Katie Caf Travel

Gili Trawangan 2024 Travel Guide: 16 Things To Do, Where to Eat & Stay 

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Gili Trawangan  is Indonesia’s notorious party island, featuring white sand beaches and a slew of fun activities. 

I visited Gili T on my first trip to Indonesia , way before I moved to Bali . Since that first trip, I’ve been to the Gili Islands countless times and even lived on Gili Air for the better part of a month one summer. 

All this to say, I’m the best person to break down Indonesia’s most famous party island for first-time travelers – Please enjoy this guide to Gili Trawangan! 

✔️ Gili Trawangan Quick Guide 

🏝  best things to do.

  • Visit the Gili’s Underwater Sculpture Garden
  • Go on a Turtle-Spotting Snorkel Tour

🚴‍♀️  How to Get Around

The Gili islands don’t allow cars or motorbikes – For getting around you can 1) walk, 2) rent a bicycle, 3) rent an electric moped, or 4) take a horse and carriage.

🏨  Where to Stay  

  • $  Budget :  M Box Hostel   – Party
  • $$  Mid-Tier :  Gili One Resort  
  • $$$  Luxury :  Pink Coco Hotel  

🚢  How to Get There  

The only way to get to the Gilis is by boat. You have the option to take a public ferry or a private speed boat from Padang Bai Harbor in Bali, Nusa Penida Ferry Port, or Bangsal Harbor in Lombok. 

Gili Trawangan Island photographed from above via drone. You can see bright blue water and in the distance, two more islands.

All About Gili Trawangan 

Gili Trawangan, usually just referred to as “Gili T”, is the largest and most famous of the three Gili main Gili Islands, which also include Gili Meno and Gili Air. 

The three islands are located close together, standing on the shore of Gili T you can see Gili Meno. But, it’s important to know that each of the three islands has its own flavor –  And Gili T’s is for partying! 

You wouldn’t guess it from its outward sleepy beach island appearance, but Gili T is one of the most famous party spots in Indonesia. Thousands of backpackers and luxury travelers alike come from Bali to visit the Gilis and sip a Bintang on Gili’s gorgeous white-sand beaches. 

Besides partying, other notable aspects are that there are no cars or motorbikes allowed on Gili T. Instead, travelers use bicycles and horse-drawn carriages to get around the tiny 3 km-long island. 

In addition to cars,  dogs  are also curiously banned on Gili T – This has led to an explosion in the cat population on the island, with tons of friendly and fattened-up cats wandering throughout the sand-strewn streets. 

All of these things come together to make Gili T a truly unique travel destination, and so much more than just a “party island”. 

Blogger Katie Caf poses for an aerial drone photo on the beach in Gili T. In the background you can see white sand and blue water.

Where is Gili T Located? 

The three Gili Islands are located off the coast of Lombok, which is an island directly to the East of Bali. You can easily reach all three via a short 1.5-2 hour speed boat from Bali, or a 30-minute ferry from Lombok. 

There is no airport on the Gilis, so the only way to reach the three islands is via boat. 

Top 16 Best Things to Do in Gili Trawangan 

The underwater sculpture garden at the Gili Islands in Indonesia.

1. Take a Snorkel Tour to the Underwater Sculpture Garden

Taking a snorkel tour of the underwater sculpture garden that lies between Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno is the most iconic activity in the Gili Islands. 

The sculpture garden’s most famous statue is the Bask Nest underwater sculpture. Erected in 2017 by BASK, an eco-resort in Gili Meno, the underwater sculpture was an immediate hit with tourists from all three Gilis. 

All the snorkel tours go to the same spots, and the sculpture garden is pretty small. 

The first time I visited the underwater sculpture garden I was actually  run over  by one of the glass-bottom boats while I was snorkeling – The spot just isn’t big enough for the amount of tourism it attracts! 

A sea turtle comes up for air while swimming off the coast of the Gili Islands.

2. Visit Turtle Shore

Turtle Shore is a beautiful beach on Gili T’s north side that’s known for attracting wild sea turtles that graze on the grasses that grow there naturally. 

You can rent snorkels on the beach and venture out looking for turtles, but spotting one is half skill and half luck. Unless a turtle is coming up for air, they blend in quite well with the surrounding area. 

Katie’s Tips ✶

I personally didn’t have any luck spotting turtles at Turtle Shore on Gili T – Instead, we saw them further out when we went on a private snorkeling tour. Our guide pointed the turtles out to us as they came up for air, without him we never would have been able to see any! 

A beach in Gili T with bean bag chairs and umbrellas set up.

3. Relax on the White Sand Beaches and enjoy a Fresh Coconut

Bali mainland doesn’t have the best beaches. If you want to experience white sand and crystal clear bright blue water, you need to visit the Gilis instead. 

All around the perimeter of the island, you’ll find countless beach clubs and beach warungs set up with bean bag chairs and umbrellas for rent. 

Chilling out in the afternoon on the beach with a coconut is my favorite thing to do during the hottest time of the day in the Gilis. 

An electric green neon decorated beach bar on Gili T. There are a row of white stools pulled up to the bar table, with a painted sign that reads "Melon Bar" in serif font.

4. Try the M a g i c a l Mushrooms 

While drugs of all kinds are strictly penalized in Indonesia, for some reason the Gili Islands get a pass. In recent years the Gilis have become a famous spot for magic shroom shakes. 

Grown on the main island of Lombok, the shrooms have become a time-honored tradition for partiers on the Gilis. 

But watch out! Many travelers have reported buying fake “Shroom Shakes” on their vacations on the islands. 

They sell shroom shakes everywhere on Gili T, but the best-known spot to get one is at Banana Leaf Bungalows.

The gili islands photographed from above via drone.

5. Go Island Hopping to Gili Meno and Gili Air 

If you’re spending more than 3 days on Gili T, I recommend putting aside at least one day to explore the best of Gili Air or Gili Meno. 

The three Gili islands are only a 10-20 minute boat ride from each other, depending on the current and the type of boat used. 

Every morning between 9:30 AM there’s a public boat that runs between the three islands, this is called the “Slow Boat” and costs less than 50K. However, the return boat to Gili T doesn’t run until 4 PM, so you’ll need to spend the whole day out. 

There’s also a “Speed Boat” option that’s pricier at 85K each way, but it runs between the three islands every hour between 9 AM and 4 PM. 

You can book all the different options at the ticketing office in the main harbor on Gili T. 

Blogger Katie Caf sits astride a large brown horse wading in the ocean. In the background, you can see the sunset. Another smaller horse is next to the large one.

6. Ride Horses on the Beach 

There’s a debate about whether or not animal encounters in the Gili Islands, both for horses and turtles, are ethical. 

However, I will say the horses in the Gilis seem to be treated far better now than when I first started visiting Indonesia in 2019. 

I personally don’t agree with using the horses used to haul carts full of luggage and tourists around the island in the midday heat, and I don’t use them. I carry my own luggage on the Gili Islands.

The horses that people ride on the beach seem a lot happier – trotting and running into the ocean with just one person to tote around. Those horses seem downright  happy . I was watching them run up and down the beach and into the ocean right before writing this article. 

That being said, I know appearances can be deceiving, and animal encounters are tricky – Use your better judgment when visiting the Gilis! 

A christmas tree made up of Bintang Beer bottles in front of a swimming pool.

7. Party! 

You can’t mention Gili T without the word  party  coming to mind! Gili T has cemented its reputation as Indonesia’s infamous party hot spot and for a good reason. 

The lack of cars and motorbikes on the island has created a safe(er) environment for tourists to get wasted in, compared to the crazy traffic in Canggu anyway, resulting in Gili T becoming party central. 

I don’t really like going crazy at the beach clubs in Canggu and Seminyak , it’s too crazy, but there’s a certain charm to the beach parties in Gili T. 

There’s a weekly schedule of which bar is hosting a party for every day of the week, this changes frequently so I’m not going to re-write it here, but it will be posted in most of the hostels on the island. 

travel bali gili trawangan

8. Experience Glowing Bioluminescence 

Bioluminescence is a wonderful naturally occurring phenomenon in Indonesia that I witnessed for the first time on the beaches of Gili T. 

Glowing Bioluminescence can only be seen at night and it’s activated by motion – So going on a night swim or walking in the wet sand can set it off. 

When we were walking on the beach at night on Gili Trawangan we noticed our footprints were glowing blue behind us –  So cool!

Blogger Katie Caf sits on a swingset on the beach in Gili Trawangan. On top of the swingset, you can see the words Ponte Villas carved into the wood. In the background you can see bright blue water.

9. Take a Photo on the Famous Gili Swings 

The swingsets and hammocks facing the sunset on the Gili Islands are one of the iconic spots that put the islands on the map. 

Now, there are tons of floating swingset copycats all over Bali and Indonesia, but if you want to visit the original floating swings the best spot on the island is on the West Side, where you can see the sunset. 

The current name for the sunset swing is “Ocean Swing” next to the Hotel Ombok Sunset.

Sadly, there are far fewer floating swings on Gili T – Most of them have been moved a bit inland, so they’re not in the water. My guess is the maintenance on the swings was too difficult when they were partially submerged.

10. Go Scuba Diving

The Gilis are a famous spot in Indonesia for both scuba diving and getting your scuba diving certification. 

The certification process takes around 3 days and is pretty time-consuming. So, if you want to get your scuba Padi certification as well as see the main sights on the island, I recommend spending at least 5 days in the Gilis. 

Quick Guide – Dive Sites in the Gilis 

Out of all the amazing locations these are the three most well-known dive sites in the Gili Islands: 

  • Shark Point:  A popular spot where you can see reef sharks as well as an abundance of manta rays, sea turtles, and barracudas.
  • Bounty Wreck Site:  A shipwreck off of Gili Meno between 8-18M deep from 2002.
  • Glen Nusa Wreck Site:  Glen Nusa is another shipwreck in the Gilis, but this one is for advanced divers only – between 22 – 28M depth, Glen Nusa was a tugboat that was intentionally sunk to create a habitat for coral and other wildlife.

11. Visit the Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary and Hatchery

The Gili Meno Turtle Hatchery is an iconic spot in the Gili Islands that’s dedicated to hatching baby turtles from eggs before releasing them into the ocean. 

If you take a turtle snorkeling tour in Gili T, it will probably include a brief 20-minute stop at the turtle hatchery – Just enough time to see the baby turtles! 

There is a question of ethics with many of the animal encounters in Indonesia, I’ve written about it in regards to taking a Dolphin tour in Lovina and visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest . 

While it’s undoubtedly that the turtle hatchery means well by protecting the hatchlings during their most vulnerable first few days of life, it might not be the best to hatch them in a man-made environment as it could mess up the baby turtles’ natural migratory patterns. 

A row of colorful bicycles lined up on the road in Gili T.

12. Rent a Bicycle and Ride Gili T’s Ring Road

The only way to get around Gili T is by walking, biking, or taking a horse – Out of these three options, most travelers opt to bike. 

Biking around the island is a great way to see the sights, especially during the mid-day when it’s too hot to walk. 

The ring road that circumnavigates Gili T has a bikable path around 80% of it, on some parts of the island that are less frequently visited it might be sanded over. 

Most people rent a bike through their hostel, guest house, or hotel. You can also rent one by the harbor, but it will be more expensive. 

Bicycle rentals should be around 50K IDR ($3.50) for 24 hours on the island. 

13. Eat at the Gili T Night Market 

I’m a big fan of street food, and the Night Market in Gili T is one of my personal favorites out of all the ones I’ve visited in Indonesia.

You order your fish, tofu, or whatever other protein raw and they grill it right in front of you on little charcoal BBQs. 

There are also some stalls where you can order whole fish (yes, head still on!) and they’ll grill it up for you in a similar way. 

The Night Market is open after 6 PM near the harbor on Gili T, as it gets later in the night the food stalls start closing and it becomes an area for karaoke and Bintang beers. 

A beach cinema with bean bags in the sand and a white projector on the beach. In the background, you can see clear blue ocean water.

14. Watch a Movie at the Beach Cinema 

There are multiple open-air cinemas on Gili T. Every night around 7 or 9 PM they’ll play a movie, and frequently host free movie nights. 

I love dropping in for a bit if these movie theaters are playing something good and watching a movie on a beach on a bean bag chair, but I do have to point out that the food and drinks at these theaters don’t have a good reputation! 

15. Go Surfing, Kite-Boarding, or Stand-Up Paddle Boarding 

While the Gili islands don’t have big waves for advanced surfers, there are some surf spots that are beginner-friendly off of Gili T. 

If you drive around the perimeter of Gili T you’ll see board racks where you can rent a surfboard and book a surf lesson right on the beach. 

Kiteboarding and stand-up paddle boarding are also popular activities on Gili T. 

Boats at sunset in the Gili Islands

16. Take a Sunset Booze Cruise 

You can book these for around 150K ($10) at any of the party hostels on Gili T, for example, Mad Monkey, M Box, or Broken Compass. Your ticket usually includes a Bintang (local beer) and a ride on a small boat to watch the sunset. 

I’ve taken a sunset booze cruise in both Gili T and Gili Air, and while the name sounds like a wild and crazy party activity, they’re pretty relaxing. 

Best Restaurants in Gili Trawangan 

You can get any manner of cuisine you want in Gili T, but in my opinion, the dining options are  tourist-trap central.  

Sure, there are Mexican restaurants, but the “Mexican Food” on the island consists of Mayo on a cold tortilla… yeah, it’s not good.

Instead of the tourist-trap cafes selling Western food, I highly recommend sticking to Indonesian food on Gili T. 

There are a ton of charming Warungs (local eateries) on the island, and the Gili Trawangan Night Market is genuinely some of the best Indonesian street food I’ve had. 

A row full of green Kue, or Indonesian desserts, served at the Gili T Nightmarket.

Gili T Nightmarket 

The Gili T Nightmarket is both an  incredibly  popular spot on the island and also kinda slept on in my opinion.

I’ve explored tons of street food markets across Indonesia, and the key distinction when comparing a beach-side night market, such as the one in Gili T, to the established markets like those in Bali, is that at the former, the fish is freshly cooked right in front of you.

You choose the fish, tofu, or other raw protein from a display, and they cook it fresh over a charcoal BBQ. 

I like these types of markets a lot more than the ones you usually see around Bali, where the food is pre-cooked and served at room temperature. 

Cooking it fresh both makes it taste better IMO, and cuts down on the risk of Bali Belly. 

The Gili T Night Market also has a  huge  dessert stall that sells all types of Indonesian cakes made from different combinations of rice, coconut, Pandan, and banana. 

The Gili T Night Market is overall a great place to get dinner as well as have a cultural experience. 

An open faced sandwich on a pink plate.

Coffee & Thyme Gili Trawangan 

This cafe, along with a few others that have sprung up near the harbor, is the exception to my “no Western food” on Gili T rule. 

Everything from the sandwiches to the coffees is incredibly authentic and high-quality here. While this cafe doesn’t have good wifi, as most places on the Gili’s do not, you can hot-spot your laptop if you have a local SIM card and get some work done. 

Aerial photograph of Gili T.

Best Places to Stay in Gili Trawangan 

Depending on which kind of budget, and what kind of vibe, you’re going for on your trip to Gili T there are three main types of accommodations I would recommend. 

If you’re a solo traveler, on a friend group trip, or just looking to meet lots of people and party, then I recommend staying in a hostel. 

There are a ton of party hostels on Gili T, the most notorious is  M Box . If you’re looking for a more boutique hostel, I recommend the  Broken Compass . 

For couples and budget travelers who want their own room, I recommend staying in a Beach Bungalow. I’ve staying in bungalows in the Gilis, they all look the same from the outside but some are  far  better than others. I recommend  Gili One . 

The Gili Islands don’t have many villas like you see in Bali, instead, bungalows are the more common accommodation style. 

For those seeking something more luxurious, there is no shortage of 5-star resorts on the Gili Islands. The best hotel in Gili T is  Pink Coco , which is also a beach club and sort of landmark on the island. 

Hotels in Gili T 🛌

travel bali gili trawangan

Katie’s Top Tips for Visiting Gili Trawangan 

✅ know about the different gili islands .

The three Gili Islands each have their own specific vibe and thing they’re famous for. Gili T is the notorious party island, Gili Meno is a honeymooner destination with tons of romantic resorts, and Gili Air is the smallest of the islands, and has become known for relaxing. 

All three islands are extremely close together, I wouldn’t recommend staying on Gili T unless you wanted to party. 

A beach in Gili Trawangan

✅ Pack Light! 

It’s important to pack as lightly as possible when you’re visiting the Gili Islands for two reasons: 

1) There is no motor transport on the islands, so if you pack more than you can carry you will have to use expensive and borderline unethical horse and carriages to get to your hotel. 

2) The slow boats/local ferries don’t have docks on the Gilis, and at low tide, you’ll have to wade out into the water with all your belongings to get on the boat. 

The more expensive fast boats have peirs, and employ porters to help with your bags.

✅ Try the Local Food 

One of the reasons I love living in Indonesia is the great international culinary culture, but sadly that hasn’t reached Gili T. I found most of the Western and International restaurants on the island to be pretty lacking, instead, I recommend sticking to Indonesian Food on the island.

Horseback riders wade into the ocean on a beach in Gili T.

✅ Make Sure to Take Your Snorkel Tours Early in the Day

When I went on my first snorkel tour of the Gili Islands underwater sculpture garden I was hit in the head by a glass-bottom boat, because they drove the boats right over where the tourists were snorkeling! 

I recommend taking a private sunrise tour of the sculpture garden if you want to visit, otherwise, I wouldn’t recommend it at all. It was a massive crush of people every other time I’ve gone. 

The truth is, even if you go at sunrise  it will still be crowded  because it’s such a popular tourist spot – but it will be far less so. 

✅ Carry Cash 

The Gilis are still a cash-is-king location. While most of the hotels I stayed at accept cards, the tours, restaurants, bars, and bike rentals don’t. 

There are lots of bank-affiliated ATMs on the islands, but they do run out of cash frequently. 

travel bali gili trawangan

✅ Don’t Go Into Any Restaurants That Heckle Travelers 

My rule of thumb for traveling anywhere, whether it’s Indonesia or Italy, is to not eat anywhere they have guys stationed outside heckling tourists to come to their restaurant. 

Good restaurants/cafes/nightclubs don’t have to have to harass people to visit. 

Unfortunately, the Gili Islands, especially Gili T, has a ton of guys harassing tourists on the main road to come into their shop, club, or restaurant. They even hassle you if you’re on a bike! 

✅ Avoid the Guys Selling Things on the Street 

I fell for this on my first trip to Gili T – Basically, guys selling speed boat tickets and snorkel tours say they’re giving you a “great price” if you book through them. But in reality, these guys are just intermediaries pocketing the difference between what you pay and what the tour actually costs. 

I recommend booking tours and transfers online with tons of 5-star reviews, or through your hotel or hostel. 

A horse and carriage. The horse has blinders on it's eyes.

How to Get Around Gili T

There are no cars, motorbikes, or anything with an engine allowed on the three Gili Islands. Instead, most people choose to get around via bicycle. 

Recently, there has also been a surge of electric mopeds available on the island. 

This can be kind of annoying if you’re a heavy packer, so I recommend leaving your big bag on mainland Bali or Lombok if you can. 

There are also horses and carriages available for transport on the Gili Islands, and if you’ve packed more than you can carry these will be your only transportation options to get your luggage to your hotel. 

Although the treatment of the horses on the Gilis has greatly improved in recent years, it’s still not great. I’ve written a ton about the ethics of animal encounters in Indonesia, including the Ubud Monkey Forest and Lovina Dolphin Tours. 

Gili Trawangan photographed from above via drone.

How Long You Should Spend in the Gilis 

I think three days and two nights is the perfect amount of time to spend on Gili T. That way you get to see the sights, have a night out, and have a day to recover from your night out, too. 

Gili T Example Itinerary 

  • 10 AM: Depart from Bangsal or Padang Bai harbor for the Gilis
  • 12 PM: Arrive at your hotel
  • 2 PM – 5 PM: Enjoy the beach in the afternoon 
  • 6 PM: Visit the Gili T Night Market for dinner 
  • 8 PM: Watch a movie at the beach cinema

Day 2 

  • 5 AM: Take a private sunrise boat tour of the underwater sculpture garden and Turtle Point 
  • DAYTIME: Enjoy the beach, relax 
  • SUNSET: Take photos at Gili T’s famous beach swings
  • NIGHTTIME: Party! Try the infamous mushroom shakes if you dare. 

Day 3 

  • MORNING: Recover from the night before and relax on the beach with some fresh coconuts. 
  • AFTERNOON: Depart from Gili T either via fast boat or ferry to Bali or Lombok. 

The best way to fit a trip to Gili T into any Bali Travel Itinerary is to visit the Gilis right before taking a Komodo Boat Tour that departs from Lombok. I did this route, and the boat tour company arranged my ferry and overland transport from the Gilis for me.

How to Get to Gili T

There are no airports on the Gili Islands, the only way to get there is by boat. 

You have two options for transfers to/from the Gili Islands: Taking a fast boat, or a local ferry. 

The fast boats run many times a day and are usually what tourists opt for, but if you don’t mind slow travel and want to save some cash, you can also take the local ferry. 

You can book your fast boats to the Gilis online ahead of time, but the local ferry tickets need to be booked in cash on-site. 

The fast boat that sails from Bali to Gili islands docked to a pier and tied with a rope.

From Bali 

Ferries and fast boats depart from Padang Bai harbor in Bali and sail to the three Gili Islands. All of the boats stop on all three islands, with their final destination being Bangsal Harbor in Lombok. 

Most tourists choose to take an 🚢  AC Speed Boat  to/from the Gilis and Bali as it’s a pretty long trip and the speed boats are much less rocky and bumpy than the local ferries. 

Even with the fast boat, it’s still around a 3-hour boat ride, so bring nausea medication if you’re prone to seasickness.

The cost of the fast boat varies wildly depending on where you book – I booked at the ticketing office in Lombok and I thought I got a good deal at 350K IDR, but on Klook tickets are only 250K IDR.

I recommend arranging your fast boat online or through your hotel ahead of time, as the prices in the Gilis are exaggerated.

I also booked a shuttle bus bundle with my ticket, which wound up being a scam because it was a mega 20-seater bus and the transit from Padang Bai Harbour to my hotel in Kuta would allegedly have taken 4 hours (should be no more than 2).

The guys used the long travel time to pressure me to buy an upgrade to a private taxi. I recommend arranging private transport from Padang Bai ferry port to your hotel in Bali to avoid this.

🚢 Boat Company: Wijaya is recognized as the best fast boat option to/from the Gilis. 

A row of small boats along the beach on Lombok Island in Indonesia. You can see passengers lining up on the beach to enter.

From Lombok 

Getting to Gili T from Lombok is the same process as from Bali, but it’s a shorter boat ride from Bangsal Harbor in Lombok to the three Gili Islands. 

You have the option to take the public (slow) boat a few times a day for 25K IDR, or a fast boat every hour between 9 AM and 4 PM for 85K.

Since the transfer between Lombok and the Gilis is a lot shorter, only 1/2 hour on a slow boat, I don’t think you need a fancy AC speed boat for the transfer. 

However, if you suffer from seasickness, I advise against taking the public ferry. I have a strong stomach and the public ferry to the Gilis even made me nauseous!

There are no piers in the Gilis for the ferries/slow boats, so you have to carry all your luggage through a few feet of seawater when you dock. I advise packing light and wearing waterproof shoes! Alternatively, you can also pay some guy 20K IDR to help you with your luggage. 

Blogger Katie Caf stands on the bow of a boat holding a rope.

Other Things to Do in This Area of Indonesia 

Take a komodo islands boat tour from lombok > flores .

I recommend getting to the Komodo Islands by taking the tourist trail from Bali. First I took a boat to the Gili Islands, stayed a few days, and then sailed from Lombok to Flores through the Komodo Islands. 

My favorite Komodo Itinerary looks like this: 

Bali > Boat to Gilis > Stay in the Gilis for 2 days > Ferry to Lombok > Overland transfer on Lombok > Sail from Lombok through the Komodos for 4 days on a cruise > Dock in Labuan Bajo, Flores > Fly back to Bali. 

If you book the “ Backpacker’s Komodo Cruise “, they will arrange your pickup from Gili T + overland transfer through Lombok for you. 

Campers on Mt. Rinjani in tents

Climb Mt. Rinjani 

Mt. Rinjani is the most impressive volcano hike in Indonesia . Standing at 3,726 m, it’s one of the tallest peaks in SE Asia. 

I haven’t climbed Mt. Rinjani yet since it’s a bit of a commitment. You need at least 3 days to do the trek, and you sleep on the mountain. 

For more casual hikers, I recommend Mt. Batur for sunrise in Bali, or Kawah Ijen Acid Volcano in Java. 

👉 Note! Know that Rinjani is closed for Indonesia’s rainy season in January and February. 

A line of surf boards up against a wall at a beach front cafe.

Go Surfing in Kuta Lombok 

I lived in Kuta, Lombok’s sleepy surfer town, for the better part of three months while I was learning to surf, and I attended an all-inclusive surf camp in Lombok for two weeks. 

Kuta Lombok is said to be what Bali was like 20 years ago before mass tourism ran amok. I love Kuta Lombok for what it is – It’s so much smaller than Bali, I don’t think it’s fair to compare the two. 

Related Article -> Read My Complete Travel Guide to Kuta Lombok

Gili kedis photographed aerially via drone.

