best time to visit gili t

Asia , Beach Guides , Indonesia · July 9, 2024

13 Things to Do in Gili Trawangan: Ultimate Gili T Guide

Are you headed to Gilis soon and looking for things to do in Gili Trawangan? I have some pretty neat ideas for you! 

Gili Trawangan, or Gili T might be one of Indonesia’s smallest islands, but it is certainly one of its finest. With powdery white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters teeming with diverse marine life, there’s so much to love about this dreamy island. 

Whether you want to lounge on beautiful beaches, snorkel with turtles, dive with sharks, witness breathtaking sunsets, experience the nightlife, or escape the hustle and bustle of Bali, a trip to this idyllic island will be a highlight on your Indonesia itinerary !

If you want to discover what this gorgeous little island offers, keep reading! In this guide, I’ll cover all my favorite things to do in Gili Trawangan and everything you need to know about visiting the island — from getting there and accommodation options to the best eateries and useful tips to help you plan your dream vacay.

So, crack open a Bintang, and let’s dive right into this Gili T travel guide! 

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Table of Contents

Before You Go to Gili Trawangan 

Gili Trawangan, the biggest of the three Gilis, is part of a small archipelago just off the northeast coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Before you head out on your dream trip to this idyllic island, here are a few pre-travel tips to guarantee a smooth journey. 

• Gili T is small, measuring only 3km long and 2km wide. Despite its size, the island has many  accommodation options  available. However, during the busy season, these fill up pretty fast, so it’s a good idea to  book a spot at least a few weeks ahead . See my top hotel recommendations below . 
• Gili Trawangan does not have an airport, so the only way to get there is by boat. The most popular connections are from Lombok ,  Bali , or  Nusa Penida .  Book a fast boat  to save time, and if you’re traveling during peak season, you’ll want to  make these arrangements as soon as possible . Also, note that some ports charge a small harbor tax, which is usually not included in the boat ticket price. I’ve added the best routes for you later in this guide .
• There are a couple of ATMs on the island, but they sometimes run out of money. Make sure you always  carry some extra cash with you .
• Motorized vehicles are not allowed  on any of the 3 Gili islands, so mentally prep yourself to  get around on foot or by bike . While “ cidomos”  or horse carts are available, please don’t use them. Some animals are treated quite poorly, and it’s heartbreaking to see them carting around tourists with stacks of heavy luggage. As a result, the biggest pre-planning tip I can give you is to  travel light ! If you must carry luggage, try to book accommodation closer to the jetty and check out these  tips on packing light .

13 Epic Things to Do on Gili Trawangan

Now that we have a few pre-planning tips out of the way, it’s time to get to the good stuff — discovering Gili Trawangan’s best bits! 

Relax at the beaches

The ultimate thing to do in Gili Trawangan is revel in its incredible beaches! You are in paradise, after all! 

Gili T is home to oodles of gorgeous beaches where you can easily kick back for a few hours, cool off in the water, find a hammock to nap in, or grab some grub and a fresh coconut at one of the many fantastic beachside bars and restaurants. While you could easily find a pretty beach just about anywhere on the island, the  best ones are on the northern and western sides . Here are my top 3 picks:  

• North East Beach , located   in front of   Villa Almarik , is a beautiful strip of soft sand with minimal crowds. It’s relatively easy to access, only a 5-minute walk from the jetty. It’s perfect for swimming, and if you’re lucky, you may spot some turtles in the shallow waters. 
• Sunset Beach,  on the island’s northwest coast, is a stunning spot to hang out any time of day. But the real magic happens at sunset. It’s my absolute favorite place to watch the sunset on the island (although everyone else thinks so, too!). If you want to catch the sunset or snap a selfie on the swings, arrive a little earlier to snag a good spot!
• Malibu Beach  on the southwest side is perfect for kicking off your flip-flops and finding a cozy nook in the sand. You’ll also find plenty of awesome beach bars where you can plop into a beanbag, grab a cocktail, and watch the waves roll in and out.

If the beaches above are too low-key for you, head to  South (or Good Heart) Beach , on the island’s southeast side. It’s  the  hangout spot for backpackers, so expect to find plenty of happy hour deals and a party vibe!

Go snorkeling

A huge must-do in Gili Trawangan is snorkeling. The underwater world is absolutely amazing here and is considered one of Southeast Asia’s best snorkeling spots . 

The beautiful coral reefs offer much to discover, from colorful fish to sea turtles and even underwater statues. If you didn’t bring snorkeling gear , don’t stress. I rented gear from the local vendors on the beach, but you can also easily find rentals at any dive shop in town. 

Another really fun way to explore the underworld treasures is to join a guided snorkeling tour. Since the guides know where the best turtle viewing spots are, you will have the best chance to spot them on your trip. Just make sure you go with a reliable tour operator because some operators pack the boats to the brim with customers, which is not safe.

If you want to see Gili Meno’s famous Nest statues, the underwater scooters, Turtle Point, and Coral Point, I highly recommend this private snorkeling tour . The tour departs from Sama-Sama Reggae Bar, and the entire trip is extremely well organized. Plus, you’ll get a tasty lunch!

If you prefer a group setting, this fun  small group snorkeling tour  may be a better fit. It stops at the same place as the abovementioned tour, so you’ll still experience all the best bits! 

Bike around the island

One of the best (and most fun) ways to get around the island is to rent a bike. And before you think, “Oh no, exercise,” here’s a little insider tip! Gili Trawangan is so tiny that you can easily bike around the entire circumference in about an hour! Plus, it’s pretty flat and a lot of fun! 

Cycling around the island was actually one of our favorite things to do. We loved biking from one beach to another, stopping for an obligatory swim, or taking a quick breather under a palm tree as we saw fit! 

Bike rentals are readily available throughout the island and usually start at IDR 50,000.  Check with your accommodation first , though, as most hotels usually have some on hand that you can  use for free . Just a heads-up: the roads aren’t great everywhere, especially the ones going inland. So slow down over the rocky patches, watch out for the dips (and odd chicken), and rather walk your bike through the loose, soft sand spots! 

Go on a sunset cruise

A sunset cruise is one of the most beautiful ways to end a day in paradise. And, I guarantee you’ll love it just as much as we did!

Most sunset cruises, like  this one , include a bit of snorkeling, allowing you one more chance to explore the beautiful coral reefs before the sun dips under the horizon. 

However, if you’re after a more bougie vibe, I highly recommend this  5-hour sunset cruise . Yes, you’ll get to snorkel, but the best part is that you’ll sail into the sunset with a glass of bubbly while enjoying a delicious meal! 

Get a massage

After a fantastic day lounging on the beach, exploring the underwater world, and stuffing your face with nasi goreng, it’s time to treat yourself to a relaxing pamper sesh! 

Our hotel had an on-site spa, but if yours doesn’t, you will find oodles of massage parlors scattered around the main strip and along the beach offering cheap massages starting at  IDR 150,000 per hour . Alternatively, check out the gorgeous  You Spa  to switch things up a notch. 

Enjoy the nightlife scene

Like Koh Phi Ph i, Gili Trawangan has a reputation for being a party island with some pretty crazy clubs, like  Jungle . While crazy party scenes aren’t exactly my vibe anymore, I will say this: set aside at least one night to enjoy Gili’s vibrant nightlife! 

There is a fantastic selection of bars and hipster hangouts, many of which are quite laidback, so you don’t need to put up with rowdy crowds. And with a bit of help from me, you’ll know exactly where to go! Try  The Exile ,  Malibu Beach Club , or  Pesona . Another cool hangout spot is  Sama Sama Reggae Bar , which has a live reggae music show every evening at 7 pm! 

Take a cooking class 

If you love Indonesian cuisine and already feeling a bit bummed about not being able to get your fix back home, here’s your golden opportunity to rectify that!

Gili Cooking Classes  is one of the top cooking schools on the island, and offers a super-fun  two-hour cooking class . You’ll learn to make mouth-watering dishes and pick up some great tips to impress everyone back home. The best part? You’ll never have to worry about satisfying your cravings again! 

Go scuba diving

If you want to take your underwater world experiences one step further, why not go scuba diving?

The Gilis are a real hotspot for diving with world-class coral reefs, ideal water temps ranging from 27 to 30°C, and excellent visibility! 

One of the most popular diving spots is  Shark Point , where (as the name suggests) you’ll have the best chance to spot sharks, rays, turtles, and even a tugboat wreck. Other popular beginner-friendly dive spots include  Bounty Wreck ,  Halik ,  Manta Point , and  Turtle Point . If you’re an advanced diver looking for a more challenging dive, try  Deep Turbo ,  Takat Malang , or  Simons Reef .

You can book a dive at any dive center along the island’s eastern shore. Among the most famous are Dpm Diving, Gili Divers, Trawangan Dive Center, Manta Dive, and Blue Marlin. If you still need a PADI or have no diving experience, Manta Dive offers a fantastic  scuba introduction course  that you can book online.  

Watch the stunning sunsets 

The sunsets on Gili Trawangan are really special, and I highly recommend ending each day watching one! 

The best sunset viewing spots are along the Sunset Strip, on the island’s western side. Here, you’ll find a fantastic selection of beach bars with colorful beanbags and airy elevated huts ready to serve you an ice-cold Bintang or a freshly cracked coconut. Watching the sun melt away while listening to music and enjoying a few drinks in this picture-perfect setting is such a vibe. You’ll love it! 

Just a heads up, the bars with the best sunset views usually charge a fee of about IDR 150,000. Remember to bring cash and come a bit earlier to secure the best spot! 

Take a swing on the Gili Swings

You’ve probably already seen hundreds of pictures of the famous Gili T swings on Instagram, and for good reason—they’re legendary and make for the perfect photo op! 

While some resorts have their own ocean swings, there are also plenty of great community-owned ones you can try out for a small fee. 

If you’re keen to snap a photo with a dreamy sunset as the backdrop, go to the ones along the western side. Since they are super popular, arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to secure your spot in line. 

Snack your way through the night market

If you love street food, you’ll love the Trawangan Night Market! While the market is a no-frills joint, the food is seriously good! There’s a fantastic selection of stalls selling everything from authentic Indonesian food to skewers, fresh seafood, fruit, and, my fave, grilled corn! The fact that everything is super cheap is just an added bonus! 

Most stalls open around 6 pm and stay open until late. 

Go island hopping to Gili Air & Gili Meno

Since the three Gilis are all close to each other, you can easily visit them all in one trip. Public slow and speed boats travel between the three islands, roughly from 8 am to 5 pm. The route is always the same: Gili Trawangan >>Gili Meno >>Gili Air and vice versa.

The slow boat sails from Gili T to the other two islands twice daily at 9:30 and 16:00. Keep in mind that unless you’re spending a night at one of the other two, the  last slow boat back   to Gili T  is at  3:00 pm from Gili Air  and  3:15 pm from Gili Meno . You can buy tickets at the harbor or a tourist booth, but buying them at the ticket office is often cheaper.

If you don’t want to wait for the public boat, take one of the island hoppers (check scedules on  12Go ) or  this speedboat instead. They have fixed schedules with way more departures a day. The first boat leaves Gili Trawangan at 08:00 am. 

Oh, and an insider tip!  If you decide to go to Gili Air, do yourself a favor and check out the island’s newest beach club,  Papaya ! It has a stunning beach setting, beautiful decor, and the best cocktails ever! 

Take a trip to Lombok

If you get tired of lounging on the beach and need a mini adventure, why not take a side trip to Lombok? While Lombok is still a relatively hidden gem often overshadowed by Bali , it’s home to wild beauty and many  amazing must-dos . 

Some highlights include lounging on beautiful beaches,  trekking to secret waterfalls , and tackling Mount Rinjani , Indonesia’s second-highest mountain. Reaching the summit takes 2-3 days, and you should only attempt this hike on an  organized tour with an experienced guide . 

You can buy a ticket for the speedboat to travel between the islands at the little office by the harbor or  book a boat ride  here in advance. 

How to Get To Gili Trawangan 

Great! Now that you know what to do on Gili Trawangan, let’s talk about how to get there.

There are several popular ways to get to Gili Trawangan, from Lombok, Bali, or Nusa Penida . They all require careful planning, but getting to Gili Trawangan is actually much easier than you may have thought! Here’s what you need to know.

Getting from Bali to Gili Trawangan

I’ve written a complete guide on how to get from Bali to the Gili Islands , so be sure to read that for in-depth details. 

But to give you an idea, the easiest way to travel between these two islands is to take a  speedboat from Padang Bai  in southeastern Bali (1h15 away from Ubud). 

The speedboat departs at  9 am daily , and the  journey takes 1h30 . For the least hassles, I recommend  booking a speedboat ticket, like this one , which can add hotel pick-up . If you prefer to sort out your own transport to the port, take this  speedboat . 

If you’re staying in Uluwatu , Seminyak, or Nusa Dua, fast boats also leave from  Sanur  or  Serangan Port.  (Click here for  speedboats from Sanur  and here for  fast boats from Serangan ) 

Tip:  I don’t get seasick easily, but I have to admit that the trip can be rough. And in 2023, one of the boats actually capsized! Make sure you book your ticket through a reliable operator like BlueWater Express, for instance, and  if you suffer from seasickness , remember to  take medication beforehand . 

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

Getting from Lombok to Gili Trawangan

If you’re already in Lombok, you can take a fast boat or the  public ferry from Bangsal Pier  between  9:30 am and 4:30 pm . 

The public ferry takes about  45 minutes  and  costs IDR 22,500 . It  only leaves when it’s full  (approx 40 pax), though, so you might need to wait around a bit. 

A much  quicker option is taking the fast boat . The ride only takes  15 minutes  and  departs every hour . The journey costs  IDR 85,000 . You can buy tickets in advance online through  12Go  or at the small office by the harbor.

If you’ve missed the normal boats or don’t feel like waiting, another (albeit pricey) option is to  charter a boat upon arrival at the harbor , which costs about  IDR 500,000 . 

Getting from Nusa Penida to Gili T

If you want to combine your Nusa Penida trip with visiting the Gili Islands, you can take a fast boat from the big harbor on Nusa. Several boats leave daily, but the  shortest journey departs at 9:30 am . The  ride takes 1h30 , and costs range from  IDR 230-330K , depending on which operator you sail with. Compare prices or book tickets here on  12Go . 

Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan

Although Gili Trawangan is only 6 km 2 in size, it offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and travel styles. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious beachfront villa or a backpacker hostel, the island has something for everyone. Here are my top picks:

Cocana Beach Resort  is a gorgeous 5-star beachfront property on the island’s west side. With beautifully appointed air-conditioned rooms and private villas, a spacious outdoor pool, an on-site fitness center, and attentive staff, this resort has absolutely everything you need and so much more!  

Affordable Luxury

If you’re seeking an idyllic beachfront setting with surprisingly affordable rates, you will love  PinkCoco —a super Instagrammable adults-only resort. The property features lovely rooms decked out in pink interiors, a sparkling pool, an on-site spa, and an epic beach bar where you can relax with a cocktail while watching the famous Gili T sunset. 

Private Villa

I love staying in beautiful villas, and if you feel the same way, you’re in for a real treat! Gili T has tons of gorgeous villas catering to high-end and mid-range travelers. Try  MAJO Private Villas  if you’re looking for the  crème de la crème  of luxury. Alternatively, try Nero Villas  or  Villas Flamingo . Both are fantastic options if you still want something bougie but more affordable. 

