Planning a trip to Gili and feeling that slight chaos: where to start, where to eat, which beach to choose?
Don’t worry, I’ve got something for you. My Gili Trawangan travel guide is exactly what I would have needed before my first visit.
I’ll guide you through places that truly have character – those with sand white as flour, turquoise water, and sunsets that stay in your memory for a long time.
I’ll also show you where to eat best and how to organize everything so your vacation is light and beautiful.
Gili is a little paradise that reveals itself best at a slower pace.
In my guide, you’ll find proven spots, practical tips, and details that really make a difference.
Ready for an island that smells of salt, sun, and freedom? Let’s get started.
A Little Introduction to the Gili Islands
The Gili Archipelago – three small islands just off the northwest coast of Lombok – is a place where time slows down.
In the Sasak language, “gili” simply means small island, and that’s exactly what it is: intimate, peaceful, close to nature.
The archipelago consists of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air – each with a slightly different character, but all wrapped in the same turquoise water.
It’s a destination beloved by travelers looking for a break from Bali – less commercialization, more sand under your feet, daily life defined by sunrises, sunsets, and the sound of the ocean.
White beaches, crystal-clear water, colorful reefs, and those sunsets that paint the sky orange and pink – it’s hard not to fall in love here.
If you like active recreation, you’ll find something for yourself too: snorkeling, diving, kayaking, stand–up paddle… but you can just as easily sit on the sand with a coconut and let the day unfold on its own.
The Gili Islands are so small you can walk around them in a few hours.
There are no cars or scooters here – you only get around by bicycle or cidomo, traditional horse-drawn carriages. This lack of engines creates a specific silence that simply draws you in.
This is a place to be explored slowly – and that’s exactly the best way to feel it.
Which Gili Island to Choose?
If this is your first encounter with the archipelago, you’re probably wondering which island will be “the one.”
Each has its own rhythm – a slightly different vibe, a slightly different pace – and it’s worth knowing what you can expect from them.
Gili Trawangan – The Liveliest
Gili Trawangan (Gili T) is the largest and liveliest of the islands. About 1,500 people live here, and there are the most hotels, restaurants, sunset spots, and… attractions.
After dark, Gili T truly comes alive. Bars, beach parties, clubs – if you like going out in the evening, dancing, or just being around people, this is where you’ll feel that “gili vibe” most fully.
But it has a flip side: Gili T can be loud.
Gili Air – Quiet, Closer to Local Community
If you dream of silence, long mornings with ocean views, and a more local atmosphere, then Gili Air will be a much better choice for you.
It’s the closest to the mainland, a more “peaceful” island – with a greater presence of the local community and an atmosphere ideal for families, couples, and everyone who just wants to relax.
In short:
- Gili T – for energy, sunsets, restaurants, and nightlife
- Gili Air – for peace, nature, and a slower rhythm
The rest depends on what you need most during your trip.
Gili Meno – Romantic and Wild
And if you dream of something even quieter, Gili Meno will be like a small, quiet world within a world.
It’s the smallest and most intimate of the islands – the kind where time really slows down, and there are significantly fewer tourists than on Gili T or Gili Air.
That’s exactly why many couples choose it for a romantic getaway.
If you want to escape the hustle, be alone with someone (or with your own thoughts), and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean – Meno is the place that does it best.
It’s also the island with the most beautiful beaches in the entire archipelago and some of the best diving spots.
Meno is the least developed, so nature plays first fiddle here – clean water, soft sand, silence, and an underwater world at your fingertips.
You’ll also find a small but very charming bird park where you can see rare bird species – an ideal place for a peaceful walk among greenery.
It’s an island that stays in your memory precisely because of its simplicity and peace.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Gili Islands?
The most beautiful time on Gili is from May to September – this is the dry season when the sea is calm, and the days are long, bright, and simply ideal for beach lounging.
If you dream of cloudless blue skies and water as smooth as glass, this is when you should come.
