10 essential tips for your Gili Islands adventure
1. Three different islands
Gili Trawangan is the largest, liveliest, and most touristy island, and it is also the closest to Bali. It’s a popular spot for partying, relaxing at resorts, and enjoying the many bars, restaurants, and cafes.
Next, there’s Gili Meno, the smallest of the three islands. It has few hotels and restaurants but offers the best snorkeling spots, with almost untouched beaches outlining the island.
Gili Air, the closest to Lombok, has the highest number of locals. If you want to immerse yourself in everyday life, this is the place to be. It remains less developed and wilder than Gili T, though you won’t have any trouble finding good accommodations and dining options.
2. Be mindful of boat schedules
Pay attention to boat schedules and potential delays. While fast boats have more frequent departures, public boats between islands have limited schedules (one on the morning and one on the afternoon). Remember to book in advance to ensure you have a spot on the boats, as these popular trip often fill up quickly.
Moreover, you will need approximately 1.5 hours for the journey from Padang Bay (Bali) to Gili Trawangan. Keep in mind that the sea can be rough, causing boats to sway significantly. Many tourists experience severe seasickness, and despite the air conditioning, it can get quite hot on board.
3. Plan sufficient time for each island
Allocate at least a day for each island to fully appreciate their unique charms. Consider staying overnight on one island and taking short boat trips to explore the others, as travel between islands takes only 15-20 minutes. Be sure to take time to relax and rest, as the various activities can easily fill an entire afternoon. Cycling around each island takes about an hour, providing a leisurely way to soak in the beautiful scenery and atmosphere. One of the highlight activities in the evening is watching an outdoor movie after the sunset, adding a magical touch to your day.
4. Transportation options
The islands are best explored on foot, by bicycle, or via horse-drawn carts. Motorcycles are not permitted for rent, although electric scooters are becoming available but are still rare and not for rent.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the horse-drawn carriages used for transportation on the islands involve significant mistreatment of the animals, making bicycles a more ethical choice.
5. Ideal for snorkeling and diving
With numerous snorkeling and diving spots catering to all skill levels, the Gili Islands offer unparalleled opportunities to explore vibrant marine life. The Gili Islands are highly regarded for scuba diving.
Numerous spots will delight your eyes with circular and drift dives where you can see coral, fish, turtles, and starfish. There’s something for everyone to enjoy! Here are our top diving spots on the Gili Islands:
- Gili Air: The Air Wall, a 25-meter deep wall.
- Gili Meno: Known for Meno Corner, which features a wide variety of nudibranchs, soft corals, turtles, and rays.
- Gili Trawangan: Shark Point and Manta Point are the best spots.
6. Rent bicycles to explore islands
Explore the islands at your own pace by renting bicycles. You can rent bicycles everywhere, and it’s very affordable for the day. It’s a convenient way to get around, though it may be challenging to ride in some areas that aren’t paved or where the sand is thick. It takes approximately an hour to cycle around each island, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views at leisure.
7. Bring sufficient cash
ATMs are scarce on the islands, so it’s advisable to withdraw cash beforehand to avoid any inconvenience. Paying by card often incurs additional fees, and most places on the Gili Islands prefer cash transactions. Additionally, the few ATMs available frequently run out of money and are not always reliable. Therefore, having sufficient cash on hand will save you from potential difficulties and ensure you can easily cover your expenses for accommodation, dining, and activities.
8. Recommended stay in
In Gili Trawangan, consider staying at Eden Eco Resort for a beachside retreat. Pravasa Resort and Gili Meno Escape near the lake are ideal options for Gili Meno. For a luxurious stay near the port, Royal Regentris Villa in Gili Air is highly recommended.
To talk more about Eden Eco Resort, it’s an the eco-friendly haven. Relax in one of the thoughtfully designed bungalows, crafted from locally sourced materials and featuring modern amenities for your comfort.
9. Recommended foodie
For food recommendations, our favorite restaurant on Gili T is Coral Restaurant Bar, where you can enjoy an outdoor movie. They also offer a buffet and barbecue in the evening. Mistral is another great spot for sipping cocktails while watching the sunset.
On Gili Meno, we loved Bubbles, a local and delicious restaurant. And in the top of the island, Adeng-Adeng is also really yummy!
As for Gili Air, Pituq Café is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, offering a delightful dining experience any time of the day.
10. Respect Local Customs
As predominantly Muslim islands, which is noticeable from the moment you arrive, as you will hear the five daily calls to prayer resonating across the island. Religion plays a central role in the lives of the local population, influencing daily routines and cultural practices. Visitors should be mindful and respectful of this religious presence throughout their stay, ensuring they adhere to local customs and show consideration during prayer times.
The Gili Islands offer a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant nightlife and luxury resorts to serene beaches and incredible marine life. By following these 10 tips, you can make the most of your visit to these tropical paradises. Gili Islands promise unforgettable memories and immerse yourself in the unique charm of each island. Happy travels!
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