My backpacking days are long gone, but if you’re a solo traveler seeking a fun place to meet like-minded travelers,  Mad Monkey  is the go-to spot in Gili Trawangan. The hostel offers various room options, like huts, teepees, and dorms. There’s also a cool outdoor deck with a lovely pool where you can relish the lively atmosphere or join a bunch of fun activities.

Still searching for your dream accommodation? Find  more hotel deals here  on Agoda. 

When to Visit Gili Trawangan

The Gilli Islands have a tropical climate with warm and humid weather all year round. There are  two main seasons: dry and wet . 

The  dry season runs from May to September,  with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. Daytime highs usually reach around 30°C, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and chilling on the beach. 

In contrast, the  wet season runs from October to April,  with the most rain in December through February. Average temperatures will still be in the upper twenties to low thirties, but downpours aren’t uncommon. 

The  best time to visit Gili Trawangan is July to September . July and August are the busiest months, so if you’re not a fan of crowds, try to come in the slower months, May, June, or September. 

How Many Days Should You Spend in Gili Trawangan?

Deciding how many days to spend on Gili T really depends on what kind of vacation you’re after. You can easily fit in all the abovementioned activities in 3 days. We spent four days on the island, but since we prefer slow travel (and lounging on the beach), we could have easily spent a few more days there. Ultimately, it’s up to you! 

Where to Eat in Gili T

Gili T has such a great variety of cafes and restaurants. If you’re not sure where to grab a bite to eat, here are my top picks: 

• Casa Bonita  offers a great setting with breezy huts overlooking the water. The menu includes a variety of Indonesian classics as well as some Western food options. 
• Hellocapitano Lifestyle Café  is a super Instagrammable spot with an amazing vibe. Try the smashed avocado toasty or the butterfly smoothie bowl! 
• Coffee and Thyme  is a cozy cafe that serves 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! 
• The Banyan Tree  is a beautiful restaurant with gorgeous ocean views. If you’re vegan or simply craving a healthy meal, this is the place for you! 
• Warung Warna,  located near the jetty, offers cheap and tasty Indonesian food. Don’t miss the Nasi Goreng and the satay skewers—they’re heavenly! 

What to Pack

I won’t lie; hot and humid weather is not for everyone. Pack  light, breathable clothing  that can help you stay cool. Along with all the usual stuff you’ll pack for a beach vacation (see my packing list ),  here are a few extra things I highly recommend bringing on your trip . 

Camera & Drone:  The Gili Islands are absolutely out of this world, so don’t forget your camera. I use an  Olympus Mirrorless camera  but have been eyeing this  DJI mini drone  for some time. 

Underwater Camera:  This  GoPro  is a great go-to for capturing yourself swimming with turtles.  

Reef-safe sunscreen:  You can buy sunscreen on Gili T, but you should know that many Asian sunscreen brands contain whitening agents. If that’s not your vibe, pack a good  reef-safe sunscreen  to protect yourself and the environment. 

Waterproof phone case:  Keep your phone dry with this  waterproof phone case . 

Dry bag:  Many Gili Trawangan activities involve being in or near the water. Pack a dry bag, like this  lightweight Earth Pack bag , to keep all your stuff dry. 

Quick drying towel:  Hate tugging along a wet towel? Me too! My latest obsession is these  Turkish beach towels . I already have two and just bought one for my fiance, too!

Bug Spray:  Like elsewhere in Indonesia, having bug spray or  mozzie-repellent bracelets  is always a good idea.  

Universal adapter:  You might need a travel adapter. Here’s a  great fast-charging one  that works in over 200 countries. 

Travel insurance:  There’s not much crime on the Gilis, but it’s always best to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances, especially if you’re into adventure travel. I use (and recommend)  SafetyWing . While they are popular among digital nomads, they also have options for short-term travelers. 

eSIM:  If you need a SIM card, don’t fret! My new favorite way to get instant data connectivity (and reduce plastic waste) is using eSIMs. Grab an  eSIM for Indonesia  here. Just make sure your phone is compatible with it before checking out! 

So, did you figure out what to do in Gili Trawangan? 

Whether you come to explore the underwater world, chill at the beach, or join in on the lively party scrum, there’s no shortage of epic things to do in Gili Trawangan. It truly is one of the most magical places you’ll ever visit! 

I hope you find this guide useful when planning your trip to this beautiful Southeast Asian island . Gili T certainly made a lasting impression on me, and I can’t wait to return someday! Have an amazing time relishing this unique paradise! 

If you’ve gotten this far, thank you, my friend. So, are you ready to visit Gili T? Share your comments below! 

Do you need more help planning your trip to Indonesia? Check out my other popular guides. 

• Famous Indonesian landmarks
• 7 Days in Bali 
• 3 Days in Ubud
• Best hotels, resorts, & villas in Ubud
• Prettiest Ubud waterfalls
• Top restaurants in Ubud
• Best hotels, resorts & villas in Uluwatu
• Best beaches in Uluwatu
• Top things to do in Labuan Bajo
• Visiting the Komodo Islands 

Liked these Gili Trawangan things to do? Remember to save this post for your future trip! 

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September 5, 2022 at

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

September 6, 2022 at

Thanks Trish – glad it can come in handy! 🙂

September 12, 2022 at

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

January 9, 2023 at

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

January 21, 2023 at

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

July 11, 2023 at

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

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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Gili T: 48 Hour Travel Guide

Gili T is the largest of the Gili Islands , and a great base for spending a couple of days in the region. This handy travel guide features the top things to do in the Gili Islands, where to stay and what you just shouldn’t miss.

After the metropolis of Jakarta , adventure playground of Bandung , the temple land of Yogyakarta , and the untouched paradise of Raja Ampat , it was time for a few days in the Gili Islands. Several friends had been over the last few years and, rather than Bali, it sounded like this might be Indonesia’s hottest ticket.

Which Is The Best Gili Island To Visit? 

How to choose? The three kooky islands each have their own vibes. I’d describe Gili Trawangan (aka Gili T) as cheeky and fun with great party vibes. It’s the largest island and has more hotels, restaurants and things to do. It’s easy to see why it’s become popular with backpackers. Gili Meno is the smallest and most remote feeling, while Gili Air is super relaxed and great for couples.

How To Get To The Gili Islands

You can reach Gili Trawangan by boat from Lombok (15 mins), and various places in Bali including Serangan (30 mins), Padang Bai (over an hour) and Amed (45 mins). There are several fast boats operating, and they dock in the centre of Main Street (most dock right on the beach).

There are different companies offering ferry services, but most routes have fixed prices. Once on dry land there are no motorised vehicles, so be prepared for a short walk, or hop on a horse and cart to your accommodation.

If you’re looking for a great guide on exactly how to get to the Gili Islands, check out this post . 

Where To Stay In Gili Trawangan

There’s a distinct mix in accommodation on Gili T. Consider the area around Main Street backpacker central! That’s not to say there are lots of hostels filled with dorms. It’s a lot less frantic than that. Most are homestays, private apartments or small dive schools with rooms.

Head around ten minutes away from Main Street and you’ll be in a land of stunning private villas and luxurious boutique hotels. It’s a distinctly different vibe with just a few beach bars lining the sand. Couples, honeymooners and people craving a real switch-off will love this part of the island. Plus, a lot of people flock here to catch the magical sunsets by the famous swings in water.

Luxury Hotel Recommendation

Hotel Ombak Sunset is home of the original Datu Swing, but also has one of the biggest pools and a great restaurant and bar.  You can read more about my stay in my review here: Hotel Ombak Sunset  

Budget Hostel Recommendation

For a luxurious hostel option, check out Gili Castle . It’s got a great atmosphere, dive school and uber cool design.

Things To Do In Gili Trawangan

From island hopping and diving, to being pampered, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in the Gili Islands.  

Boat Trips In Gili Trawangan

From Gili T you can catch a boat to Gili Air or Gili Meno for just a few Rupiah. It’s great to see the contrast between the three islands, or if you have more time you could even spend a night elsewhere.

Find out about my travel blogger friend Emily’s stay at Karma Reef on GIli Meno.

What better way to watch the sunset in an exotic location like this, than on board a boat with a cocktail in your hand?! Samba Cruise offers party boat trips three times a week along with reggae cruises on Thursdays!

Diving and Snorkelling In Gili Trawangan

While the Gili Islands don’t offer as much in the way of underwater life as  Raja Ampat or Komodo, diving is still pretty good. There are tonnes of dive shops along Main Street offering Padi courses and daily dive trips to Shark Point and Deep Turbo. Once in the water there’s a chance you might see manta rays, turtles, whitetip sharks and more.

It’s also a great place to snorkel, with turtles often being spotted just beyond the reef break. Most hotels will rent snorkel equipment, so there’s no need to book a boat tour. However, having tried this myself, I would warn you that you may need to walk a long way out to the reef break, and less-strong swimmers may feel uncomfortable getting beyond the large waves (I did!)

Shopping In Gili Trawangan

I never expected the Gilis to be so great for shopping! All along Main Street are small boutiques offering fun, patterned dresses, cool bags and funky flip flops… and many are pretty reasonable. I’d describe the general style on the island as hippie beach – swimwear covered up by a casual print dress and sandals.

Spas In Gili Trawangan

I read that Bali has more spas per capita than anywhere else on the planet… and this seems to have rubbed off on its neighbours in the Gili Islands! Most major hotels and luxury accommodation on Gili T have spas or therapists on call, but cheaper options are available around Main Street. Also, if you love a foot rub, there are plenty of places specialising in reflexology.

I visited Kusuka Spa on Main Street for an hour’s Balinese full body massage for just IDR 165,000 (£10.40) I lay there enjoying a relaxing rub down to the sound of the waves.

What To Do In Gili Trawangan At Night

If you want to let your hair down, you’ve come to the right island! Head to Tir Na Nog (the island’s Irish bar) and try Vodka with Extra Joss. Your shot of vodka will come served with a sachet of fruity tasting sherbet containing ginseng, royal jelly, vitamins and more. I’d compare it to a crushed up Berocca, so you’ll be buzzing a little after (and the next day too it turns out!) It’s not something I’d necessarily recommend, but I wanted to find out what it was!

Sama-Sama draws in the crowds in with its live music and great atmosphere. Meanwhile, Evolution ’s calling card is its competitive beer pong tables that run from the back of the bar right down to the street. I also loved the look of this shisha lounge with its colourful cushions on the sand.

Along with the above activities, you can also head off horse riding, surfing or learn how to cook up some Indonesian classics in a cooking class.

Island Tours And Transport In Gili Trawangan

Rent a bike for $5 – $10 and you can do a lap of the island in around an hour. It’s only 6 square miles, so won’t tire you out too much!. It’s a great way to see some of the less-visited parts, while working up an appetite!

Or, grab a bottle of water and walk the route. It’ll take you around two hours but there are plenty of cool bars dotted along the coast to stop at when your energy drops.

You can also catch a horse and cart to get around. When I visited, we used one of these when we had a lot of luggage, but retrospectively I’m not sure I’d advise it as it was hard to know if the horses were well looked after. 

Find out more great  things to do on Gili T  plus check out Nomadic Boys’ gay guide to the Gili Islands .

Best Time To Visit The Gili Islands

July, August, December and January are the busiest time for tourists. Many think September to November is a great time to visit as the weather is good and the islands aren’t too busy. I visited in October and enjoyed warm days, although some were a little overcast. It’s worth remembering it can get pretty rainy in December and January which isn’t much fun for the boat crossings !

Huge thanks to the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism for inviting me on the #TripOfWonders as part of their #WonderfulIndonesia campaign. As always, opinions are my own! 

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

6 thoughts on “Gili T: 48 Hour Travel Guide”

I liked Gili T. The snorkeling around the Gili’s is so much fun 🙂 x

Thanks Stephanie! They’re beautiful aren’t they. When did you head out there? Did you stay on Gili T?

I was there in July of this year. I stayed at Gili Air for 2 nights and Gili T for about 6 i believe.

Ah lovely! I wish I’d had longer to go and enjoy the other islands too! I guess it’ll mean I go back one day…!

Originally planned for 3 nights but stayed for 4 because it was so nice – and will be coming back in February next year. The island itself is so chilled, you can do whatever you want for very little money and just have a great time.

I’d recommend staying at a hostel/hotel a few streets away from the beach to keep costs down and find somewhere less busy. Eating and drinking out is also cheaper a few minutes inland from the beach.

Will definitely be coming back many times!!

Glad you liked it too!

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Katie Caf Travel

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

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 – Please enjoy this guide to Gili Trawangan! 

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✔️ 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. 

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”. 

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 

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. 

Overcrowding Issue: 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! 

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! 

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. 

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. 

🚩 Scam 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.

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. 

$ Public Ferry:  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. 

$$ Speed Boat:  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. 

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

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. 

Where to Party 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. 

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!

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  [Expand ⬇️]

• 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! 

Is it ethical? 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. 

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. 

💸 Cost: 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. 

How to Visit: 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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

Best Places to Stay in Gili Trawangan 

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 🛌

My 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. 

✅ 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.

✅ 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. 

✅ 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. 

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. 

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. 

How to Book: 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. 

From Bali 

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. 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. 

💰 Cost: 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.

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

🚩 Small Scam: 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. 

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. 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. 

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. 

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. 

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

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.

Katie Caf, founder of Katie Caf Travel, is a seasoned travel expert who has explored over 30 countries and lived abroad in places like Egypt, Morocco, Mexico, India, Indonesia Thailand, Europe, and the USA. Her goal is to help other traveler see the world by providing first-hand accounts of what to expect on the road.

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A Complete Gili Trawangan Travel Guide (Gili T Things To Do & Itinerary)

By: Author Charles

Posted on April 10, 2023

When it comes to islands in Indonesia, there are few that compare with what Gili Trawangan has to offer.

Beaches, nightlife, sunsets, scuba diving, snorkeling, food markets, and much more can be found all throughout this small but remarkable island near Lombok.

While Gili Trawangan (or Gili T for short) is small in size, there really is so much to do in and around the island.

This guide will go over everything there is to know about Gili Trawangan and how to best plan your trip to this Indonesian island.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) Gili Trawangan Overview

To start, I wanted to summarize some helpful facts and things to know about Gili Trawangan. Throughout the remainder of this post, I will be diving deeper into these various topics.

Island Name: Gili Trawangan or Gili T

The name Trawangan is derived from the word Terowongan, which means Tunnel.

That is because there is a tunnel that was built on the island by the Japanese during WWII.

Island Group: Gili Islands

Gili T is part of the larger group of Gili Islands.

This set of islands also includes Gili Meno and Gili Air. Both of these are just a short boat ride away.

Closest Main Island: Lombok

The Gili Islands are located just off of the coast of the northwest part of Lombok island.

Lombok is home to the closest airport (LOP). You can also reach the Gilis from Bali & the Nusa islands (more on all that soon).

Gili Trawangan Size: 3 km (1.9 miles) long & 2 km (1.2 miles) wide

At just 6 square kilometers (2.3 square miles), Gili T is actually the largest of the Gili Islands.

The best part of its size, is that you can really enjoy the full island without much hassle.

Gili Trawangan Transport: Walking, Bicycles, & Cidomos

The Gili Islands are known to have no motorized vehicles on the islands.

This means the main way to get yourself around will be by simply walking, renting bicycles, or taking a cidomo (horse drawn carriage).

Time of Year to Visit: May to September (dry season)

In order to get the most out of a visit, it is recommended to go the island during its dry season.

This usually lasts from May to September. I visited during mid-June, and had picture perfect weather all the way through.