It’s also the best time for all water pleasures – snorkeling, diving, SUP, kayaking… everything that requires good visibility and warm sun.
We were on Gili in June and the weather was picture–perfect: sunshine every day, a light breeze, and not a drop of rain.
If you can, avoid November–March – that’s the rainy season. The islands still have their charm, but the sea can be capricious, and the sky is much more often covered with clouds.
In short: if you want Gili in its full glory, go in summer.
Weather Month by Month
- April: transitional, often beautiful, fewer crowds
- May-September: dry season, ideal conditions, calm sea
- October: still nice, but more humid
- November-March: rainy season – waves can be high, sky often cloudy
How to Get to the Gili Islands?
Fast Boats (Most Convenient)
The easiest way – by fast motorboat. This is the most popular and convenient method, and there are really many connections. Boats depart from several ports on Bali: Sanur, Serangan, Padang Bai, and Amed.
They all run daily, and most continue to Lombok, stopping at the Gili Islands along the way (some also stop at Nusa Lembongan).
You can buy tickets in three ways – directly from the operator, at a local travel agency, or online.
The most convenient is through Gilibookings or Gilitickets, where you can immediately check current prices, availability, and sailing times.
Prices range roughly from $45 to $100 round trip, and the entire journey takes about 2-3 hours, depending on where you depart from.
It’s a fast, simple, and really pleasant route to paradise islands.
If You Have Time – Public Ferry
If you’re not in a hurry and prefer to choose the cheapest option, you can take the public ferry. It departs from Padang Bai on eastern Bali and arrives at Lembar on Lombok.
This is a budget solution, but it has its downsides – the journey takes 6-8 hours, and conditions on board are quite basic. A good option only if you really enjoy slower travel.
Recommended Operators
If you prefer to get to Gili faster and more comfortably, I recommend Blue Water Express or Gili Getaway.
We used them and everything was fine – besides the journey itself, we also got discounts on the island and a free transfer from the hotel to the port.
And if you’re prone to seasickness, remember that the waves can be quite energetic here. Operators have tablets on board, but it’s worth having your own too – for peace of mind and stomach.
How to Get Around the Island?
On Gili Trawangan, everything happens slowly – and getting around looks exactly the same.
There are no motor vehicles here, so the main means of transport are bicycles, your own feet, and… patience.
The easiest thing is to rent a bicycle – it usually costs 50-75 thousand rupiah per day, and rental shops are literally everywhere.
It’s worth knowing that the path around the island isn’t perfect: in some places you have to get off the bike because the sand is too deep.
After sunset, it gets very dark, so a flashlight on your phone is gold.
You’ll also encounter cidomo, traditional horse-drawn carriages. I don’t use them – and I know many travelers choose bicycles out of concern for animal welfare.
How Long to Spend on Gili Trawangan?
In my opinion, the minimum is 2 nights, but it’s best to plan 3-4 days.
Only then do you have time to feel the rhythm of the island: one day for snorkeling, another for biking, a third for neighboring islands.
Everything here happens more slowly – and that’s exactly the point.
Gili T for Solo Travelers
I often get the question: “Is Gili T safe for women traveling alone?”
Yes – it’s one of the gentlest and most friendly places in Indonesia.
There are many backpackers on the island, the atmosphere is calm, and the locals are used to tourists.
It’s best to choose accommodation on the eastern side, where everything is close and lively until late.
Is Gili Trawangan Safe?
Gili T is generally safe, but it’s worth remembering a few things:
- when returning from the western side of the island at night, have a flashlight with you – it’s really dark there
- don’t drink tap water
- keep documents and phone in a waterproof case if you leave things on the beach
- during big waves, boats may have delays – it’s worth having a plan B
People are nice and helpful, but it’s better to use common sense, as in any tropical place.
What to Pack for Gili?
A few things will save your day:
- water shoes – the reef is beautiful but sharp
- sarong – ideal for beach, boat, and temples
- reef-safe sunscreen – protect your skin and the reef
- repellent – especially at sunset
- power bank – the island sometimes has power outages
- light long-sleeved shirt – the sun can be merciless
Nothing more is needed – Gili is about lightness.