Visit the “Secret Gilis” in Lombok 

The “Secret Gilis” are a cluster of much smaller islands off of Lombok that shares the same white-sand beauty as Gili T, Meno, and Air. 

Travelers are drawn to the Secret Gilis, called Gili Kedis, Nanggu, Sudak, Tangkong, Layar, and Rengit because they are far less developed and more untouched.

A beach in Gili T showing white sand, clear blue water, and a nice sunny day. In the background, you can see a mountain range.

Gili Trawangan: Conclusion 

Thank you for reading until the end of my article! I hope it answers any and every question you have regarding visiting Gili T. 

Just to recap, I love the Gili Islands – I’ve been to Gili T and Air multiple times since I first started traveling to Indonesia years ago. 

I recommend Gili T to anyone who wants to party, as that’s what it’s known for. If you’re looking for a more relaxing or romantic beach vacation, your best bet is on Gili Air or Gili Meno. 

I hope you have a fantastic time on Gili T, Indonesia’s  notorious  party island! 

-Katie 

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  • Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Day Trip From Malang
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  • How To Hike Mount Ijen Volcano
  • All the Best Volcanos in Indonesia You Can Visit from Bali
  • Complete Guide To Renting & Driving A scooter In Bali
  • All About Wae Rebo Traditional Village In Flores
  • Travel Guide to Kuta Lombok – Surfer’s Paradise!
  • Best Things To Do In Flores , Indonesia
  • Gili Trawangan Travel Guide : What to Do, Where to Stay & Eat

travel bali gili trawangan

Katie Caf, founder of Katie Caf Travel, is a seasoned travel expert who has explored North, Central, and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia for many years. Originally from New York, she shares travel insights from her experiences in the USA and around the world. Now residing in Bali, Katie specializes in Bali and Indonesia travel, aiming to assist her readers in traveling better and more frequently. Through her blog, she provides quality travel resources and firsthand accounts.

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Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a tropical playground of global renown, ranking alongside Bali and Borobudur as one of Indonesia's top destinations. Trawangan's heaving main drag, busy with bikes, cidomos and mobs of swimwear-clad visitors, can surprise those expecting a languid island retreat. Instead, a bustling string of lounge bars, hip guesthouses, ambitious restaurants, convenience stores and dive schools clamors for attention.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Lookout

See the spectacular sights from the only hill in the Gilis. During the August 2018 Lombok earthquake, more than a thousand tourists and locals slept atop…

Mosque

The largest of the three mosques on Gili T had some lavish details that showed the wealth that tourism had brought to the island before it was badly…

Lighthouse

A landmark useful for directions near the cross-island road (Jl Villa Kelapa).

Latest stories from Gili Trawangan

Freediver. Image by Greg McFall / NOAA's National Ocean Service CC BY 2.0

Dec 5, 2014 • 4 min read

Freediving. It's easy to understand its appeal. Keen to experience the deep ocean without the cumbersome steel tank and tangle of tubes myself, I decided…

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Mad Monkey Hostels Bali to the Gili Islands How to Get to Gili Trawangan

Bali to the Gili Islands: How to Get to Gili Trawangan

travel bali gili trawangan

If you’re planning on heading to Indonesia , chances are, you’ve included Gili Trawangan on your itinerary. This little slice of paradise has been the go-to backpacker haven in Indo and continuously lives up to the expectations of travelers everywhere. As you probably know, Indonesia is made up of thousands of islands (over 17,000, to be exact), which can make travel slightly difficult. Fear not, we’re here to help you make your way from Lombok or Bali to the Gili Islands with ease!

Aerial view of Gili Trawangan

About the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are three islands off the coast of Lombok, east of the island of Bali. The Gilis are comprised of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. “Gili” literally translates to “island”. Famous for their white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and incredible coral reefs, the Gilis are a common stop for many backpackers. Gili Trawangan is the most developed of the three, measuring 3 kilometers long and 2 kilometers wide.

How to get to Gili Trawangan

There isn’t an airport on Gili Trawangan, so you’ll have to get there by boat. You can catch a boat from either Lombok or Bali with relative ease. If you’re heading to Gili Meno or Gili Air, these options will also bring you there. The following is a summary of your main options:

The Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali:

  • Route : Your accommodation in Canggu/Ubud → Drive to Padang Bai (2+ hours) → Fast boat to Gili Trawangan (2+ hours)
  • Travel Time : 4-5+ hours total including waiting time
  • Cost : from IDR 350,000 one way

Slow Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali:

  • Route : Your accommodation in Canggu/Ubud → Drive to Padang Bai (2+ hours) → Slow boat to Lombok (4+ hours) → Taxi from Lembar Port to Bangsal Port (1.5+ hours) → Boat to Gili Trawangan (30+ minutes)
  • Travel Time : 10+ hours total including waiting time
  • Cost : from IDR 55,000 one way + IDR 300,000-400,000 taxi from Lembar Port to Bangsal Port + IDR 25,000 boat from Bangsal Port to Gili T = about IDR 380,000+ one way (not including transport to Padang Bai in Bali)

Ferry to Gili Trawangan from Lombok:

  • Route : Drive to Bangsal Port (from Lombok airport: 2+ hours) → Boat to Gili Trawangan (30+ minutes)
  • Travel Time : 30+ minutes from Bangsal Port
  • Cost : from IDR 25,000 for the public boat, from IDR 85,000 for a fast ferry + IDR 300,000-400,000 for a taxi to Bangsal Port

Flight from Bali to Lombok + Boat:

  • Route : Your accommodation in Canggu/Ubud → Drive to Denpasar Ngurah Rai Airport (1.5+ hours) → Flight to Lombok (30 minutes) → Drive from airport to Bangsal Port (2+ hours) → Boat to Gili Trawangan (30+ minutes)
  • Travel Time : 7+ hours including waiting time
  • Cost : from IDR 800,000 one way (not including transport to airport)

Mad Monkey Insider Tips:

Driving to Padang Bai and taking the fast boat is easily the most convenient option.

Depending on the season, some routes may not be running. We will update this post regularly, but it is best to always check with your accommodation or a travel agent for the latest information and schedules. You can also arrange transportation through Mad Monkey by contacting [email protected] .

How to get to Gili Trawangan - Bali to the Gili Islands: How to Get to Gili Trawangan

The Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali

Coming from Bali is generally the most common route, as Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia. The easiest and quickest way to get there is to first make your way to Padang Bai Port on the central, east side of Bali. From Canggu, this will take about two hours, depending on traffic. From Ubud, this will take about an hour and thirty minutes (but, traffic). If we didn’t emphasize this enough, the traffic on Bali can be horrendous, so be sure to give yourself a good enough time cushion in case it’s worse than usual.

From Padang Bai, you will take a “fast boat” to the Gilis. The pier where you will board your boat is right in front of the fast boat offices (Google Map search “Padgang Bai Fast Boat Harbour”) This journey will take around two hours. These boats will also stop at the other Gili Islands, so listen to the announcements to ensure you get off at the right stop or ask an employee.

The Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali - Bali to the Gili Islands: How to Get to Gili Trawangan

How to Arrange Transportation from Bali to Gili Trawangan

The most convenient way to arrange your transportation from Bali to Gili Trawangan is to book through your accommodation or a travel agent. You can find tourist agencies along the streets of every popular town in Bali. Ask around for the best prices and negotiate. Prices will fluctuate depending on the season, as well. Purchasing a round trip ticket will generally cost you less than two one-way tickets and your return ticket is generally open. These tickets usually include pickup from your accommodation. This will usually be a minibus/van that will make numerous stops to pick up other travelers around Canggu, Seminyak and Kuta.

Book your transport through Mad Monkey by contacting [email protected]

Alternatively, you can arrange your own ride to Padang Bai Port via a taxi, private driver, or ride sharing app like GoJek or Grab. This is more convenient, as you won’t have to leave as early since it’s a direct trip, but you’ll be paying extra. You can even buy your own boat ticket separately at one of the many boat company offices but prices aren’t always cheaper.

From IDR350,000 (or $24USD) one way.

Best Company & Boat Schedule from Bali to the Gili Islands:

We recommend using Ekajaya, as they are the most reliable and timely. Ekajaya boats are scheduled to leave Padang Bai at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 10:30 a.m. daily (subject to change, depending on the time of year) — be sure to be at the dock about a half an hour early, even though the boats sometimes leave half an hour after their scheduled departure. The boats are fairly large and comfortable with air conditioning (usually). The top deck sometimes turns into a party, with music blasting and plenty of socializing. This trip takes about two hours.

The Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali - Bali to the Gili Islands: How to Get to Gili Trawangan

NOTE : The scheduled departure times are updated as of June 2023. This is subject to change and they sometimes add or remove departure times so confirm times with the company, your accommodation, or a travel agent.

Remember that this is the island life. Prices and departure times aren’t set in stone. Our best advice is to go through your trusted accommodation, as they generally work with the same tourist agents and companies. Another alternative is to ask around — someone you meet might have the number to a guy who can get you a cheap ticket. It’s common practice in Bali to “have a guy”.

Depending on the season, some of the companies and routes don’t run. Check with your accommodation to confirm times and availability. Book at least a day in advance to ensure a spot. If you choose to buy the package deal that includes hotel pickup, the time they give you may change (read: it’s possible they might be really late, but they’ll almost always get you to the boat on time). If you get to the port early, there are multiple nearby warungs (local restaurants) to eat at before boarding.

Getting to Mad Monkey from the Gili Trawangan Pier:

Once you dock at Gili Trawangan Pier, you’ll find that there are no motorized vehicles on Gili T so all transportation is done on foot, by bicycle, or by horse cart. If you want to foot it and take in the stunning scenery, you can cut through the center of the island which will take around 30 minutes. From the Gili Trawangan pier, head north up the coast for 750 meters. Turn left onto Jalan Vila Kelapa (look for Blu d’a Mare) and head west for 1.5 kilometers. When you reach the beach, turn right. Mad Monkey is 2 minutes up the road.

If you follow the road around the island it would take around 45 minutes. To rent a bike it costs around IDR 50,000 (or $3.5USD) per day. A horse cart, otherwise known as a “cidomo”, costs around IDR 100,000-150,00 (or $7-$10USD).

Other Routes from Bali to the Gili Islands

Additionally, there are other ports in Bali you can depart from, although Padang Bai will be the quickest boat ride. There are daily boat transfers from Serangan, Sanur and Lembongan (the closest Nusa island off the east coast of Bali). If these ports are closer to your accommodation, you may want to consider these routes.

NOTE : Again, routes often change so be sure to check with your accommodation or travel agent.

Slow Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali/Lombok to the Gili Islands

If the water is too choppy, some or none of the boat companies will run. In this case, or if you’re looking to take the cheapest transport option available, you can take the “slow boat”. There is a local ferry that leaves every 60 to 90 minutes daily from Bali to Lombok. The catch is that it’s quite a longer journey at around four to six hours one way. It’s also not as comfortable (you might not even get a seat), and usually more crowded. Not exactly for the faint of heart but it’ll probably wind up being quite an adventurous story to tell (or perhaps an incredibly long, boring one).

The slow boat will leave from Padang Bai; you can find the pier a bit south of where the fast boats leave from (Google Map search “Padang Bai Port”). This will eventually bring you to Lembar Port in Lombok. From here, you must take a taxi or other type of transport up to Bangsal Port (this will likely be included in your ticket if you book through a tourist shop). This drive will take around an hour and a half to two hours and may include extra stops. From Bangsal, you can take a public boat to Gili Trawangan (with stops to Air and Meno on the way), which will take around 30 to 45 minutes. There is also a fast ferry, that costs a bit more.

Snorkeling at the underwater statues

How to Arrange Transportation from Bali to the Gili Islands

Again, you can either book at one of the many tourist shops around town, through your accommodation, or go to the port yourself. As with the fast boat, booking through an agent or your accommodation will usually include pickup and transportation to Padang Bai. You can arrange your own transportation to the port to avoid an earlier pickup with multiple stops, but this must be done separately and will cost you extra.

Slow Boat from Padang Bai (Bali) to Lembar Port (Lombok):

  • From IDR 40,000 ($2.90USD)

Public Boats from Lombok to the Gili Islands:

  • From IDR 25,000 ($1.70USD)

Speed Boat from Lombok to the Gili Islands:

  • From IDR 85,000 ($6USD)

Gili T Sunset

Flight from Bali to Lombok

Alternatively, you can take a flight from Bali’s Denpasar airport (Ngurah Rai) to Lombok International Airport. This ~25 minute flight is quick and easy and prices start around $55USD. Lombok International Airport is located near the city of Praya and you’ll have to take a taxi or private car to Bangsal Port. This will take approximately 2 hours and prices for a taxi (we recommend Bluebird taxi!) start at around IDR250,000 ($18USD).

From here, you can take the public boats or speed boats from Bangsal Port to the Gili Islands (prices listed above). If you arrive after 4:30 p.m., you might miss the last of the public and fast boats. In this case, you can either stay the night in Lombok or it’s possible to charter a private boat to the Gilis.

Where to Stay on Gili Trawangan

If you want to see the best of the island, stay at the beautiful Mad Monkey Gili Trawangan beachfront property on the sunset side! We’ve got daily events and tours, including our Monkey Sea, Monkey Do snorkel trip where we bring you to the best spots on the Gilis! We also host the most epic pool parties on the island and have a stunning infinity pool to lounge in and meet new friends! Book your bed in paradise today !

Mad Monkey Gili T pool

Madventures — Experience the Best of Gili Trawangan

Now that you’re one step closer to getting your transport sorted, check out all the amazing things you can do on the Gilis. We’ve selected the top experiences for you so that you can leave knowing that you’ve fully experienced these stunning islands. Our Mad5 will give you a taste of the beauty, culture and adventure of Gili T and we’ve made it super easy for you to book them! Check out the links below or even better, download our app, Mad Monkey Experience , to also gain POINTS for booking a Madventure tour and event! More points = more discounts + free perks to make your Mad Monkey trip even more epic (and cheaper😉)!

  • Monkey Sea, Monkey Do Snorkelling Tour : See the best snorkel spots on the Gilis — snorkel gear + lunch included
  • Indonesian Family Dinner : Taste the best of Indonesia, enjoy with a free Bintang or house mixer
  • Bucket List Bike Tour : Discover the highlights of Gili T – beach spots, photo ops and snorkeling included!
  • Foam Party : Get your tan on with a live DJ, free shots every hour, and Happy Hour!
  • Beach Clean Up : Help keep our island paradise clean, and get a free drink for your good deed!

Mad Monkey Snorkeling Tour

More information about how to get from Bali to the Gili Islands:

Are you currently in Indonesia and planning on making your way from Lombok or Bali to the Gili islands? Are you looking for more details about how to get to these beautiful islands? Check out these other articles with more helpful tips on how to get to the Gilis:

  • How to Get to the Gili Islands From Bali Indonesia from Almost Landing Bali
  • How to Get From Lombok Airport to the Gili Islands from Chasing Places
  • Tips and Tricks: Getting to Gili Islands from Bali by Phebe Bay from TripZilla
  • An incredible experience on an Indonesia Cruise by Aqua Expeditions

Pin now, read later:

Pin now, read later: - Bali to the Gili Islands: How to Get to Gili Trawangan

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Trot.World

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A Complete Travel Guide To Gili Trawangan – Itinerary Included

Complete Gili Trawangan Travel Guide

Have you gotten enough dose of that Vitamin Sea? If not, pack your bags, trot with us and let’s escape to the land of sunshine, azure waters, vistas of active volcanic mountains and bluest blues from the ground and that of gliding sea turtles and colorful marine life from under its waters. Doesn’t it sound like an interesting island full of character and a personality that intrigues you to explore it further? To help you with just that we have put together a complete travel guide to this island called Gili Trawangan.

Sitting on the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia are the Gili Islands, an archipelago of three small islands. One of those three and the biggest amongst them is Gili Trawangan also referred to as Gili T, a must-stop on your itinerary.

If this will be your first time to the Gili islands and you have time to visit just one of them then we highly recommend you pick Gili T. Besides if you are still confused between which Gili islands (Trawangan, Meno, or Air) you should visit then you can use our travel guide to help you decide on the Gili island that is right for you here .

Gili Trawangan has garnered the reputation of being a party island but from our experience, we can tell you that is not entirely true. We recommend this island even to first-timers is because the beauty of Gili T is that it allows you to get the best of both worlds all in one place with plenty of options to choose from. It’s an island that caters to several types of travelers in terms of options related to not just activities but budget as well. 

We have specially curated this Gili Trawangan travel guide to cater to both our readers who love peaceful beach days and those who love an active island getaway and eccentric nightlife as well. 

View of volcanic Mount Agung from Gili Trawangan

HOW TO GET TO GILI TRAWANGAN FROM BALI  

The most popular way to get from Bali to Gili Trawangan is via fast boats. They leave from several departing points in Bali namely Padang Bai, Sanur Jetty, Serangan, Benoa Harbor, and Amed. Out of these, you can choose to embark on from the one that’s closest to where you are in Bali. The time it takes to reach Gili T is between 1.5-3 hours depending on where you start from and the weather conditions on the day of travel. We do recommend you take an early or one of the first boats out in the morning from Bali, timing it to the check-in time of your hotel. This way your wait during check-in is minimized and reaching early lets you utilize your first day much better. 

The cost of a return trip for one person is around 85 USD (1,238,858 RPS). You can find some great deals on tours and transfers here . You can also check another one we use called 12GoAsia for deals and availability .

For further details on more travel options for Gili Trawangan refer to our Gili islands guide .

Travel Tip: Pack light, it’s easier to manoeuvre smaller bags or better yet backpacks during boat transfers. Depending on the tide many times you will have to get off in shallow water instead of on the sand. Your luggage will be thrown on the sand and you can collect it from there once you get off the boat. So in case you have any breakables make sure to inform the staff beforehand so they handle your luggage with care. Or better yet, keep the breakables with you and not in the bag. 

Travel to Gili Trawangan with this complete guide

HOW TO GET AROUND ON GILI TRAWANGAN

Here’s one of the reasons why we love adding this island as a stop to our Indonesian itinerary more so after Bali. The traffic in Bali can get quite crazy at times along with the honking noise of the vehicles. Hence, the best part about these Gili islands is that they are non-motorized meaning there are no cars or scooters here. So the only way to get around is by foot, bicycles, or cidomos (horse and carriage). Even though it is the biggest of the three islands, you can go around the circumference of Gili Trawangan on a bicycle in just about 1-1.5 hours. 

We do have a request for our Trot.World family though and it is to refrain from using cidomos as there is a big question on how ethical that is. The horses do look sad and let’s together stray away from burdening them with pulling the cart with several people and their heavy luggage on them. 

Let’s be conscious travelers and work together towards refraining from participating in activities that harm these beautiful beings and more so where they are solely used for the sake of tourism.

This is where the earlier tip of packing light also comes in handy, easier to drag your luggage on foot if your hotel is away from the main jetty area. 

For the rest, enjoy your time on this island free of air and sound pollution. Instead, take in the smell of the ocean, sound of waves, and laughter all around you.

Do watch out for bicycle and foot traffic though especially around the main port area 🙂

travel bali gili trawangan

WHERE TO STAY IN GILI TRAWANGAN

As we mentioned Gili T is what you make of it. You can enjoy peaceful, quiet, and laid back beach days here and also indulge in crazy parties and nightlife of the island. 

Where you stay and hang out is key in being able to achieve either of those experiences. 

Here is an overview of the East, West, North, and South sides of the island and where you need to be for the peaceful vibe and which side hosts the party-goers. 

Also, Gili T being the biggest, has varying accommodations from budget to luxury ones to choose from . The same goes for when it comes to shopping, restaurants, bars, and clubs. You wouldn’t have to eat and drink at the same place twice (unless you liked it so much and want to eat there again). 

East : Almost in the centre of the east side is where the jetty is and where you will be picked up and dropped off by the fast boats. Around the jetty is where all the action is, several accommodations, bars, and restaurants. This means a lot of pedestrian traffic and where the crowd gathers both during the day and night. Avoid hotels in this area unless being amidst the crowd and socializing is what you are here for.

West:  This side is mainly resorts and stunning sunset views with the volcanic Mount Agung in the background, quieter beaches, and a couple of sunset bars. Also, the Instagram famous swings are over on the west side. 

Hotel Ombak Sunset sea swing in Gili Trawangan

North:  Northern side of the island is again super laid back, with a few luxury and budget accommodation options, and a handful of chilled restaurants and bar. Just like the west side, the sunset from the Northern coast is also quite stunning. Plus, the North-east side of Gili T is a great snorkeling spot to see turtles. Here you have great chances of spotting sea turtles feeding off the underwater grasslands not far from the shore along with other beautiful marine life.

South:  This side, the south-eastern side to be precise, has to be our favorite for it is the right balance between quiet and lively with easy access to the plethora of restaurants, bars, and shopping sites that line the eastern side going towards the jetty. It is away from all the crowd yet closer to the action. So you can easily switch between the peaceful and happening vibe as you like throughout the day. 

At night we would head towards the buzzing piece in the center of the eastern coast, grab a few drinks and when we feel we have had too much of crowd and chaos we would return to our hotel or an eating join on the southern side reboot and go back out again for another round of drinks and socializing. 

South side has some great accommodation options suitable to even couples on their honeymoon and even families. 

A hotel on the south-eastern side we would recommend you check out is  Pearl of Trawangan . We personally loved our stay here and loved the location as well making it within the walking distance to the jetty/party area. It was quite easy to walk from here to the main center and back even at night, and the path was well lit up as well. Plus on this route, you will find everything from bars, restaurants, spa, dive centres, supermarket, and even an ice cream spot! 

Where to stay in Gili Trawangan? Pearl of Trawangan, the best beach resort.

Note that if you would stay on the northern or western side and wish to visit the party centre for a change of scene you would have to bike the way there and back as it’s quite a walk. Also, there are some dark paths in between on those routes which we weren’t too keen on commuting post-sunset and late at night. 

So if you are a first-timer we would  recommend staying on the south-eastern side . 

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY IN GILI TRAWANGAN

A 3 night/4 days’ stay is a good start here in Gili T. Reasonable amount of time for you to be able to explore the island, go on island hopping tours and relax on the beach. However, if you plan to get your dive certification here you will have to spend more days depending on the level and time required to complete the certification. 

4 DAY GILI TRAWANGAN ITINERARY

Here’s a breakdown of how you can spend your 4 days here on the island to make the most of your time. Ps. Stay tuned for our in-depth travel guide on some of the best things to do in Gili Trawangan (coming up soon).

Day 1: Arrive close to your check-in time, settle in, head out for lunch at the hotel, or venture out on the street to pick a restaurant. 

Post lunch get towels from the hotel and lay on the beach or relax on the sun loungers. Pearl of Trawangan also has a swim-up pool bar you can hang around at. 

At night check out the main area and the bars lined up. Each night different bars take turn to entertain the guests of Gili Trawangan. Some of the most popular ones are Tir Na Nog Irish bar, Sama-Sama Reggae Bar, Blue Marlin , and Evolution Bar for some games and beer pong. If you prefer to stay away from the main hub, then hang out in your hotel’s bar or nearby restaurant/bars for a chill night out.

Drinks at Gili Trawangan hotels

Day 2: Hop on the wooden outriggers for a day at sea and go on a snorkeling tour around the Gili islands. Swim amidst the vibrant colorful marine life and sea turtles, explore the sunken man-made human sculptures at Gili Meno , and stopover for lunch at the other two Gili islands. Once you are back relax, freshen up and chill on the bean bags of breezy sunset bars or party the night away. You can book your snorkelling trip right from the many tour operators around the jetty area. As in Indonesia, always remember to bargain to get the best price.

Day 3: Have a hearty breakfast and rent bikes either from your hotel or from the many rentals around the island. 

Breakfast at Pearl of Trawangan

Note: Check the bicycles before picking them up for any damage and make sure you are given locks along with it that work. Anytime you stop over and park your bikes make sure to lock them when left unattended. 

Spend this day cycling around the island which will take you around 1-1.5 hours. Make plenty stops in between to stop and eat at warungs (small local family-owned restaurants/cafes) or whichever beachside restaurant speaks to you. Stop for drinks or to sip on some fresh coconut water. Find empty beaches on your ride and roll out your towels to sunbathe and lounge around. Go for some free snorkeling around the northeastern point of the island and try to spot some turtles!

Stopover to take some gorgeous pictures that we like to call as postcard pictures throughout the way. Wherever you are on your cycling trip make sure to reach the western coast in time for the sunset. You can stopover at several points to witness the glorious sunset and take some pictures with those famous swings and hammocks in the water you see popping up on Instagram. 

They are spread out on the western coast so you can stop over at whichever you like. Some of them are at Hotel Ombak Sunset , The Exile (this is the one with a swing and hammock both), Malibu Beach Club (a great place to then also stay over for some food and drinks and chill on their colorful bean bags). Pink Coco is another one that hosts these sea swings. 

Instagram famous sea swing at Malibu Beach Club

We stopped over at Malibu Beach Club for some sunset and drinks which was about an 8-minute bike ride from our hotel, Pearl of Trawangan . There was a dark patch in between but not too bad with so many other tourists cycling back. Another reason why later at night we just prefer hanging around the south-eastern and the main strip side is to avoid cycling through dark areas. 

So, make this whole day about just unwinding, eating delicious food, and soaking in the beauty of this island in its different colorful corners. 

Taking postcard-like pictures are our favorite for keepsake and to even mail to our family. Check out our postcards from Bali.