Is Gili Trawangan a Party Island: Yes (and No)

When it comes to nightlife in Indonesia, Gili Trawangan is towards the top of the list. But just because it is known for its nightlife, doesn’t mean it is all about the nightlife.

When I visited, I anticipated the nightlife scene to all be very loud and crowded. And while you have those spots, there are also many calmer & more relaxing nightlife options out there too.

This makes it the perfect island for those that want the “party” nightlife and also want that more laid back nightlife – whether that is a beanbag on the beach or a relaxing sunset.

You can really make a trip to Gili T to suit what you want most out of your trip.

Helpful Things To Know

To wrap up this section, here are just a few important things to know about life on Gili T:

• There are many ATMs on Gili T , so do not worry too much about bringing enough cash with you. There are plenty in the city center.
• While there is no hospital on Gili T, there are some clinics . So, if you do get sick or need medical aid, there are some spots to choose from.
• Looking for a haircut? Head to the north shore, where you can find a barber shop on the beach . It was by far my favorite barber shop location when traveling the world.
• If you are in need of a massage, you should have no trouble finding some spots in town . Prices are very reasonable and it is of course a relaxing thing to do during your time there.
• And finally, go enjoy a sunset every night!

2) How To Get To Gili Trawangan

First things first, you will need to figure out how to get yourself to Gili Trawangan.

This of course will all depend on where you are coming from. Since Gili T does not have an airport, the only way to arrive will be by boat.

In general, there are direct boats from three main places: Lombok, Bali, & the Nusa Islands.

If you are coming from other places in Indonesia (or abroad), you will first need to make your way to Bali or Lombok and go from there.

Below are the high level logistics for getting to Gili T from these three spots:

Lombok to Gili Trawangan

If you are looking for the closest airport, that will be located on the nearby island of Lombok (LOP).

You can fly into Lombok from other major cities throughout Indonesia (such as Bali, Surubaya, & Jakarta), as well as international locations like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Once you arrive at the airport, you will want to make your way to the Bangsai port area. The drive from the airport to the port should take between 1.5 – 2 hours.

At the port, you can hop on a public boat that depart a few times throughout the day. While these boats are cheaper (just a couple dollars), they are slower and take around 30 – 40 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take a more expensive speed boat from the nearby Teluk Kode/Nare port. These can be more expensive ($10+) but take just 10 or so minutes.

Bali to Gili Trawangan

If you are planning to visit Gili T after some time on Bali, you should have no trouble taking a ferry over.

There are ferries all throughout the day that connect various piers on Bali with Gili T . Many of the fast boats leave from Padang Bai and Ahmed. Other ports include Serangan and Sanur.

Some of the main ferry companies include BlueWater Express, Marlin, Ekajaya Fast Boat, Sugriwa Express, Golden Queen Fast Boat, and Starfish Fast Cruise.

These routes can take anywhere between 1.5 and 3 hours depending on what boat/route you choose, with prices starting around $20 USD.

Nusa Islands to Gili Trawangan

While you can make your way over to Gili T from mainland Bali, you can also do so directly from the Nusa Islands.

Both Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan offers direct ferries from their ports to Gili T.

These will be less frequent than the boats from Bali, but you can certainly grab a ferry from either one of the two islands.

During my time in Indonesia, I made my way over to Gili Trawangan from Nusa Penida . The ride took about 2 hours and was an easy and convenient process altogether.

Important Ferry Notes

• It is not uncommon for there to be rough seas between Bali and the Gili Islands. When rough seas happen, boats can get cancelled . If this happens to you, then the best immediate solution would be to fly to Lombok and take the much shorter boat ride from there.
• There is no dock at the harbor on Gili T . You will need to take your shoes off and walk into the water depending on tide levels.

3) How To Get Around Gili T

Once on Gili T, you will need to make your way around the island. There are really just three main ways of transport – walking, bicycling, or cidomos.

The Gilis are known to have no motorized vehicles on the islands, which makes a visit even that much more relaxing and enjoyable.

You can easily get anywhere on Gili T by foot. There is a pathway that wraps around the entirety of the island that is about 7 km / 4.3 miles in length.

In addition to the circular pathway, there are also a few paths that cut through the center of the island.

While walking is a great way to go about your time around Gili T, renting a bicycle for the day is the more popular option.

Although the island is quite small, it can still take 30+ minutes by foot to get from the eastern side to the western side.

To solve this issue, bicycles can get you from point A to point B in just a fraction of the time.

Most people do rent bicycles when exploring Gili T, as it is a faster and more convenient option compared to walking everywhere.

Expect to pay around $3 per day for a bicycle. These can be rented from your hotel or from one of the many shops in town.

Bicycle Note : although there is a pathway around the island, some of it can be a made up of sand. This in turn makes it more difficult to bicycle on. During these portions you will be better off just walking the bicycle until the path flattens out.

The last main transport option is to take a cidomo around the island. A cidomo is essentially a small horse & carriage ride.

These are mostly used by those that are not staying within walking distance to their hotel from the harbor area.

As many people note though, you should try to refrain from taking these if possible. The horses are not known to be treated well, and it can be considered frowned upon to take a ride on one.

4) When to Visit Gili Trawangan

Another main consideration to think about is when to visit Gili Trawangan.

The weather of the Gili Islands can be broken down into two distinct seasons. There is the dry season that runs from May to September and the rainy season from October to April.

Since Gili T is a sunny beach getaway destination, the ideal time to visit will be during that dry time period.

You will have a better chance for clear and sunny days as you fully get to take advantage of the island.

Much of Indonesia also lays right near the equator. This in turn creates a constant warm, tropical climate year-round.

You can expect daily temperatures around 80 F / 27 C and nighttime temperatures around 65 F / 18 C year-round.

5) Gili T Packing List

As you think about your packing list for Indonesia and Gili T, be sure to consider the following items:

Bathing Suit : your normal day to day outfit is going to be a t-shirt / tank top and bathing suit. Since so much of the island focuses on the water, you will want to be prepared with a few of them for your trip.

Sunglasses & Hat : Gili T can get sunny & hot. To protect yourself from the sun, you will want to wear sunglasses and a hat. Don’t leave your hotel without them!

Sunscreen & Bug Spray : bringing along sunscreen and bug spray will also help to protect your skin from the sun and the mosquitoes.

Flip Flops : the footwear of choice on Gili T will certainly be flip flops (or no shoes at all). Bring along a comfortable pair to walk, bike, and lounge around in.

Dry Bag : when going on boats or just hanging by the beach, having a dry bag will be helpful to keep your valuables protected.

Nightlife Outfits : be sure to also bring along some nightlife outfits. These should not be fancy or anything. Rather just comfortable nighttime beachwear type of clothes.

6) Gili T Map Layout

Before continuing on with the rest of the guide, I wanted to layout a map with all the various things to do, highlights, attractions, restaurants, and more.

Be sure to look back at the map to get an idea where everything is located throughout Gili T.

Below is a high level overview of the Gili Trawangan layout:

Eastern Side

The eastern side of the island is where you can find most of the action on Gili T.

Here is where the ferries arrive and depart from, in addition to the most hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops.

Northern Side

As you head further north, you will begin to leave the hustle & bustle of downtown behind and begin to see several “turtle snorkeling spots”.

I spent several mornings on the northern side swimming with turtles throughout my stay.

Southern Side

Heading south from town center, there will be more beach areas to enjoy. These were some of my favorite beaches on the island, where you can find nice soft sand.

This is also where some of the best surfing can be found around Gili T.

Western Side

The western side of Gili T is best known for one thing – its epic sunsets. Every evening, hundreds of visitors begin the walk/bike to the western side of the island to take in the sunset.

There are also several beach bars and more resort like hotels located on the western side.

7) Gili Trawangan Hotels

Gili Trawangan is full of all types of accommodation. Everything from low budget hostels to more luxurious resorts can be found along its paths.

Remember, most of the nightlife & restaurant action is happening on the eastern side of the island. This makes it the more convenient place to stay in general.

If you are someone who just wants some peace and quiet, then the western side may be just perfect for you.

To better help guide you in the right direction, below are some of the top places to consider for a visit.

• Best Overall Hotel: Pearl of Trawangan
• Best East Island Hotel: Samba Villas Beachfront View
• Best Southeast Island Hotels: Pondok Santi Estate & The Beach House Resort
• Best West Island Hotels: Gili Teak Resort & Hotel Lumi Gili Trawangan
• Best North Island Hotel: Nero North
• Best Gili T Hostel: Mad Monkey

8) Thing To Do in Gili Trawangan

Although small in size, there is so much to do during a visit to Gili T. I spent 5 days on the island, and found it the perfect amount of time to both relax & take part of activities.

Here are some of the top things to do on Gili T during a visit:

Gili T Beaches

Since Gili Trawangan is an island, beaches will be plentiful all around. There simply is no shortage of beaches to choose from.

In general, there really aren’t specific names for beaches on the island. Rather, it is more so just directional.

I will talk through the Gili T beaches starting on the eastern side and going clockwise.

On the eastern side of the island, you will be met with the harbor area, so the beaches directly on that end aren’t the best for swimming or relaxing.

Instead, you will want to make your way further south along the eastern coast. As you head further south, the beach area will begin to get more enjoyable and peaceful.

This was one of my favorite areas to enjoy some time on the beach as the water is crystal clear and the sand is as good as it gets.

You may also find some beach resorts here, where you can rent one of the beach chairs & umbrellas if interested.

As you wrap around the southern end of the island, you will get to the western coast. The western coast is more populated with resorts and plenty of relaxing beaches.

This is the spot you want to visit during sunset, as the beach bars fill up and you get to see the sun dip below the horizon.

Here is also where you will find many of those famous Gili T swings and hammocks out in the water.

Continuing up to the northern side is where you will find the best snorkeling opportunities. If you are interested in the beach and snorkeling, then this is going to be for you.

Beach Notes

• The tides can really affect the water levels around Gili T. During low tide, you will find much more shallow coral to walk through. During high tides, many of those water swings may be fully covered.
• Don’t expect so much soft sand in the water. Since there is a reef around the island, you will find a lot of rockier terrain out in the sea. If you look closely at the photos throughout, you can get a better idea of what to expect.

Scuba Diving

When it comes to water activities around Gili T, scuba diving is near the top of the list.

All around the town center you will find dive shops that take people out on small dive boats and to the surrounding reefs.

Scuba diving comes in all shapes and sizes. You can head out on an introductory dive, sign up for a full PADI course, or just take part of a day diving package if you are already certified.

The great thing about diving around Gili T is that many of the dive sites are all within a ~10-20 minute boat ride.

This gives people the chance to go out on a dive, head to the mainland for a quick break, and then back into the water for some more diving. You wont be subject to sitting on a boat all day.

Some of the top dive spots around Gili T include: Shark Point, Halik, Simon’s Reef, Meno Wall, Air Wall, and Manta Point.

While there are many companies on the island, feel free to check out some of the more highly rated ones such as Blue Marlin , Trawangan Dive Centre, and Gili Divers.

Understandingly, scuba diving is not meant for everyone. Luckily, there are also many snorkeling opportunities around Gili T too.

And the best part about it is that you do not even need to join a tour. Instead you can just rent some gear and walk right into the water from the shore.

The best snorkeling can be found along the northeastern and northern shores of the island.

As you head to those areas, you will see several spots mentioning turtles & snorkeling.

Simply rent your gear from one of the guys on the beach, and then make your way into the water. Hopefully for you, it won’t be long until some turtles make their way through.

During my time on Gili T, I spent several mornings snorkeling the coasts and just hanging out with some turtles.

Expect to pay around $3 for a snorkel, mask, and fins.

Bicycling Around Gili T

I touched upon this a bit earlier, but bicycling around the island is a popular thing to do during a visit.

You can rent bikes from your hotel or within the town center to more easily get yourself all around.

Circling the whole island can be a day on its own as you bike from one beach to the next, take part of some snorkeling, grab some lunch, and just enjoy some time on the sand.

As you are renting bicycles, try and choose one that is in better condition. Many of the bikes can be quite old and can easily break. I saw plenty of people trying to reattach their chains during my stay.

You can either decide to just rent a bike for the duration of your entire trip or rent one on a daily basis.

Take in a Sunset

Perhaps the most famous aspect of Gili T is its epic sunset on the western side of the island.

All along the western shores you will come across beach bars that have lounge chairs and bean bags out in the sand.

Grabbing a drink and sitting down on the beach is the perfect way to end any day on Gili T.

Out in the distance you will be able to see the island of Bali and Mount Agung on a clear day. Getting to have that beautiful view as the sun sets on the horizon is a tough panorama to beat.

There are many spots to choose from along the coast. Some of these include Pink Coco Beach Club, Sunset Bar, Hotel Ombak, Aston Sunset Beach, Window Bar, among others.

If you want a more low key vibe, just find a spot in the sand away from the beach bars. You shouldn’t have any trouble getting away from the crowds if that is what you are interested in.

Helpful Tip : if bicycling back, you may find it helpful to have a headlamp as you bike in the dark to town.

Hop on a Gili T Swing

When it comes to the most photographed spots on Gili T, the famous water swings are on the top of the list.

The swings are built on manmade wooden contraptions set up near the beach in the water. When the tides are right, people can head out on the swings and get that perfect photo op.

Not only will you find swings, but there are also hammocks as well.

While the main swing that made Gili T famous can be found at Hotel Ombak, there are several more swings that are situated throughout its waters.

Hilltop Viewpoint

Speaking of sunsets, you can also enjoy one from the highest point of Gili T.

Instead of taking in a sunset by the beach, you can instead walk up to an elevated viewpoint spot.

On Google Maps (and pinpointed on the map above), you will Gili Trawangan Sunset Beach, where the Sunset Bar is located.

From there, you should see a staircase heading up into the trees. This will just be a quick 5-minute hike up until you reach the viewpoint spot.

Island Hopping Cruise

While Gili T is a highlight on its own, why not also take some time to visit the nearby islands of Gili Meno and Gili Air.

This can be done as part of a standard island-hopping cruise from Gili T. All around the town center, you will find stalls marketing this type of cruise.

You can easily sign up for one of these the day before, so there isn’t too much planning to worry about.

If interested, you may be more inclined to find a group of friends to do it with and rent out a whole boat (or simply just to a private tour).

During an island-hopping tour, you will be able to visit places like Bay Rock Reef, Turtle Reef, Garden Fish, among others.

Gili T Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife among the Gili Islands (and Indonesia in general), Gili T is towards the top of the list.

All throughout the city center, you will find plenty of bars and nightlife option to enjoy.

What I like about Gili Trawangan, is that you can really get a whole array of options depending on what you are looking for.

Just because Gili T is known to be more of a party island, doesn’t mean its all about partying.

While there are some louder and crowded bars, there are also some more laid-back beach bars too.

You can really find a wide nightlife spectrum on Gili T, and head somewhere that has an atmosphere that works for you.

Drug Note : in the past, Gili T has had a really bad image of being just a drug island. Over the years, things have calmed down. While you will find plenty of “magic mushroom” shakes & people offering some type of drugs to you, it is very easy to avoid that crowd.

Night Market

While there are many restaurant options to choose from on the island, why not spend an evening checking out the famous Night Market.

The market is full of all types of fresh seafood, meats, salads, rice, and side dishes. Make the walk around to the different stalls & warungs as you find something that looks good to you.

You simply choose what you want and they will go ahead and cook it right there on the spot.

Cooking Class

While a night market is one way to experience the local cuisine, why not try a cooking class too.

Taking part of a cooking class will give you the chance to learn from the locals as you make your own dishes.