Where to Stay on Gili Trawangan?
On Gili Trawangan, you’ll find everything – from simple bamboo bungalows to elegant hotels with pools and ocean views.
The island is small, but the accommodation options are really diverse, so it’s easy to match something to your travel style.
Just one thing: if you’re going during peak season, it’s worth booking early… unless the vision of sleeping on the beach with the sound of waves sounds like a pretty good adventure to you.
Eastern Part of the Island
The eastern part of the island is the center of everything – the most hotels, restaurants, and places with good access to reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
If you like being close to the action and having everything at hand, this will be a great choice.
Southwest Corner
We, however, chose the southwest corner – a bit quieter, more “ours.”
Every evening we sat on the sand and watched the sun hide behind the horizon, painting the sky orange and pink.
If you dream of quiet mornings and sunsets without crowds, this is exactly the part of the island that will be ideal for you.
Recommended Hotel – PinkCoco
After a few days of browsing different places, I found PinkCoco hotel – and I was hooked. It was a bullseye, so I recommend it wholeheartedly.
The hotel is literally right by the beach, and the rooms have that boutique, slightly romantic vibe that immediately makes you feel like you’re on a real vacation.
Every morning we had breakfast on the terrace overlooking the turquoise sea – one of those moments when the world isn’t rushing yet, and you just look ahead and breathe.
PinkCoco also has its own restaurant, a large pool, and bicycle rental, so you can get around the island however you like best.
It was one of those places you really don’t want to leave – our hearts ached a bit when it was time to pack.
What to Do on Gili Trawangan?
Diving and Snorkeling
Gili Trawangan is a little paradise for everyone who loves water and the underwater world. This is where many people put on a tank for the first time and discover what life looks like beneath the ocean’s surface.
On the island, you’ll find plenty of diving schools – from those for complete beginners to more advanced courses.
If you dream of getting a diving certificate, Dream Divers and Blue Marlin Dive have great reviews.
And if you don’t want to dive with a tank, a mask and snorkel are enough. You can rent them practically anywhere, and just a few meters from shore you’ll see colorful fish, turtles, and fragments of reef.
On the northern side of the island is Shark Point – a place where you can often see reef sharks (calm, harmless, beautiful!).
You’ll also find great conditions at Manta Point, located south of Gili T. Visibility can be excellent there, and the ocean shimmers with all shades of blue.
It’s the perfect place to dip your head underwater and be enchanted by what’s happening below the surface.
Bike Tour Around the Island
On Gili Trawangan, you won’t hear any scooters or cars – and that’s exactly why the bicycle becomes your best friend here.
It’s the simplest and most pleasant way to see the island at your own pace.
Going around takes a maximum of an hour, but honestly… it’ll probably take you a bit longer.
Along the way, you constantly pass small, atmospheric cafes where it’s tempting to sit down with a coconut and watch the ocean.
Bike rentals are literally everywhere. We rented bikes at our PinkCoco hotel and it was a bullseye – convenient, fast, and hassle-free.
And if I can recommend something… try going on a short night ride.
The island is completely different then – quiet, slightly mysterious, and goats might run across your path. A small charm of Gili.
It was one of those moments I remember to this day – seemingly nothing big, yet magical.
Sunsets
If you love sunsets, Gili Trawangan will quickly steal your heart.
The ones we watched from the beach by our hotel were among the most beautiful in our entire trip – the sky turned pink-orange, and the ocean reflected the colors so much that it was hard to look away.
It was that moment of the day I could repeat endlessly.
And when the weather cooperates, the shadow of Mount Agung appears on the horizon – majestic, somewhat unreal, like added to the landscape just for a moment.
A truly magical sight.
If you want to find the nicest spots, check out the western side of the island. The famous swing at the Ombak Sunset hotel is a classic – touristy, but charming nonetheless.