Day 4: It is time to check-out and move ahead on your travels. It is always so hard to bid goodbye to beautiful islands like these. But you must leave so you can return! Maybe next time to explore the other two Gili islands: Gili Air & Gili Meno .

So enjoy these last moments here, have a hearty breakfast by the beach, indulge in some juicy and fruity smoothie bowls to fuel yourself for the boat ride back to Bali, or your next destination!

GILI TRAWANGAN TRAVEL TIPS 

Now before you swoosh away on that fast boat we wanted to share a few travel tips for your visit to Gili Trawangan through this guide.

  • Whenever you rent your bikes check them for dents or any damage/working condition before you walk away with it. Make sure you are given a lock along with it.
  • When you park your bikes to go take pictures or watch a sunset, lock it up, there are bike stands around the island especially around restaurants/bars.
  • Don’t heavily drink and bike. There are small clinics on Gili T but no hospital, the closest one is in Lombok
  • Carry some cash, although there are now quite a few ATMs spread across the island.
  • If you wish to do a lot of free snorkelling by yourself, carry your own equipment or you can rent them from almost anywhere on the island. Again just check it before you leave with it.
  • Methanol poisoning is quite common in Indonesia, so we would recommend sticking to bottled alcohol like beers that get opened in front of you. Or if you wish to drink spirits then branded and sealed bottle for you and your companions that you open yourself.  
  • There are guys on the side of the streets selling shrooms, shakes made out of them, things like helium gas inhaling but if you just ignore and walk off they don’t bother or follow you at all. 

These are just some tips to keep you aware but for the rest the island’s super safe and just pure bliss! 

Best Gili island to visit

So with the help of this travel guide to Gili Trawangan, we want you to just enjoy your time in the sunshine, floating in blues, saying hello to turtles and endless beach days, and magical sunsets.

Sending you lots of sunshine and happy vibes and leaving you with yet another one of favorite islands to read about next:

If you know us, you know we are a big fan of tropical escapes, and island life is our favorite. A plus is when the islands we visit have more to offer than just beaches and is an experience rather than just a destination, just like this one.  If you are like us and love such enriching tropical getaways, then you would absolutely enjoy getting to know another of our favorite island called ARUBA through this travel guide .

Also known as One Happy Island, this tropical getaway has beaches that rank among the top ones in the world and is again a paradise for every type of traveler. Plus if you love the idea of swimming with turtles then think about how cool would swimming with flamingos be!

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guest

[…] encourage you to check out our detailed Gili Trawangan travel guide here, which can help you in choosing the right areas to live in, depending on whether you want a […]

Alice Mola

I see the swings have an amazing photo op, but I’m wondering what’s on them? It looks like seaweed (I assume). Seeings like a lovely place and well done guide! x

Soumya Gayatri

I have been planning a trip to Gili Trawangan for a long time now and this is possible the best travel guide for the island that I have come across. So much detail in here and so many questions answered. Plus, those beautiful pictures make me want to pack my bags right now.

Agnes

This place is still on my dream list. So I add your guide to Gili Trawangan to favorites, and I hope I will be able to make this dream come true. Swings on the beach look fabulous. I want to take a picture there at sunset. You prepared an excellent, detailed Itinerary, plenty of tips, which will be helpful trip planning!

Linda (LD Holland)

These days I am definitely not getting enough Vitamin Sea. If it were possible, I would head out to Gili Trawangana without a second thought for a 3 night stay. I would not want the party island. But I would definitely want those azure waters and the colourful marine life under the water. A trip around the island by bicycle sounds perfect to me with no cars and scooters.  

Rina

A trip to Gili islands sounds like the perfect getaway. The swings on the beach look fabulous, and make for a great photo op. Some vitamin sea is just what I need these days. Thanks for sharing this blog post with great information.

Umiko

A picture of you with a volcano in a distance is really beautiful! It never crossed my mind that you could spend 4 nights in the Gili that small though. But after reading your breakdown, it made sense. I don’t remember which Gili I visited since it was loong time ago and there wasn’t too many tourists like today.

Yukti Agrawal

Those swings of Gili islands are so much Instagram famous that I always wanted to plan here and somehow my plans always get canceled. I would love to soak myself in Vitamin sea and it would be great to soak in blue water here. It is good to know that northern side of beach is laid back and also we can see stunning sunsets. I love such peaceful places. As you said staying at Pearl of Trawangan is amazing here, I am saving this name.

Cristina Thomas

I love Gili Trawangan!!! I was here 4 years ago with Wonderful Indonesia and it was one of the best itineraries! Except for our boat ride from Gili to Bali – that was really painful. We rented bikes all over the island and of course, made it to the famous swing. Is this recent? Are you in Indonesia now? I would love to go if it’s open! Hope you can share some news if it’s open and what’s the current situtation there. Thank you!

[…] Trawangan. It sits on the northwest coast of Lombok in Indonesia. While here, your perfect Gili Trawangan itinerary must include swimming in clear waters of the Indian Ocean, lying on the beaches with the view […]

Gili Trawangan Travel Guide

Gili Trawangan is historically a backpackers mecca and party paradise. But it’s come a long way, and now all types can explore the beautiful beaches of this stunning island.

A small Island about 15 minutes of the coast of Lombok , Indonesia. It is the main island of a group of three, the other two being Gili Meno and Gili Air.

Gili Trawangan

Despite having beautiful, tranquil, peaceful beaches, Gili Trawangan is for the most part, a party island. For the tiny island that it is, it is packed full of international tourists.

However, Gili T, as it’s otherwise known, has developed into much more over the recent years. The east side of the island (where the boat drops you off) is the most developed, with loads of restaurants, bars, accommodation and diving schools and it is here that most of the party goers reside. The west side is relatively quiet with luxury resorts and not much else, but great for a family holiday or a romantic getaway. The north and south ends are a little closer to the action without being right in the thick of it, and the south end in particular has some nice accommodation options here.

The island is tiny. You can walk around the entire island in about 2hrs, or ride your bike around it. There is no motored transport on the island, only walk, bicycle or cidomo (think donkey and cart).

We tried to ride bikes around the island which was amazing until there was no longer road but sand. And then we pushed our bikes around the island. Great work out, or it would have been if we didn’t stop at the beach every 20 mins and have a cocktail and a snack! The beach is perfect for snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding.

So you can come here and party, dive, laze on the beach, snorkel, explore the island, swim or ride bikes. But I think the best thing about Gili Trawangan these days, is you can make it what you want. There are enough accommodation and activity options spread in different locations on the island that the choice is yours.

The Ugly Truth

  • The main strip on the island can party well into the early hrs of the morning. If that’s not what you are there for, don’t stay in this area, as it will feel like your sleeping in the middle of a club.
  • The island is tiny, and unless you want to spend a week diving or partying, you will probably be happy staying here for 2 – 5 days.
  • Drugs are readily available and Indonesia has very strict drug laws and you should avoid drugs without exception. Although police presence is minimal, police raids and arrests have occured on the Gili Islands.
  • If you decide to go for a drink, please note there has been incidences of drink spiking and methanol present in drinks. Be careful and stick to pre-packaged bottles of brands you know.
  • There is no hospital, but a small clinic, on the island. If you need to get to a hospital your nearest is on mainland Lombok.

The Silver Lining

  • It may be a tiny island but its got a whole lot of beauty. Some of the most beautiful beaches I have seen. And it’s fun being able to ride around the entire island in a few hours.
  • Gili T might be a ‘party island’ but you can easily occupy your time with other activities. Gili T has much more to offer.
  • If you’re here to party Gili T knows how to throw a good one.

What’s Nearby?

On Gili Trawangan beaches there are bars, restaurants, diving schools, snorkelling and other water sports. Enough to do to keep you busy, or simply just lay on one of it’s beautiful beaches and relax.

You can also get a boat to Gili Meno and Gili Air for the day. And mainland Lombok is not far away if you wish to spend some of your time here.

  • Gili Air and Gili Meno can be reached by boat and takes about 15 minutes between each.
  • Senggigi Lombok is about 45 minutes away (15 minute speedboat ride and 30 minute taxi).
  • Bali is approx. 1.5 – 2 hrs away by speedboat, or you can catch a plane from Lombok International Airport (but you will need to take a 15 minute speedboat to Lombok, then approx. 1. 5 hrs drive to the Airport).

A Day At Gili Trawangan

Morning:  Hire a bicycle and start your journey around the island. Stop off at the Gili Trawangan beaches and restaurants as you go.

Afternoon:  Try out paddle boarding and snorkelling, or just relax on the beach. Then head to the north end and have a beer in one of the bungalows on the beach.

Evening:  Walk to Karma Kayak to take in the sunset. Walk back to the main strip for dinner or a drink.

Things To Do

It really depends what you come to Gili T to do, but there is a range of activities. If you want to dive, snorkel, swim or party then you will be in heaven. But much of the appeal is relaxing and exploring the island.

Best For…

  • Water sports (Diving, snorkelling, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, free diving)
  • Partying (mostly backpacker crowds and there are different venues for different nights of the week)
  • Island hopping between the Gili Islands

Mandy and Chris Tips

57 comments.

Hi Mandy and Chris!

I’m planning on a five day trip to Bali early next month and your blog has been super helpful. I’ve been using it a lot to decide where to stay!

I wanted to ask — I was thinking of Day 1 arriving and staying in Sanur, Day 2+3 in Nusa Penida, Day 4 in Gili Air and Day 5 in Jimbaran (taking a flight out late that night). I was wondering if this might be too rushed, I heard these days you can take a speedboat and it looks like online there are speedboats. I’m hoping to scuba dive which was a big reason I wanted to do Nusa Penida and also the Gilis, but I’m worried b/c now I’m wondering if Nusa Penida diving is a difficult site to dive at because of currents (maybe you don’t know about this, not sure if you dive at all..). I’m wondering what you’d think of this itinerary and if maybe we could do a day trip/tour of one of the Gili islands from Nusa Penida or from Sanur/mainland anywhere (maybe we could return night of Day 3 or something and leave the next morning). Are there day trips out to one of the Gilis from places other than Lombok?

Please let me know what you think, would really appreciate the help.

Hi Heidi, happy to hear the blog has been helpful :) I think it will be too rushed. We have never dived so would not be able to share our experience, but have heard the currents are strong around Nusa Penida. I do believe you can do diving day trips to both Nusa Penida and near the Gilis from Sanur, so that is definitely an option to not stay in both places. However, I would not recommend a day trip from Bali to the Gili Islands as being on the boat for that long would be pretty tiring. If diving is your priority, I’d pick your favourite dive site, and split your time between there and one place in Bali. Hope this response is not too late to be a help, but I am sure whatever you have decided you will still have a great time :)

Hi there, it is my boyfriends birthday while we are at the Gili’s, I want to surprise him with an amazing day but struggling to find anything really special, restaurants etc. Do you have any recommendations? We don’t really have a budget. Thankyou!

Hi Millie, which Gili Island will you be on? On Gili Air we loved dinner and sunset at Mowies Bar, pretty casual but the food is tasty (we loved the pumpkin gnocchi), views stunning, and nice atmosphere. On Gili Trawangan we loved dinner and sunset at Casa Vintage (the beach location), a Jamaican restaurant on the beach. Again, pretty laid back with delicious food. If you are after somewhere a little fancier, try Santi restaurant and lounge, set on stunning hotel grounds. We absolutely loved the beef rendang and the coconut smoothie. Definitely a nice option for a special occasion. You could also do lunch here too. In terms of things to do on any Gili island, some ideas could be snorkelling, diving, ride around the island on a bicycle, just enjoying the island life :) Hope you have an amazing trip! Let us know if you have any other questions…

Hey we are planning for trip to Gili islands from 7th December till 13th December 2018. Is it a rainy season there in December?

Hi Tanushree It is wet season in Bali, but for the Gili’s their climate is a little different. The main thing to consider is sea conditions. Generally speaking, it should be a great time for sea conditions and getting to the Gili’s. You can see what Blue Water Express fast boat company say is the best time to travel here: https://almostlanding-bali.com/bwe-best-time-to-travel

Hi guys, I’m from India and My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Bali for my 21st birthday in July this year. We have 8 days,and in that we’re planning to go to Seminyak for 2 days Uluwatu and Canggu for 2 days moving ahead to Nusa Penida for 1 day and then move to Gili T for 2 days and leave on the last day. How does this plan sound? Would it be too hectic for us?

Hi Insha, It definitely looks fast paced. I would try and slow it down a little. Nusa Penida and Gili T are both great but I would personally not like to leave for the airport from the islands. We have had a delayed boat before and would not want to miss a flight home because we cant get to the airport in time. Overall if you are happy having a non-stop trip that’s ok too but I would be staying in 1 or 2 fewer places. They are all great places so whatever you decide I’m sure you will love your trip and have a great 21st :)

Hi, I am planning a trip to Bali next month. Could you help me suggest the fastest mode of transport to get to Gilli T from Bali Mainland along with the cost. Also please suggest the places to stay on Gilli T.

Hi Bhagyashree the fastest would be by fast boat, I would say from Padang Bai. We have liked using Bluewater Express in the past and they say 1 1/4 hours from Padang Bai to Gili T, but probably more like 1.5 hours. See their website below for current prices and times etc. https://bluewater-express.com/schedules/ You can go with cheaper companies and you can also get cheaper rates at the port but, I would always recommend going with a reputable company with good safety standards and reviews. Also, we like to know in advance that we have a seat, and also depending on the company, you may be able to have a transfer from your hotel to Padang Bai, included in your ticket, so you can save money that way too. With places to stay on Gili T, here are a couple of great picks:

https://almostlanding-bali.com/wilsons-retreat https://almostlanding-bali.com/pondok-santi-estate https://almostlanding-bali.com/ponte-villas https://almostlanding-bali.com/kuno-villas https://almostlanding-bali.com/kaleydo-villas https://almostlanding-bali.com/villa-nero

Have a great trip :)

My girlfriend and I are looking to head to Bali for 12 nights in May. We were hoping to spend 4 days in Seminyak, 3 days in Ubud, 3 days in Gili Trawangan and then return to Seminyak for 1-2 nights before flying home. How does that sound? Would you recommend Hotel Ombak Sunset in Gili T? Some of the hotels look rough but our preference is to stay on the west side (quieter) of the island.

Loved your blog, it was so helpful!

Hi Chris, your trip sounds perfect! With Hotel Ombak Sunset, we have never stayed there but it looks great and it is a nice side to the island :) Another on that side for a similar price is Aston Sunset Beach which looks like a good option as well. https://almostlanding-bali.com/aston-sunset Thank you for your comment and hope you have an incredible time!

Hi Guys me and my wife and another couple are travelling to Bali in September 8 nights(first night we only get to hotel 22h00 Kuta). We are planning to stay 2 nights(Bali Rani) Kuta, 3 nights (Tjumpuhan Spa)Ubud and 3 nights Gili Trawangan(Aston Beach Resor). Would you also suggest this or what would you do otherwise.

We want to sight see, snorkel,dolphin encounter, waterfalls and monkey forest, local cuisine and relax

Ewald Gericke South Africa

Hi Ewald looks like a nice trip! Between those 3 places you should be able to do all those things! Only thing I would say is if you haven’t booked your returning flight home yet, try to book a late afternoon or night flight. I say this because as you are on an island and need to get back to Bali, you don’t want to miss your flight because of a boat delay. If you have already booked you should be fine :) Have a great trip!

Hi Mandy, My boyfriend and I are traveling to Bali and Gilli Islands in October. Currently we are booked into Seminyak for 7 nights and 5 nights in Gilli T before we fly to Singapore and home. Do you think it’s worth an over night in Ubud after Gili T and onto Singapore? Or is 1 night too short of a stay? I’m just worried that the boat may be delayed and we would miss our flight… plus I’d quite like to do the Rice friends :-) Michelle x

Hi Michelle I would say Ubud is definitely worth it but maybe try to find an extra night. One night after the Gili’s would not really let you explore Ubud as much as you might like to. You sound like me! I would want to be on the mainland too before a flight ;). If not its still doable just try and organise an early boat back. Hope you and your boyfriend have a great trip!

Hi Mandy and Chris,

What are the nicest hotels in the Gili Islands? Are there any luxury hotels?

Thanks, Michelle

Would you say the Gili T island is expensive? Is it definitely worth seeing? Thank you Elle

Hi Elle, Thats a tough one…It is generally no more expensive than other popular spots if you are heading to restaurants, bars, hotels etc, but less local/warung price options. It does require more effort to get there, and the boat journey can be both enjoyable or unpleasant depending on the weather/seas. I probably would not recommend going for less than 2 days, but if you have more time in your itinerary then the Gili’s are beautiful islands and offer a different side to your trip. There are plenty of stunning places to stay in Bali so if your trip is short then I would say its worth staying on Bali mainland and seeing more of Bali :) In the end, either way, is a great choice and you will love your trip

I am planning my honeymoon for Bali this summer. I have 14-16 days, depending on how many places I end up visiting. Right now I am thinking of starting in Nasa Dua (St Regis, 4 nights), then going to Ubud for 4 nights, and Seminyak for 6 nights. I’d love to add the Gilis for 2 nights, but I am not sure if it’s worth it if I’m going to have a lot of beach hopping time in Nasa Dua and Seminyak. What do you recommend?

Hi Michelle, Your itinerary sounds great! The Gili’s are unlike anywhere you will see in Bali and the water is beautiful. But they can get quite touristy, especially Gili T. And they also can be a bit of an effort to get there and back. So I guess its a personal choice, if you’re happy with your current itinerary and the beach time you have, and don’t want anymore moving around, then I’d stick with what you have. But if you don’t mind more transport time and moving around, then the Gili’s are great. Whatever you decide, it will be an amazing trip :) Have a great time in Bali!

Hello:) Is worth to visit Gili T for one night only, If yes what do and what skip ?

Hi Amin, If you were staying on Lombok then yes, one night is worth it, but if you will be coming from Bali then I would suggest 2days as a minimum. The travel to/from makes for a lot of travel for just one night. Let us know if you have any more questions! Have a great trip!

Hey, love your post, very helpful! My boyfriend and I are spending 2 weeks in Bali/Gili T at the beginning of February 2018. Do you have any experience of visiting at this time, it is classed as wet season so am a bit concerned our trip may be taken up by some rainy days? Also where do you recommend to stay on Gili T, don’t want to be right on top of the strip? Thank you!

Hey Kelsey, there may be some rain but don’t let that concern you as usually it doesn’t last all day. You will still have the heat, just a couple more ‘grey’ days. We have been to Bali many times during wet season. Some weeks have more rain than others however usually it will come in a burst then stop for most of the day. The North and west side of Gili T are the quietest parts to stay. Have a great trip!

Hi, im planning on going to bali for 9 days in october. where planning on doig ubud and seminyak for a few days and the gili islands for 3. i think where going to spend a night in gili t and 2 in gili air. i have done alot of reasearch into the fast boat, and most people suggest best booking the boat a day before you want to leave, is this true? if so we will be leaving from Padang Bai going to gili T first then get a small boat to gili air. how likely is it for us to get a boat over to gili air? and in returning to bali is i best to do the same, ie book return day before we want to leave? any help on transport would be appreciated. thank you, love your blog!

Hi Harriet, Sounds like you have planned a fun trip :) With booking the fast boats we would recommend booking Blue Water Express or another reputable company whenever you know your travel dates. With other operators, you can book the day before or same day and this will most likely be cheaper too than booking in advance. HOWEVER, these operators may not have the same safety standards. Have a look at Blue Water Express Route Map And Schedule: https://www.bluewater-express.com/schedules/ They can do Padang Bai –> Gili T and then you could then get the Gili Air –> Serengen boat for your return.

For Gili T to Gili Air you should be fine booking the day before, these are smaller boats and is shorter distance too. One thing to keep in mind is that there is the possibility of delays with the boats. If you can stay even 1 night in Bali before your flight, that would be best. If not, allow yourself enough time to get to the airport even if you need to get a later boat in case of delays! Have a great trip :)

When picking your accommodation, unless you love the call to prayer at the Mosque, stay away from it!

Good tip, thanks Ian :)

Correction needed guys Senggigi is not 15 minutes away. It is a 10-15 minute boat ride to Teluk Nara or Teluk Kode or Bangsal Harbour by speedboat, then a 30 minute road trip to Senggigi

Hi Ian, thanks for the pick up, yes we did the boat to Teluk Kode and then taxi onto Senggigi. Have made the changes :)

Hi there, Me and a friend have 12 days in bali, would you recommend staying on the main land? I would quite like to see Gili but know you would lose a day there and back! Thanks, Hayley

Hi Hayley, 12 days is a nice amount of time to explore Bali. It’s a tough choice. It does take about half a day to get to the Gili Islands whether you fly or take a boat. The Gili Islands are in Lombok, and Lombok’s also worth some time exploring, but it’s much more remote than Bali. The Gili’s would be great, but would also be nice to have time to explore Lombok. So if it’s your first time to Bali, 12 days might not be enough to do Bali well, as well as the Gili’s and Lombok. You can skip Lombok if you like, but then you would still be left with about a week for Bali, which is not that long. I would personally spend the 12 days exploring a couple of different areas in Bali. Each move will have some travel time within Bali too. That way, you can see more of Bali and have a more relaxing time. Having said that, it’s definitely doable to visit the Gili’s, so it really is a personal choice ;) Let me know if you have any other questions, you’ll have a great trip no matter what you decide :)

I am planning a trip to Bali for 3 weeks in October, any advice on planning trip. Current thoughts Ubud 6-7 days, Nua Dusa, Seminyak, Gili and Jemboran

all places sound great! Only thing is that I think you could visit Nusa Dua from either Seminyak or Jimbaran, if you wanted to stay in one less place. And with Gili you can also visit Lombok main land if that interests you too. Whist in Jimabran I’d suggest exploring the beaches of the Bukit peninsula as they are beautiful. Pandawa beach can also be reached from Jimbaran or Nusa Dua easily too.

Have a great time in Bali and let us know if you have any other questions :)

Hey guys, Off to Bali this summer with the lady. Looking for relaxation and culture. Was thinking 4 nights Ubud, 4 nights Gili island (unsure which one yet), 3 nights Lombok and 3 nights Saminyak to finish off. Would you change anything?

Hi Andy, sounds like you have a great mix, I wouldn’t change anything ;) Have a great time, let us know if you have any other questions :)

Hi Mandy and Chris

I’m planning my Honeymoon in Bali and we have about 10 nights. We were thinking to spend 5 nights in Bali (Saminyak), 2 in Lombok and 2 in Gili T – is there anywhere else you suggest that would be more suitable for a honeymoon? We want a mixture of luxury and activities!

Hi Mani, your plans sound great, maybe put the extra night onto Gili T or Lombok so you’re not rushed. Otherwise, you could interchange Seminyak with Jimbaran or Uluwatu but they are a little more quiet, and any of those will work :) Let us know if you have any other questions and have a great time in Bali!

Thanks for the feedback Mandy and Chris.

I was really looking forward to Gili T, however yes we want a relaxing holiday not rushed. Would you recommend Ubud and Seminyak? And do day trips from Seminyak to Uluwatu or Jimbaran?

We were hoping for some kayaking, snorkelling. Is there anywhere on the mainland you can recommend?

Thanks guys!

Hey guys! My boyfriend and I have booked a trip to bali in May 13-21 (8 days). Its both of our first times there and have heard so many amazing things were finding it hard to cram into 8 days. We’re defintley thinking Ubud for 2 nights and were also looking into Gili T for a more relaxing stay rather than party.

Would it be too excessive to do 4 nights in Seminyak, 2 Nights in Ubud and 2 nights in Gili T?

Anything you could recommend to us would be awesome!

Hi Amy, I think it would be a bit rushed to do that, as it takes about half a day to get to Gili and half a day to get back. It’s possible, but wouldn’t be as relaxing as you might have wanted. I also wouldn’t have Gili as your last stop as then you might be delayed trying to get back to the airport. If you’re happy to be a little rushed and visit all 3 places, keep it the same, otherwise maybe think of cutting one of the places? Hope this helps, no matter wha you decide I’m sure you’ll have a great trip :)

Hi guys. I’m planning a trip next year in Late March with my wife. My plan is to do Bali for a few days then off to Lombok for a few days. I have this vision in my head of our stay in Lombok. A nice spacious room overlooking the ocean which would be a few steps away, quiet and just an overall nice hotel to recharge and enjoy the sunset. Thing is, the pictures of hotels I’m seeing, don’t seem to match up with my vision. I was hoping you would have some direction for Lombok accommodations right on the water perhaps?

Hi Manny, Here are a couple of places to stay that fit your description: The Lombok Lodge on Lombok mainland, Mahamaya on Gili Meno, The Chandi Boutique resort, Living Asia, Quinci Villas and Jeeva Klui resort. Hope this helps and have a great time in Bali & Lombok :)

Hi Chris and Mandy!

We are looking to go to Bali in early January for a week, and wondered whether we could fit in Bali and the Gili’s in on week? Could we do Ubud for a few days and then head over to the Gili’s as it looks like the beaches on the Gili’s may be better than on Bali itself? Or do you think we should stop in Bali and extend our trip a little longer – we won’t have much extra time as this is a stop on route to Malaysia?

Would welcome your advice! Thanks, Julia

Hi Julia, If the Gili’s is the most important to you, then you could just do Ubud and Gili. The beaches on Gili are beautiful, but there are still some beautiful beaches in Bali too. My worry with only spending one week between Gili and Ubud, is that it’s adding travel and there are so many places to see in Bali itself. The trip might be a little rushed. Ubud is about 2 hrs drive from the airport in Bali and then Gili T will take half a day in travel each way. It really does depend on how much you want to see the Gili islands. If you only have a week, I’d probably stick to Bali, but if your heart is set on Gili, then you could do it, it just might not be that relaxing. It’s so hard :) Either way, I’m sure you will have a great trip!