Over the course of 2-3 hours you will be able to make a handful of Indonesian dishes, learn from local chefs, and eat your way through your final product.

The great thing about cooking classes is that you can then use your newly found skills to take back home. That way, you wont be too far off from having some Indonesian cuisine thousands of miles away.

Gili Air & Gili Meno

On one hand you can take one of those day trip boat cruises around Gili Air and Gili Meno, but those boats will not focus much time on the islands themselves.

Instead, you can opt to take a quick ferry ride to one or both of the islands and spend a day exploring them.

Both of these islands will offer much different vibes that Gili Trawangan. So, it will feel like a change of pace getting to experience another one of the Gili Islands during a visit.

9) Restaurants & Food Options

All around Gili T you will find plenty of food options. Whether that is at a restaurant, night market, or a hotel’s beach, there is no shortage of choices.

To better help point out some of the top spots, here is a short list of the best restaurants out on Gili Trawangan:

• Jali Kitchen : Ausion Fushion Cuisine
• The Banyan Tree : Cafe, Breakfast Bowls, & Brunch
• Pearl Beach Lounge : Healthy Food by the Beach
• Regina Pizzeria : Gili T’s Best Pizza
• Hellocapitano Lifestyle Café : Healthy Breakfast & Brunch
• Tiki Grove : Tiki Bar with Tacos
• Ego Beachfront : Perfect for Seafood & BBQ
• Casa Vintage Beach : Jamaican & Caribbean Cuisine
• Ko Ko Mo : Beachside Restaurant with All Day Options
• Scallywags : Fresh Seafood on the Beach

10) Is It Worth Going to Gili Trawangan

With all of that said, you may be asking yourself is it worth going to Gili Trawangan.

And without a doubt, my answer would be yes you should!

After traveling all throughout Indonesia, visiting places like Java , Bali , among others, I found that Gili T was a much-needed stop for me.

I love the idea that everything is within walking & bicycling distance, and you can really get exactly what you are looking for from the island.

The beautiful sunsets, various nightlife options, off the beach snorkeling, and one of kind scuba diving spots, really made Gili T a place I will always remember.

If you are looking for a unique, fun, and activity filled island in Indonesia, then Gili T is for you.

11) How Many Days Do You Need in Gili Trawangan?

I would recommend spending around 3 days in Gili Trawangan to fully take advantage of a visit.

Three days (and two nights) will give you enough time to take part of activities, relax on the beach, and of course view a couple of magical sunsets.

During my time on Gili T, I actually spent 5 days there. But that was during my around the world itinerary . So, it was nice to have some additional days of relaxation.

A 3-day itinerary to Gili T can look something like this:

• Day 1 : Rent Bicycles, Snorkel with Turtles, Relax on the Beach & Enjoy a Sunset
• Day 2 : Head out Scuba Diving or on the Island-Hopping Tour (and another sunset!)
• Day 3 : Take a Cooking Class, More Beach & Snorkeling, and Depart

12) Is Gili Trawangan Expensive?

When comparing Gili Trawangan to the rest of the world, no, it is not expensive. However, it can be on the more expansive side when comparing against other places in Indonesia.

Even with that said though, your money can go a long way when visiting Gili T.

For a mid-range budget, you can expect to spend around $75 per day. This will mostly depend on what type of accommodation you choose.

A normal meal will cost around $10 USD ($20-$30 for all meals), a bicycle rental around $5 per day, and private rooms in hotels start at less than $10 (the average mid-range hotel is probably closer to $50 per night).

If you are on a tighter budget, you can easily get away with having a $25 USD daily budget and live just fine on the island.

Of course, costs can start adding up if you are going on each night, scuba diving, or taking part of other activities.

That does it for a travel guide to Gili Trawangan. If you have any questions or comments, be sure to add them in below.

Also, don’t forget to check out the other Indonesia itineraries and guides up on the site (like hiking Mt Rinjani and Mt Batur ).

Have fun out there and safe travels!

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What to Do at Gili Trawangan? The Ultimate Gili T Guide

Between Bali and Lombok in Indonesia lies Gili Trawangan , a small paradise island that offers total relaxation, natural beauty, and adventure. Locally known as Gili T, this car-free tropical island is the largest of the three Gili Islands just adjacent to the Lombok coast. It is among Indonesia’s finest tourist destinations, with lively coral reefs, beautiful sand beaches, and swaying palm trees.

 Image source: Pinterest

Getting to Know Gili T

Gili Trawangan is at the outermost east of Lombok mainland. Situated just off Lombok’s northwest coast, Indonesia, it covers only about 2 km wide and about 3 km from north to south. Local Sasak communities  were some of the earliest known settlers before the island became popular with farmers and fishermen several centuries ago.

Accommodation Options

With Mt. Rinjani volcano visible in the distance and turquoise waters surrounding the island, Gili T offers picture-perfect views no matter where you stay. Below are some of its accommodation options.

1) Luxurious Resorts

If you’re seeking 5-star luxury, visit a beachfront resort like Villa Ombak, which has a sunset bar and an ocean view pool. Or perhaps Pearl of Trawangan, set on the quiet north coast, with fabulous overwater bungalows on stilts above the sea. Here, you’ll be spoilt with farm-to-table dining and spa treatments.

2) Budget-Friendly Hostels

Gili T has plenty of budget digs that are ideal for inexpensive travelers and backpackers. There are popular spots that put you in the action, with dorm-style accommodation and prime beachfront locations. Expect to meet fellow travelers and get tips on the best Gili T experiences from the friendly staff.

3) Unique Stays

Top Activities to Do on Gili T

Upon settling into your Gili T accommodation, it’s time for fun. The island offers multiple adventures both on land and in the water, including:

1) Snorkeling With Sea Creatures

On touring Gili Trawangan, Indonesia, you will see the island reef full of tropical fish, turquoise waters, and sea turtles. You can spend a day snorkeling to view manta rays and reef sharks. For newbies, many tour guides take you to snorkel sites around the islands, offering all the gear you’ll need.

2) View Underwater Statues

Have lunch at the best cafes for something unique, then swim to their underwater art gallery. Statues like Tribute to Ganesha are submerged nearby for snorkelers to admire and get inspiration.

Scuba diving within this lovely island is world-class, with wrecks, reefs, and walls to lure divers of all levels. On a dive trip, view beautiful sceneries of tropical fish, reef sharks, moray eels, and octopuses. Expert divers can explore deeper wrecks like the bunkers and warships. Local dive centers like Manta Dive Gili also offer accommodation options and dive courses.

4) Exploring by Bicycle

Gili T’s Nightlife Scene

When the sun goes down, Gili T comes alive. Relax with cocktails on beanbags and dance the night away under the stars at one of the island’s many parties and bars. Below are some of this island’s nightlife scenes.

• Party at the Beach Bars

The Iconic Tir Na Nog Bar is famous for its weekly late-night dance parties and white sand dance floor. Alternatively, you can listen to reggae tunes and sip jungle juice cocktails at Blue Marlin, a lively beach bar with gorgeous sunset views.

• Dancing Under the Moonlight

Full moon parties at bars like Sama Sama are all-night raves underneath the moonlight. Watch fire dancers, glow paint shows, and join the crowds dancing by the sea until sunrise.

Culinary Delights in Gili T

From just-caught seafood to flavors from around the globe, Gili T’s dining scene offers something to satisfy every craving. When visiting, don’t forget to try out:

• Local Cuisine

For authentic Sasak home cooking, check out Warung Bambu, a small inn near Gili Air, and try their chicken fried rice. Other favorites are Scallywags Organic Seafood for seafood curry and BBQ tuna steak or romantic Pearl Beach Lounge for great cocktails and lobster satay.

• International Meals

In the main tourist area, you’ll find restaurants serving woodfired pizzas, Japanese, Indian, Italian, Mexican, and more. Popular picks are Jamaican Reggae Bar for jerk chicken and Vintage Coffee for smashed avocado toast.

• Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Relaxation and Wellness Options

What would a trip to a tropical island paradise be without utter relaxation? After days of adventure, schedule some much-needed relaxation at one of Gili T’s wellness spots. Below are some choices you may consider.

• Yoga and Meditation

Bliss out during a sunset yoga flow class on Pearl Beach, with panoramic sea views. Or try an aerial yoga session suspended from silk hammocks. Many retreats like Desa Dunia offer healthy organic meals and host daily yoga and meditation.

• Spa Treatments

Get spoilt with a relaxing massage under alang thatched roofs at Desha Spa and gaze out to sea. Couples can enjoy side-by-side treatments. For next-level luxury, you can check into Pearl of Trawangan’s beachfront spa, which has private jacuzzis in each treatment room.

• Beachfront Massages

Island Hopping to Gili Meno and Gili Air

Tour beyond Gili T and discover bordering islands, Gili Air and Gili Meno. Each has its unique charms.

Just a quick 10 to 15-minute boat ride from Trawangan, Gili Air moves at a comfortable pace with even more of a stunning island vibe. Hike to the hilltop for striking views or snorkel from the beaches with stingrays and reef sharks.

Eco-Tourism in Gili Trawangan

With growing popularity has come an influx of visitors, putting pressure on Gili T’s environment. However, there is a big focus across the island on sustainability practices to preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem. Below are some of the island’s eco-tourism initiatives you ought to understand.

• Sustainable Practices

Many businesses and resorts aim to work harmoniously with the nature of the islands by using solar panels for energy, eliminating single-use plastics, or implementing recycling programs. Some hotels and resorts even grow ingredients for their restaurants on-site.

• Eco-Friendly Accommodation Options

Many lodgings stand out for their eco-conscious efforts, like Gili Eco Villas, which has lavish solar-powered villas made from bamboo. Others utilize passive cooling and greywater systems. Greenwashing is an issue, so check that eco claims are legitimate before you book.

• Beach Cleanups and Community Initiatives

Tips for Preparing Your Trip to Gili Trawangan

Ready to visit? Pack light, but don’t forget these essentials to enjoy island life on Gili T fully:

• Appropriate Clothing and Essentials

Bring lightweight, breathable clothing that provides sun coverage alongside hats and swimwear. Carry reef shoes to help protect feet during beach walks or snorkeling. Pack biodegradable sunscreen and eco-friendly toiletries to avoid polluting the reef.

• Best Time to Visit

April through October brings ideal weather to this island, primarily low humidity and sunshine. November through March are the rainy months. The high season is July and August, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices if visiting then.

• Currency and Payment

From adventures like tranquil yoga sessions on the beach to live music events and diving with sharks and turtles, Gili Trawangan presents the ideal Indonesian island retreat. It perfectly blends island culture, activities, and nature for a memorable tropical adventure.

Whether you’re craving more low-key island vibes or a party trip, the beauty of Gili Trawangan, with its swaying palms, ultra-fresh seafood, and captivating beaches, provides something for every style of traveler. Get your fill of exciting snorkeling reefs and dance parties raging till dawn at this spectacular tropical oasis.

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Popular categories, gili islands complete guide: which island is the best.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 5. July 2024 · In: Gili Islands , Indonesia , Travel

Two hours off the coast of Bali lies three desert islets, called the Gili Islands . Boasting white sand beaches, palm trees, seashells and pristine turquoise waters; the Gilis are the epitome of a tropical paradise. 

30 years ago the Gili Islands were somewhat of a backpacker secret, but over the last decade, they have skyrocketed in popularity. I guess the secret is out!

These days the little archipelago is booming, new hotels, restaurants and tour operators are popping up all over. But somehow they’ve managed to keep the development in line with the island’s own esthetics, you won’t see many concrete monstrosities here.

So let’s take a look at how to get to the Gili Islands, where to stay and what to do!

🌟 Remember to always get insurance before you travel to Indonesia or anywhere else. SafetyWing is an affordable subscription travel insurance that you can purchase even after departure. Read my complete SafetyWing review here.

Article overview

Which Gili is best for snorkeling?

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What’s so interesting is that all the islands have their own unique characters. Trawangan, or Gili T, is by far the most developed of the three. Once referred to by a fellow backpacker as “fist pump island”, I don’t think it needs any further explanation. Gili T is party central.

The middle and smallest island is called Gili Meno. In contrast to its big brother, Gili Meno is calm, cool and collected. A place of true peace and serenity. Gili Air is somewhere in between, not many all-night ragers but it still has a quite vibrant and fun atmosphere.

So it’s not hard to understand why people are drawn to the allure of the Gilis. They are what most people think Bali is, white sand beaches, palm trees and turquoise water.

Gili Meno is a fantastic choice for snorkeling, even though Gili Trawangan is the most well-known island. Gili Meno is less crowded than other Gili Islands, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a peaceful and quiet snorkeling experience.

The island is less developed than Gili Trawangan, which means that the coral reefs and marine life are less disturbed and more abundant. Also, Gili Meno is home to the famous Gili Island Wreck (Meno Bounty) and the popular underwater statues.

How to get to the Gili Islands

I’ve used quite a few different fast boat companies over the years and one of my favorites has always been Gili Gateaway .

The boat departs daily from Serangan Harbor in Bali and stops at Gili T or Gili Air. Most of the fast boats from Bali to Lombok don’t stop at Gili Meno so you’ll have to jump on a local boat from one of the two other islands.

The additional 15-minute ride will cost you about 35k Rp. and departure is once in the morning and once in the afternoon. If you’re traveling with a larger group, you can get your own boat for around 400k Rp. Buy your tickets in the small office by the pier.

🛥️ Book your fast boat transfer in advance

Transfer from Bali to Gili T – Or Gili T to Bali

Transfer from Bali to Gili Air – Or Gili Air to Bali

The boat schedule depends on the weather, if it’s windy and rough out at sea they will push the departure time or cancel it altogether. I haven’t experienced this myself yet, but it’s important to be flexible! Don’t plan on heading back to Bali the same day as your flight, it can get expensive.

Be sure to organize your ticket at least 24 hours in advance to avoid extra late reservation charges. Always get a seat in the back if you get seasick easily, it’s usually quite a bumpy ride. And if you opt to sit on the roof you will most likely get soaked, consider yourself warned. If you look closely you might spot a dolphin or two!

Or you could fly commercial to Lombok, jump in a taxi for about an hour and a half to Senggigi and then a 15-30 minute boat transfer. I wouldn’t recommend this option if you’re coming from Bali though, as a boat transfer is much quicker.

The Gili Islands are known for their stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, making them a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. Gili Meno is the main snorkeling destination with their famous underwater sculptures and turtle population. You’ll find my favorite snorkeling tour below.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Private Snorkeling Trip from Gili T

“Absolutely amazing snorkel experience. Both guides were incredible. Can’t recommend enough. Thank you!!!” see more reviews .

No cars, no motorbikes, no worries.

There are no motorized vehicles allowed on the island, which means bicycle time! Yay. Renting a bicycle has become a bit expensive though, or at least compared to what it used to be. I think I paid 70k a day on my last visit.

When you arrive on the island you’ll see small horse-drawn carts wanting to give you a lift to your accommodation for about 50k per person. Please don’t do it, as many of the horses are treated quite badly by their owners. Of course, this might not apply to everyone but the few I saw last time were very skinny and had open wounds.

My favorite time to visit Bali, Lombok and the Gilis are February through May (except Easter) when it’s still green from the rainy season and mostly nice weather in my experience.

Peak season : August and December 20 to January 9.

High season: July, September 1 to September 15, Chinese New Year and Easter.

Low season : January 9 to June 30 and September 16 to December 2.

Rainy season : November – April

No, let’s take a closer look at all three different islands!