Along the coast, you’ll also find plenty of small spots where you can just sit on the sand, order a fresh coconut, and watch the day slowly fade.
That’s where Gili shows its most beautiful side.
Night Market
If there’s one place on Gili T you must visit at least once, it’s the night market.
In the evening, the island starts to smell of grilled fish, spices, and fresh seafood – it’s a true Indonesian feast, full of colors and flavors.
You’ll find the market on the eastern part of the island, right by the main street. It’s open daily, roughly from 6:30 PM to 1:15 AM, so you’ll easily make it there after sunset.
What can you try?
Freshly caught seafood – lobsters, crabs, squid, shrimp, mussels, and even barracudas. Plus plenty of grilled meats, local skewers, vegetables, and aromatic sauces.
If you feel like something sweet, definitely check out the stalls with cakes and desserts – there are spring rolls, pancakes, small sweets that tempt you to take “just one more.”
It’s one of those places where you really taste Indonesia.
Besides Indonesian cuisine classics – nasi goreng, soto ayam, or bakso – at the night market you’ll also find aromatic Chinese dishes prepared in large woks. They smell so good it’s hard to pass by indifferently.
If you’re traveling more budget–consciously, a great option is warung tegal – a small buffet where you compose your own dish: rice plus whatever catches your eye most from the heated bowls.
It’s simple, cheap, and surprisingly delicious.
Prices at the market start from just 10–50 thousand rupiah, so they really won’t break the bank.
The only minus? This place has become very popular and sometimes you have to wait in line. But trust me – for such a dinner, it’s really worth it.
Nightlife
If you like going out in the evening and feeling the vibe of a place after dark, Gili Trawangan will be perfect for you.
The island really comes alive after sunset (except during Ramadan, when it’s much quieter), and bars and beach rooms have attractions for every mood.
At Tír na nÓg you can watch free movie screenings under the open sky – perfect if you’re in the mood for something casual and relaxed.
In other places, you’ll encounter live music that carries along the beach with the night air.
If you love reggae, visit Sama–Sama Reggae Bar – an atmospheric place full of good energy.
And if there’s room in your heart for island parties, definitely catch one of the Full Moon Parties. During the full moon, the island really pulses – it’s loud, colorful, and very joyful.
At Exile Sunset Bar & Bungalow, nightlife gets going properly and often lasts until sunrise.
It’s an ideal destination if you want to feel that slightly crazy, vacation vibe of Gili T.
How do you want to continue your Indonesian adventure?
🏝️ Plan Your Complete Indonesia Journey → 3-Week Indonesia Itinerary – My personally tested route through the archipelago
🌋 Master the Volcanic Wonders → Mount Bromo Guide – Everything you need for that perfect sunrise shot
🪷 Dive into Local Culture → Things to Do in Ubud, Bali – 14 tried-and-true ideas for an inspiring stay
🏛️ Master Yogyakarta in One Day → One Day in Yogyakarta – Make the most of Java’s cultural capital
What part of Indonesia is calling your name next?
Island Hopping
When you feel you’ve seen everything on Gili T – or just feel like a change of scenery – hop on a boat and head to one of the two neighboring, quieter islands.
Public ferries from Gili T run twice daily, at 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM. For about 35 thousand rupiah, you’ll reach Gili Air or Gili Meno.
The trip is simple, budget–friendly, and perfect if you’re not in a hurry to get anywhere.
If, however, you want a quick and convenient transfer, you can choose a motorboat – it departs every hour from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
It costs about 85 thousand rupiah, and the entire journey takes literally 15 minutes. Perfect for a spontaneous trip.
What to do there? On Gili Meno, definitely visit the turtle sanctuary – it’s a beautiful and very peaceful place.
On Gili Air, try stand-up paddleboarding because the conditions there are great, and the water has a color like from a catalog.
Both islands have a completely different rhythm than Gili T – and that’s exactly why it’s worth seeing both. You can choose one… but I guarantee that after the first one, you’ll want to see the second.