My fiance and I are planning to visit Bali in early January for a week but are keen to visit the Gili’s as well, how much time would you think we need on top of a week for visiting Bali to be able to extend our stay and visit the Gili’s too? We have read your one week itinerary and were thinking of visiting Ubud and one of the beach areas but I’d welcome your recommendations for which area has the best beaches – we’re not too fussed about the party scene.

Hi Julia, On top of your week in Bali, I’d say probably at least 3 days. You will lose half a day each way in travel. The Gili Islands are small, but it really depends on how long you want to stay. If you want to see Lombok too, I’d add another 2-4 days on top of this.

A nice base for beach areas on Bali would be Jimbaran. From here you have Jimbaran Bay, then you can take short trips to reach some beautiful beaches such as Pandawa beach, Bingin Beach, Balangan Beach, Padang Padang or visit a beach club like Finns Beach Club.

Hope this helps, let us know if you have any other questions and have a great time in Bali :)

hi guys. i m planning my trip to bali but dont know what places to visit.planning for 6 nights.plz help me plan mt itenary

Hi Mona, For 6 nights in Bali, you could stay in one place if you want to relax, or stay in two places if you want to see two different sides to Bali (Bali has many!). If it’s your first time to Bali I would go to Ubud and one other place, such as Seminyak or Jimbaran. But it really depends on what you want to do, what you’re interests are etc. Let us know what you want to spend your time doing, and we would love to give you some more personalised recommendations :)

Hey, Great Post!

I’m heading to Bali this December and have booked a couple days in Gili T, I have heard some nightmare stories about the ferries from Bali and was just wondering if you know about the best way to get to Gili T from Bali?

Thanks Tom :) We took a speed boat to Gili T from Bali, and our experience was fine. Having said that, we have also heard some horror stories. I think it very much depends on the weather and swell on the day and also choosing a reputable company. We went with blue water express. The other way to get there is to fly to Lombok and get a taxi to the harbour and get a short ferry to Gili T. The flight is 30 minutes but the drive is probably another 2 hrs to the harbour and then 15 minute ferry. This option would be good if you were planning to spend some time on Lombok. So it’s hard for us to give you a definite answer, as both ways have their pro’s and con’s. If the weather and swell look good, and you go with a great company, I’d perhaps lean to the boat option. If not, I’d go the plane route.

Thanks for your advice! I think I’ll go with the speed boat if the weathers nice then!

Wonderful write up and amazing pictures. Best sunset of my life was on Gili Trawangan. No doubt i returned to Gili T after Rinjani trek, though not initially planned.

Thanks so much Ankur, the sunsets were amazing :)

Hey, I’ve found your blog through my information about bali. We’re going to Bali in two weeks and I’m searching for the last spots. We start in Legain, then go to Ubud and then we would like to go to Gili T and then have the last two days near the airport, maybe Jimbaran or Sanur. Do you have a recommodation for hotels in Jimbaran, Sanur and Gili T?

Best regards, Alexandra

Hi Alex, Sounds like you have a great trip planned! Jimbaran has some beautiful accommodation, including InterContinental, Le Meridien, Four seasons, Ayan and RIMBA to name a few. We haven’t actually stayed in Sanur before, and for Gili T we stayed at Manta Dive which we were happy with at the time. Hope this helps, have a great time in Bali :)

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Explore the Natural Beauty of Gili Trawangan and the Gilis in Lombok

White sandy beaches. Tropical coral reefs. Warm inviting waters. All this awaits you on the Gili Trawangan and the Gili islands in Lombok.  And with no cars, no motorbikes, and no distractions other than beautiful tropical island scenery, the Gili islands off the northwest coast of Lombok are truly an ideal destination for a tropical getaway.

Offering spectacular reefs and ominous dive sites like Shark reef, the Gili Trawangan, and the Gili islands in Lombok are the perfect escape for anyone wanting to get away to beautiful, natural, and relaxing surroundings. This is why these islands have become a popular destination for Western tourists looking for a remote island experience. 

For divers and snorkelers, there are few places better than the Gili’s where you can get up close to all kinds of marine life including a green turtle (Chelonia mydas) in all its glory. Swim-up and watch this graceful creature glide through the ocean. You should be able to spot these turtles at depths of 10-20 meters below sea level.  

gili trawangan

The Gilis consist of three islands: Gili Trawangan,  Gili Meno , and Gili Air. In the local Sasak language, "Gili" means "island". In the Indonesian language, plural is denoted by repeating a noun. So "Gili Gili" literally means "islands”.

Renowned for friendly locals and superb natural beauty, each of the island’s is well prepared for tourists. Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular of the three islands. It has a vibrant nightlife to keep you entertained once the sun goes down. With a wide collection of restaurants and bars, you’ll never be short of entertainment here. 

If you're after a quiet getaway, try Gili Meno or Gili Air. Gili Air is closest to the mainland and is the most populated of the Gili’s. Gili Meno is the smallest island and, with only a few hundred permanent residents, it has the most remote feel to it. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants built in keeping with the islands’ homely village atmosphere.  

How to Get Around Gili Trawangan and the Gilis

Cars and motorbikes are prohibited on the Gili’s giving each island a very peaceful atmosphere. The best way to get around and explore the islands is by bike. You can rent a bike and take a ride and look at the spectacular views of the tropical landscape. 

gili trawangan

A horse-drawn carriage or cidomo is another popular way to get around for both locals and visitors. A tour around Gili Trawangan in a cidomo taking around half an hour. When you want to stretch your legs there’s nothing quite like taking a leisurely stroll around the island.  If you want to travel between the Gili’s you can also hire a motorized boat  

How to Get to  Gili Trawangan and the Gilis

The Gili islands are easily reached by speedboat from  Senggigi , taking only some 20 minutes boat ride. Many tourists also travel direct to Gili Trawangan by ferry that leaves Bali daily from Serangan or Padang Bai. Travel on the islands is only by bike or “ cidomo ” the small horse-drawn carts taking 3 persons per ride.

No motorized vehicles are allowed here. There are also regular passenger boats from Senggigi harbour. There are also regular fast ferries from Bali direct to Gili Trawangan, departing Serangan at 08:00 am and 10:00 am, and daily from Padang Bai, leaving at 11:15 am.

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What They Say

Romantic bandung - the paris of java.

Well, I just love Bali so much, and we fell in love with the culture, people, the food. Everything was just amazing. I feel like in Bali, you can find serenity anywhere, literally. It's our favorite place that we've been to on our entire trip.

Romantic Bandung - The Paris Of Java!

by Jack Morris Influencer

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Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan

Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan

Book your Fast Boat

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  • Book Gili Trawangan Tickets
  • Things to see

Fast Boat from Bali to Gili Trawangan

Getting from Bali to Gili Trawangan is easy, on Giliferries.com you can compare boat prices and book directly with the best fast boat operators in Bali. All our Gili Islands fast boat partners operate multiple daily boat trips from Padangbai, Serangan and Nusa Penida to the Gili Islands. Instant confirmation and e-tickets directly in your email.

Gili Trawangan Ferry Operators

To view the fast boat departure schedules, times, prices, hotel pickup & drop information and policies, visit the profile page of each fast boat operator offering daily transfers from Bali to Gili Trawangan:

Eka Jaya Bali

From $30 USD / one way

Wahana Gili Ocean

From $28 USD / one way

Gili Getaway

From $45 USD / one way

Gili Gili Fast Boat

From $40 USD / one way

Freebird Express

From $32 USD / one way

Scoot Cruise

From $49 USD / one way

To view and compare boat prices, simply use the search box above. 

How to get to Gili Trawangan from Bali?

The ferry to Gili Trawangan from Bali takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the ferry route and weather conditions. Most fast boat (ferry) operators depart from Padang Bai in Bali since this is the fastest route to the Gili Islands. 

How much does a ferry to Gili Trawangan cost?

Prices vary from 25 USD to 50 USD depending on the ferry operator and season.  Unlike other websites offering fast boat tickets, our prices always include free pickup (service offered by the ferry operator) in Bali (terms apply) unless stated differently.  Check-In time is 30 minutes before departure. In case you arrange your own transport to the departure point you will find the exact departure point on your e-ticket. There is no hotel shuttle service included on departure and arrival on Gili Trawangan.

About Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular of the three Gili Islands, thanks to its well-established infrastructure that preceded the other two smaller islands in the group: Gili Meno and Gili Air . Therefore, Gili Trawangan is perfect as your first ‘starting point’ of island hopping, where you can enjoy most of the action. It has a wider range of facilities compared to the other two islands, with a good mixture of hotels, bars and restaurants catering to different preferences and styles. The main coast near the harbour offers a vibrant nightlife, while on the more secluded western shore you will find more peace and tranquillity for couples and honeymooners.

Things to see and do on Gili Trawangan

Once you arrive at Gili Trawangan, you stroll down along most of the beach on Gili Trawangan and the vast blue waters can all be yours. As a premier diving destination, Gili Trawangan is home to some of the Gili’s largest dive shops where you can get your PADI Open Water or Advanced diver certification, but Gili Trawangan offers more than just diving and beaches. After discovering the lay of the land you will be amazed at all the activities Gili Trawangan has to offer. Here is a quick look at the six best things to see and do on Gili Trawangan.

Go Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling on the Gili Islands

Gili Trawangan is surrounded by bright azure-colored waters which make snorkeling and scuba diving one of the best things to do on Gili Trawangan. Here you can explore a wide variety of tropical fish and brightly colored corals within the numerous reefs to explore around the island. Diving enthusiasts will be pleased by the top dive spots like Manta Point where you can dive with large manta rays and Shark Point, which is perfect for the more adventurous among us to go diving among black tip sharks. Snorkelers will be spoiled by the beautiful underwater delights of Simon’s Reef and other spots around the Island. You can take a quick fast boat ride to Gili Meno where you can go swimming with the turtles at Turtle Point. Gili Trawangan boasts a Wreck Point at Mentigi Beach where divers will be fascinated by exploring a sunken WWII vessel.

Explore The Island

Explore Gili Trawangan on a bicycle

Gili Trawangan boasts a laid-back attitude and exploring the island on foot is easy. The only 15-square kilometer area of Gili Trawangan can easily be walked in under 2-hours or rent a bicycle to explore the island. Along the way will find everything from luxury resorts to beach shacks to chickens strutting down the many streets of sand. Stop by at one of the cheap street side vendors for a quick bite to eat or a cold drink while you be amazed by the tropical landscape and the stunning blue waters of the Bali sea. Bicycle rentals are plentiful on the island and are the preferred method of transportation. If you get tired of walking you can simply hire one of the cimodos, a horse-drawn carriage to take you back to your hotel.

Take Indonesian Cooking Class

Gili Trawangan Cooking Class

An amazing and interesting thing to do on Gili Trawangan is to discover and learn about the culture and history of the island through your palate. During your cooking class, you will learn more about the local culture and, how the island was developed through the food. You can learn traditional cooking techniques as well as feast on the delicious recipes like Nasi Rawon, Beef Rendang and the sweet treat of Martabak. The Indonesian cuisine mixes the influences of several cooking styles from countries such as France, China and Indian as well as other Asian countries. 

Go Island Hopping

Gili Trawangan Island Hopping

One of the must things to do in the Gili Islands is to go island hopping. All three of the islands are an absolute must-see while you visit the region. Gili Air is ideal for kite surfing and stand-up paddleboarding with wide secluded beaches and calm tropical waters. The smallest island of the Gili Islands is Gili Meno , here you will find the Turtle Sanctuary, where rescued baby sea turtles are kept and released back into the ocean. There is also Gili Meno Bird Park which is home to peacocks, raptors, parrots, pelicans, and pheasants. 

Discover Panoramic Views and History

Another amazing activity on Gili Trawangan is to hike to the highest point on the island.

As you climb your way to 60 m above sea level you will pass a mysterious white temple, a Muslim burial site and the remains of a WWII Japanese bunker. Once at the peak, you can enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of Mount Rinjani on Lombok to the east as well as the Bali Sea and Mount Agung to the west on Bali. The island is believed to have been uninhabited until the Japanese arrived in WWII and transformed the island into a prisoner's of war camp and a lookout. The name Trawangan is derived from the Indonesian word Terowongon which translates to tunnel. The island has numerous tunnels that were constructed during WWII by the Japanese invaders.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Enjoy the nightlife on Gili Trawangan

When the sun sets over paradise, end your day with a party. On Gili Trawangan there are plenty of beach shanties with live music in combination with a tropical island atmosphere and cool people to hang out with while enjoying your favorite drink. Gili Trawangan is the smallest island in the world to boast an authentic Irish Pub known as Tir Na Nog. Be aware that drug offenders will receive steep penalties in Indonesia, including the death penalty.

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Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Gili Trawangan

Detailed Explanation of Gili Trawangan and How to Get There

Before you start wondering about how to get from Bali to Gili Trawangan, you need to know what this island is all about. Gili Trawangan is one of three islands that has become a very popular tourist destination in Lombok and most people also call it Gili T. Along with Gili Trawangan, you will be able to find Gili Meno and Gili Air , each with its unique qualities.

If you are visiting Bali, it is only right that you also visit Gili Trawangan. Aside from offering quite a magnificent view, Gili T also has many outdoor activities that you can enjoy. However, those are not the only reasons why you should visit this island while you are in Bali.

Aside from the incredible things that we have mentioned above, Gili Trawangan is also very accessible. You can easily go to this island via a couple of transportation methods. While you can ride a ferry or a slow boat, a speedboat might be the best choice to get to Gili T and the other two Gili islands.

To help you learn more about Gili Trawangan and how to get to this island, we are going to give you a couple of pointers. On top of that, we are also going to tell you what you can do in Gili T to help you prepare yourself for what you can expect. Without further ado, here is everything you need to know about Gili T and how to get to this island.

What is Gili Trawangan?

First of all, let’s talk about what Gili Trawangan is. As we have mentioned before, Gili T is an island that is a part of Lombok. This island lies alongside Gili Meno and Gili Air, which are also popular tourist destinations.

Gili T is a popular tourist destination because you will be able to find many incredible views on this island. You will be able to enjoy soft white beaches complete with the gorgeous swaying palm trees. The turquoise waters surrounding this island will also entertain your eyes further.

On top of the beautiful scenery that this island has to offer, Gili Trawangan is also incredible because of the many activities it has to offer. You can snorkel with turtles, do some island-hops, and even scuba dive with a couple of reef sharks. That is why visiting this island is a must if you ever find yourself in Bali or Lombok.

What Will I See in Gili Trawangan?

The white sandy beaches are not the only thing you will see in Gili Trawangan. Aside from knowing how to get there, you should also know that this island has many coral reefs for you to admire.

One thing that you will not see is a motor vehicle on the island. Why? Well, simply because most people only use bicycles and their own feet to get around. You can even rent a bike to get around on the island. While you are on this island, you will immediately feel the relaxed and slow-paced life that you can enjoy for a bit.

What Can I Do in Gili Trawangan?

The first thing you can do on Gili Meno is scuba diving. Gili Islands is famous for its brilliant dive sites, including the Shark Point. There, you will be able to spot a couple of sharks and stingrays during your dive. On top of that, you will be able to find perfect water temperature and clarity around this island. However, that is not the only reason why this island is perfect for scuba diving. While you are diving there, you will be able to enjoy the view of magnificent corals and turtles.

After you are done with scuba diving, you can immediately enjoy snorkeling on Gili T. Just like the many diving sites you can find around this island, you will also be able to find a couple of off-shore sites that are perfect for snorkeling. You can enjoy snorkeling by hiring a private boat along with a guide that will gladly swim with you and show you around.

While you are snorkeling, you will be able to see many beautiful things. These things include the beautiful fauna that you will encounter. You can swim alongside some sea turtles and thousands of gorgeous fish. The best part is the fact that you do not need to bring your snorkeling gear. You will be able to rent the gear pretty easily around the island.

The last thing you can do is to visit the beautiful sunset swing in Gili T. It is quite famous for its sunsets. Luckily for you, you will be able to find many incredible spots to watch the sunset on this island. One of those spots is the sunset swing. You can enjoy the purple sunset sky while swinging on the most aesthetic swing you will ever see.

How To Get To Gili Trawangan From Bali

Getting to Gili Trawangan from Bali is relatively easy, and there are a few options available depending on your preferences and budget. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways to get to Gili Trawangan from Bali, along with some helpful tips to make your journey safe and comfortable.

If you’re looking for the fastest and most convenient way to get to Gili Trawangan, taking a speedboat from Bali is your best bet. Several speedboat companies operate daily services from Bali to Gili Trawangan, including Ekajaya, Semaya One, Golden Queen, and Starfish. The journey takes around 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on which port you depart from, weather conditions, and the speedboat company you choose. Here are the details you need to know.

Traveling to Gili Trawangan by Speedboat

Traveling to Gili Trawangan via a ferry can be pretty awful. You will have to share the ride with a lot of people, which can be pretty annoying. Traveling to Gili T with a slow boat can also be very painful since it will take you a long time to get to the island. That is why the most perfect method of transportation is by using a speedboat.

A speedboat is one of the best transportation methods that you can use to take you to Gili Trawangan. As the name suggests, a speedboat is very quick. By using a speedboat, you will be able to arrive at Gili T in no time.

Another advantage that you will get from a speedboat is privacy. With a speedboat, you do not have to share your ride with a whole bunch of people. You will be able to ride the boat peacefully without worrying about having your privacy disturbed.

Pick-Up Service to the Bay

When you are having a vacation in Bali, you might be staying in a certain area on the island. You can stay in Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak. Kuta, or many other places on this island. Therefore, you will probably wonder whether or not you can reach the bay or harbor to hop on a boat to Gili Trawangan on time.

Well, it is safe to say that you do not have to worry about that kind of issue anymore. Why? Well, simply because you can find a pick-up service that will help take you to the bay without any problem at all. All you need to do is be ready at your hotel and we will pick you up immediately.

We accommodate you with a car and a driver that will pick you up wherever you are staying in Bali. After that, the driver will take you to the bay where you can find the boat. The boat will then take you to Gili Trawangan without any problem at all.

In conclusion Gili Trawangan is a beautiful island you should visit while you are in Bali. Luckily for you, getting to this island can be pretty easy. You can use a speed boat from Bali to Gili T and enjoy your holiday on this magnificent island.

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Asia , Beach Guides , Indonesia · October 19, 2020

13 Things to do at Gili Trawangan: Ultimate Gili T Guide

Wondering what to do in Gili Trawangan? You’ve landed on just the right page! This comprehensive guide covers the best things to do at Gili Trawangan and includes tons of top tips to help you plan an epic Gili Islands trip.

Located a stone’s throw from Lombok’s epic shores, you’ll find one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful islands , Gili Trawangan Island – the biggest of the famous 3 Gilis. Teeming with natural beauty and lots to keep you busy, it’s not hard to see why Gili Trawangan is one of Indonesia’s most famous natural landmarks and such a popular side trip from Bali or Lombok.

Despite only measuring 15km 2 in size, Gili Trawangan has a lot going for it! For starters, it’s home to soft powdery white beaches fringed with swaying palm trees, turquoise waters chock-full with diverse marine life, and epic beach bars. Top that off with an array of fun things to do like snorkeling with turtles, island hopping, scuba diving with reef sharks, and you couldn’t find a more idyllic paradise-like setting even if you tried!

Exploring more of Indonesia? Read this 2 weeks in Indonesia itinerary to find out what not to miss!

Ready to dive into this super-detailed Gili T guide? Read along to discover the coolest things to do in Gili Trawangan and get all my tips to plan the perfect Gili Trawangan itinerary.

The Gili Islands are some of Southeast Asia's most stunning islands to explore.

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Before You Visit Gili Trawangan 

Before heading out to the gorgeous Gili Islands, here are a few tips and things you need to know. 

  • Search the  best places to stay in Gili Trawangan  well in advance. Gili T is a relatively small island, so hotels, resorts, and hostels fill up quickly. 
  • Book a fast boat to get to Gili T  stressfree. 
  • There’s not much crime on the Gili’s, but with that said, it’s always best to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. World Nomads  offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
  • There are only a handful of ATMs on the island. It’s a good idea to carry a bit of extra cash with you.
  • There are no motorized vehicles on any of the 3 Gili islands. The only way to get around is on foot or by bike. While it’s not hard to find a “ cidomo”  (horse cart) ready to take you all over, I wouldn’t recommend using them. Most animals are treated quite badly, and it’s really sad seeing them carting tourists and stacks of heavy luggage around. It’s best to travel light when visiting the Gili Islands. If you must take luggage, check out these handy tips on packing light and be sure to stay closer to the jetty. 
  • If you’re planning on spending quite a bit of time in Indonesia, make sure to grab  this awesome guide book . It’s a great way to learn more about the country’s history, traditions, and culture.

In a rush? Don’t miss a thing! Pin these things to do Gili T to read later.

Planning an island getaway to the Gili Islands? Discover the ABSOLUTE best things to do in Gili Trawangan here! From lounging on gorgeous beaches to swimming with turtles to epic beach parties, Gili T has something for everyone! Gili Trawangan Things to do | How to Get to Gili T | When to Visit Gili T | Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan | Gili T Nightlife | Gili Trawangan Snorkeling | Gili island hopping | Gili Sunset Swings | #giltrawangan #gilitbali

How to Get To Gili Trawangan 

Since the Gilis are quite remote, with the nearest landmass being Lombok, the only way to get there is by fast boat. With that said, if you are traveling from Bali, it’s still pretty easy to reach the islands. I’ve written a complete guide on how to get from Bali to the Gili Islands , but here’s a quick look at getting to Gili T if you’re in a rush.

Getting from Bali to Gili Trawangan

The  fastest and easiest way to get to Gili Trawangan from Bali is by speed boat . The boat ride takes about 2 hours and departs daily at 9 am from  Padang Bai.  Since fast boats only leave at certain time slots, it’s best to book a ticket  well in advance to avoid disappointment. 

While several boating companies are available, remember to choose a charter that includes a pick up at your hotel in Bali . That way, you wouldn’t need to worry about all the logistics of getting to the port. To save time and the hassle of even more research,  grab your Gili fast boat ticket here. 

Don’t want to plan a thing? Check out this 2D1N Gili T tour from Bali !

Gili Trawangan boats

Getting from Lombok to Gili Trawangan

If you are already in Lombok, getting to the Gilis couldn’t be easier. Both public ferries and speed boats depart daily from Bangsal Pier between 9:30 to 16:30. The public boat takes about 30 minutes to get to Gili Trawangan and leaves as soon as the boat fills up with about 40 people. Tickets cost IDR 22,500.

While a fast boat will ultimately be a bit more expensive (IDR 85,000), boats leave every hour on the hour. It only takes 15 minutes to reach Gili Trawangan.

Travel Tips: If you take either of these options, make sure to get to the ferry as early as possible. Also, only book tickets directly through the ticket office. There are quite a few local street vendors who’ll try to rip you off. 

For more info on getting to the Gills from Lombok, see  options and schedules here . 

When to Visit Gili Trawangan

The Gilli Islands have a tropical climate with hot and humid weather throughout the year. There are two distinct seasons, though, a wet season and a dry season.

The  dry season runs from April to October , with October being the hottest month, reaching up to 33°C. In contrast, the  wet season runs from November to March . January is the wettest month seeing more than 300mm of rainfall.

Consequently, the best time to visit Gili Trawangan is from July to October. During these months, the weather is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The temperature ranges from 25°C to 29°C, and there is very little rainfall. 

Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan

While Gili Trawangan might only be 15km big, there are oodles of cool places to stay. From backpacker-type joints to posh villas to gorgeous beachfront hotels, you name it; Gili T has it all! 

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Luxury:  If it’s luxury you’re after, you won’t find a better base than Hotel Lumi Gili Trawangan . Located mere steps from the beach, this gorgeous 4-star hotel boasts beautiful modern rooms, a large outdoor pool, and neatly-kept gardens.  Check prices and availability here . 

travel bali gili trawangan

Affordable Luxury:  If you’re looking for the perfect base at surprisingly affordable rates, you don’t need to look much further than PinkCoco Gili Trawangan . This beachfront locale is ideal for couples looking for a relaxing stay in a beautiful setting. The beach bar is the perfect spot to chill out with a boozy cocktail, catch the famous Gili T sunset, and enjoy live entertainment. But that’s not all; there’s also an onsite spa where you can get a massage and a gorgeous pool to cool off in.  Check prices and availability here . 

travel bali gili trawangan

Mid-Range:   Villas Flamingo is a hip 3-star hotel boasting colorful rooms with beautiful Instagrammable decor. Besides the onsite restaurant serving a delicious breakfast, the glimmering pool is the perfect spot to unwind after a day out exploring all the best things to do on Gili Trawangan. 

The hotel is a short stroll to Sunset Point and less than 1km from Gili Trawangan Harbor.  Check prices and availability here . 

travel bali gili trawangan

Budget:   Mad Monkey is a funky hostel featuring a cool outdoor pool, clean, modern facilities, and an amazing atmosphere. Choose from huts to teepees to dormitories. There are also loads of fun activities to join in if you’d like to mingle with the backpacker crowd. 

It’s a great option for solo travelers or backpackers looking for a cheap stay without sacrificing style and comfort.  Check prices and availability here . 