Must read >> The ultimate 2-week Bali itinerary (including Nusa Lembongan & Penida)

Gili Trawangan

Gili T comes to life after sundown, especially on the East Coast where most of the bars are located. The “party strip” serves up all kinds of entertainment and music, so you can keep it going into the early hours.

The west coast also called the “sunset side”, is where you can kick back and enjoy the sunset in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Gili Trawangan got its name from the word Terowongan which means “tunnel” in Indonesian, as the island has a cave tunnel constructed by the Japanese during WWII.

Even if you’re going to Gili T with partying in mind, I would suggest getting a place to stay on the West Coast away from all the mayhem. It’s always nice to be hungover in peace and quiet you know! Though you’ll find most of the budget accommodation on the east side.

Le Pirate Beach Club is the perfect tropical location, a little piece of the Caribbean in Indonesia. Think white beach huts with turquoise trim, a pool, hammocks, sun loungers and palm trees, all right at the beach. Their hut with bunk beds is the cheapest option at 850k a night, while the largest family house is 2.5 million a night.

Of course like with any other place, the prices depend on the season. I’ve never stayed at their location on Gili T myself, but you can read my review of Le Pirate Beach Club on Nusa Ceningan .

Though incredibly stunning Le Pirate is quite expensive. For a cheaper option check out Blue Moon Homestay . It’s nothing fancy, but they offer clean and bright rooms where you can sleep off those hangovers. Located a bit inland on the east side of the island, it’s an easy walk home after a night out.

The Night Market is your best bet if you’re on a budget or if you just love the local food like I do. My favorite is the “warung tegal” style meal where you choose either rice or noodles and then an array of different meat and vegetable items. It usually only comes out to around 40k for a huge portion, which can’t be beaten in my eyes.

Other than that you can get everything from soups to lobster, so everyone should be able to find something to tickle their fancy. Sit down and enjoy the tasty food and the hustle and bustle at one of the makeshift seating areas scattered around the market.

Pituq Cafe is the no. 1 Gili T restaurant on TripAdvisor for a reason. Fresh and healthy deliciousness for a fraction of the price of other places you say? Yes please!!

Located in the busy part of the East Coast this is a fantastic place for breakfast, lunch and dinner, except for Thursday and Friday when they don’t open until 4:00 pm. Have a smoothie bowl for 35k or a veggie ball and avocado wrap for only 45k.

Casa Vintage is a bohemian paradise right on the beach west on the island. Think white reclaimed wood seating, driftwood, lanterns, pineapples and colorful pillows and flowers. It doesn’t get much better than that. You’ll get a delicious hummus dip platter for about 70k, a Caribbean beef chili for 90k and juices and smoothies range in price from 30-40k.

You should also check out Pearl of Trawangan , located just south of the main strip. In addition to stunning accommodation, they offer a great restaurant and one of the nicest beach clubs on the island.

• If you enjoy exploring under water you should definitely go diving or snorkeling . The Gilis are one of the best places in the world to do both. There are a lot of different dive operators, so do your research and ask around for prices. Snorkeling gear is available throughout the island.
• Rent a bike and go explore the island. Be sure to not only keep to the main roads but also venture into the palm tree jungle and find hidden spots you can have all to yourself. Biking around the perimeter of the island will take you about 1.5 hours.
• Hike to the viewpoint, located on the southern end of the island. There you’ll have the most breathtaking view of the other Gili Islands, Bali with its majestic Mount Agung and Lombok with the even taller Mount Rinjani.
• Lounging on the beach and frolicking in the water is what the Gilis are all about. There are beach clubs all along the coast of all three islands, so your hardest task will be to choose one. Sip on a fresh coconut, rent a paddle board and just have fun!
• Go shopping! Even though the islands are small they have some great little boutiques, like the vintage store at Casa Vintage on Gili T.
• Probably the most Instagrammed spot on the Gilis, the swing at Hotel Ombak Sunset is a must. Keep in mind that it’s often pretty crowded and a line to get on the swing.
• The Gilis aren’t the best place in Indonesia to surf, but you can still catch quite a decent swell on the south coast of Gili T and Air. I recommend Sunny Surf School , their instructors are super patient and knowledgeable.
• Do some yoga at one of the many yoga studios like Soraya Yoga Wellness Centre or Gili Yoga.
• And most importantly, be sure to watch the magical sunset every evening.

Gili Air Bungalows  (pictured below) is set within a lush garden on the east coast, about 200 meters from the ocean. There you can enjoy a large pool and breakfast on the patio in the morning. Prices range from 700k for the Lumbung style bungalows up to 1.5 million Rp for the large family room.

When you arrive you can easily walk there on your own. Take the main road straight ahead from the harbor and then walk until you get to a dirt road leading to the right, it should only take about 10 minutes.

Si Pitung Village is a cheaper option with AC bungalows for 300k a night. They also have fan rooms which should be even cheaper. I never asked about the price as I can’t live in Indonesia without an AC, but if you’re on a tight budget this should be the spot for you. Don’t worry about the location being in the middle of the island, as the beach is still only a five-minute walk away.

Beach club by day, sunset cocktail bar by night, Mowie’s Bar is an all-day hangout spot. Enjoy fresh coconuts, healthy smoothies and salads during the day and indulge in their famous pizza and tuna burger at night. Dishes range from 40k-80k in price, so it really is gourmet on a budget. Located along the main road southwest on the island, it’s an easy spot to find only about a five-minute walk from the harbor.

Pachamama Organic Cafe & Villa is a cool little bohemian spot northeast on the island. Whitewashed wood, seashell chandeliers, driftwood and lots of green plants, me like!! The food is fresh, tasty and all organic, so you can stuff your face in good conscience. My favorites are the eggplant wrap, the granola bowl and the colorful smoothies served in fun milk bottles.

For some cheap and tasty Indonesian food check out Eazy Gili Waroeng located on the main road just north of the harbor. With Mie Goreng , Nasi Campur and Gado-Gado for only 25k, they offer some of the greatest value for money on the island.

To get your sugar fix check out Scooperific , an Italian-inspired gelateria. In addition to gelato, they also have several non-dairy sorbet options. The waffle and the Nutella crepe are my favorites! And best of all, their produ cts are 100% made in Gili’s. 

Just like with Gili T, Air is all about lounging in the sun, snorkeling, diving and biking. So I’m not going to repeat all the suggestions above. You can go around the whole island on a bicycle in about an hour. One stretch of the road is only sand, so either you have to push your bike or get one of those “fat bikes”.

For you divers I’ve heard a lot of great things about the 7 Seas Dive Gili, they offer many different packages and courses. But there are a lot of different dive operators, so do your research and ask around. As for snorkeling gear, you’ll find it all over the island, just ask anyone and they will know someone who offers boat charters for snorkeling trips.

If you’re a foodie like me you should also join a cooking class to learn how to make some delicious Indonesian food. Gili Cooking Classes offers 3 different courses, ranging in price from 275k to 385k. It’s located on the corner of the main roads, just to the right of the harbor.

Mahamaya Resort is a boutique eco-hotel on the northwest coast of the island, which blends perfectly with its surroundings. The name Mahamaya means “ultimate paradise”, and that it truly is.

This is affordable luxury done in an understated kind of way. Stay in of the pool suites right off the beach for about 2.3 million Rp. / $170 a night. The vibe is super romantic, so it’s the perfect place for honeymooners and other couples alike.

Seri Resort Gili Meno is a more affordable option located northeast on the island. With bright and clean rooms, a huge pool and incredible views, this place offers good value for money. You can stay in a straw hut with a shared bathroom for 450k or in a suite with a garden view for 900k a night. Remember to check online to get some great discounts, especially during the low season.

You should definitely book your accommodation in advance as the little island fills up quickly, especially during high season.

Sasak Cafe is situated right on the calmest part of Gili Meno’s beach, northwest on the island. As you probably guessed, it’s all about traditional Sasak food, which is characterized by fresh fish, vegetables and spicy sauces.

Spend the whole day lounging at the beach and enjoy fresh fish and calamari, caught every morning by the father of the family. Even though their chef has won awards for his cooking, it’s still cheap.

Ya Ya Warung is cheap cheap cheap. As far as I can remember they’re located on the north side. Don’t be discouraged by the scruffy appearance of this place, they serve up some tasty Indonesian dishes. Fried noodles for only 20k, Gado-Gado for 25k and chicken satay for 50k! You’re not going to do much better than that on Meno.

In the middle of the  Mahamaya Hotel , there is an Asian-fusion restaurant and bar overlooking the beach and sea. What’s so fun about this place is the open-concept kitchen which means you can see the chef whipping up all sorts of fresh and organic yumminess. 

Come evening, the outside area turns into a haven for romantics with candles and lanterns hanging from the trees. Combine that with delicious, beautifully presented food and you have a winner. So be prepared to pay a premium.

• Bolong’s Turtle Sanctuary is doing a great job trying to save the turtle population of the waters around the Gilis. The baby turtles are raised in the small pools and after about 8 months they’re released into the wild. Try to catch one of their releases and for a donation of 100k you can even choose a turtle and release it yourself. It’s located on the east coast.
• Another place you can see tropical birds is at the Gili Meno Bird Park, home to more than 300 birds. It’s located in the middle of the island and the entrance fee is 50k per person. I haven’t visited myself so I don’t know the state of the park and the birds, but I thought I should include it anyway so you know it’s an option.
• Go on a walk to the salt lake located northwest on the island. The lake is surrounded by a lot of flowers and plants you won’t see anywhere else on the islands. If you look up you should be able to see quite a few species of tropical birds. And if you’re very lucky you could also get a glimpse of the huge Monitor lizard.
• Gili Meno is home to the best dive sites and snorkeling reefs in the Gili Islands. Gili Meno Wall is the best spot, the reef drops to a sandy bottom at about 22m. In addition to large turtles, you could also encounter tropical fish like Spanish dancers, cuttlefish, scorpionfish and an array of other ocean critters. The dive is suitable for all levels.
• Blue Marlin Dive and Divine Divers are the top dive centers on the island. They offer a lot of different packages and courses to suit every level. If you want to get your PADI certification, then Gili Meno’s serene waters are the perfect place to do so.

FAQs: Gili Islands

Here are some quick answers to the questions I see most often about the Gili Islands.

Yes, the Gili Islands are definitely worth a visit if you’re looking to just relax in the sun and party. The three islands offer stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

No, I would not recommend a day trip to Gili Islands from Bali. You should stay at least two nights on the islands to fully experience their beauty and tranquility. The journey from Bali to the Gili Islands takes around 2-3 hours by fast boat, depending on which island you are visiting.

If you only have one day to spare, I recommend a day trip to Nusa Lembongan , located just 30 minutes off the coast of Bali.

In my eyes, 3-4 nights in the Gili Islands is enough. I would not go for less than two nights.

I would choose the Kuta area in south Lombok over the Gilis every time. There is just so much to see and do in Lombok, the most stunning beaches , waterfalls, viewpoints and world-class surf spots. And the WiFi is better, for my fellow digital nomads .

However, if you’re just looking to just spend your days on the beach and maybe go out in the evening, the Gili Islands could be just as good.

On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $30-50 per day, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $80-150 per day including accommodation.

There are around ten ATMs on Gili T, three on Air and two on Meno as far as I know. Keep in mind that they’re stocked irregularly and due to frequent power outs on all of the islands, I would suggest you bring some money with you. Especially if you’re paying for your accommodation in cash, which many of the cheaper options require.

On my last visit, I brought about 2 million Rp. for 3 days, hotel and fast boat were paid in advance online.

🌟 Book your fast boat transfer in advance

🛥️ Transfer from Bali to Gili T – Or Gili T to Bali

🛥️ Transfer from Bali to Gili Air – Or Gili Air to Bali

Looking for more Indo guides?

• Bali to Lombok by fast boat : Which company to choose?
• Discover the 17 best beaches in Kuta Lombok
• 5 incredible viewpoints in South Lombok you shouldn’t miss
• Top 11 unusual things to do in Bali!
• 17 things NOT to do in Bali : Common tourist mistakes to avoid
• 29 things you should know before going to Bali!
• The 11 most common scams in Bali + How to avoid them!

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

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1. July 2016 at 17:35

That’s paradise and i’m sure you had an adventure for a lifetime!! great tips to go around!

1. July 2016 at 19:46

What a beautiful place to visit!

1. July 2016 at 20:08

How gorgeous!! Adding Gili Islands to be travel list right now!

Rachel / http://www.seashellsandsparkles.com

2. July 2016 at 19:17

This look amazing! I think I will add Gilli Island to my bucket list now…

4. July 2016 at 00:37

Bali waters are one of the most beautiful things in the world! Thank you so much for this guide! This is part of my bucket list! 😀

4. July 2016 at 00:41

Beautiful pictures! You should put where your bathing suit is because it looks amazing!

4. July 2016 at 01:31

Wow your pictures are breathtaking…Thank you for the detailed description.

4. July 2016 at 01:33

Please let me wake up and be on that beach.

4. July 2016 at 02:01

Sounds like an amazing place and it is so beautiful! That WATER omg!

4. July 2016 at 03:43

Wow!! This place is gorgeous! Your photos are amazing. Great tips too!

4. July 2016 at 10:03

How beautiful does this place look?! Gorgeous pictures, too. 🙂 You’re giving me serious a case of Wanderlust.

Christie’s Take on Life . xx

4. July 2016 at 10:09

Stunning pictures! I’ve been to Bali once but just on a stopover for a week or so and didn’t have the time to explore Gili islands. I guess I have to go back there! Thanks for sharing this guide 🙂

Jessica http://www.traveltobealive.com

7. July 2016 at 20:20

Thanks Jessica! Yes you should! 😉

4. July 2016 at 11:32

Today I would love to be on that beach, chilling on a stressful day! Thanks for temporarily transporting me there!

4. July 2016 at 14:29

I’m sure these gorgeous pictures don’t even do these islands justice! This is without a doubt going on my bucket list.

4. July 2016 at 15:14

Looks like an amazing place. I am pinning for a future trip! Thanks for the comprehensive list regarding what to do, where to eat, etc!

4. July 2016 at 16:31

Thanks for sharing. Definitely added to my list of places I’d like to visit. Beautiful photos too!!!

4. July 2016 at 16:49

that is the closest thing to paradise i’ve seen and I just went to the dominican in March. Gorgeous photographs and beautiful location!

4. July 2016 at 17:57

Wow what a stunning place, I would love to visit here and Bali both , so beautiful , sord of reminds me of Hawaii!

4. July 2016 at 21:22

Bali is such an incredible place, my cousin is a flight attendant who jets over there ever other week and I’m always in awe. I have never been but reading your review about the Gili islands and seeing those stunning photographs has just ignited my Wanderlust even more than normal! Ugh I really, really want to go! It’s firmly one of my must-visits on my very long bucket list, I’ll have to pin some of your photos so I can come back to the guide – thanks for sharing and putting so much into it! 🙂

7. July 2016 at 20:18

Thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely comment Cheeta! 🙂 Now is definitely the time to go, with affordable tickets and before Bali gets touristified to the point of no return 😉

4. July 2016 at 21:58

Wow! What a beautiful place! Honestly, I had never heard of the Gili Islands until this post. I can see why it has become so popular there! Certainly wouldn’t mind a visit there myself! – Amy @ http://thegiftedgabber.com/

5. July 2016 at 17:33

Holy smokes, what a stunning area…your photos are gorgeous. I’m sure they hardly do it justice! That white sand….I can just imagine walking across it right now! lol I’ve never heard of this area in Bali, but I’m definitely adding it to my must-visit list…

7. July 2016 at 20:11

Thank you so much for your comment Krista! 🙂 Yes you definitely should!