Where to Eat on Gili Trawangan?
Pearl Beach Lounge
On the first day, even before we properly unpacked our backpacks, we went to Pearl Beach Lounge – the online recommendations were so good it was hard to skip this place.
And indeed – it’s one of the best restaurants on the entire island.
The restaurant is located in a beautiful bamboo building right by the beach. You sit, order dinner, and watch the turquoise sea gently reflect the light – dream atmosphere.
The menu is wide, with international cuisine dishes. Prices start from about 70 thousand rupiah, and the most elaborate dishes go up to about 300 thousand rupiah.
What did we order? Indian samosas, saffron risotto with shrimp, beef burger, and coconut ice cream for dessert.
Everything was delicious, fresh, beautifully presented. The service was also super friendly – you can see they care about details.
If you’re looking for a place for your first dinner on Gili T or just want to eat something really good with an ocean view, definitely visit here.
Scallywags Seafood Bar & Grill
If you dream of a romantic dinner on the beach, Scallywags Seafood Bar & Grill will be a bullseye.
The restaurant sets tables literally on the sand – you sit with bare feet, watching gentle waves, with Mount Rinjani and Lombok coast visible in the background.
In the evening, this place has a truly magical atmosphere.
Scallywags’ specialty is fresh seafood – grilled, fragrant with spices, served without unnecessary frills, so the taste of the sea plays first fiddle here.
On the menu, you’ll find crabs, squid, shrimp, mahi–mahi, and tuna. We ordered juicy swordfish with aromatic sauce, fries, and fresh salad.
Everything was delicious – simple, fresh, and perfect for an evening for two. The whole thing cost about 500 thousand rupiah, but for the atmosphere and quality, it’s really worth it.
Le Petit Gili
And if you feel like something more Western – a burger, sandwich, some “comfort food” – visit Le Petit Gili.
It’s a small, cozy spot that’s said to serve the best burgers and sandwiches on the entire island. A perfect break from fish and seafood.
Each burger is served with crispy fries and salad, and prices for a set hover around 80 thousand rupiah.
We had a double cheeseburger with fries – and seriously, it was great. Simple, juicy, very “vacation-like.”
Importantly, Le Petit Gili isn’t just burgers. On the menu, you’ll also find local Indonesian dishes and several vegetarian options if you feel like something lighter.
It’s the kind of place where you simply eat well and leave with a smile. Perfect for a quick, casual lunch.
Daily Budget (Approximate)
- Meals: 15-80 thousand rupiah
- Fast boat Bali-Gili: $45-100
- Local ferries: 35-85 thousand rupiah
- Snorkeling: 100-300 thousand rupiah
- Accommodation: 250-1,200 thousand rupiah per room
The island can be very budget-friendly – or quite comfortable. It all depends on your style.
Best Photo Spots
- Ombak Sunset swings – classic, but beautiful
- Western side of the island at Exile – raw, magical
- Pearl Beach Lounge – bamboo and turquoise
- Colorful boats by the eastern beach – perfect in the morning
- Viewpoint with palm trees in the middle of the island – ideal at golden hour
Local Culture and Etiquette
Gili is very touristy, but it’s still Indonesia:
- respect the mosque area – during prayer time it can be loud
- don’t walk in a bikini outside the beach
- a smile and a few Indonesian words (terima kasih!) work wonders
- local families live next to tourist zones – it’s worth remembering this
Gili Trawangan Unfiltered
I love this island, but I’ll be straight with you:
- western beaches can be wilder and more littered
- in some places the bike path is basically just sand
- power outages sometimes happen
- it can be touristy – but the vibe is still unique
If you allow yourself a slower pace, the magic really happens. Gili T isn’t just a postcard. It’s an island with character.
FAQ: Most Frequently Asked Questions About Gili Trawangan
Are there ATMs on Gili Trawangan?
Yes, but they don’t always work and fees can be high. It’s best to bring some cash from Bali and treat the card as a backup option.