Need more help finding the perfect place to stay in Gili T?  Search more options here on Agoda . 

travel bali gili trawangan

The Most Epic Things to do at Gili Trawangan

Great! Now that you know how to get to the Gili islands and where to stay, let’s tackle all the awesome things to do on Gili Trawangan! 

Relax at the beaches

Arguably one of the best things to do on Gili Trawangan is simply to relax. You are on an island, after all! And what better place to do just that than at the beach! 

There are several beaches in Gili Trawangan, all offering epic views, perfect swimming conditions, and plenty of beachside stalls, restaurants, and bars where you can grab a bite or enjoy a freshly cracked coconut. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a quick look at the best beaches in Gili Trawangan. 

North East Beach:  Located a 5-minute stroll from the jetty, the stretch of sand in front of  Villa Almarik  offers great swimming conditions and is the best place to spot turtles in the shallow waters. If you’re looking for a relatively quiet Gili T beach sans the crowds, this is your best bet. 

Sunset Beach:  Towards the northwest coast of the island, you’ll find Sunset Beach – a popular spot among sunset chasers and Instagrammers. While Sunset Beach is pretty spectacular during the day, it’s even better once the sun starts to set! If you want to snap a photo in one of the cool Gili sunset swings, make sure to come a bit earlier so that you can be first in line. 

Malibu Beach: On the southwest side of Gili Trawangan, Malibu beach is just the place to kick off your flip flops and find a spot in the sand. There are also loads of cool beach bars where it’s easy to find a beanbag, have a cocktail, and watch the waves come and go.

South or Good Heart Beach : This beach is located on the island’s southeast side and probably the most crowded beach in Gili Trawangan. It gets quite busy during the day with the backpacker party crowd, and you’re bound to find a few happy hour deals from any of the nearby vendors. If you’re after a party vibe, this is the Gili T beach for you! 

Chilling on the beach should top your list of things to do Gili T.

Go snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the top things to do on Gili Trawangan, rivaling some of the best snorkeling spots in Southeast Asia . And to be honest, you can’t visit the Gili islands without getting a close-up look at the all colorful treasures beneath the water.

What really sets the snorkeling apart from elsewhere in Indonesia is that the Gili islands are home to incredible coral reefs filled with colorful fish and beautiful sea turtles, and even a few underwater statues! 

Moreover, you can literally go swimming and snorkeling off the shore from anywhere in Gili! If you didn’t bring your own  snorkeling gear , it’s easy to rent a mask, flippers, and a snorkel at any of the dive shops in town or even from locals on the beach. 

However, joining a guided snorkeling tour is a great way to really discover Gili Trawangan’s rich marine life. While you can book a snorkeling trip at practically any shop along the main strip, it’s a good idea to book a tour through a reliable tour operator like  this one . Most of the operators pack the boats to the brim, which is not always safe. For the ultimate experience, though, consider renting a private boat for you and your mates. It’s pretty easy to organize a private charter via most shops, too. By doing so, you’ll have a boat all to yourself!

Snorkeling with sea turtles in Gili T

Bike around the island

Since there are no vehicles on Gili Trawangan, the only way to get around is on foot or bike. It’s easy to rent bicycles all over the island for as little as IDR 50,000 a day. And in most cases, your accommodation will have bikes that you can use for free.

The best part? Gili T is really small and has little elevation. You could easily explore the entire island in less than an hour or two. Besides being a great way to get around, it’s also loads of fun! Bike to all the beaches, find a spot to chill out, take a dip in the cool waters, or simply spend some time under a palm tree before moving on to the next location. 

Biking around Gili Trawangan

Just a heads-up: The roads aren’t always the smoothest. Remember to slow down over the rocky patches and watch out for the deep sand spots! Also, while there’s little crime in the Gilis, make sure to leave your bike somewhere in plain sight. That way, you can always keep an eye on it. 

Go island hopping

Since Gili Air and Gili Meno are both only a short boat ride away from Gili Trawangan, it’s easy to see all three Gilis on one trip! 

Public boats travel twice a day between Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. The island-hopping boats leave Gili T at 9:30 every morning to Gili Meno and then onwards to Gili Air. The last boat back to Gili Trawangan leaves at 15:20. So, there’s lots of time to chill at the beach, go snorkeling, or explore. 

You can buy dirt cheap tickets directly at the harbor or through any travel booths across the island. Just know that you’ll probably pay a bit more if you don’t buy them at the ticket office by the jetty. 

island hopping Gili Trawangan

Take a day trip to Lombok

If you can tear yourself away from the gorgeous beaches and all the fun things to do on Gili Trawangan, it’s worth taking a day trip to Lombok. 

Revered for its laidback vibes and beautiful scenery, Lombok is a popular spot among backpackers and slow travelers. Besides unwinding on the epic beaches, hunting for waterfalls or exploring volcanoes are other popular musts in Lombok . Since your time is probably limited, it’s best to book an organized tour. By doing so, you can simply sit back and enjoy all the stunning scenery without having to plan a thing!

Just a heads-up: If you’re keen to hike Mount Rinjani, know that you’ll need at least a few days to get to the summit. There are many organized tours with knowledgeable guides to choose from, but it’s always best to do proper research. Here’s a cool  2D1N Rinjani tour  to consider. 

Go scuba diving

Like the rest of the Gilis, Gili T is a diving hotspot and home to some of the world’s best coral reefs. With warm waters year-round and excellent visibility, it’s a great place to explore Indonesia’s diverse marine life. 

You’re bound to see all kinds of colorful fish and a few sea turtles on any dive no matter what! But if you’re looking for a bit more action, head out to  Shark Point . Here there’s a good chance to spot reef sharks and stingrays. More experienced divers can also deep dive and explore some pretty spectacular wrecks like the Glenn Nusa 1 or Bounty Wreck nearby. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s easy to book a scuba dive session on the island. If you’re interested in exploring the underwater world, you can check out this  scuba diving tour .

Don’t have a PADI yet? Here’s a cool  beginner’s dive course  to get a quick introduction to the good stuff! 

Catch an epic sunset

The Gili Islands are famous for their epic sunsets. And watching one (or many) definitely deserves a spot on your list of things to do at Gili Trawangan! 

There are stacks of beach bars and little elevated huts on the “sunset side” ready to serve you an ice-cold beer or a freshly cracked coconut. It’s just the place to watch the sun melt away over the horizon while listening to cool music in an airy hut, deck chair, or beanbag. It doesn’t get any better than this; trust me! 

Just a head’s up, though, be prepared to pay IDR 150,000 to watch the sunset at most bars along the sunset strip. This fee is on top of any drinks or food you order, and believe it or not; it’s probably the only place in the world you’ll need to pay to watch the sunset! 

One last thing – don’t forget your camera! You’re going to need it! 

Catching an epic sunset is one of the Gili swings is a top thing to to in Gili Trawangan.

Visit the Gili T swings

You wouldn’t be doing Gili T properly if you didn’t take a swing in one of the epic Gili ocean swings. There are many swings scattered all over the island, but for the best photos, make sure you head out to the swings on the westside of the island along the sunset strip. While some resorts have their own swings, there are a couple of community-owned swings where you can swing over the crystal clear waters and enjoy the gentle breeze for a small fee. 

If you want to visit the swings at sunset, make sure to go a bit earlier. It gets crowded quickly around 6 pm. 

Snack your way through the Gili T Night Market

Located a short stroll from the jetty, you’ll find the BEST and cheapest place to eat in Gili Trawangan – the Gili T Night Market. Brimming with stalls dishing up just about anything from lip-smackingly delicious local food to tasty barbeque to fresh seafood and more, it’s not hard to see why this is such a must-visit place. Besides grabbing an authentic Indonesian meal at a dirt-cheap price, it’s also the perfect spot to soak up the buzzing atmosphere and mingle with locals.

Most stalls and vendors open at 6 pm and run late into the night.  

Enjoy the nightlife in Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan has quite a reputation as a party island, and even if that is not your scene, you should definitely set aside at least one night to party the night away! There are so many cool bars and hipster hangouts to choose from in Gili T, making it quite hard to decide exactly where to party. 

With that said, one place that you should not miss is  Sama Sama Reggae Bar . While it’s a pretty chilled place, it has an awesome vibe and is the perfect place to kickstart your night out. Don’t miss the live reggae music show every evening at 7 pm! 

For those looking to join the die-hard party crowd, head over to  Jungle , where you can have a wild night filled with thumping EDM music and flowing shots! If that’s a bit too wild for you, other good places to hangout include  Blue Marlin ,  The Irish Pub , and  Rudy’s . 

Go on a sunset cruise

If you want to watch the sunset over the water, enjoy a bit of snorkeling, and have a tasty meal onboard a boat, you can’t miss a sunset cruise. It’s always best to  book a sunset cruise online  in advance to guarantee your spot, but you can also organize one at any tourist info booths along the main strip. Just make sure to shop around first to avoid being ripped off. Also, don’t be afraid to haggle; most vendors are notorious for inflating prices! 

Of course, if you want to take your Gili T experience to the next level, don’t miss the famous Gili T Booze Cruise. Just a word of warning, it will be a  wild  party, but you’re guaranteed a good time! Check out the  Jiggy Boat Party’s Facebook page  for more details. 

Get a massage

After an action-packed day exploring all of Gili T’s top attractions, treat yourself to a lavish pamper session. And what better way to unwind than with a good old fashioned massage!

If your hotel doesn’t have an onsite spa, it is possible to get a masseuse to come over to your hotel room. Alternatively, pop by any massage parlor along the main strip or, better yet, get a massage right on the beach along the southeast side! 

massage hut Gili Trawangan

Join a cooking class

If you didn’t have time to join a cooking class while in Bali, now’s your chance to rectify that. Indonesian food is mind-blowingly delicious, and you’ll be doing yourself an injustice if you didn’t add a cooking class to your list of things to do at Gili Trawangan.

Sweet and Spicy is the most reputable school on the island and offers a fun 2-hour cooking class. Besides learning how to prepare several amazing dishes that you can gobble up afterward, you’ll also get tons of cool tips and tricks so that you can recreate everything back home! Book your spot here !

gili t beach bar

What to Pack For Gili Trawangan

As already mentioned, Gili T is hot and humid year-round. Make sure to pack light, breathable clothing to stay cool during the day. Besides the usual things you’ll pack for a beach vacation, here are a few other items I highly recommend bringing along. 

  • Camera & Drone: The Gili Islands are absolutely out of this world! I use an Olympus Mirrorless camera , but if you’re into videography, add this  DJI Mini Pro 3  to your kit. 
  • Underwater Camera:  Since you’re on a tropical island, you’re likely to spend quite a bit of time underwater. Pack a waterproof camera like this Go Pro  to capture all the awesome underworld treasures.
  • Reef Safe Sunscreen:  While you won’t have trouble finding sunscreen on Gili T, bringing  reef-safe sunscreen  along is highly encouraged. That way, you can stay protected against the harsh rays without harming the environment. 
  • Waterproof Phone Case:  If you don’t want to get your phone wet, it’s always a good idea to pack a  waterproof phone case . 
  • Dry Bag:  Many of the things to do on Gili Trawangan involve being in or near the water. It’s a good idea to pack a dry bag, like this lightweight Earth Pack bag , to ensure all your belongings stay dry. 
  • Quick Drying Towel:  There’s nothing worse than tugging along a wet towel. These  Turkish towels  dry in a jiffy and come in a range of funky colors and patterns. 
  • Eco-Friendly Bug Spray:  Mosquitoes can be a real pain in Gili T. Make sure to pack an eco-friendly bug spray or mozzie-repellent bracelets  to avoid any bites. 
  • Universal Adapter:  You might need a travel adapter for your trip to Gili T and the rest of Indonesia.  This one  works in over 150 countries and is super lightweight. 

Where to Eat in Gili T

You’re bound to be hungry after exploring all the cool things to do at Gili Trawangan. Luckily, there’s no shortage of excellent food joints on the island. Here are some of the best places to eat in Gili T. 

  • The Banyan Tree:  If you’re looking to fill up with a healthy meal, head over to The Banyan Tree. The restaurant has a wide range of delicious vegetarian options. 
  • Warung Warna:  Not too far from the pier, you’ll find one of the best places to find cheap and tasty Indonesian cuisine. Don’t miss the Nasi Goreng and the satay skewers – they are heavenly! 
  • La Moomba Bar and Restaurant:  With picture-perfect ocean views and an incredible menu, La Moomba is a great spot to grab a bite and chill out with a few boozy cocktails. 
  • Casa Bonita:  If you want to enjoy a meal in one of the cool huts overlooking the water, make sure to stop by Casa Bonita. The menu features all the usual Indonesian classics and some western food choices for more picky eaters. 
  • If you’re looking for a place to eat with funky instagrammable interiors, an awesome laidback vibe, and great food, then  Hellocapitano Lifestyle Café  is for you. Try the smashed avo toasty or the butterfly smoothie bowl! 
  • Coffee and Thyme  might be small, but it’s cozy and sports rustic vibes. They serve the most amazing coffee & freshly baked desserts. Try their signature creme brûlée coffee or the thyme latte! 
  • Kuyu Cafe  is another Instagrammable cafe in Gili T with a delectable menu. Come for brunch and have a freshly baked cinnamon roll while you’re at it! 

It's easy to relax in one of these cute beach huts on Gili Trawangan's beaches.

Did You Figure Out What to do in Gili Trawangan?

Whether you are heading out to explore the underwater world, chill at the beach, or joining the crazy party scrum, there’s plenty to do at Gili Trawangan! Whatever you do, though, don’t forget to soak up the laid-back vibes and enjoy paradise at its very best! 

Thanks for Reading my Guide on Things to do on Gili Trawangan!

If you need more help planning your Bali & Indonesia trip, check out these fun guides I wrote.

  • The Perfect 2 weeks in Indonesia itinerary
  • The Most Efficient 7 Days in Bali Itinerary  
  • How to Spend 3 Epic Days in Ubud
  • 13 Ubud Restaurants you can’t miss
  • The Most Incredible Ubud Resorts, Villas and Hotels
  • 8 Stunning Waterfalls near Ubud
That wraps up this list of Gili Trawangan things to do! Feel free to share your travel tips, best things to do, places to stay, best eateries, and anything in between in the comments below! 

Liked these Gili Trawangan things to do? Share them with your friends here.

Planning an island getaway to the Gili Islands? Discover the ABSOLUTE best things to do in Gili Trawangan here! From lounging on gorgeous beaches to swimming with turtles to epic beach parties, Gili T has something for everyone! Gili Trawangan Things to do | How to Get to Gili T | When to Visit Gili T | Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan | Gili T Nightlife | Gili Trawangan Snorkeling | Gili island hopping | Gili Sunset Swings | #giltrawangan #gilitbali

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September 5, 2022 at

This is great and so helpful, thank you for posting this!

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September 6, 2022 at

Thanks Trish – glad it can come in handy! 🙂

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September 12, 2022 at

Really great and useful info! It’s help me get the in and outs of Gili T!

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January 9, 2023 at

So much helpful information! Can’t wait to discover this little island and use your advice. Thank you so much😊😊😊

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January 21, 2023 at

very usefull guide and tips, Im in Gili T in early june, really looking forward to it already!

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July 11, 2023 at

Thank you so much for sharing. It’s very helpful!

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October 19, 2023 at

As someone who’s been contemplating a summer vacation, this guide couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s given me a lot to think about. Can’t wait to experience the beauty of this place.

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The Wandering Quinn Travel Blog

30 Things To Do On Gili Trawangan! Something For Everyone!

Categories Asia , Indonesia

Gili Trawangan or Gili T as it’s most commonly known is one of the 3 Gili islands off of the coast of Lombok and there are so many things to do in Gili Trawangan!

Yes, Gili Trawangan is part of Lombok island, not Bali! People often refer to the ‘Bali Gili Islands’, but this isn’t correct. However, visiting Gili Trawangan as part of your Bali itinerary , or Lombok itinerary , does work well and Gili T is certainly one of the most popular places to visit in Indonesia!

After living on Gili T for a few months, here is my Gili Trawangan blog on the best things to do in Gili Trawangan, and no matter whether you’re backpacking Indonesia, you’re on holiday in Indonesia, you’re visiting Gili Trawangan with family , as a couple or alone in Gili Trawangan, you’ll find something on this list to interest you when working out what to do in Gili Trawangan!

Things To Do in Gili Trawangan

1 – bike around the island.

There are no cars and no mopeds on Gili T so the only way to get around the island is by bicycle, and horse and cart .

I recommend hiring a bike on Gili T for the duration of your stay, or for one day at least, and biking all the way around the island which takes about 1 hour without stopping but you should stop for a few refreshing drinks along the way and take in the views.

It’s likely you’ll be able to hire a bike in Gili T from your accommodation or there will be a hire place nearby. Generally, the cost is 50,000 IDR per day .

Can you walk around Gili Trawangan? Yes, you can but if you want to see the whole island it will take you much longer and it will be sweaty in the midday heat and biking is by far the most popular of the things to do in Gili Trawangan!

2 – See Turtles Snorkelling From the Beach

You may have heard that you can s ee Turtles in Gili Trawangan and snorkelling is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Gili Trawangan because where else in the world are you guaranteed to see Turtles ??

You don’t need to go on a snorkelling Gili Trawangan tour though, you can see turtles by snorkelling from the beach of Gili T.

The snorkelling on Gili T is the best on the Eastern side of the island and there’s a section of beach conveniently named Turtle Point which is where you should head. You can hire snorkelling equipment from many of the guys that have shops and sunbeds on the beach for 50,000 IDR.

Related Post: The BEST Places to Snorkel on Gili T!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, snorkelling turtles

3 – Go on a Snorkelling Boat Tour

If you want to do an activity on Gilli T , you don’t feel confident snorkelling alone, or perhaps you’re travelling Gili T solo and want to make some friends, going on a Snorkelling Tour of Gili T is a great idea!

The snorkelling tours involve a few stops including stopping at Turtle Point, Gili Meno, Gili Air and you will also get to see the Gili T underwater statues  by Gili Meno which is cool.

Things to do in Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno Statues

4 – Have a Pool Day at a Resort Without Paying

If your Gili Trawangan Accommodation doesn’t have a swimming pool, don’t worry! These days there are so many Resorts in Gili Trawangan with swimming pools and most of them accept people that are not guests so you can use the pool and their facilities as long as you buy a drink, and maybe lunch! This is one of the chilled things to do in Gili Trawangan!

I recommend looking for the pools and resorts that are quiet as they are more likely to welcome you . 

things to do in Gili Trawangan, swimming pool and subbed at Gili T Hotel

  • Related Gili Island Posts:
  • Your Complete Guide to the Gili Islands!
  • The Perfect Bali, Gili Islands and Lombok Itinerary!
  • How to Spend 3 Days in Gili Trawangan – the ideal itinerary!

5 – Watch the Sunset from Sunset Beach

The Western side of Gili T is purely west facing and Indonesia is known for its incredible sunsets so make sure you cycle around to the west side of the island to sunset beach to enjoy it.

You can sit on the beach for free or you can sit on the beanbags at many of the cool sunset bars on Gili T, most of which offer live music at sunset. I really recommend Goa Bar for its cool music, vibe and staff.

Make sure you stick around even once the sun has gone down as the sky after the sun has set in Indonesia is when the magic happens!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Sunset and Beanbags on Sunset Beach Gili T

PLANNING YOUR GILI ISLANDS TRIP

I lived on Gili Trawangan island for 6 months so I know it well! Here are my top posts to help you plan your trip:

30 TOP Things to do on Gili Trawangan !

3 Day Gili Trawangan Itinerary !

2 Week Gili Islands, Bali and Lombok itinerary !

How to get around Gili T, Gili Air and Gili Meno by Boat !

Where to stay in Gili Trawangan – Best Hotels, Hostels & Villas !

6 – Get Your Instagram Photo on the Gili T Swings

If you’re wondering: Which Gili Island has the swing? It’s Gili T that has the most swings!

The Gili T Swings are super popular and iconic now, and they do make the best Gili T Instagram photo! There are swings all over the island, most of them are on Sunset Beach though. 

For my full guide on the swings and where to find the best Gili T swing , including the Gili T Swing and Hammock, have a read of this blog post  and add playing on the swings to your list of things to do in Gili Trawangan!

7 – Watch the Sunrise from Gili T Hill

Gili Trawangan is flat apart from one hill in the middle of the island. Also known as the Gili Trawangan Viewpoint , this hill is a local area of the island and businesses for forbidden to use the land for hotels etc, however for the best sunrise viewpoint on Gili T and one of the unique things to do in Gili Trawangan , you need to head up the hill!

8 – Go Scuba Diving in Gili Trawangan

Diving is in the top things to do in the Gili Islands because of how clear the water is and how amazing the underwater life is.

Gili Trawangan Diving is popular for beginners wanting to learn to dive or take a fun dive, but it’s also popular with experienced diver’s and offers something for everyone.

If you’re a keen diver I’d recommend booking your Gili T accommodation at a dive school in Gili T  and you’ll probably get a better deal by combining your diving and accommodation.

Popular Dive Resorts in Gili T for all budgets are: Trawangan Dive Resort , Compass Divers Hostel , Mango Dive & Bungalow.

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Trawangan Dive Centre on Gili T

9 – Learn how to Freedive

Don’t fancy scuba diving or want a new challenge on your list of things to do in Gili Trawangan? Freediving seems to be becoming more and more popular now and you can take a beginner’s freediving course on Gili T. There are a few freediving schools like Freedive Gili   and Manta Dive .

10 – Make Your Own Jewellery

What about a jewellery workshop as one of your what to do on Gili Trawangan activities?

Yin Jewelry for the Soul is a beautiful jewellery store with locations in Bali and in Gili T. I purchased one of their Karma rings back in 2014 and I still wear it today so I was intrigued by their Silver Classes which they only run on Gili Trawangan and it was one of my favourite things to do in Gili Trawangan!

We were given a piece of silver and were able to make a ring, pendant or bracelet. I decided to make a ring and with the expert help of Gufran and Bahrain, I was really happy with the result and it feels much more special to me than a store-bought ring. For something different and a way to remember your travels,  I really recommend a Silver Workshop at Yin Jewelry. You can book a place on their website here.

I also really recommend popping into their store to check out their other products as they are unique to Indonesia, high quality and a great souvenir. 

11 – Have a Flower Bath

Bali Flower Baths have become a ‘thing’ on Instagram but you don’t need to go to Bali and stay in an expensive Bali Hotel to have a Flower Bath.

Flower Bath Gili T Spa along Beach Road close to the pier, offers a Gili T Flower Bath and has 3 rooms set up for the perfect flower bath and Instagram photo! This is one of the super fun things to do in Gili Trawangan!

12 – Treat Yourself to a Massage

Taking of spa’s and massages, for relaxing things to do in Gili Trawangan you can treat yourself to a relaxing Balinese massage and work out all of those backpack pains with a harder Lombok massage.

There are so many places to get a massage on Gili T, including a few beach massages on the western side but I recommend Flower Bath Gili T Spa as a high-quality place.

Massage room at Flower Bath Spa | things to do in Gili T

13 – Do Yoga on Gili T

For Yoga in Gili T, there are a number of resorts and schools around the island offering morning and sunset Yoga.

Gili Yoga offers regular Yoga classes twice a day and is close to the pier and therefore in a good and easy location to most accommodation.

But you can also do Sunrise Yoga on Gili T at Pearl of Trawangan where you can do yoga on the beach and  Sunset Yoga on Gili T at Sunset Beach Yoga on the Western side of the island offering the best sunset view during your class.

If you’ve always wanted to try SUP Yoga , you can also do SUP Yoga on Gili T.

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Sunset Beach Yoga Shala Gili T

14 – Horse Riding on Gili Trawangan at Sunset

When you watch the sunset on Gili Trawangan you’ll have lots of horses riding past you. There are 2 ways you can horse ride on the Gili T.

Firstly there are a few guys that ride (quite crazily) up and down the beach at sunset offering rides, these are much shorter rides and seem to be for a photo opportunity over an experience of riding. These guys are not licensed I believe, but if you just want to jump on, take a few photos and jump off, you can use them if you feel safe to.

The second way, the best way and one of the most fun things to do in Gili Trawangan, is to go out with one of the horse riding stables on Gili Trawangan for an official sunset ride. From my experience of going out riding and meeting the owners, I recommend STUD Horse Riding who are a responsible company and look after their horses well.

To book a sunset horse ride on Gili Trawangan you can contact STUD on their Facebook page .

15 – Go to the Gym

Of course, this Gili Trawangan what to do item is not for everyone but if you like to stay fit on your travels you’ll be pleased to hear there is a gym on Gili T and it’s pretty good ! It’s called Total Body Fit and is directly opposite the pier. It’s part of Tropica Gili Hotel .

They offer passes for 1 session for 70,000 IDR, 4 sessions for 240,000 IDR, 8 for 400,000 IDR and a one-month membership for 500,000 IDR.

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Gili T gym

16 – Try Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Stand Up Paddle Boards can be rented on the Eastern beach which is the same side of the island where you go snorkelling so they pair up as great activities in Gili Trawangan. This is also one of my favourite things to do in Gili Trawangan because often you can see turtles while you’re on the paddle board!

17 – Play Mini Golf

Gili Golf & Bar isn’t advertised well but it’s one of the good things to do on Gili Trawangan for families, and groups of friends, especially if you fancy something a bit different.

They have an 18 hole mini-golf course and they serve food and drinks on site. 