7. July 2016 at 23:51

Bra innlegg. Jeg er sikker på at du kommer til å nå langt med så bra kvalitet både på bilder og tekst. Må ha tatt lang tid å lage dette innlegget. Bra jobba 😉

8. July 2016 at 13:49

Takk Ine, det er gøy å høre 😀 Det tok en god stund ja! hehe

8. July 2016 at 08:25

Eg har nettopp oppdaga bloggen din, og eg må sei eg er imponert! Nyttig informasjon og flotte bilete. Takk for fine innlegg!

8. July 2016 at 13:48

Tusen takk for kommentar, det er veldig gøy å høre! Hvis alt går som det skal blir den snart tilgjengelig på norsk også 😉

8. July 2016 at 21:30

For en fantastisk blogg! Har lett etter en reiseblogg med slike bilder og design lenge! 🙂

8. July 2016 at 21:33

Takk for det Helene! Det var derfor jeg startet Sunshine Seeker, fordi jeg ikke kunne finne andre med det designet og innholdet jeg leita etter 😉

4. October 2016 at 03:21

Really like this – thank you! I saw that you also had a guide for Nusa Lembongan. Which would you prefer for a week – nusa or Gili Air? Main pros and cons? Especially for a diver – any thoughts?

4. October 2016 at 20:02

I definitely prefer Nusa Lembongan. Driving a scooter around Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan is one of my favorite things to do in the world. Then you also have the much larger Nusa Penida a short boat ride away. And even better, the Nusa islands are located only 30 minutes from Bali. The Gilis are fun maybe for a day or two, but then they get kind of boring. They’re too small in my eyes. Both are great for diving I think. Of the Gilis, Meno is supposed to have the best marine life 🙂

13. October 2016 at 20:46

Very pretty, gonna have to add this to my travel list! xo Loren // http://www.thinkelysian.com

17. November 2016 at 19:47

I loved Gili T. I like the vibe on the islands. ps. The photo of the turtle is amazing!!!! :O x

16. May 2017 at 21:11

Thanks so much for those tips! We are getting ready to go to Bali, can’t wait! Those pictures, did you edit them with Lightroom our not? They look so beautiful with the rainbow colours at the sides, etc.

16. May 2017 at 22:29

Thanks, Elienne! You’re gonna have such a great time in Bali 🙂 Yes, I edit all my photos in Lightroom. The light leaks are add-ons I bought at Creative Market I think.

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A Complete Travel Guide To Gili Trawangan – Itinerary Included

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. 

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. 

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 🙂

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. 

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! 

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.

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. 

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. 

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! 

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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[…] 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 […]

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

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.

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!

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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 […]

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18 epic things to do in gili trawangan – ultimate guide 2024.

Table of Contents

In this article we are going to share the best things to do in Gili Trawangan in 2024. This is a beautiful small island between Bali and Lombok in Indonesia. Gili Trawangan offers golden sand beaches, hippy bars, vibrant coral reefs, awe-inspiring underwater sculptures, and so much more. We’re super excited to share our handpicked list of epic activities. We will make this article as useful as possible with prices, location and other details to help you plan an independent adventure. 

The first time we visited Gili Trawanagan we fell in love with this beautiful paradise island. We have been struck by the amount that Gili T has changed over the years. In this article we are going to share some fresh information to help equip and inspire you. Not only will we be sharing the BEST things to do in Gili Trawangan, but we’ll also provide invaluable insider tips on how to make the most of your visit, as well as recommendations for the amazing places to rest your head after a day filled with excitement. So get ready to be inspired—Gili Trawangan is waiting for you!

Planning you trip to the Gili islands: Don’t miss our article – Which Gili island is the best?

Summary of THE BEST things to do in Gili Trawangan

• Take a snorkeling trip
• Enjoy a stunning sunset
• Learn to Scuba Dive
• Explore the island by bicycle
• Visit the other Gili islands
• Horse riding on the beach
• Take a yoga class
• Enjoy the nightlife
• Try Paddle boarding 
• Watch a movie on the beach
• Enjoy some amazing seafood 
• Learn to freedive
• Try a transparent Kayak
• Get a massage
• Try some local food 
• Swim with turtles
• Visit the sea sculptures
• Try Glamping

Things to do in Gili Trawangan – Map

What are our personal highlights of Gili Trawangan?

Before we go on we quickly want to share a few personal highlights of Gili T. We absolutely loved the snorkeling trip which visited the Bask Nest and Turtle point. Also, we really LOVED watching a movie on the beach – there’s something unique and special about chilling on a bean bag and watching a movie under the stars. We were also very impressed with the food on Gili T. Although international food is much more expensive than local food – the quality is very good. And we also loved the sunsets on Gili T. Asian sunsets are pretty special! 

CHECK OUT OUR ADVENTURES AROUND GILI TRAWANGAN…

Is it worth visiting Gili Trawangan? 

YES, in our opinion Gili Trawangan (also known as “Gili T”) is well worth a visit. There are loads of marvelous things to do in Gili Trawangan. This is also a lovely island to just slow down and chill out. Gili Trawangan has a great balance of peaceful and tranquil sections (especially on the west coast) and more upbeat party areas (especially around the main pier on the east coast). Gili Trawangan also has a wide range of restaurants and places to eat. There are a few convenience stores here too and there is a very good range of accommodation. 

In our opinion – if you only have time to visit one Gili island – Gili Trawangan is the best option. You can still enjoy the relaxing peaceful island experience on the west coast. But Gili Trawangan also has more choice for food and accommodation, so it is easier to do a budget trip here. 

What is Gili Trawangan like?

Gili Trawangan is a small island that takes around 1 hour to cycle round. There are no cars or motorbikes here – which makes it pretty nice. Furthermore, there is a coastal path around the island – it is rough and sandy in sections. There are also a few sandy trails running across the middle of the island too. The East coast of Gili T is pretty busy with tourists, visitors and locals. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, guest houses and hotels on the east coast. There are a couple of dive resorts too. The west coast is a lot more chill with a few large resorts and the odd restaurant. The west coast is great for romantic sunsets. The east coast is great for food and partying. There are also a few convenience stores on the east side of Gili Trawangan too close to the pier. 

Is Gili Trawangan suitable for families?

Yes, in our opinion Gili Trawangan is a great destination for family travel. We loved visiting with our boys (5 years old and 3 years old). However, there are a few things to be aware of before you visit Gili Trawangan with kids: Firstly, it can be tricky to find kid-friendly food here. Well this depends on how specific you need to be. There are many cafes, resorts and restaurants offering international food. But you may struggle to find kids menus. Also high chairs are rarely seen on Gili trawangan. 

Furthermore, there are only a couple of very small, simple and basic convenience stores. We recommend bringing anything special that you need. For example: bring a sufficient supply of nappies, baby milk, kids snacks or drinks. There are a couple of small and basic medical clinics on the island. For anything more complicated you would either need to go to Lombok or Bali. 

What is the best time of year to visit Gili Trawangan?

Firstly, Gili Trawangan is a hot tropical climate – it is intensely hot throughout the year. And the humidity is often high. What’s more it can rain at any time of the year here. Gili Trawangan experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages:

The dry season in Gili Trawangan typically runs from May to September. This is considered the peak tourist season, and it’s the best time to visit if you’re looking for good weather and a lively atmosphere. During this season, you can expect low humidity, clear skies, and warm temperatures. The water is also calm and ideal for snorkeling and diving. However, since it’s the peak season, you can expect higher prices and bigger crowds. You’ll also need to book your accommodation and transport well in advance.

The wet season in Gili Trawangan runs from October to April. This season is characterized by hot and humid weather, with occasional rainfall and thunderstorms. The island is quieter during this time, and you’ll be able to find better deals on accommodations and activities. The rain can be heavy and disruptive, and some water activities may be limited due to choppy water conditions.

How long should you spend on Gili Trawanagan?

The journey from Bali to Gili T is long and tiring. In all honesty we really don’t recommend spending any less than 2 days on Gili T. If you can spend 3 or more days you will have time to relax and explore this lovely island. A week would be a great choice for a lovely slow holiday – but longer than this you may find yourself ready to explore more epic places like Bali or Lombok. So really we think 3 – 5 days is ideal depending on your total trip length. 

How has Gili Trawangan changed in recent years? 

We mentioned that Gili Trawangan has changed a lot in recent years. The good news – this is still a lovely small island without any motor vehicles. Gili Trawangan is as beautiful as ever. Here is a summary of the recent changes on Gili T:

• More big resorts and hotels – in recent years there are more up market boutique hotels and resorts on Gili T. In our view, these properties do not detract from the relaxing natural vibes of Gili T. 
• More western food options available – in recent years there are more restaurants and cafes on the island offering international food. The choice isn’t overwhelming – but you can certainly find a good variety of food choices on Gili T. 
• No more sea swings – Sadly the insta-perfect swings on Gili T are no more. Something to do with them being “unsafe” we think? Gotta love health and safety! 
• New attractions like the Bask Nest – there are now some new attractions in the area. The most prominent is the amazing underwater sculpture located between Gili T and Gili meno. This spot is insta-famous so expect it to be busy and intense! 
• More crowds – Gili T has increased in popularity in recent years and so you will see more people. This can add to the fun vibes. But if you’re after a more chilled island experience, head round to the tranquil west coast. 
• More amenities like ATM machines – there are now a few cash machines in Gili T. Still worth bringing some cash uncase you have problems. Some places to accept card transactions too. 
• You may be pleased to know that wifi and mobile phone signal is better on Gili T. If you are a digital nomad or need to be online – this should not be a problem. BUT we do recommend having a good sim card with data and a hotspot for back up if you are planning to work on Gili T. 

How do you get to Gili Trawangan?

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE – how to travel from Bali to the Gili islands

The only way to get to Gili Trawangan is to take a boat. Most people travel from Bali and many boat deals include hotel pick up in Bali – which can make the journey very convenient. 

TOP TIP: Book your tickets a few days in advance in the peak season to avoid disappointment (especially in July, August and December). 

What is the journey like?

The Golden Queen fast boat is the best and cheapest company that operates this route (Eka Jaya more expensive but there is not a big difference in the quality or service). Some people find the boats very hot, crowded and stinky (the air con may not work well and the engine can produce some smelly fumes!)

The journey from Bali to Gili Trawangan takes around 2 hours by boat. But in reality the whole journey door to door is likely to take 5 hours or more including pick up and waiting times. It can actually be quite tiring. There is seating inside the boat and some seating on the roof (wear sun cream as this is pretty exposed)

Golden Queen tend to go from Padang Bai (Bali) to Gili T to Gili Air to Lombok and back to Padang Bai in a circular route. So on your way to Gili T the journey is quicker. But on the way back there are a couple of stops. 

How much does the journey cost?

Tickets cost around 250,000 IDR (£14 or $16) one way and 500,000 IDR return (£28 or $32). You will need to find a local tour operator and barter to get the lowest prices. You may also need to pay 50,000IDR for transfer two ways from Ubud or Kuta (around £3 or $4). Young kids are often free – but check and barter! 

You also need to pay a harbor tax. It costs 10,000IDR to depart from Bali (Padang Bai) and 10,000 IDR harbour tax to depart from Gili Trawangan.  This is around £0.50 or $0.60) Keep your receipts as they tend to check that you have paid the tax. 

How do you get around in Gili Trawangan?

Gili Trawangan is a small, flat and beautiful island. There are no cars or motorbikes on the island. Many people just walk around this island. It is likely to take around 45 minutes to walk from the East coast to the West coast (by the coastal path). Many people also use bicycles to get around this island. You can rent bicycles cheaply for around 50,000IDR per day (around $3 or $4). Some of the bicycles can be old and rickety. Check your bike carefully and ride with care. ALSO, be aware that some of the trails on the island can be uneven, sandy and bumpy. 

When we arrived on Gili Trawangan we were a little disappointed to see overworked horses pulling carts around the island and chose not to take this option. Instead we trekked around the island with backpacks and tired kids on our shoulders! We felt empathy for these poor horses. So, we wouldn’t recommend the horse and carts, BUT the horses on the beach seemed much happier and better cared for.

Tips for staying safe in Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a relatively safe and beautiful destination. As a popular island near Bali – many people visit throughout the year without any problems. Here are a few tips for staying safe on Gili Trawangan. 

• Be mindful of the ocean: The ocean around the Gili Islands can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be mindful of the conditions. Check weather and tide forecasts before heading. It’s also important to be aware of strong currents and rip tides. If you are not a strong swimmer, wear a life jacket. We also recommend fins due to strong currents in some areas.
• Protect yourself from the sun: The sun can be intense in Indonesia, so it’s important to protect yourself from sunburn and heat exhaustion. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Keep an eye on your belongings: While Gili Trawangan is generally safe, it’s still important to keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach, and keep your bags and purses close to you when walking around.
• Be respectful of local customs: Gili Trawangan is a Muslim community, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos, and avoid public displays of affection.
• If you’re riding a bicycle be aware that some bikes are poorly maintained and the breaks may not work well. Also take care on the paths around the island. The surface can be bumpy, uneven and sandy. 

Sustainable travel tips for Gili Trawangan

Traveling somewhere as beautiful as Gili Trawangan really brings home the importance of sustainable eco travel. We really want to take care of this beautiful place! Here are a few sustainable travel tips for Gili Trawangan:

• Avoid single-use plastic: The Gili Islands have banned single-use plastic, so it’s important to avoid using plastic water bottles, straws, and bags. Bring a reusable water bottle and tote bag with you and look for restaurants and cafes that use eco-friendly alternatives.
• Support local businesses: Supporting local businesses is a great way to contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint. Look for locally owned hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, and try to buy locally made souvenirs.
• Take care of the environment: The Gili Islands are home to beautiful coral reefs and marine life, and it’s important to take care of the environment. When snorkeling or diving, don’t touch the coral or feed the fish, and avoid taking anything from the ocean.
• Use eco-friendly transportation: The best way to get around Gili Trawangan is by walking, cycling, or taking a horse-drawn carriage called a cidomo. Avoid using motorized vehicles like scooters, as they can contribute to air pollution and noise pollution.
• Conserve water and electricity: Water and electricity are precious resources on the island, so it’s important to conserve them. Take shorter showers, turn off lights and air conditioning when not in use, and reuse your towels and sheets.
• Leave no trace: When visiting beaches or other natural areas, make sure to leave no trace behind. Don’t leave any trash or litter, and avoid disturbing the natural environment by staying on designated paths and trails.

What are THE BEST things to do in Gili Trawangan? 

Now we have helped give you some context and background on Gili Trawangan, we’re super excited to share this list of the best things to do in Gili Trawangan. 

1 Take a snorkeling trip

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE to snorkeling in Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan’s surrounding waters boast an abundance of marine life, including turtles, colorful reef fish, and vibrant coral reefs. You can take shared snorkeling trips or private trips. Shared trips tend to be cheaper but they are a bit less flexible. Private trips are expensive but you can go at your own pace and timings. Most snorkeling trips visit: Bask Nest sea sculptures, Turtle Point, Gili Meno and blue reef. The water is generally pretty clear and the depth varied between 3 – 5m. Snorkeling trips should also include equipment (mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket). We recommend using fins due to strong currents in the area. Use a life jacket if you’re not a strong swimmer. 