Do I need cash, or is a card enough?
In better restaurants you can pay by card, but at the night market, small warungs, bike rentals, and small snacks – cash only. It’s good to have small bills.
Can you drink tap water on Gili?
No. The island uses desalinated water that’s not suitable for drinking. Order bottled water or use filters in hotels.
Are there mosquitoes on Gili Trawangan?
Yes, especially at sunset. Repellent is a must-have, and a thin long-sleeved shirt often works better than chemicals.
Can you work remotely from Gili Trawangan?
Yes, but with some limitations. Internet works OK in cafes and hotels, but power outages can occur. If you have important meetings – better plan them for morning.
Are beaches on Gili Trawangan sandy or rocky?
Most are sandy, but when entering the water you’ll often encounter reef. Great for snorkeling, less so for barefoot walking. Water shoes make life much easier.
Can you drive a car or scooter on Gili?
No, motor vehicles are banned throughout the archipelago. This is part of the island’s charm – silence, bicycles, sand, and ocean instead of horns.
Are there pharmacies and medical help on Gili Trawangan?
Yes, there are several small pharmacies and a clinic, but if you have chronic medications – bring them with you. For more serious cases, they refer you to Lombok anyway.
Is the island suitable for people who can’t swim?
Absolutely. Many beaches have shallow entry, and snorkeling can be done with a life vest. On boat trips, boats always have safety equipment.
Does anything change during Ramadan?
Yes – the island is quieter, music plays softer, some bars and warungs may open later. Sunsets are exceptionally magical then because Gili slows down even more.
Is it worth going to Gili T if I don’t like parties?
Yes, under one condition: choose accommodation on the western or southern side of the island. There it’s peaceful, quiet, and romantic – far from the party center.
Does the power really go out often?
It happens – usually for a dozen or so minutes. That’s why a power bank is an absolute must-have, especially if you take lots of photos.
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My Gili Trawangan Travel Guide: Summary
Gili Trawangan is exactly the kind of place where you immediately “switch to vacation mode.”
Sunsets like from a postcard, delicious food from local warungs, beaches with sand soft as flour, colorful reefs, and that light, carefree nightlife that makes every evening look different.
Each day on Gili T brings something new – a bit of adventure, a bit of relaxation, a bit of that island peace that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The atmosphere is so friendly that it’s really hard to leave. It’s one of those places you return to in your thoughts… and eventually return to for real.
Ready to start planning your own Indonesian adventure?
- 3-Week Indonesia Itinerary – The exact route I wish I’d followed
- Mount Bromo, Indonesia – Don’t miss this volcanic masterpiece
- One Day in Yogyakarta – Perfect for exploring Java’s cultural heart
- Things to Do in Ubud– Perfect add-on to your Indonesia trip
And you? Which of the Gili islands stole your heart the most – Gili T, Gili Air, or Gili Meno? Let me know in the comments – I’m curious about your story.
And if this guide was helpful, I’d really appreciate it if you shared it. Let it help someone else plan their little paradise too.
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Bali is high on our life bucket list! Thanks for such an awesome comprehensive guide! I love all of your beach and sunset photos. The PinkCoco looks charming…
Be sure to add Gili islands to your Bali trip. You would be delighted!
These islands sound amazing. I love a variety on my vacations and it sounds like this would provide everything I would dream of!
It is a perfect place. I was hesitating for some time to go there but I don’t regret that I’ve decided 😉
The islands have been on my bucket list for a long time. I absolutely love your sunset photos, how stunning it must’ve been to experience them. I’d 100% take a bike and cycle around the island.
I’d love to check out Gili Meno someday!! I’m hoping to learn to dive at some point and it’d be awesome to go biking all over + try out the food at the night market! Thank you for putting this together!
What an incredibly beautiful island to visit. I’d love to hop on one of the bikes or paddle on the island. The food at the Night Market looks so yummy. There is nothing like seafood straight from the ocean. Lovely photos.