18 – Go Surfing in Gili Trawangan

Bongkas Surf School is the place to go surfing in Gili T, you can hire surfboards from them and take surfing lessons on Gili T. They also have a homestay called Bongkas Homestay .

However, note that  surfing in Gili Trawangan is seasonal and it may not always be a good time to surf, the best months to surf seem to be around April-June.

things to do in Gili Trawangan, surf school Gili T

19 – Eat Well!

You may know of Bali for good food and Instagram worthy cafes but Gili T is catching up!

There are so many nice cafes to have a coffee, brunch and lunch in, with an unlimited amount of Smoothie Bowl options and the best thing is that most of these cafes offer healthy options including lots of vegan options.

Come dinner time there are also so many restaurants on the beach, and inland offering really high quality local and western food so you’ll never be short of places to eat in Gili Trawangan!

My favourite places to eat in Gili T are: Coffee & Thyme, Casa Vintage Living, Banyan Tree and Regina Pizza for the best Pizza on Gili T!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Buddha Bowl at Case Vintage restaurant

20 – Go Shopping!

Gili T used to have the usual ‘backpacker’ style shops and markets but these days you’ll struggle to find a pair of elephant pants as many of the shops are independent boutique stores as well as having stores such as Quiksilver.

From clothes, bags and jewellery there are some real gems here that you can wear in Indonesia but also take time and many of the shops in Gili T will rival those of Bali so make sure you put shopping on your list of things to do in Gili Trawangan!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Yin Jewelry Store, shopping in Gili T

21 – Take a Day Trip to Gili Meno or Gili Air

Although you can stay on both Gili Air and Gili Meno (Gili Air is more developed than Gili Meno and is known for being quieter than Gili T and better for families, honeymoons etc), you can also visit them from Gili Trawangan for the day.

Gili Meno is pretty quiet but things to do in Gili Meno include snorkelling at the underwater statues.

Gili Air has more going on and I preferred my day trip to Gili Air from Gili T more than Gili Meno . When it comes to things to do in Gili Air there are lots of nice shops, you can walk or bike around the island in 1-2 hours, go snorkelling in Gili Air and chill on the beach, so this is one of the good things to do in Gili Trawangan!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, white sand and blue sea in Gili Air

22 – Join the Beach Clean on Friday’s

Gili Eco Trust was founded in 2000 and its mission is to create a sustainable island . One of the ways they do this is to prevent and manage the waste and rubbish on Gili Trawangan which is very much needed.

How can you help keep the island paradise of Gili Trawangan clean? Of course, you can pick up rubbish as you go but you can also join their Debris Free Friday from 5:00-6:00 pm on a designated part of the island, and they’ll give you a beer after to thank you for your help. This is one of the things to do in Gili Trawangan that gives back!

You can also donate money to the project, visit their Eco Gift Shop and take an Eco Tour to learn more about what they are doing. Find out more about Gili Eco Trust here!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Gili Eco Trust Shop outside

23 – Visit Cats of Gili & Horses of Gili

There are 2 more amazing organisations on Gili Trawangan called Cats of Gili and Horses of Gili .

You can’t help out directly at these organisations by seeing the cats and horses they look after but you can visit the Cat Shop and Horse Shop and buy something and the proceeds will go to helping the cats and horses , or you can donate money. Another one of the things to do in Gili Trawangan that gives back!

Related Post: How are the horses that work on Gili T treated NOW?

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Cats of Gili Shop

GETTING FROM BALI TO THE GILI ISLANDS

There is only one way to get from Bali to the Gili Islands and that’s my fast boat from Padang Bay.

You can wait until you arrive to book your boat or be organised and book it in advance here. Booking in advance is especially good during the summer and Christmas months!

BUY HERE: From Bali: 1-Way Boat Transfer to Gili Trawangan/Gili Air/Lombok

BUY HERE: From all Gili Islands: 1-Way Boat Transfer to Bali

24 – Head out on a Sunset Booze Cruise

The Gili Trawangan Booze Cruise is pretty famous because it’s a lot of fun! 

Gili Mansion Hostel runs a boat party on Gili T every Wednesday and Saturday from 2:00 pm for 5 hours including swim stops, sunset views, lots of alcohol, a DJ and an afterparty with all the new friends you’ve just met! Check out the details on Gili Mansion’s site here!  People say this is the best and craziest thing to do in Gili Trawangan!

There’s also the famous Jiggy Boat Party, for the Jiggy Boat Party Schedule and Jiggy Boat Party Booking, have a look at Jiggy’s website here .

25 – Take Magic Mushrooms on Gili T

Magic Mushrooms are not legal in Indonesia and not legal in Gili Trawangan but they are on offer everywhere and it is safe to buy them.

You’ll see lots of bars advertising Magic Mushrooms in Gili T in the form of a Mushroom Shake / Shroom Shake especially near Turtle Point on Beach Road on the Eastern Side and at some of the Sunset Bars on the Western Beach of Gili T.

From my experience, I’d recommend doing them on the beach, with friends, whilst watching the best sunset of your life!

A few safety points about taking Magic Mushroom on Gili Trawangan:  Do not to take them alone, find some people you feel safe and comfortable with. Don’t take them too late, it’s better to take them when it’s light, just before sunset is perfect and seeing the colours of the sunset on mushrooms is pretty epic! Watch your consumption, get a weak or medium-strength depending on whether you’ve taken them before, and don’t do them after eating, eat a few hours before in order to get the most effective Shroom Shake on Gili T!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Magic Mushrooms sign on beach road

What To Do in Gili Trawangan at Night.

26 – party.

Gili Trawangan is known as the party island of Indonesia and it is the best place to party, especially for backpackers so partying should be on your list of things to do in Gili Trawangan!

The Gili T Nightlife is epic and there is a different party each night on Gili T so it doesn’t matter when you visit. Here’s a quick Gili T party guide:

Monday – Blue Marlin

Tuesday – Jiggy Bar

Wednesday – Irish Bar

Thursday – A quiet Night

Friday – Sand Bar

Saturday – Sama Sama

Sunday – Evolution

If you’re not coming to Gili Trawangan to party, don’t worry. The bars in Gili T and clubs I’ve mentioned above are on the Eastern side of the island near the pier. This is the most populated part of the island so don’t stay around here if you want a quiet stay.

The western side of the island and inland are totally different and offer a party free, quiet stay.

things to do in Gili Trawangan, party at Evolution on Gili T

27 – Join the Gili T Pub Crawl

If you’re travelling solo but want to experience the Gili Trawangan nightlife, join the Gili T Pub Crawl which runs on a Tuesday, Friday and Sunday . The ticket includes a lot of drinks, a free t-shirt and a guaranteed good night with good friends! Find out more information on their Facebook page here!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Pub Crawl sign for Gili T

28 – Eat at the Night Market

If you’re travelling to Gili T on a budget, the night market will be your best friend because aside from the local restaurants you’ll spot in the small streets inland, it’s the cheapest place to eat on Gili T .

The Gili Trawangan Night Market is on every night and is full of fresh, local food and lots of BBQ options, perfect for lining your stomach before a night out!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, people sat at Gili T night market

29 – Watch a Film on the Beach

If you’re looking for a quieter night and one of the chilled things to do in Gili Trawangan, head to one of the  Gili T cinemas on the beach . Villa Ombak offers Misbar Movie which is an open-air cinema on the beach in Gili T and Aston Sunset Beach Resort also offers movies on the beach in Gili T.

things to do in Gili Trawangan, cinema on the beach in Gili Trawangan

30 – Listen to Live Music

The best thing about live music in Gili T is the choice you have. If you want to relax on the beach on a beanbag and listen to some chilled live music you can. For this, I recommend Gili Sands Beach Club where Rizal Alfaro usually plays.

However, if you want to dance to live music in Gili T, the best place to go is Sama Sama Reggae Bar which is an institution on Gili T, plays live music every night and is the best place to have a few drinks and a dance!

things to do in Gili Trawangan, Live music at Sama Sama Gili T

I told you there are things to do in Gili Trawangan for everybody on offer!

If you’re not on Gili T yet, keep reading for more information to help you plan your Gili T trip!

Where to Stay on Gili T

The best thing about Gili Trawangan accommodation is that it offers something for everybody and for all budgets whether you’re looking for cheap accommodation in Gili T or resorts with a swimming pool in Gili T.

How To Get to Gili Trawangan?

Bali to gili trawangan.

The most popular route that people do is to land in Bali International Airport and then travel to Gili Trawangan.

There is only one port and pier in Bali where the boat from Bali to Gili Islands runs and that’s from Padang Bai in the North.

You can book a minibus and boat package which will pick you up from your Bali Hotel, take you to Padang Bai and then will take you to your boat over to the Gili Islands.

The whole journey takes about 5 hours depending on where you’re staying in Bali and they l eave two or 3 times a  day . 

There are different companies offering differently priced tickets, generally, the cheaper the ticket, the more squashed your minibus or car will be and the smaller the boat will be. I recommend the company Eka Jaya  which costs more but is much comfier, you can book tickets with Eka Jaya on 12Go Asia here .

You will need to book tickets from Padang Bay pier on 12GO Asia and get a taxi from where you are in Bali in Padang Bay. Getting your own transport is much easier, quicker and comfier than getting a shared transfer.

boats and backpackers arriving on Gili T | how to get to Gili T

Lombok to Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is much closer to the island of Lombok than it is Bali so it is quicker and easier to get to Gili T from Lombok than Bali .

If you want to go straight to Gili Trawangan I recommend looking at flights into Lombok Praya Airport , from here you can travel from Lombok Airport to Bangsal Harbour in 90 minutes and get the boat from Bangsal to Gili Trawangan in just 20 minutes.

Not only is Lombok Airport closer to the pier than Bali Airport but there are more regular boats from Lombok to Gili Trawangan than Bali to Gili Trawangan, they take less time and if you miss a public boat you can hire a private boat from Lombok to Gili Islands.

Nusa Lembongan to Gili Trawangan

Finally, if you are already travelling around the small Indonesian islands, there is a boat from Nusa Lembongan to Gili Trawangan which cuts out all of the bus transfers!

  • For more of my Gili Island blog posts to help you plan your trip see:
  • How to find the BEST swings on Gili T!
  • The BEST Places to Snorkel on Gili T!
  • The Best Places to Visit in Lombok!

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Gili Islands Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

a gorgeous beach with a boat parked along the shore in the Gili Islands, Indonesia

Though they are not as tranquil and cheap as they used to be, if you’re looking for a quiet alternative to Bali — with even better beaches and seafood — head to the Gilis. They offer incredible diving, stunning beaches, and plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation. Not a lot happens here so if you’re looking for a chill beach spot away from the chaos of Bali, this is the place for you!

This guide to the Gilis can help you plan your visit, save money, and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where To Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on the Gili Islands

Top 5 Things to See and Do in the Gili Islands

A women swimming with a sea turtle underwater in the Gili Islands, Indonesia

1. Lounge on the beaches

The Gili Islands have postcard-perfect beaches with white sand and clear, warm waters in a brilliant shade of turquoise. It’s really a beach paradise here. Some of the beaches, particularly on Gili T, have sun loungers for use by customers of the bar, restaurant, hotel, or dive shop or you can just rock up with a towel. Grab a book, pour a drink, and sit back and enjoy the view.

2. Go scuba diving

Lionfish, scorpion fish, cuttlefish, octopus, and different types of rays fill the waters around the islands. All three islands have lots of scuba diving training centers and, in my opinion, the diving here is better than Bali (it’s cheaper to learn here too). An Open Water certification costs around 5,900,000 IDR. A single tank dive with Trawangan Dive on Gili T costs 540,000 IDR but discounts are available for three dives or more and group bookings. All divers are required to pay a 100,000 IDR Marine Park fee and a Gili Eco Trust donation of 50,000 IDR.

3. Learn to surf

The southern tip of Gili T has the best surfing in the area, offering good waves all year round. If you want to stay at a surf camp, expect to pay around 5,000,000 IDR for a 6-day camp (this includes lessons, accommodation, breakfast, snorkeling, and other activities). A single surf lesson costs around 300,000 IDR.

4. Visit the sea turtles

Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno have hatcheries that lie right on the island’s big beaches, but you can also go snorkeling to see the turtles in their natural habitat. Take a tour or rent some snorkeling gear and ask your hotel/hostel staff for the best spots to see them. Remember never to touch the turtles you see, stay at least two meters away, and never use flash photography around them. In nesting season, Gili Eco Trust goes out before dawn each morning to mark the nests so they aren’t disturbed. Watch out for their flags and keep clear!

5. Bike the islands

These islands are so small, that it won’t take you long to tour each one by bike (Gili T is the largest and is still only 7 kilometers all the way around). Pack some snacks and beach gear and make an afternoon of it! If you have snorkeling gear you can jump in the sea at any time to see the beautiful island reefs that are just offshore. Bike rentals start at 40,000 IDR per day.

Other Things to See and Do in the Gili Islands

1. go snorkeling.

There are tons of places to snorkel around the islands. You can take a private boat if you are with a large enough group, rent snorkeling gear, or do an organized boat trip. A 4-hour snorkeling tour (with pickup) costs around 300,000 IDR per person. Renting the gear is quite cheap, usually costing just 25,000 IDR. Approach any of the little stalls on the beach as most of them have masks and fins just under the counter.

2. Party on Trawangan

Out of all the islands, Gili Trawangan is the party island (Gili Meno is the quietest). Party nights are regular and are rotated between the bars, which usually stay open until 4am. The famous Full Moon parties are held on the beach on the southern part of Trawangan with a DJ playing until sunrise. If your visit means you miss the full moon, Mad Monkey hostel has a foam party in the pool every Friday.

3. Try some water sports

There are tons of water sports to enjoy on the islands, such as parasailing, water-skiing, and wakeboarding (which all cost between 600,000-900,000 IDR. For something more relaxed, you can rent a paddleboard for 100,000 IDR.

4. Go kayaking

On the northern side of Trawangan, you can rent kayaks or take a guided tour of the island. On your trip, expect to encounter rays, turtles, and other wildlife. Karma Kayaks is a reputable place to rent them from. A guided day trip costs around 300,000 IDR per person. You can also rent clear bottom kayaks at Fly Gili Parasailing on Gili T.

6. Watch the sunset

Watching the sunset in Gili Trawangan is an unmissable experience. To enjoy the Gili T sunset, the most popular spots are to the southwest of Gili Trawangan, around Sunset Paradise Bar or Exile Gili Trawangan. But really you can get a great view anywhere along the west coast from the Mad Monkey hostel down. Many people head to these popular places to watch the sunset so get there early to find a good spot.

7. Eat at the night market

The Gili T night market opens every day at 6pm. Located in front of the main pier, there are stalls selling meat skewers, rice, vegetables, seafood, noodles, tofu, sate, grilled corn on the cob, and more. You can get a huge plate with meat skewers, rice, vegetables, and a dessert for as little as 30,000 IDR.

8. Enjoy live reggae music at Sama Sama

The Sama Sama Reggae Bar offers live reggae music every night. The vibe is relaxed, and dozens of budget travelers head there to chill out, get something to eat, chat with other travelers, and have a beer. (“Sama Sama” means “you’re welcome” in Indonesian.)

9. Attend an Indonesian cooking class

Attending an Indonesian cooking class is a fun way to learn something new during your time on the Gili Islands. The cooking classes teach you how to make classic Indonesian meals like Nasi Goreng (a fried rice dish) and Mie Goreng (a spicy noodle dish). They cost around 300,000-400,000 IDR per class and make for the perfect souvenir.

11. Go fishing

Spending a full day fishing is a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery around the islands while also catching your dinner. The locals teach you how to use worms as bait for luring fish and, if you’re lucky, you will actually catch your dinner. Your guide can show you how to prepare your catch at the end of the trip too. Expect to pay 1,200,000 IDR for two people for a fishing charter.

12. Attend a yoga class

There are daily yoga classes on all three islands (especially Gili Meno). It’s possible to attend a yoga class by yourself with a teacher or with a group class. A one-hour group class costs around 120,000 IDR. For an in-depth yoga experience, book a yoga multi-day retreat. Four-day passes start from 2,500,000 IDR.

12. Go horseback riding

There are several stables on all three islands offering horseback riding. You can opt for anything from a short beach ride to a full round-the-island ride. STUD Horse Riding and Rescue is the oldest on the island and one of the few places with a focus on animal welfare. Prices start at 300,000 IDR for a half-hour ride or 650,000 IDR for a round-the-island tour.

13. Join a beach clean-up

The amount of trash that washes up on the shores of Gili every day isn’t as bad as in Bali but it’s still significant. There are several organizations that run beach clean-ups including some hotels, hostels, and dive operators. Gili Eco Trust runs a one-hour beach clean-up called Debris Free Friday every week at 5pm on Gili T, followed by a free Bintang beer. Check their website or Facebook page for meet-up details.

  For more information on other destinations in Indonesia, check out these guides:

  • Bali Travel Guide

The Gili Islands Travel Costs

a gorgeous beach with a boat parked along the shore in the Gili Islands, Indonesia

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm room with 3-6 beds starts at around 65,000 IDR per night, though more commonly they cost 100,000 IDR or more. A private room costs 150,000-300,000 IDR. Most hostels have Wi-Fi, hot water for showers, and AC — but not all do so be sure to check before you book.

Budget hotel prices – For a double room with a private bathroom, AC, Wi-Fi, and free breakfast expect to pay at least 300,000-500,000 IDR per night.

Airbnb is available throughout the islands. Private rooms start at around 400,000 IDR per night while you can expect to pay at least 600,000 IDR for an entire home or apartment, although prices can be as high as 2,000,000 IDR. Book early to find the best deals.

Food – Food in Indonesia is heavily influenced by a number of cultures, most notably Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures. Lots of dishes have a rice (nasi) or noodle (mie) base and, in some cases, that’s the whole dish, such as with nasi ayam (chicken rice). Be sure to try the Balinese take on satay (where the meat is minced and wrapped on skewers) and babi guling , a delicious suckling pig that is roasted for hours. Another popular choice is oxtail soup. Be mindful that the food here can be a little spicy.

Most meals cost between 30,000-75,000 IDR. This includes local favorites like nasi goreng (stir-fried rice with chicken, egg, and vegetables) and mie goreng (spicy fried noodle dish with garlic, onion, meat, egg, and vegetables). For the cheapest food, shop at the markets like the night market mentioned above.

Meals at mid-range restaurants cost around 175,000 IDR. A seafood dinner costs around 135,000 IDR.

In mid-range restaurants, you can often find Western food (pasta, pizza, salad, etc.) but it’s usually not great. Avoid it and save your money by eating Indonesian food and fresh caught seafood.

If you eat at any more luxurious hotels or restaurants, keep your eyes open for hidden taxes. They are usually between 5-25% and are not explicitly mentioned before the bill comes.

A beer costs around 45,000 IDR. Expect to pay 17,000 IDR for a bottle of water.

A week’s worth of groceries costs between 500,000-700,000 IDR for things like veggies, fruit, bread, and other staples. Where possible, stick to local food items, as imported foods like wine, cheese, chicken, and beef are super expensive and buying them often ruins your budget.

The Gili Islands Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking the Gili Islands, my suggested budget is 400,000 IDR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, eating cheap street food, walking everywhere, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like swimming and enjoying the beaches.

On a mid-range budget of 1,500,000 IDR per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out all your meals, rent a bicycle, enjoy a few drinks, and do a few paid activities like kayaking or diving.

On a “luxury” budget of about 2,350,000 IDR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, get any food you want, and enjoy all the attractions the islands have to offer, including private tours and diving classes/excursions. This is just the ground floor dor luxury though. The sky’s the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in IDR.

The Gili Islands Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

The Gili Islands are a lot cheaper than other parts of Indonesia. You won’t spend too much simply because there’s not a lot to do (unless you scuba dive which will be expensive). If you’re looking to save money while visiting, here are some tips and tricks that help:

  • Rent a bike – Rent a bike for as little as 40,000 IDR per day. It’s is a budget-friendly way to get around.
  • Eat at street stalls – There’s a wealth of stalls selling delicious food for around 13,000-21,000 IDR. Eat here instead of the more expensive western restaurants and really get a sense of the local culture.
  • Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value in Indonesia. Bargain with sellers as most of the time the price they’ve quoted isn’t the price you pay if you haggle!
  • Bring a filtered water bottle – Indonesia has a waste problem, and much of it gets burned. You’ll see (and smell) it during your visit. Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money — and the environment. I like Lifestraw as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in the Gili Islands

To help you find a fun and affordable place to stay, here are my recommended hostels in the Gili Islands:

  • M Box (Gili Trawangan)
  • My Mate’s Place (Gili Trawangan)
  • The Rabbit Tree Hostel (Gili Meno)
  • Begadang (Gili Air)

How to Get Around the Gili Islands

An aerial view of one of the picturesque Gili Islands in Indonesia

On foot – The Gili Islands are quite small and you can easily get around by foot. In fact, it only takes about two hours to walk around each island.

Bicycle – Like walking, cycling is an easy way to get around each island. Bike rentals start at 40,000 IDR per day.

Horse carts – There are numerous horse carts ( cidomos ) providing transport around the island. Historically, using them has been controversial as the horses have been treated poorly. These days improvements have been made thanks to educational work done by organizations such as Horses of Gili, Gili Eco Trust, Dental Vet, Animal Aid Abroad, and Jakarta Animal Aid Network — but the situation is still far from ideal.

If you can avoid using them, do so. If you must ride them, limit the load to two people plus baggage, check the condition of the horse before agreeing to the ride, and offer to give the driver fresh water for the horse.

Ferry – To get between islands, the boat leaves Gili Trawangan twice per day, at 9:30am and 4pm. It first stops at Gili Meno, then Gili Air, before heading back to Gili Trawangan. The one-way ride is about 50,000 IDR. It’s also possible to charter a private boat, which costs about 200,000 IDR one-way.

For the ferry back to Bali or Lombok, you need to use your negotiation skills and prices have increased recently. You can expect to pay anything from 300,000-600,000 IDR (one-way). When paying, the seller is going to ask where you want to go: either Lombok, Kuta, Ubud or the Bali airport. If you arrive to the Gili Islands from Bali, it’s possible to pay a return trip. It’s an open return ticket, meaning you can go back to Bali from the Gili Islands when you want to.

All boats returning to Bali have to call through Lombok and many don’t (or can’t) pick up passengers in Gili meaning you have to get a small boat to Bangsal and then transfer on to the bigger boat.

When to Go to the Gili Islands

The peak seasons for visiting the Gili Islands are between July-August and December-January. This is when the Gili Islands experience a huge influx of visitors. Prices can increase significantly during this time and you won’t get to enjoy crowd-free beaches. If you’re visiting during this time, book your accommodation in advance.

For fewer crowds, visit between September-November. It won’t rain much since it’s the shoulder season.

The dry season lasts from May-October, while the monsoon season starts in November and goes until April. During the dry season, temperatures range from 22-34°C (71-93°F). Expect regular rains during the monsoon season, though they are usually short (but heavy). The rainy season is the least-busy time of year as well. The days are still sunny though the nights are a bit cooler.

How to Stay Safe in the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a relatively safe place to visit. You won’t face constant scams or pick-pocketing here. That said, it’s always a good idea to keep your wits about you and make sure your valuables are secure and out of reach at all times.

There are a lot of drugs on the islands, particularly on Gili Trawangan. Keep in mind Indonesia is a very strict country when it comes to selling, possessing, and consuming drugs. I don’t recommend doing them because if you get caught you’re going to end up in jail.

Doing water sports is fun and relaxing, but at times there are strong currents between the islands — especially in the northeast. Don’t underestimate their power. If you’re not a great swimmer, avoid snorkeling alone, check all your gear to make sure it’s in good condition, and ask about the currents before you get in the water.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Specific solo female travel blogs on the islands can give you more specific tips.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Gili Islands Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Gili Islands Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Indonesia and the Gili Islands travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

Greta's Travels

Swimming With Turtles In Bali: Gili Trawangan, A Snorkelers Paradise

Posted on Last updated: December 2, 2020

Gili Trawangan was the favourite part of my first Bali trip , even if it’s actually in Lombok, another region of  Indonesia .

We spent three days in Gili T (that’s what the cool travellers call it!) cycling around the island, lounging on the beaches and snorkelling with turtles!

If you want to snorkel with turtles while in Bali, you have to add the Gili islands to your itinerary!

Find out more about Gili Trawangan; including how to get there from Bali, the best beaches, and everything you need to know about doing an epic turtle swimming tour in Gili Trawangan!

  • 1 How to get to the Gili Islands from Bali
  • 2 About Gili Trawangan
  • 3 Our experience snorkelling with turtles in Gili Trawangan
  • 4 Organising your Gili Islands snorkelling trip
  • 5 Where to stay in Gili Trawangan

Enjoying the turquoise water of the Gili T beaches

Enjoying the turquoise water of the Gili T beaches

How to get to the Gili Islands from Bali

The easiest way to get to Gili Trawangan is to get a ferry from Padang Bay . If you purchase your transfer online it will usually also include the pick-up from your hotel in Bali and drop-off at the ferry harbour.

If you want to get to a different Gili island from Bali it’s usually the same ferry. It does first a stop in Gili T and then goes to Gili Meno and Gili Air.

As I was travelling from Bali I don’t have much experience about transport modes from other locations, however there are also ferries available from Lombok.

Book your transfer from Bali to Gili Trawangan here

One of the many turtles we saw while snorkelling in Gili T

One of the many turtles we saw while snorkelling in Gili T

About Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is the biggest and most visited of the Gili islands. It has a reputation as being the “party island”, whilst Gili Meno is the “honeymoon island” and Gili Air is the “chill island”.

