Your private haven: Gili Tibo Houses (from US$44 per night)
Have you ever dreamt about running away to your own private place in the countryside, with your worries cast away and fresh air at your fingertips?
If so, then the Gili Tibo Houses is the place for you. Located in a quiet fenced compound, the villas provide you with all the calm and quiet you need, despite being only a short walk away from the best snorkelling spots on the island.
Pavilions, hammocks and gardens are readily available for the traveller who has no plan, but simply wishes to experience the joy of a simple life. You know, you don’t need an itinerary to have fun.
Gili Tibo Houses
From $44 per room per night
Location: Gili Meno, Indonesia
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2. Back to the basics: maoMeno Resort (from US$110 per night)
It can’t get any more rustic than the maoMeno Resort, which is made up of beautiful wooden villas furnished with traditional interiors.
If you want to experience local life, this villa is your pick. With its timeless architecture and surrounding greenery, the maoMeno Resort is great for anyone who just wants to leave the city life behind and return to the basics.
Besides, it’s also a 5-minute walk away from the beach, so you’ll never get bored even with the minimal facilities.
maoMeno Resort
From $110 per room per night
Location: Gili Meno, Northwest Lombok, Indonesia
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Luxury Stays – Gili Meno
1. Island palace: Mojo Villa (from US$170 per night)
One of these choices is the Mojo Villa. As the island is mainly known for its untouched, relaxing village life, it seems almost implausible that such a modern and well-equipped villa would exist on the island – but it does.
This majestic villa is perfect for large groups. With its big, open concept living room and two comfortably furnished bedrooms, you can even hold your very own party. Time to grab your friends for that belated graduation trip!
Mojo Villa
From $170 per room per night
Location: Gili Meno, Lombok, Indonesia
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2. Beach haven: Karma Reef Resort (from US$340 per night)
If any place is going to make you agree that the Gili islands are the Maldives of Southeast Asia, it would be the Karma Reef Resort.
This luxurious resort is made up of atmospheric bamboo villas located right on the beachfront – in front of all that sparkly, blue and clear seawater.
The rooms are decorated elegantly with large four-poster beds, from which you can watch the sunset every day.
Photo via: Bali Traveler, Svadbamag
Massages are also available for guests, and if you’re worried that your lifestyle is getting too stagnant, you can even work out at the gym!
The resort also has day beds placed in front of their villas, where visitors can lounge in on a lazy day. When we talk about relaxation, this is as good as it gets.
Karma Reef Resort
From $340 per room per night
Location: Gili Meno, Lombok, Indonesia
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Gili Air – Quirky accommodation in somewhere different
Gili Air is the last of the islands to pick up on the tourism boom, but is quickly attracting a stream of tourists due to its dual appeal: untouched beaches and an alternative social scene.
Naturally, the villas here exude those different vibes too.
Budget stays – Gili Air
1. Huts with local flavour: 3W Cottages (from US$62 per night)
The 3W Cottages, which can be found just merely 5 minutes away from the beach, embodies much of the laidback local life that has attracted people to Gili Air’s shores.
Armed with gorgeous, fully wooden infrastructure and all the modern amenities you need, we can definitely imagine taking a weekend off to just lay back and relax here.
The property also has a large pool where you can soak all your earthly woes away.
3W Cottages
From $62 per room per night
Location: Nusa Tenggara Barat, Lombok, Indonesia
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2. Romantic getaway: Gili Guesthouse Bungalow (from US$21 per night)
What happens after Tarzan gives up a modern lifestyle to lead a carefree life with Jane in the jungle? We don’t know, but if they ever built a house, we reckon it would look just like these quaint, teepee-shaped bungalows in Gili Air.
The simple, cosy interior and open air bathroom are perfect for the newlywed couple still in the throes of marriage bliss (chances are, you won’t want to be apart too much anyway). The hut also lights up with a romantic glow at night, and you can stroll down the tiny walkway with your loved one, under starry night sky.
It’s also extremely near to the beach, yet away from the noise and crowds – you can have all the privacy you need.
Gili Guesthouse Bungalow
From $21 per room per night
Location: Mataram, Lombok Nusa Tenggara Barat Indonesia
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Luxury stays – Gili Air
1. Traditional meets modern: Nautilus Seaview Villa (from US$277 per night)
The Nautilus Seaview Villa is where the rich tradition on Gili Air meets modernity. The traditionally styled property has little bits of local artifacts, such as pictures and statues, placed all over, creating a calming atmosphere.
The villa may also be one of the largest accommodations you can find on Gili Air, making it a great choice for families or large groups of people.
Lounging in the pool, playing on the grass, hanging out in the spacious living room – why worry about poor space constraints?
One bedroom villa with private pool
From $156 per room per night
Location: Gili Air, Indonesia
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2. For the hipster: One bedroom villa with private pool (from US$156 per night)
Are you an #ootd addict? If so, you’re definitely going to love this beautiful private villa, where every corner is a prime location for a selfie or a hipster-ish shot of the surroundings.
From its washed out wooden walls, gigantic outdoor shower to a quaint little bridge that leads to the front gate, this little gem will surely be appreciated by people who love pretty architecture.
Although it’s only 100m away from the beach, the villa is surrounded by only nature and towering coconut trees. It’s the perfect place for a quiet retreat.
Who knows, the quiet and artistic atmosphere permeating the place might even spark off some creative inspiration.
One bedroom villa with private pool
From $156 per room per night
Location: Gili Air, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
Check Rate on Airbnb
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10 things you must do at the Gilis
Don’t underestimate the Gilis. They may be tiny islands, but you’ll be amazed by what you can do there!
1. Find adventures under the sea: Snorkeling and diving
Diving is one of the most popular activities at the Gilis – it’s very suitable even for beginner divers because the water conditions are usually good, with gentle currents and good visibility.
The best time to dive is from May to September, when the wet season ends. The Gilis also boast of many amazing diving spots that range from leisurely to challenging – so there’s something for everyone.
Photo via: Projectaware
Daredevils will find Shark Point at Gili T a great place to make friends with those fearsome creatures, as there have been frequent sightings of the huge mammals there.
Photo via: Gilicat
If you’re more interested in the diversity of underwater wildlife, then Gili T’s Deep Turbo is the place for you – this section of water has tons of little caves which you can explore. However, this course is slightly challenging and is only suitable for advanced divers. An alternative would be Gili Air’s Hans Reef, which is known for its large collection of interesting sea creatures as well, such as the rare frog fish.
Photo via: oceans5dive
For a sighting of the lovely turtles that are so famed around these areas, your best bet would be to go to Halik Reef, off the coast of Gili T. This place can be attempted even by beginner divers, as there is little to no current; only hordes of turtles.
Photo via: Tommy Schultz
If you’re a bad swimmer, or diving just isn’t really your thing, you can also try out snorkeling. One of the best spots for snorkeling is off the north-eastern coast of Gili T, where sea creatures are abound and sightings of turtles have been frequently reported. Or you can simply snorkel along any of the main stretches of beach – you’re still bound to have a great experience.
Photo via: trekkingrinjani
Snorkeling and Diving
Address: Gili Air – Northeast side of island; 15 minute walk from the harbour; Gili Trawangan – Northeast side of island; 20 minute walk from the harbour
Find out more
2. Watch the sunset at Gili Trawangan’s view point
From the highest point of Gili Trawangan, the view point, you’ll be amazed by an outstanding view extending towards Bali and Lombok. It’s also one of the best places on the island to snap a picture of the sunset.
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