The best way to book a snorkeling trip on Gili T is to ask around the pier area. Negotiate for a fair price and shop around if necessary. If you book directly on Gili Trawangan you can normally find shared snorkeling trips for 120,000IDR – 150,000IDR per person (this is roughly £6.50 – £8 or $8 – $10). You can also book private boat tours for 500,000IDR – 600,000IDR private boat on Gili (this is roughly £27 – £30). 

2 Enjoy a stunning sunset

Check out Sunset Beach on the west coast of Gili Trawangan. There are several larger resorts and bars along the west coast of Gili T. You could either just find a secluded section of beach and enjoy the sunset away from the crowds. But if you prefer to be around people to enjoy the sunset – we recommend checking out the bars and restaurants along the west coast. The ASTON sunset beach resort has a lovely beach bar and also offers a seafood buffet dinner. Alternatively, Paradise sunset bar is one of the more popular bars located on the south side of the west coast. They have a great menu offering food and drinks including beer and cocktails. 

3 Learn to Scuba Dive

The Gili islands is a great place to learn to dive. Here are some of the attractions for diving in Gili: The clear waters, the marine biodiversity and range of interesting underwater attractions such as shipwrecks and ocean walls. Open water dive courses typically take a few days and involve diving theory and practice. 

Several dive shops on the island offer dive trips and PADI courses. For example, check out Blue Marlin Dive. They offer an excellent range of courses to cater to the full range of experience. They really do have something for everyone – whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced diver. Prices start from IDR 1,050,000 (around £55 or $75) for a Discover Scuba Diving experience and IDR 6,500,000 for a PADI Open Water Course (roughly £350 or $400). 

4 Explore the island by bicycle

Cycling around Gili Trawangan is a great way to explore this picturesque island, allowing you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty while having the freedom to stop and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The absence of motorized vehicles on the island means that cycling is safe and tranquil. 

Gili Trawangans circumference (a few kilometers)  is easily manageable, with a path that hugs the coastline. Some sections are sandy and bumpy – but the path is generally pretty good for bicycles. Make sure you stop for a dip or relax with a cold drink or coconut along the way. One of the highlights of cycling around Gili Trawangan is the chance to explore its quieter, lesser-known areas. You can rent bicycles all around the island for IDR 50,000 to IDR 75,000 per day. Be aware that some of the bicycles can be a little old and rickety! So we recommend checking them carefully – there are several resorts and hotels that offer rental of newer bicycles. Oh yeah – helmets are not really a thing here so ride carefully! 

5 Visit the other Gili islands

Explore the nearby Gili Islands, Gili Meno and Gili Air, by joining an island-hopping tour or renting a private boat. Gili Meno is the smallest Gili island – and the most chilled out location. Gili Air is medium sized and more developed than Gili Meno. Island-hopping tours generally cost IDR 200,000 to IDR 400,000 per person (roughly £10 – £20). Always check on timings and make sure you are clear about what is included (i.e. which stops, how long they will wait and when they will return). Private boats can be rented for IDR 500,000 – IDR 800,000 (around £25 – £40 or $30 – $50)

Don’t miss our guide to the best hotels on Gili Air

6 Try horse riding on the beach

Looking for fun and unique things to do in Gili Trawangan? Why not take a horse ride on the beach? Just ask around – especially in the evening and you will be able to find horse riding (especially along the west coast). Expect to pay around IDR 200,000 – IDR 400,000 for a horse ride on the beach (roughly £10 – £20). As ever barter to get a fair price. 

7 Take a yoga class

Gili Trawangan is a great place for yoga! There are a couple of Yoga studios on the island. One of our TOP PICK studios is Sunset Beach Yoga. Nestled on the serene north side of Gili Trawangan’s west coast, this studio offers sessions for experienced yogis and beginners. With the sound of waves crashing on the shore and the calming ocean breeze, this studio provides the perfect backdrop for a truly immersive yoga experience. Sunset Beach Yoga ensures that every student receives personalized attention and guidance. 

The studio is well-equipped with high-quality gear, including yoga belts, to help enhance your practice and make each session as comfortable as possible. Don’t miss their innovative aerial yoga classes, an exhilarating experience that combines traditional yoga poses with the support of a yoga belt. These unique classes allow you to build strength, flexibility, and balance in a fun and dynamic way.

Sunset Beach Yoga has passionate and experienced instructors, dedicated to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for personal growth and well-being. Their expert guidance and encouragement will inspire you to deepen your practice and reach new milestones.

The yoga studio is a covered yoga terrace, boasting breathtaking ocean views. As you flow through your practice, the stunning panorama adds an extra layer of tranquility and connection to the surrounding natural beauty. Classes cost around 100,000 IDR (roughly £5 or $6). 

8 Enjoy the nightlife

Gili Trawangan has a growing nightlife scene. Picture beach side bars rather than night clubs. If you’re all about the parties – Gili Trawangan is the best Gili island for you. The east coast is the main area for nightlife, especially the area around the pier. However, be aware, if you’re staying in this area – it can be pretty noisy at times. Alcohol is pretty cheap on Gili Trawangan. Beer generally costs around 20,000IDR – 60,000IDR (roughly £1 – £3 or $1.20 – $4) and cocktails generally cost around 40,000IDR – 100,000IDR (roughly £2 – £5 or $3 – $6).

If you’re buying cans of beer from the convenience stores on Gili T – they actually increase the prices later in the evening – so we recommend buying your beer in the afternoon to save a little money! Also remember the Indonesia is a muslim country- and Gili T is more Islamic than Bali (which is known for Hinduism). So although nightlife and bars are totally legit here – we do recommend being respectful of locals if you’re drinking on Gili T. 

9 Try Paddle boarding 

Looking for fun and unique things to do in Gili Trawangan? Paddle boarding involves standing upright on a specially designed board and rowing to move around. The waters around Gili Trawangan are great for paddleboarding. The waters in Gili Trawangan are clear and shallow. The coastline is very beautiful around here – the perfect place to try out paddle boarding if you’ve never given it a go. If you want to try paddle boarding, check out SUP Gili, just next to Gili Divers on the east coast of Gili Trawangan. They offer paddle board rental, paddle board classes and even paddle boarding yoga sessions! 

10 Watch a movie on the beach

One of our personal highlights of Gili Trawangan was the beach cinemas. There is something very unique and memorable about relaxing on a balmy beach and enjoying a movie under the stars. There are several bars and resorts offering beach cinemas around Gili Trawangan. It is normally FREE to stay and watch a movie and they provide bean bags for comfy seating. However, there is an expectation that you will buy a drink or food if you’re staying for a movie. We enjoyed watching Moana as a family at the ASTON sunset beach resort . Later in the evening the show films that are more geared towards grown ups than kids. We do recommend enjoying a movie on the beach if you get the chance. 

11 Enjoy some amazing seafood 

The advantage of being on a small tropical island is the abundance of seafood. If you’re a seafood lover we think you will love Gili Trawangan! Seafood is readily available whatever your budget. If you want to try local food nasi champur is great value for money generally costing around 30,000-40,000IDR per portion on Gili Trawangan. Nasi champur often includes fried fish. Squid is also very common on Gili T. If you want to go up market, many of the resorts offer gourmet menus and buffets including seafood. We were very impressed with the BBQ seafood dinner on the beach at the ASTON Sunset Beach resort. Expect to pay around 100,000IDR – 200,000IDR (£5 – £10 or $6 – $12) for seafood at a resort in Gili Trawanagn. 

12 Learn to freedive

What to know more about freediving? Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on freediving in Bali

As a family we have been loving learning freediving together. Freediving is an exhilarating sport that allows you to experience the deep without the assistance of scuba gear. If you learn to freedive you will learn to train your body and mind to dive deep and long. With a day or two of training many people can learn to dive as deep as 12m – 15m on a single breath and stay underwater for a minute or two. Gili Trawangan is a great place to learn freediving.

The water is deep, clear and packed with sea life and other interesting sea scapes. There are several shipwrecks ranging in depth between 15m – 30m. Freediving courses teach you a range of techniques from descending, equalizing and safety. FreeDive Gili have a wide range of courses for every ability level: Courses range in price between 4,000,000IDR – 12,000,000IDR (roughly £200 – £650 or $250 – $800)

13 Try a transparent kayak

If you’re looking for superlative things to do in Gili Trawangan why not have a go at a transparent kayak. This is a great way to explore the reef and see the colorful underwater world without getting wet. Transparent kayaks are a lot of fun and also make great photos too. Expect to pay 200,000 IDR – 300,000IDR (around £10 – £15 or $12 – $18) for 1 hour. 

14 Get a massage

If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Gili Trawangan make sure you try out a relaxing massage. There is something wonderfully relaxing about enjoying sun, sea and sand and then relaxing to a southeast Asian massage! There are several spas around the island – and some of the bigger resorts also offer spa services. In general smaller spas tend to be cheaper than the resorts. Check out The Rose Spa. There is generally no need to pre-book treatments, just turn up. The Rose Spa offers a range of treatments, therapies and massages. Expect to pay around 100,000IDR – 400,000IDR (£5 – £20 or $6 – $25) for spa treatments at smaller spas in Gili Trawangan. 

15 Try some amazing food at Kayu Cafe

Ok, we wanted to give a shout out to Kayu cafe for its amazing fresh food. It is super central – located closer to the pier on the east coast of Gili Trawangan. This lovely little cafe serves a range of authentic gourmet food such as sandwiches, wedges, toast, breakfasts, smoothie bowls, fresh juices, amazing coffees and much more. This cafe has a friendly lively vibe – but it can get busy at times. Prices range between 20,000IDR – 100,000IDR (£1 – £5 or $1.20 – $6) for most things on the menu.  Also don’t miss the amazing cakes and brownies! 

16 Swim with turtles

One of our TOP things to do in Gili Trawangan is swim with wild sea turtles. The warm tropical waters around the Gili islands are home to sea turtles. You can see the turtles sleeping on the seabed amongst the reef or swimming around. There is something truly exhilarating and inspiring about swimming with turtles. The best way to swim with turtles in Gili is either take a snorkeling trip (we mentioned this earlier in the article). Snorkeling trips typically include a stop at turtle point off the northwest coast of Gili Meno. The local guides are very good at helping you find turtles. Alternatively, explore the waters to the north east of Gili Trawangan. This area is the most likely area to see wild sea turtles. You can either rent a kayak or swim out from the shore with snorkel, mask and fins. 

17 Visit the sea sculptures

Don’t miss the striking Bask nest sea sculptures located a few hundred meters off the west coast of Gili Meno. This beautiful underwater sculpture is made up of a ring of statues of couples embracing. Inside the ring are more human statues lying down. The sea sculptures attracts plenty of colourful fish. However, be aware that it can get pretty busy here. The currents can also be strong in the area. The Bask Nest is at a depth of around 2m – 3m. This is shallow enough for most swimmers to dive down and explore. The best way to get the Bask Nest to yourself is arrive very early in the morning. From Gili Trawangan we recommend taking a private boat tour with an early start (ideally around 6am – 7am). 

18 Try Glamping! 

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Gili Trawangan check out La Cocoteraie Ecolodge glamping . We absolutely love glamping. This is the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature, and yet enjoy the comfort and luxury of a beautifully equipped glamping tent. Each tent features an ensuite bathroom and wooden flooring, as well as a comfortable double bed for a good night’s sleep. La Cocoteraie Ecolodge is beautifully situated just a 5-minute walk from the tranquil west coast of Gili Trawangan, providing a perfect location to enjoy stunning sunsets and the natural beauty of the island. The free bike rental allows you to easily explore the island and its surrounding areas, and snorkel, mask and fins can also be rented from this hotel.

The prices at La Cocoteraie Ecolodge are around £60 – £70 per night (roughly $80 – $100), this is a fair price for glamping in such a beautiful and unique location. The lush gardens and outdoor pool provide a tranquil setting to relax and unwind, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The tropical beach designs and luxurious canvas tents provide a comfortable and stylish environment.

What are THE BEST places to stay in Gili Trawangan?

Don’t miss our in depth review of the BEST hotels in Gili Trawangan

For a small island Gili Trawangan has an impressive range of accommodation. Everything from simple budget guest houses to luxury beach resorts – Gili T has it all. Prices range from around £10 per night up to around £220 per night. Your money goes a long way on Gili T. Here are our TOP PICK Gili T hotels in order of roughly increasing price…

1 Ani Bungalows

£10 – £15

Central location yet quiet. Clean comfortable and basic, double rooms. Great host and tasty breakfast included.

2 Wombat’s B&B

£10 – £20

Tranquil location, lovely gardens. Family room available – amazing value for money.

3 Gili Pirates

£7 – £25

Quirky clean and fun guest house in town. Outdoor pool and good facilities. They also have a dorm option.

4 Meisya Cottage

Clean, simple, affordable and a great location. Great value for money.

5 ASTON Sunset Beach Resort

£30 – £85

Amazing west facing beach resort with excellent facilities and amenities. Beautiful pools, playground, beach breakfast buffet. Top pick for families.

6 Gili Palms Resort

Beautiful mid-range hotel located in a quiet spot in town. 

7 Serene Beach Villa

£50 – £60

Peaceful and quiet rustic hippy hotel with large beautiful rooms and an outdoor swimming pool. Great sunset spot.

8 La Cocoteraie Ecolodge

£60 – £75

Unique and beautiful glamping experience- beautiful, peaceful and luxurious.

9 Gili Teak Beach Front Resort

£110 – £130

Stylish, natural and beautiful resort located on the peaceful west coast. Lovely food available. 

10 Ponte Villas

£110 – £220

Clean stylish Asian themed resort with beautiful swimming pool and stylish villas. Very luxurious.

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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The best time to visit the Gili Islands

Apr 18, 2024 • 5 min read

Choose the time of the year you visit depending on your interests and budget © Luis Martinez / Getty Images

These three islands off the coast of Lombok are the ultimate tropical escape, where you can fully disconnect amongst the palm trees and powdery beaches. Thanks to a ban on motor vehicles, the islands feel like a whole world away from Bali’s crowded streets, allowing you to soak up the peaceful atmosphere no matter when you visit. 

As a rule of thumb, Indonesia has two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. While it varies in each region, the dry season in central Indonesia ( Bali , Lombok and the Gili Islands ) runs from April to September. This is the best time to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor activities. If you visit during the wet season (October to March), expect hot and humid days, tropical downpours and occasional thunderstorms. 

That said, the weather in the Gili Islands isn’t as extreme as other places in Indonesia. The islands have their own microclimate and experience less rain than mainland Lombok. 

Temperatures remain constant throughout the year, ranging between 27°C and 32°C (80°F to 90°F). To get the most out of your trip, here are the best times to visit. 

July, August and December are the busiest months

July and August is peak tourist season in the Gili Islands, which coincides with the height of the dry season. It’s also when most of the northern hemisphere enjoys its summer vacations, so the islands see their fair share of European and American tourists. 

For nightlife, Gili Trawangan is the place to be. It certainly lives up to its reputation as a party island, with clubs, pubs and beach bars offering parties every night of the week. Gili Air has a more relaxed party scene, with a great selection of beach bars playing chilled out beats. If you’re not interested in partying but still want to visit the Gili Islands in high season, Gili Meno is the best pick for you. Known as the “honeymoon island”, it remains extremely quiet – the perfect place to unplug and unwind.

August 17th is Indonesia’s Independence Day, a public holiday where local villages will hold traditional games and competitions. It’s a fun way to learn about the local culture, and visitors are welcome to join in the celebrations. 