If you’re not sure which island is best for you, check out this article to help you decide which Gili island you should visit .

As I was travelling with my boyfriend at the time we were a bit wary of going to the party island, and would have preferred going to one of the quieter islands.

However we were very tight on time and my ex-boyfriend had issues with sea sicknesses, meaning we wanted to limit the amount of time spent on a ferry. So we decided to visit Gili Trawangan.

Enjoying the sunset from one of the swings in Gili Air

Enjoying the sunset from one of the swings in Gili Air – photo by Where Life Is Great

In our experience it didn’t live up to the party island reputation, which we were very glad about. We were staying at Wilson’s Retreat , which is on the North West side of the island, almost opposite compared to where the ferries stop.

This part of the island was very quiet, while still being lively. There are a lot of hotels, bars and restaurants along the beach with a view of the sunset.

It was probably also the time of year at which we were visiting, but we never thought it was too rowdy. This probably because the more party area is concentrated around the harbour where the ferries drop you off.

Most ferries only operate in the morning, since the sea becomes too rough in the afternoon. This is something you might want to bear in mind when planning your trip and travel to and from the Gili islands.

Check out the latest availability & prices at Wilson’s Retreat

The pool at Wilsons Retreat

The pool at Wilsons Retreat

Gili Trawangan, like all the other Gili islands, is entirely pedestrian. There are no cars or scooters on these islands. The only way to get around the island is either by walking, cycling or horse carriage.

Depending on where your accommodation is it might be worth getting a horse carriage to it. For us even if it wasn’t far we had luggage with us that we didn’t want to have to drag along unpaved roads.

It cost us about the equivalent of £5, and it was worth it. It’s such a picturesque journey, hobbling along the beach and then through a small palm tree forest.

Another popular activity and way to get around the island is horse riding, especially for a beautiful sunset ride.

Getting close to one of the many turtles we swam with in Gili T

Getting close to one of the many turtles we swam with in Gili T

Our experience snorkelling with turtles in Gili Trawangan

When we arrived at Wilsons Retreat they told us that it was one of the best snorkelling spots on Gili T, and they gave us snorkelling gear for free. We dismissed it thinking that since they work there, they kind of had to tell us that.

However we were very pleasantly surprised to find that they were right! We took our snorkelling gear and jumped in the sea just outside Wilsons Retreat, swam out maybe 20 metres and not even fifteen minutes later spotted three turtles!

It was a fantastic experience, which combined to the beautiful white beaches bumped Gili Trawangan into my list of top 10 best beaches in the world.

There are many official “turtle spots” around the island, however you will find that you can spot turtles pretty much anywhere, if you have the dedication to spend some time snorkelling and looking for them.

| READ MORE: 30+ MUST-SEE PLACES IN & AROUND BALI  | 

Enjoying the sunset in Gili T, admiring Lombok in the distance

Enjoying the sunset in Gili T, admiring Lombok in the distance

In the three days we stayed in Gili T we spent most of our time jumping in and out of the water, looking for turtles, which we were lucky enough to see almost at every dive.

One thing to bear in mind is that the currents on the West side of the island are quite strong.

The turtles were usually in front of Wilsons Retreat, however we found it easier to walk up the beach, and then jump in the sea further up, where we could then let the current drift us towards the turtle spot.

This makes it considerably easier and more fun than having to swim frantically against the current to keep up with a turtle.

Snorkelling with turtles in Gili Trawangan- Photo by Christopher Erazo on Scopio

Snorkelling with turtles – Photo by Christopher Erazo on Scopio

Wilsons Retreat  also provided beach shoes, which were really useful for walking out of the sea and along the beach once the tide went down.

This side of the island has a very rocky shore, so beach shoes are a must. The Eastern side of the island instead is all white and sandy.

There are a lot of dive shops and places that organise snorkelling tours on the island, however since we were seeing so many turtles on our own just next to our hotel we decided not to pay for an organised tour.

Breakfast on the beach at Wilsons Retreat

Breakfast on the beach at Wilsons Retreat

Gili T is the ultimate definition of island vibes. After a long day of snorkelling we rented bicycles from Wilsons Retreat for the equivalent of £3 for the whole day, and went out to explore the island.

As you cycle along you get to enjoy the beautiful views of Lombok in the distance, and other fellow travellers relaxing at beach bars and restaurants.

Everybody is relaxed and the busy traffic and bustling roads of Seminyak are a distant memory. We stopped at a beach restaurant on the west side of the island, where we got to enjoy dinner while watching a beautiful sunset.

Gili T is famous for its beach sunsets, with swings and hammocks dotted along the beach where you can get those famous Instagram worthy shots.

Beautiful sunsets along the beach

Beautiful sunsets along the beach

Organising your Gili Islands snorkelling trip

If you’re just looking to spot turtles, you can easily do so alone. Just head to the “turtle spot” in Gili Trawangan, just north of Wilson’s Retreat, jump in the sea and you’ll have a good chance of spotting them!

However this is obviously not guaranteed. If you go on a snorkelling tour there are higher chances to spot turtles, as well as other cool marine fauna, since they will take you to multiple spots around the islands.

Some of the snorkelling tours also take you to the nearby islands, so that you can see also Gili Air and Gili Meno, even if only from the water. Here are some tours that have great reviews online:

  • Gili Trawangan private day tour
  • Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno private snorkelling tour

You can also arrange your snorkelling tours once you arrive, but it will be easier to do so online , that way you have it all confirmed before travelling to Gili Trawangan.

Click here to book your Gili Trawangan snorkelling with turtles experience!

Snorkelling with turtles in Moalboal in Cebu Island

Me snorkelling with turtles

Where to stay in Gili Trawangan

I’ve listed below a couple accommodation options on Gili Trawangan for every budget.

Budget: La Favela – This hostel is in the heart of all the action on the east coast of Gili T. It has spacious dorms, a pool, and a fun sociable atmosphere.

Click here to book your stay at La Favela!

Mid-range: Wilson’s Retreat – I’ve already mentioned that we stayed at Wilson’s Retreat and loved it. Besides being close to the turtle spot they also have a lovely pool and restaurant on the beach

Check out the latest availability and prices at Wilson’s Retreat

Luxury: Ombak Sunset – If you want to treat yourself, this is the perfect place to do so. Located right on the beach this beautiful resort has a huge pool and prime sunset views.

Click here to book your stay at Ombak Sunset!

The beach just outside Wilsons Retreat

The beach just outside Wilsons Retreat

I highly recommend visiting Gili Trawangan on your next trip to Bali.

We spent a fantastic three days there, and if I were to go back to Bali I would spend more time exploring also the other Gili islands and less in Seminyak or Ubud  (even if Ubud has some pretty spectacular terraced rice fields ).

If like me you love chill island vibes, snorkelling with turtles, and stunning beach sunsets, you’ll love Gili T! Don’t forget to check out the video to see the amazing footage of us swimming with turtles!

Looking for more Bali and Indonesia travel advice? Check out these guides:

  • Borobudur and Prambanan temples day tour
  • The best surfing beaches in Bali
  • The 33 most photogenic places in Bali
  • The 15 most Instagrammable hotels in Bali
  • Best private pool villas in Bali (for every budget)
  • Kawah Ijen night hike

Enjoyed reading about swimming with turtles in Gili Trawangan? Pin it!

Photo collage of turtles and a beach on the island of Gili Trawangan with text overlay saying

Thursday 2nd of May 2019

Did you use red filter for your camera in underwater?

Wednesday 29th of May 2019

Yes. The turtle photos in this post are taken with a red filter. You need one for underwater shots in tropical waters :)

Sunday 13th of January 2019

Can't wait to go snorkeling with turtles again. Thanks for the info

Thanks, glad you found it useful!

Monday 20th of August 2018

Thank you so much for this post. I’m visiting Gili T for the first time in October and I can’t wait. Is it easy enough to cycle around the island and not get lost? My sense of direction is ok haha..and I love the idea, just concerned I might not make it back!

Tuesday 21st of August 2018

No problem, glad you could find it useful! I think you'll find it easy enough, as long as you always stick to cycling along the beach you'll eventually get back to where you started haha! There's no cars or other way to get around the island other than cycling or to get a horse carriage so I'd definitely try it, it's quite the experience!

Essentials of What to do in Gili T • My Feet Will Lead Me

Sunday 1st of July 2018

[…] Discover Swimming With Turtles in Gili Trawangan!  […]

Bali: The Tourist Spots To Avoid & Untouched Areas To Discover

Sunday 3rd of June 2018

[…] islands much more than Bali itself; when I went hiking an active volcano in East Java and swimming with turtles in Gili Trawangan. If you’re looking for more Indonesia inspiration beyond Bali check out this guide of the […]

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Wira Water Sports

Bali Activities & Marine Water Sports Agency.

Gili Trawangan sunset with horse rider silhouette.

Gili Trawangan Travel Guide: Ultimate Tips for the Perfect Holiday in Indonesia

Welcome to the ultimate Gili Trawangan Travel Guide, your gateway to a fascinating adventure and gastronomic  journey in Indonesia . Located just off the shore of Bali and Lombok, Gili Trawangan is more than just a tropical paradise; it’s an escape into a world of adrenaline-pumping activities and culinary delights.

Mencari panduan dalam bahasa Indonesia? Lihat Panduan Berlibur di Gili Trawangan: Tips Terbaik untuk Petualangan yang Tak Terlupakan !

Gili Trawangan sunset with horse rider silhouette.

Disclaimer: The prices and opening hours mentioned in this guide are subject to change. Always double-check before planning your activities.

 1. Exquisite Beaches: Indonesia’s Best-Kept Secrets

2. thrilling adventures: unleash your inner explorer, 3. vibrant nightlife: gili trawangan shines after sunset, 4. dive into rich culture: gili trawangan’s cultural melting pot, what are my options for traveling to gili trawangan from bali, so you’re in lombok: here’s how close you are to a jewel in the gili islands, want to fly from bali, vacationing during low season january to april: benefits and tips, may to august peak season on gili trawangan: busy and exciting holidays, visit during the transition period, september to december: enjoy the charm of two seasons, 1. on a budget we got you, 2. mid-range: get more for your money, 3. ready to splurge go big, snorkeling in gili trawangan: dive into another world, beaches in gili trawangan: pick your paradise, where to catch the sunset: not just a sky show, adventure awaits: unleash your wild side, 1. ocean’s bounty: seafood in gili trawangan, 2. taste of tradition: gili t’s local flavours, 3. on-the-go delights: gili t’s street food, handling money: know your currency, local customs: when in gili t, do as the locals do, staying safe: your well-being is a priority, quick answers to your gili trawangan travel guide faqs, quick tips for a smooth gili t experience, your gili t travel stories: share your experiences and tips, don’t forget your gili trawangan travel guide pre-trip checklist, gili trawangan: indonesia’s ultimate island experience & guide.

Divers exploring Gili Trawangan's underwater beauty.

Gili Trawangan, an Indonesian island gem, promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Here’s what makes it an essential inclusion on your Indonesian travel itinerary:

  • Crystal-Clear Waters : Ideal for snorkelling or a serene float.
  • White Sands : Bask under the sun in this stunning paradise.
  • Peaceful Ambience : Savour the beach minus the bustling crowds.
  • Snorkelling : Dive into Gili Trawangan’s vibrant coral reefs and befriend sea turtles.
  • Paddleboarding : Experience the serene beauty of the island’s pristine waters.
  • Horseback Riding : A distinctive way to witness the island’s breathtaking landscapes.

If you’re currently in Bali, you might be interested in exploring the exciting outdoor activities and marine sports the island has to offer .

Travelers enjoying a beach bonfire at night in Gili Trawangan.

  • Beachside Bonfires : Create cherished memories under a starry canopy.
  • Energetic Dance Clubs : Unleash your festive party spirit.
  • Relaxed Lounges : Ideal spots for a laid-back evening of sips and tranquillity.
  • Sasak-Influenced Acts : Immerse yourself in the island’s unique cultural tales.
  • Authentic Local Cuisine : Embark on a culinary voyage that transcends usual tourist dishes.
  • Artisanal Markets : Discover handcrafted treasures to ensure your trip remains unforgettable.

For those eager to expand their Gili experience, don’t skip our comprehensive guide to Gili Meno Island – an excellent addition to your Gili Trawangan adventure.

Navigating Your Way to Gili Trawangan: The Effortless Travel Guide

Fast boat cruising towards Gili Trawangan.

Getting to The Island of Smiles is easy whether you’re from Bali or Lombok . Here’s your quick guide on how to get there without the fuss.

Furthermore, you’ve got two good options if you’re coming from Bali: fast boats or public ferries. Both leave from  Padang Bai Port .

1. Fast Boats: Get There Quick

Here’s everything you need to know to make your  fast boat trip even more exciting .

Good to Know:

  • They’re fast but a  bit pricey .
  • Don’t bring too much luggage; space is limited.

Pro Tip:  High season? Book early.

Also, for more details on the best way to travel from Bali, check out our  comprehensive guide from Bali to Gili Trawangan .

2. Public Ferries: Cheap but Slow

  • Conventional ferries are cheaper but take more time.
  • These ferries have a large luggage capacity.
  • The vehicle ticket price already includes the passenger fare.

Meanwhile, if you’re starting your journey from  Lombok , you’re almost there.

From Lombok by Car and Boat

The following is information about the trip from Lembar Ferry Harbor to Bangsal Harbor and Gili Trawangan Island .

Insider’s Tip:  

  • To avoid extra costs, buy your public boat tickets directly at the official kiosk .
  • Additionally, taxi and boat ticket prices may change; always double-check for the latest information.
  • If you’re also considering exploring Bali, don’t miss our  Ultimate Bali Travel Guide Top 38 Things to Do .
  • For a  curated list of must-visit places in Bali , check this out.

Best Time To Visit Gili Trawangan: Month-by-Month Travel Guide

Travelers at Gili Trawangan beach during sunset with a silhouette of a swing.

The largest Gili Island is a fantastic destination all year round, but choosing a suitable month can make your trip extra special. Here’s your quick rundown:

  • Perfect for water sports and outdoor activities .
  • If you’re into diving, water visibility is at its best.
  • Planning to dive? These are the months you’ll want to come.
  • Are you planning to do some diving while in Bali? Here are  6 things beginners should know before taking the plunge .

Where to Lodge in Gili Trawangan: From Budget-Friendly to Luxury Stays

Beachside seating area at Pondok Santi Estate Luxury Resort in Gili Trawangan.

Confused about where to stay in Bali’s Nearby Paradise? No worries! We’ve picked out some top places to help you decide. Whatever your budget, there’s something for you here.

If you want to save, consider  Santorini Beach Resort  or  Mad Monkey Gili Trawangan .

Read our  Ultimate Guide to Budget Travel in Bali  for more ways to save while travelling.

If you want to splurge a bit but not break the bank, check out  Aston Sunset Beach Resort  or  Kardia Resort Gili A Pramana Experience . Expect beach views and swimming pools to make your stay more enjoyable.

If only the best will do, you’ll want to look at  Pearl of Trawangan  or  Pondok Santi Estate Luxury Beachside Resort . These luxe resorts offer everything from comfy beds to great dining.

Top Attractions in Gili Trawangan: Time-Saving Travel Guide

Sea turtle gracefully swimming near the seabed at Turtle Point

Discover the hidden gems and headline acts of Gili Trawangan, from its vibrant marine life to its paradisiacal beaches. Here’s your condensed yet thorough guide for an unforgettable island adventure.

  • Avg. Time:  2-3 hours
  • Snorkelling is essential in a jewel in the Gili Islands, where lush corals and sea turtles await.
  • Before you go, make sure to read these  snorkelling safety tips .

Hotspots & Tips:

  • North Halik Reef :  A sanctuary underwater, but watch for strong currents. Keep an eye out for turtles! (2-3 hrs)
  • Turtle Point :  Ideal for turtle enthusiasts. No need for a boat; walk right in from the shore! (2 hrs)
  • Biorocks :  Known for artificial reefs and, yes, more turtles. Caution: Speedboats frequent this area. (3 hrs)
  • Avg. Time:  Half to a full day
  • Whether water sports or lazing under a tree, Gili Trawangan’s beaches have something for everyone.
  • Don’t miss this guide about the  Hidden Beaches of Gili Trawangan .

Top Picks & Tips:

  • Surf Point :  White sands, waves for surfing, and shade. No need for a paid lounge. (Half-day)
  • Beyond Surf Point :  A secret beach with clear waters and fewer tourists. It’s your private escape! (Half-day)
  • The Sunset Side :  Less pristine but perfect for watching the sun dip below the horizon. (1-2 hrs for sunset)
  • Avg. Time:  1-2 hours
  • The island’s sunset spots are an explosion of colour and the ultimate way to end your day.

Prime Spots & How-To:

  • Pink Coco Gili T :  Bean bags, drinks, and a view of Mount Agung. It is about a 25-minute walk or quick bike ride from the port. (1-2 hrs)
  • Hilltop Hiking View Point :  Less commercial, equally stunning. Roughly 10 minutes by walk. Bring a sarong and some beers for a more laid-back experience. (1-2 hrs)

For an unforgettable experience on your next vacation, be sure to check out our Best Things To Do In Gili Trawangan: Your Essential Traveler’s Guide .

Adventures & Activities in Gili T: Your Thrill-Seeker’s Guide

Vibrant school of yellow-striped fish amidst the corals in Gili Trawangan's waters.

Gili Trawangan is a playground for  adventure-seekers . Whether you’re a water baby or a landlubber, there’s something here to pump your adrenaline.

From the aqua-blue waters to the scenic trails, Indonesia’s Miniature Island Haven offers a variety of pulse-quickening activities.

1. On Water

The ultimate gili trawangan foodie travel guide: satisfying your culinary cravings in indonesia.

Relaxing hammock under shady trees on the pristine shores

Regarding island eats, the party Island of Indonesia serves up a medley of mouthwatering options that will leave you craving more.

Feast on the freshest seafood while enjoying ocean views.  Here are some top picks :

Indulge in the rich culinary heritage with local Indonesian dishes. Here’s where to find them:

Gili T’s street food  has you covered for those quick bites or late-night munchies. Learn more about  Indonesian street food  for other delicious options.

Essential Gili Trawangan Travel Guide: Money, Manners, and Safety Tips for Tourists

Stack of Indonesian Rupiah bills on a marble surface.

Are you heading to the beautiful Gili Trawangan for a vacation? Discover essential travel tips to navigate the island like a seasoned traveller, guaranteeing safety and fun.

  • Main Currency:  Indonesian Rupiah is the go-to currency here.  Check current exchange rates .
  • Dollars:  Some places might accept U.S. dollars, but it’s not recommended to rely on this.
  • ATMs are  few and can run out of cash, especially on weekends.
  • Credit Cards:  Using a credit card? Expect an extra 2-3% fee at fancy restaurants and hotels.
  • Dress Code:  Off the beach, aim for modest clothing out of respect for the local Muslim culture.
  • Alcohol:  Enjoy it responsibly and keep it away from religious sites.
  • Drugs:  Big no-no. Extreme sentences, including fines or even jail time.
  • Crowded Areas:  Keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Stranger Danger:  Be cautious if someone you don’t know approaches you.
  • Water Sports:  Double-check your gear; your safety depends on it.

Check out this comprehensive  guide on travelling safely in Indonesia  for more safety tips.

Comprehensive Gili Trawangan FAQ and Quick Tips: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your Gili T Holiday

Considering a Gili Trawangan holiday? Get all your questions answered and top travel hacks to elevate your Gili T experience right here.

Yes, but be smart about alcohol and night outings. Keep an eye on your stuff.

No cars or scooters here. Walk, cycle, or hop on a ‘Cidomo’ (local horse cart).

From chill beach bars to lively clubs, Gili T has your nightlife covered.

Yes, mainly near the harbour and market. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Absolutely. Safe beaches, kid menus, and fun activities like snorkelling.

Buy one near the harbour for $5-$10, depending on the package.

It’s not mandatory but appreciated. A 10% tip or rounding up the bill works.

  • Budget:  Expect to spend $50-$100/day. Luxury seekers will need more.
  • Activities:  Gili T is not just for party-goers. Families can enjoy beaches, snorkelling, and more.
  • Cash or Card:  Carry local cash for small buys; not everywhere takes cards for little things.
  • Health:  Consider Hep A and Typhoid shots. Stick to bottled Water.
  • Local Customs:  Dress modestly in villages and respect religious events.
  • Safety:  Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded places.

Summary Of Gili Trawangan Travel Guide

Gili Trawangan is not just another tropical island; it’s a destination for unforgettable adventures! From snorkelling with turtles to cycling the scenic paths,  ensure you have the right snorkelling gear  to make your experience safe and enjoyable.

Heads Up: We’ve done our best to provide up-to-date information, but prices and opening hours can change. Always confirm details before you head out. Safe travels!

Do you have travel tips or experiences you want to share about Gili T? Your insights make this guide better. So go ahead and drop your comments below. We’re listening!

Before you set sail for Gili T, make sure you’ve got these essentials sorted:

  • Maps:  Whether paper or digital, knowing where you’re going is critical.
  • Local Police:  110
  • Hospital:   Trawangan Medical Service (TMS) .
  • Fire Brigade:  Dial +62 370 672013.

And there you have it—your comprehensive travel guide to Gili Trawangan, complete with safety tips and travel hacks. Got more to add? Your insights can make this Gili T guide even more valuable. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and tips; we’re eager to hear from you!

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About Wayan Suadnyana

Born and raised in Bali, the Isle of Gods, Wayan Suadnyana is a leading voice in Bali tourism. He serves as a writer for Wira Tour Bali, offering insights into Bali’s notable attractions, holiday activities, and comprehensive travel guides. His Tourism Management degree from Sekolah Tinggi Pariwisata Bali (Bali Tourism College) in 2001 only scratches the surface of his expertise. Wayan’s knowledge is deeply rooted in firsthand experiences, from visiting Bali’s diverse sites to direct interactions with its local community.

His dedication to Bali’s tourism is unwavering, dedicating his time to uncovering the island’s stories and conducting in-depth research to ensure accuracy. His pivotal role at Wira Tour Bali further attests to his authority in the sector. This hands-on experience gives him an unparalleled perspective on tourist preferences, which shines through in his high-quality articles.

For those exploring Bali, Wayan’s writings aren’t just articles; they’re comprehensive guides. They spotlight both Bali’s renowned destinations and its undiscovered treasures. With Wayan as your guide, the essence of Bali is at your fingertips.

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Bali to Gili Trawangan

Bali to Gili Trawangan

Best options, other options, bali to gili trawangan schedule, transportation from bali to gili trawangan.

  • Buses RUB 1,452
  • Ferries RUB 1,339
  • Taxis RUB 1,833
  • Trains are not available
  • Flights are not available
  • Vans are not available

Facts about the transport from Bali to Gili Trawangan

Bali to gili trawangan destination reviews.

Es war nicht genug Platz in den Kabinen wodurch ca 8-10 Leute oben auf Deck sitzen mussten. Für meine seekrankheit war es besser jedoch hatte ich ein paar mal lebensangst als etwas stärkere Wellen kamen. Ich muss sagen dass war meine erste Fahrt auf einen speedboot und wahrscheinlich war alles oke. Jedoch war man nicht vorbereitet darauf oben zu sitzen und somit von den Wellen häufiger nass zu werden. Wir haben versucht unsere Taschen mit der Elektronik zu schützen dies war jedoch leider etwas zu spät. Ich habe mein Handy zum Teil kaputt. Doch aufgrund der knappen Kleidung und dass wir so extrem nass geworden sind und der starke Fahrtwind habe ich wahrscheinlich eine Nierenentzündung bekommen. Als positiven Aspekt muss ich sagen die Besatzung war sehr entspannt und hat für uns an Deck Musik angemacht wodurch man dann selber auch entspannter wurde und auch schon fast eine Partystimmung aufkam wenn die Sonne auch mal zwischendurch raus kam. Alles im allem muss ich sagen waren sie pünktlich als großer Pluspunkt immerhin haben das viele andere Bote nicht geschafft und die Kommunikation war auch auf beiden booten nicht gut. die Sitze innen waren sehr eng und keine Klimaanlage außerdem hat die Toilette nicht funktioniert was auch nicht so schön war denn dadurch hatte man große Schwierigkeiten 2h lang mit der Anstrengung und ohne etwas trinken zu können.

Popular Routes

  • Bali → Lombok
  • Bali → Gili Islands
  • Bali → Nusa Penida
  • Bali → Jakarta
  • Bali → Nusa Lembongan
  • Lombok → Bali
  • Jakarta → Bali
  • Surabaya → Bali
  • Yogyakarta → Bali
  • Gili Islands → Bali

From Gili Trawangan

  • Gili Trawangan → Bali
  • Gili Trawangan → Nusa Penida
  • Gili Trawangan → Padang Bai
  • Gili Trawangan → Sanur
  • Gili Trawangan → Nusa Lembongan

To Gili Trawangan

  • Padang Bai → Gili Trawangan
  • Lombok → Gili Trawangan
  • Nusa Penida → Gili Trawangan
  • Sanur → Gili Trawangan
  • Nusa Lembongan → Gili Trawangan

Popular Routes in Indonesia

  • Jakarta → Bandung

How to get from Bali to Gili Trawangan

When you want to get from Bali to Gili Trawangan, you have a few options to consider. Traveling between these destinations is possible by different means of transport:

If you’re looking for a quick trip, it’s recommended that you use Ferry. However, if you’d rather take your time with a slower, more affordable travel option, you can book a Bus ticket.

The cost of travel will depend on the means of transport you choose for your trip. A Ferry ticket is the most expensive option - it will cost you about RUB 4,598 . If you want to save on transportation, it’s better to take a ferry as a ferry ticket costs as low as RUB 1,339 .

How far is Bali from Gili Trawangan?

If you’re traveling by land, it’s important to know the distance from Bali to Gili Trawangan. Your trip will be a total of 47 miles (75 km). The flying distance is 47 miles (75 km).

How long does it take to get from Bali to Gili Trawangan?

The travel time from Bali to Gili Trawangan can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take from 2 to 8 hours.

How much does it cost to get from Bali to Gili Trawangan?

The cost of the trip from Bali to Gili Trawangan varies according to what means of transport you choose for your journey. The most affordable operator is Ganggari Fast Boat: travelling by ferry expect to pay as low as RUB 1,339 for your ticket.

However, if you’re after more upscale travel . The most expensive variant is to opt for a Ferry - a one-way Ferry ticket can cost as much as RUB 4,598 .

Here is a chart of the average ticket prices and transportation options available from Bali to Gili Trawangan:

  • Ferry tickets - RUB 1,339 to RUB 4,598 .
  • Bus tickets - RUB 1,452 to RUB 1,452 ;
  • taxi+Ferry price: RUB 1,833 . From Bali to Gili Trawangan starting from 07:30 Sanur Transfer until 07:30 Sanur Transfer

How many trips per day are there between Bali and Gili Trawangan?

Depending on your choice of transportation, the number of daily trips varies.

  • Ferries leave from Bali for Gili Trawangan 28 times a day.
  • 8 by taxi+Ferry from Bali to Gili Trawangan starting from 07:30 Sanur Transfer until 07:30 Sanur Transfer

Which means of transport is the best for the route?

How to choose the most convenient way of travel from Bali to Gili Trawangan? In order to make your choice of transportation easier, we asked 1000 users to range their preferences for this route. Here are the results of the poll:

  • 100% users voted for a ferry ticket.
  • Indonesia 🎫
  • Gili Trawangan
  • Transport Options

Sewa Mobil | Wisata Indonesia

Discovering the Magic of Gili Trawangan from Bali

Discovering the Magic of Gili Trawangan from Bali

Escape to Paradise: Discovering the Magic of Gili Trawangan from Bali.

Are you longing for a true island escape? Look no further than Gili Trawangan, a magical paradise just a short boat ride away from Bali. With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant underwater coral gardens, this stunning tropical island offers an unparalleled slice of heaven.

Alfonso giostanov

tour operator & content specialist. Before joining Gotravela , he spent years honing his skill at ‘Tourism Industries “.

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Gili Trawangan , also known as Gili T, is the largest of the Gili Islands and is popular among travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Experience the ultimate relaxation as you watch breathtaking sunsets, indulge in mouthwatering seafood, and soak up the laid-back island vibes.

Snorkel enthusiasts and scuba divers will be in awe of the colorful marine life that thrives in the waters surrounding Gili Trawangan. Swim alongside majestic sea turtles or explore the coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a peaceful retreat, Gili Trawangan has it all. Unwind in beachfront bungalows, savor gourmet cuisines at local restaurants, or dance the night away under the starry sky.

Escape the bustling streets of Bali and discover the enchanting paradise of Gili Trawangan. Your tropical getaway awaits.

How to get to Gili Trawangan from Bali

Gili Trawangan is easily accessible from Bali via a short boat ride. There are several options to choose from, depending on your preference and budget. The most popular and convenient way to reach Gili Trawangan is by taking a fast boat service from Bali.

These boats depart from various ports in Bali, such as Serangan Harbor, Padang Bai, and Amed. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the departure point and sea conditions.

Alternatively, you can also opt for a slower public ferry, which is a more affordable option but takes longer to reach the island. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, the journey to Gili Trawangan promises scenic views and anticipation of the island paradise that awaits.

Here are a number of recommendations for the best boats to gili trawangan from bali that you can choose from, starting with

  • Ostina Fast Boat
  • Eka Jaya Fast Boat
  • Dprabu Fast Boat
  • INAMI – INVINIA Fast Boat

Eka Jaya Fast Boat Gilis

Things to do in Gili T

Once you arrive on Gili Trawangan, you’ll be spoiled for choice with a wide range of activities to suit every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax, Gili Trawangan has something for everyone.

Pearl Beach Lounge Gili

One of the must-do activities on the island is renting a bicycle and exploring its picturesque landscapes. With no motorized vehicles allowed on the island, biking is the perfect way to discover hidden beaches, lush coconut groves, and charming villages.

the island of Gili is renting a bicycle

You can also take a leisurely stroll along the coastline, stopping at beach bars and cafes along the way to soak up the laid-back island vibes.

Exploring the beaches of Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Indonesia, each with its own unique charm. The main beach, located on the eastern side of the island, is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beachfront dining.

Here, you can rent a sunbed, sip on a refreshing coconut, and watch the world go by. For a quieter beach experience, head to the northern or western shores of the island, where you’ll find secluded stretches of sand with fewer crowds. These beaches offer a tranquil escape, perfect for a romantic stroll or a peaceful afternoon of reading a book under the shade of a palm tree.

Snorkeling and diving in Gili Trawangan

If you’re a snorkel enthusiast or a certified scuba diver, Gili Trawangan is a paradise beneath the waves. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Grab your snorkeling gear or join a diving excursion to explore the underwater wonders of Gili Trawangan.

thumbnail snorkling giliT

Swim alongside majestic sea turtles, spot colorful tropical fish, and marvel at the intricate coral formations. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the nearby dive sites offer thrilling encounters with larger marine species, such as reef sharks and manta rays. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Gili Trawangan’s underwater world will leave you mesmerized.

Nightlife and entertainment options in Gili Trawangan

When the sun sets over Gili Trawangan, the island comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. From beachfront bars to lively nightclubs, there’s no shortage of entertainment options to keep you dancing until the early hours of the morning.

Nightlife Gili Trawangan from Bali

Enjoy live music performances, fire shows, and beach parties as you soak up the energetic atmosphere. For a more laid-back evening, head to one of the beachfront restaurants and indulge in mouthwatering seafood dishes while listening to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. Gili Trawangan’s nightlife offers a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, ensuring a memorable evening for all.

Accommodation options in Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, there’s something for everyone on the island. For those seeking a luxurious retreat, there are several high-end resorts that offer private villas with stunning ocean views, private pools, and personalized services. If you’re traveling on a budget, there are also plenty of affordable guesthouses and backpacker hostels that provide comfortable and clean accommodations. Whichever type of accommodation you choose, you’ll be treated to warm hospitality and breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty.

Local cuisine and dining experiences in Gili Trawangan

No visit to Gili Trawangan is complete without indulging in the local cuisine and dining experiences. The island is home to a diverse range of restaurants and cafes, offering a fusion of international and local flavors. Feast on freshly caught seafood, grilled to perfection and served with a side of aromatic rice or crispy vegetables. Sample traditional Indonesian dishes, such as nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles), bursting with flavors and spices. Don’t forget to try the local delicacies, such as sate (grilled skewered meat) or gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), for a true taste of Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to satisfy your taste buds, Gili Trawangan’s culinary scene will leave you wanting more.

Tips for a memorable stay in Gili Trawangan

To make the most of your trip to Gili Trawangan, here are some tips to ensure a memorable stay:

1. Pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

2. Bring insect repellent to ward off any pesky mosquitoes.

3. Respect the local culture and dress modestly when visiting temples or sacred sites.

4. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water, especially during the hot and humid days.

5. Take care of the environment by avoiding single-use plastics and practicing responsible tourism.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Gili Trawangan while respecting the local community and preserving the island’s natural wonders.

Conclusion: Why Gili Trawangan should be on your travel bucket list

Gili Trawangan offers a true escape to paradise, just a short boat ride away from Bali. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, this tropical island is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those in search of relaxation. From snorkeling and diving to beachfront dining and vibrant nightlife, Gili Trawangan has something for everyone.

So pack your bags, leave the bustling streets of Bali behind, and embark on a journey to the enchanting paradise of Gili Trawangan. Your tropical getaway awaits, ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Anda mungkin suka :)

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Why The Gili Islands Are One Of The Greatest Trips You Can Take From Bali

  • Gili Islands are top small island destinations in Indonesia, close to Bali and Lombok, offering pristine beaches and abundant marine life.
  • Gili Trawangan is the most popular island with great scuba diving and snorkeling, while Gili Meno is quieter and preferred for honeymooners.
  • The main way to get to the Gili Islands is by ferry, with no motorized vehicles on the islands, offering horse and cart or bicycle as transportation options.

The Gili Islands are perhaps the top small island destinations in Indonesia. They are one of the top attractions for those visiting the much larger neighboring islands of Bali and Lombok. The Gili Islands are a trio of three small islands just off the coast of Lombok.

While they are some distance from Bali, the Gili Islands are also one of the top things to do while exploring in and around Bali . They are much closer to Lombok, a great alternative to the more commercialized and hectic neighbor, Bali . Here is what to know about the Gili Islands, and why you should visit them from Bali.

What To Know About The Three Gili Island Tropical Paradises

The three Gili Islands are Gili Trawangan (called Gili T), Gili Meno, and Gili Air. All three islands are popular tourist destinations with plenty of resorts with many tropical-style bungalows, swimming pools, bars, and restaurants.

Gili Trawangan (aka Gili T):

Of the three islands, by far the most popular destination and the "it" destination is Gili T. Gili T attracts crowds of international travelers to its pristine beaches with some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling (visitors are often stunned by the abundance of marine life and coral formations around the islands).

Gili T is the largest of the islands and is around 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) long and 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) wide.

Gili Meno is in the middle of the islands and is the smallest. The island is considered the quietest of the three islands and a preferred destination for those wanting to enjoy the islands without the large throngs of tourists that frequent Gili.

It is a popular destination for honeymooners and like Gili T, it has no motorized traffic.

Gili Air is the closest island to Lombok and is also popular for its pristine tropical beaches and its rich marine life (that includes turtles). The vibe of Gili Air is in between the crowded party atmosphere of Gili T and the more laid-back and tranquil atmosphere of Gili Meno.

Many tourists (or at least those with enough time) visit all three islands. They can either island hop and stay on each island or have their accommodation on one island and take day trips to the other islands.

Related: Prambanan Is The Largest Hindu Temple Complex In Indonesia (& This Is What It's Like To Visit)

Getting To The Gili Islands & Getting Around The Islands

The main way to get to the Gili Islands is by ferries, mostly small high-speed ferries. These ferries typically call into all three of the islands. The quickest way to get to the Gili Islands is from Lombok (around a 15-minute ferry ride) but most people come from the much more popular Bali Island (a 2 to 3-hour ferry ride).

  • There is no need to book the ferries from Lombok. The last ferry leaves Gili T for Lombok (stopping by the other islands) at 5:00 p.m.

One of the most startling first impressions of Gili T is the late morning 'rush hour.' This is when most of the visitors have checked out of their accommodation for the day and have gone to the harbor while at the same time when most of the new visitors are arriving. The harbor can be very busy around 11:00 a.m., but the crowd soon dissipates and disappears.

There are no motorized vehicles on the islands so the main form of transportation (at least for those with luggage) is by horse and cart (locally called a cidomo ). Otherwise, there are plenty of bicycles for rent on the islands. It only takes a couple of hours to completely walk around the islands.

Related: 10 Best Things To Do In Indonesia During The Summer Months

Activities Offered On The Gili Islands

Activities on the Gili Islands are somewhat typical for tropical island destinations. The islands are all about sunbathing on the beach, snorkeling or scuba diving along the coasts, and walking or cycling around the islands. They are places to relax cocktail in hand.

  • Activities On The Islands: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving
  • Activities Around The Islands: Boat Tours, Waterfall tours, Volcano Hikes

The main activities actually offered on the islands are scuba diving and snorkeling, but other tours are also sold on the islands. One common tour is guided hikes up the jungle-covered volcano Mount Rinjani that dominates the center of Lombok Island (this tour is normally offered as a 2-day / 1-night or 3-day / 2-night hiking trip).

There are also tours of the famous tropical waterfalls on Lombok Island .

Another of the popular tours is a 4-day / 3-night cruise from Lombok Island to Flores Island. Along the way, guests swim with whale sharks, go snorkeling, go on island hikes, and visit the famous Komodo Dragons (the largest living lizards on Earth).

Indonesia is a very large and diverse country with a countless range of attractions worth seeing. See everything from bizarre mythical faces carved into the sulfur-smoking cliff faces to the largest Buddhist temple ever built.

Why The Gili Islands Are One Of The Greatest Trips You Can Take From Bali

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travel bali gili trawangan

Ratusan Sepeda Listrik di Gili Trawangan Disita, Dishub Malah Angkat Tangan

Sejumlah sepeda listrik yang disita warga hasil sweeping di Gili Trawangan.

Ratusan sepeda listrik di Gili Trawangan disita oleh warga. Kepala Dinas Perhubungan Lombok Utara, Parihin mengaku angkat tangan terkait aksi sweeping itu.

Menurut Parihin, aksi sweeping sepeda listrik tersebut bukan merupakan perintah dari Pemerintah Kabupaten Lombok Utara.

"Kami angkat tangan jika terjadi apa-apa," ujar Parihin, Sabtu (2/3/2024) kemarin.

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Parihin mengaku kaget, ketika mengetahui puluhan warga dan kusir cidomo menyita seratusan sepeda listrik dan sepeda dayung yang diklaim tak berizin di Gili Trawangan.

Sepeda listrik hasil sitaan itu kemudian dikumpulkan di halaman masjid Dusun Gili Trawangan, Desa Gili Indah. Warga Gili Trawangan jugadisebut belum pernah berkoordinasi terkait sweeping tersebut.

"(Terkait) penertiban oleh masyarakat, saya juga kaget. Baru dengar cerita dari media," imbuhnya.

Meski begitu, Parihin mengaku sudah pernah melakukan sosialisasi terkait larangan penggunaan sepeda listrik di Gili Trawangan , Gili Meno, dan Gili Air.

Larangan penggunaan sepeda listrik di objek wisata itu juga berdasarkan Peraturan Daerah (Perda) Lombok Tengah Nomor 5 Tahun 2011 tentang Penyelenggaraan Perhubungan.

Mengacu Perda tersebut, para pengusaha yang kedapatan membawa atau mengoperasikan sepeda listrik di ketiga Gili dapat dikenakan denda sebesar Rp 50 juta.

"Apalagi disewakan. Itu harusnya zero di sana," kata Parihin.

Parihin berujar sudah pernah menertibkan usaha penyewaan sepeda listrik di tempat wisata itu. Ia mengaku sudah berkali-kali memperingati para pemilik sepeda listrik di tiga Gili.

"Yang pasti sepeda listrik tidak diperbolehkan, tetapi tidak diindahkan. Soal sweeping ini kan ada di internal masyarakat. Kami dari dinas sudah melakukan razia dan ada yang kami sita sebelum ini," tegas Parihin.

Parihin belum bisa memberikan tindakan terkait seratusan sepeda listrik dan sepeda gayung yang telah disita warga. Ia berencana menggelar rapat terkait aksi sweeping sepeda listrik di Gili Trawangan pada Senin pekan depan.

"Karena kegiatan ini masyarakat kan yang melakukan penertiban. Di kami tidak ada laporan," pungkas Parihin.

Artikel ini telah naik di detikBali.

Sepeda Listrik di Gili Trawangan

Pemprov NTB Bakal Mediasi Konflik Pengusaha Sepeda Listrik-Kusir Cidomo

Ketua Asosiasi Sepeda Listrik Resmi Laporkan Aksi Sweeping ke Polisi

Ketua Asosiasi Sepeda Listrik Resmi Laporkan Aksi Sweeping ke Polisi

Sepeda listrik di gili trawangan dirazia warga, pemilik lapor polisi, sepeda listrik di gili trawangan dirazia, kemenparekraf: ayo ikuti aturan, beli sepeda listrik di transmart bisa hemat sampai rp 2 juta, momen warga sweeping sepeda listrik di gili trawangan, polda metro gelar operasi keselamatan jaya 2024 selama 14 hari, sepeda ini bisa tempuh 70 km, harganya.

travel bali gili trawangan

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COMMENTS

  1. Fast boat from Bali to Gili Trawangan

    The total travel time from Ubud to Gili T is approximately 3 hours. From Ubud to Padang Bai takes around 1-1,5 hours by car (depending on traffic) and the fast boat transfer from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan takes 1,5 hours depending on the sea conditions.

  2. Bali to Gili Trawangan

    Rome2Rio makes travelling from Bali to Gili Trawangan easy. Rome2Rio is a door-to-door travel information and booking engine, helping you get to and from any location in the world. Find all the transport options for your trip from Bali to Gili Trawangan right here.

  3. How to Get to Gili Trawangan from Bali by Ferry & Speed Boat

    Best Option to Get to Gili T from Bali. Currently, the best and easiest way to arrange your transport from Bali to Gili T is to book a 1-Way Speedboat Transfer with Gili Voyages online using GetYourGuide.. This boat departs from Padang Bai Port to Gili Trawangan and only takes 1.5 hours. The ticket prices are approximately 400,000 IDR per person for the one-way trip, with optional transport ...

  4. Gili Trawangan 2024 Travel Guide: 16 Things To Do, Where to Eat & Stay

    Top 16 Best Things to Do in Gili Trawangan. 1. Take a Snorkel Tour to the Underwater Sculpture Garden. Taking a snorkel tour of the underwater sculpture garden that lies between Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno is the most iconic activity in the Gili Islands. The sculpture garden's most famous statue is the Bask Nest underwater sculpture.

  5. Gili Trawangan travel

    Asia. Gili Trawangan is a tropical playground of global renown, ranking alongside Bali and Borobudur as one of Indonesia's top destinations. Trawangan's heaving main drag, busy with bikes, cidomos and mobs of swimwear-clad visitors, can surprise those expecting a languid island retreat. Instead, a bustling string of lounge bars, hip guesthouses ...

  6. The Ultimate Gili Trawangan Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    Gili Trawangan. Known as Gili Trawangan, or the much easier-to-pronounce Gili T, this heavenly little island is a shining jewel in Indonesia. Gili T is the largest of the three Gili Islands, but it has a permanent population of around only 800 people. Backpackers first stumbled onto this place in the 90s, and for now, it's still holding onto ...

  7. Bali to the Gili Islands: How to Get to Gili Trawangan

    The Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali: Route: Your accommodation in Canggu/Ubud → Drive to Padang Bai (2+ hours) → Fast boat to Gili Trawangan (2+ hours) Travel Time: 4-5+ hours total including waiting time. Cost: from IDR 350,000 one way.

  8. Gili Trawangan Travel Guide

    Among the three Gili Islands, Gili Trawangan has the most diverse facilities for tourists. Trawangan has a more "party" feel than Gili Meno and Gili Air, due to the large number of all-night parties whose events are rotated every night by several crowded places. Receives thousands of visitors daily for a weekend time away from the mainland ...

  9. A Complete Travel Guide To Gili Trawangan

    Day 1: Arrive close to your check-in time, settle in, head out for lunch at the hotel, or venture out on the street to pick a restaurant. Post lunch get towels from the hotel and lay on the beach or relax on the sun loungers. Pearl of Trawangan also has a swim-up pool bar you can hang around at.

  10. Gili Trawangan Travel Guide

    Gili Air and Gili Meno can be reached by boat and takes about 15 minutes between each. Senggigi Lombok is about 45 minutes away (15 minute speedboat ride and 30 minute taxi). Bali is approx. 1.5 - 2 hrs away by speedboat, or you can catch a plane from Lombok International Airport (but you will need to take a 15 minute speedboat to Lombok ...

  11. Gili Trawangan and The Gilis

    How to Get to Gili Trawangan and the Gilis. The Gili islands are easily reached by speedboat from Senggigi, taking only some 20 minutes boat ride. Many tourists also travel direct to Gili Trawangan by ferry that leaves Bali daily from Serangan or Padang Bai. Travel on the islands is only by bike or "cidomo" the small horse-drawn carts ...

  12. A PERFECT 3 Day Gili Trawangan Itinerary For The Gili Islands!

    Getting from Lombok to Gili Trawangan. The Gili Islands are much closer to the island of Lombok than Bali so it is quicker and easier to get to Gili Trawangan from Lombok than Bali.. If you want to go straight to the Gili Islands I recommend looking at flights into Lombok Praya Airport, from here you can travel from Lombok Airport to Bangsal Harbour in 90 minutes by taxi and get the boat from ...

  13. Fast Boat to Gili Trawangan from Bali: Ferry Tickets, Schedules

    About Gili Trawangan. Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular of the three Gili Islands, thanks to its well-established infrastructure that preceded the other two smaller islands in the group: Gili Meno and Gili Air.Therefore, Gili Trawangan is perfect as your first 'starting point' of island hopping, where you can enjoy most of the action.

  14. Gili Trawangan Travel Guide: Bali to Gili T Tips

    Several speedboat companies operate daily services from Bali to Gili Trawangan, including Ekajaya, Semaya One, Golden Queen, and Starfish. The journey takes around 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on which port you depart from, weather conditions, and the speedboat company you choose. Here are the details you need to know.

  15. 13 Things to do at Gili Trawangan: Ultimate Gili T Guide

    Public boats travel twice a day between Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. The island-hopping boats leave Gili T at 9:30 every morning to Gili Meno and then onwards to Gili Air. The last boat back to Gili Trawangan leaves at 15:20. So, there's lots of time to chill at the beach, go snorkeling, or explore.

  16. 30 Things To Do On Gili Trawangan! Something For Everyone!

    7 - Watch the Sunrise from Gili T Hill. Gili Trawangan is flat apart from one hill in the middle of the island. Also known as the Gili Trawangan Viewpoint, this hill is a local area of the island and businesses for forbidden to use the land for hotels etc, however for the best sunrise viewpoint on Gili T and one of the unique things to do in ...

  17. Gili Islands Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    A comprehensive budget travel guide to the Gili Islands in Indonesia with tips on things to do, ways to save, costs, accommodation, and more! ... Gili Trawangan is the party island (Gili Meno is the quietest). ... the seller is going to ask where you want to go: either Lombok, Kuta, Ubud or the Bali airport. If you arrive to the Gili Islands ...

  18. Gili Islands Travel Guide

    The Gilis, meaning small islands in the local dialect, have long been a well known escape for remote living, party going, and honeymooning travelers. Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air have drawn in backpackers looking to island hop around Indonesia since the 80s. Despite limited resources being brought in by boat each time, the Gilis ...

  19. Snorkelling With TURTLES In Gili Trawangan (Bali) The ULTIMATE Guide

    The easiest way to get to Gili Trawangan is to get a ferry from Padang Bay. If you purchase your transfer online it will usually also include the pick-up from your hotel in Bali and drop-off at the ferry harbour. If you want to get to a different Gili island from Bali it's usually the same ferry. It does first a stop in Gili T and then goes ...

  20. Gili Trawangan Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Getaway

    Gili Trawangan, an Indonesian island gem, promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Here's what makes it an essential inclusion on your Indonesian travel itinerary: 1. Exquisite Beaches: Indonesia's Best-Kept Secrets. Crystal-Clear Waters: Ideal for snorkelling or a serene float.

  21. Gili Trawangan: Bali's Best Kept Secret for Ultimate Island Escapes

    Why Gili Trawangan is Bali's Best Kept Secret. Despite being only a short fast boat ride away from Bali (approximately 1.5 hours), Gili Trawangan feels like a world apart. We booked a fast boat company called the Golden Queen, which really the only thing Golden about it is the exterior. You won't find any luxury transfers that leave Padang ...

  22. Bali to Gili Trawangan

    Here is a chart of the average ticket prices and transportation options available from Bali to Gili Trawangan: Ferry tickets - USD 15 to USD 51. Bus tickets - USD 16 to USD 16; taxi+Ferry price: USD 21. From Bali to Gili Trawangan starting from 07:30 Sanur Transfer until 07:30 Sanur Transfer.

  23. Discovering the Magic of Gili Trawangan from Bali

    Conclusion: Why Gili Trawangan should be on your travel bucket list. Gili Trawangan offers a true escape to paradise, just a short boat ride away from Bali. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, this tropical island is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those in search of relaxation.

  24. Why The Gili Islands Are One Of The Greatest Trips You Can Take From Bali

    Gili T is the largest of the islands and is around 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) long and 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) wide. Gili Meno: Gili Meno is in the middle of the islands and is the smallest.

  25. Bali to Nusa Lembongan to Gili T

    Hi, we have flights to Denpasar in February 2025, have been to Bali plenty of times and would like to visit Nusa Lembongan and Gili on this trip. We are not sure of the best options for transfers are. We have 12 days and nothing booked at this stage. Do we do Bali to Nusa L to Gili T to Bali.

  26. Gili Trawangan ️, the largest of the three Gili ...

    Gili Trawangan ️, the largest of the three Gili Islands off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia, offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets in...

  27. Ratusan Sepeda Listrik di Gili Trawangan Disita, Dishub ...

    Meski begitu, Parihin mengaku sudah pernah melakukan sosialisasi terkait larangan penggunaan sepeda listrik di Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, dan Gili Air.. Larangan penggunaan sepeda listrik di objek wisata itu juga berdasarkan Peraturan Daerah (Perda) Lombok Tengah Nomor 5 Tahun 2011 tentang Penyelenggaraan Perhubungan.