December is another busy month for the Gilis, especially with Australian visitors enjoying their summer holidays, as well as those celebrating Christmas and New Year. 

Although Islam is the main religion in Indonesia, Christmas is still celebrated in tourist hotspots, with hotels and restaurants offering festive menus and parties. Keep in mind that December is the height of the wet season, so expect rain and cloud, usually starting in the afternoons. 

While the crowds add to the lively and festive atmosphere, the large number of tourists is also a downside to visiting in July, August and December. It may be more difficult to get a seat at bars and restaurants, and diving and snorkeling sites will be crowded. You should also be prepared to pay inflated rates for accommodation. 

Not sure where to base yourself? Read on for how to choose the best Gili island

April to June plus September are best for avoiding a crowd

Visiting either side of the peak summer months is a good way to beat the masses and high summer prices. The shoulder season also coincides with the beginning and end of the dry season in the Gili Islands. 

April through to June is dry and sunny, with great conditions for outdoor adventures. It’s also a few degrees cooler thanks to the Australian winter. Although waves are slightly larger due to stronger winds, water visibility is excellent, so snorkelling and diving are a must. May to September is the best time to surf, and although the islands aren’t well-known for surfing, there are still a handful of fun waves and rental shops across the three islands. 

Although the summer holidaymakers haven’t arrived yet, the two-week Easter break can get quite busy. Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence) is observed according to the lunar calendar, falling between March and April each year. As everything in Bali closes and it’s forbidden to leave the house, many tourists choose to escape to the Gilis for a few days. 

In September, the crowds start to thin and the beaches aren’t as packed. It’s nearing the end of the dry season, but you can still enjoy amazing weather. The Gili Festival takes place on Gili Trawangan each September, a four day celebration featuring traditional Sasak cultural performances, live music, art exhibitions, foodie events and competitions. 

October to November and January to March are best for budget travelers

October marks the start of both the rainy season and the low season in the Gili Islands. The crowds have all but disappeared, and the islands are quiet and relaxed for a couple months before a small spike in December and over the new year. While you can still enjoy the beaches in the mornings, there’s plenty to do on wet afternoons, such as yoga classes, beauty treatments in the many spas, or traditional cooking classes. Accommodation prices have come down too, and you’ll often get deals on day trips. 

Bear in mind that although you can still snorkel and dive, the wet season means that water visibility isn’t quite as clear. If you’ve exhausted your options and are looking for more indoor activities, take a day trip to Lombok where you can visit the museum and go souvenir shopping at the local markets (or one of the larger shopping malls in Mataram , complete with a cinema).

Chinese New Year falls between January and February. This is a big public holiday throughout Indonesia, and the Gilis are a popular destination for local tourists to spend a few days. 

A word on Ramadan 

The Islamic month of Ramadan varies annually, moving forward by ten days each year. During this time most of the locals will be fasting throughout the day, meaning that warungs (local eateries) across the Gilis and Lombok are closed until evening. However, restaurants and activities geared towards tourists usually remain open and operational as normal during this time. 

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14 Things To Do on Gili Trawangan: Indonesia’s Tropical Paradise

Published by sarah vaughan on october 20, 2023 october 20, 2023.

This article covers the best things to do on Gili Trawangan, a tropical paradise in Indonesia with white sand beaches, turquoise water, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, and a notoriously thriving nightlife scene! 

About Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan (a.k.a. Gili T for short) is one of three islands collectively known as the Gili Islands , alongside Gili Air and Gili Meno. The Gili Islands are located just off the northwest corner of the island of Lombok in Indonesia and are accessible via a short boat ride from the uber-popular Bali.

Of the Gili Islands, Gili Trawangan is the largest, most developed, has the most restaurants, bars, and fun things to do, and is widely known as the “party” island . (side note: we think this reputation puts Gili T in too tight a box, as there is so much more to do than party… more on that later !).

With no motorized traffic, a laid-back, “anything goes” island vibe, crystal clear ocean waters, picturesque white sand beaches, and cheap accommodations, there is no shortage of fun things to do on Gili Trawangan. We spent 6 days exploring each corner of Gili Trawangan and loved every second of our stay. 

There are top-notch restaurants, swanky beach clubs, late-night bars, cute coffee shops, a busy nightlife scene, and I haven’t even mentioned the best part – the world-class snorkeling and scuba diving ! 

• Biggest of the Gili Islands with the most restaurants, bars, coffee shops, hotels, and things to do.
• Great place to meet fellow travelers.
• Big party scene!
• Beaches are super clean (at least where there are beach clubs)
• With more attractions comes bigger crowds (but we never felt overwhelmed or annoyed by the crowds).
• Internal area of the island is a bit run down, dirty, and sad. Public beach areas are dirty.
• Most of the beaches are part of beach clubs or restaurants.

14 Best Things to Do on Gili Trawangan

Here are our favorite things to do on Gili Trawangan! 

• Go snorkeling (to see Sea Turtles!)
• Learn how to scuba dive
• Watch the sunset while enjoying a cold adult beverage
• Get some work done at a coffee shop
• Enjoy the local food at the night market on Gili Trawangan
• Lounge the day away at a beach club
• Rent a bike and explore the island
• Take a day trip to the other islands
• Kayak to Gili Meno
• Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the terrific restaurants
• Try street corn
• Spend the day on a luxury catamaran
• Party on Gili Trawangan

Get in funky with the local delicacy on Gili T

Map of the best things to do on gili trawangan.

The map below displays the location of the best things to do on Gili Trawangan, as well as key points of interest.

• To view more details about each location, click on the marker on the map.
• To save this map for future use, click the star next to the title. From your phone, open the Google Maps app and click the “saved” tab, followed by the “Maps” icon. From your Gmail account, navigate to Maps –> “Saved” –> “My Maps” –> “Maps” tab.
• To email this map to yourself, click the three dots in the upper right corner.

1. Go snorkeling (to see Sea Turtles!)

Without a doubt, the best thing to do on Gili Trawangan is to snorkel! You can expect to see hundreds of types of colorful coral, rare sea turtles, and countless types of fish while snorkeling around the Gili Islands. 

You have two different options for snorkeling on the Gili Islands:

• Option 1 | Join a pre-organized snorkeling tour via boat
• Option 2 | Rent your own mask and fins and go on your own

Option 1 | Snorkeling tour via boat

• Cost | 150,000 IDR ($9.50 USD) per person

If you’d prefer to go snorkeling as part of an organized group, it’s very easy to do on Gili Trawangan. Almost anywhere you walk, there are stands offering daily snorkeling trip s. From what we can tell, each of the tour guides offers basically the same trip, so it doesn’t matter too much which one you choose.

We booked our trip the morning of our snorkeling trip for 150,000 IDR ($9.50 USD) per person. 

The good part about going with a group is that they will take you directly to the prime snorkeling spots, and it’s much easier to just hop off the side of a boat and see the coral right below you. 

However, because the daily trips generally visit the same spots, they can get very crowded. Expect to be swimming with dozens of other people. 

Option 2 | Snorkeling on your own

• Cost | 50,000 IDR ($3 USD) per person

Your other option is to rent a snorkel, mask, and fins and then find a place to snorkel on your own. You can rent a snorkel, mask and fins from little streetside booths all around Gili Trawangan. 

Expect to pay 25,000 IDR ($1.58 USD) for fins and 25,000 IDR ($1.58 USD) for the mask/snorkel. You get to keep the gear for the entire day. 

We rented our gear from a stand on the north side of Gili Trawangan (somewhere around here) and asked the guy working the rental stand where we should go to see coral and turtles. He simply pointed across the sand path to the beach in front of us, and sure enough, we immediately found a thriving underwater world of brightly colored fish and even a few sea turtles. 

Which is better: organized tour or on your own?

We did both an organized day snorkeling trip and rented our own gear. The organized trip was nice because they brought us right to some cool spots and we didn’t need to find anything on our own. But there were tons of people around and you can’t dictate your own schedule. 

It was really nice to be able to explore the area on our own and we did end up seeing plenty of colorful coral and turtles. The downside was that we needed to walk about 100 yards across the rocky shore to get to the coral which was pretty annoying, especially with fins on. 

If you have limited time on the Gili Islands, we’d recommend just going with an organized trip , as it just makes the logistics easier (and isn’t that much more expensive). But, if you have an afternoon to kill and want to explore a bit, we had a great time renting our own gear. 

Gili Islands Snorkeling: Adventure Guide

In this article, we’ve outlined everything you need to know to about snorkeling in the Gili Islands. Keep reading if swimming with sea turtles sounds like your cup of tea!

2. Learn how to scuba dive

If you want to take your underwater adventures to the next level, Gili T is a great place to try out scuba diving or get your PADI Open Water Certification ! The Gili Islands are home to some of the best scuba diving sites in the world and therefore, one of the best things to do on Gili Trawangan is to scuba dive.

Whether you are new to diving or an experienced diver, there are plenty of options available! 

All along the main stretch of Gili Trawangan, you’ll pass countless dive shops offering everything from single day fun dives, to multi-day classes, night dives, and more experienced training opportunities.

While there are so many dive shops on the islands that making a reservation in advance isn’t necessary, we’d still recommend reaching out to a few dive shops before your trip so you have a plan before you get to the island. Some will even give you a discount for booking in advance.

We weren’t able to scuba dive while on the Gili Islands because we were both feeling under the weather (and it’s dangerous to dive with a head cold) but below are a few dive shops in Gili T with PADI courses and great reviews:

• Gili Divers
• Trawangan Stingray Divers

3. Watch the sunset while enjoying a cold adult beverage

After a long day in the sun, what’s better than enjoying a cold beer or cocktail while watching the sunset over the ocean with your toes in the sand!? Not much, in our opinion.

Gili Trawangan is the best island to catch an epic sunset as it’s the only one with a view across the ocean. One of the best things to do on Gili Trawangan is to spend at least one evening relaxing with a drink in hand while the sun slips below the shimmering ocean. 

All along the western coast of Gili T, there are countless bars, restaurants, and beach clubs, with tables, chairs, and bean bag chairs set up specifically to enjoy the sunset each night. Most of the restaurants will offer some form of happy hour on cocktails to make the night just a little sweeter. 

If you’re lucky and the sky is clear, you can actually see all the way to Bali and may be able to see the towering Mount Agung far in the distance. 

We had dinner and sunset drinks at the Malibu Beach Club . The view was beautiful and the vibe was great, but the food was pretty so-so. We’d recommend checking out Pink Coco , another unique beach club perfectly positioned for sunset that hosts a cool fire show after dark.

Pro tip | If you ride your bike to a bar or restaurant for sunset, make sure you bring a flashlight or headlamp for your ride home. Most of the streets on the Gili Islands don’t have street lights and it can be a bit unnerving to bike in the dark.

4. Get some work done at a coffee shop

Indonesia is the fourth largest producer of coffee in the world and there are cute coffee shops all around Gili Trawangan.

For folks who need to get a few hours of work done or anyone looking for a tasty breakfast and fancy coffee, head to any of the coffee shops like Coffee and Thyme , Banyan Tree or, Kayu Cafe .

5. Enjoy the local food at the night market on Gili Trawangan

Every night around 6:30pm, the Gili Trawangan night market becomes the place to be for fresh, cheap, and delicious local seafood. 

The Gili T night market is actually a pretty simple set up. Most of the vendors sell maybe 25-30 different types of fish, meat, and veggie skewers . You simply pick which skewers you want and they will grill them right then and there. 

The skewers come accompanied with rice and your selection of side dishes. The side dishes are included in the price of the skewers. When we went in 2023, each skewer was 25,000 IDR (about $1.59 USD). We got one skewer of octopus, one skewer of red snapper, rice, and a handful of sides for 50,000 IDR and it was more than enough food for both of us! 

There are also vendors selling whole fish, clams, and lobster, also to be grilled while you wait. In addition, there are few vendors selling fresh juice, water, and cold beer, as well as a few dessert stalls. 

6. Lounge the day away at a beach club

Surrounded by idyllic, white sand beaches, of course one of the best things to do on Gili Trawangan is spend the day lounging away at one of the many beach clubs offering beachside lounge chairs , umbrellas, drinks, and tasty food options. 

Coming from America, the concept of a beach club was a bit foreign to us. We figured you could just walk onto any stretch of the beach, lay down a towel, and enjoy your day just like you can at any public beach in America. That’s not quite how it works on the Gili Islands. 

The best way to enjoy a day at the beach is at a beach club . These are really just restaurants, bars, or resorts with tables, bean bags, or lounge chairs set up along their small stretch of the beach. You can use their section of the beach so long as you buy some food or drinks. 

We asked around a few of the beach clubs along the main stretch of Gili T and they each seemed to have different pricing rules for using their section of the beach. One beach club said that it cost 150,000 IDR ($9.50 USD) just to use their chairs, plus any food or beverage purchases. One beach club said that we just needed to order a minimum of 100,000 IDR ($6.37 USD) in food and drinks. 

Our favorite beach club on Gili T was La Cala Beach Club , located right on Turtle Beach. With bohemian, airy decor, plenty of comfy lounge chairs, and delectable food, it’s no mystery why La Cala is one of the most popular beach clubs on the Gili Islands. More so, it seemed like you just needed to order some amount of food and drinks and you could enjoy their stretch of the beach! 

We loved sitting in the sun, crushing a few cold Bintangs, and jumping in the ocean whenever we got too hot! 

7. Rent a bike and explore the island

• Cost | 50,000 IDR ($3.18 USD) per person

One of the coolest things about Gili Trawangan is that there is no motorized traffic. As such, the best way to get around is by bike! 

Most hotels offer bikes to rent for 50,000 IDR ($3.18 USD) per day. If, by some chance, your hotel doesn’t offer bikes to rent, there are plenty of vendors offering them along the main street on the island. 

Gili Trawangan is small enough that you can bike around the entire circumference of the island in no more than an hour. 

On our first day on Gili T, we biked all the way around the island. We were able to scope out some potential restaurants and we found some less popular but just as beautiful beaches that we could access without having to pay for food and drink at a beach club.

8. Take a day trip to the other Gili Islands

If you’re visiting the Gili Islands, it’s best to base yourself on just one of the three islands. However, it’s definitely worth exploring the other islands during your visit. 

There are two different ways you can hop between the islands :

• Public boat | runs once per day and costs 45,000 IDR (one way)
• Fast boats | run every hour and typically cost 85,000 IDR (one way)

The public boat leaves from Gili T and stops at Gili Meno and Gili Air each morning at 9:30am. The boat then returns from Gili Air to Gili T, stopping at Gili Meno, at 3:00pm. The public boat costs 45,000 IDR ($2.87 USD) per person each way. It takes about 15 minutes to get to Gili Meno from either Gili Air or Gili T and about 30 minutes to get from Gili T to Gili Air and vice versa.

There are also hourly fast boats that connect the three Gili Islands. These fast boats are much more expensive and we wouldn’t recommend them. 

We took the public boat from Gili T to Gili Air and back and it worked out perfectly. We had just enough time to explore Gili Air, relax on the beach, snorkel, and grab a quick lunch before returning to Gili T at 3:00. 

9. Kayak to Gili Meno

One of the best things to do on Gili Trawangan is to kayak over to Gili Meno . We didn’t have a chance to do this but talked to one of the guys who rented kayaks and he said it takes about 20-30 minutes to kayak from Gili T to Gili Meno. 

Obviously, the cost of kayak rental varies depending on how long you rent it but to give you some sense of the price, the rate for renting a double kayak for the full day is 300,000 IDR ($19.10 USD). 

1 0. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the terrific restaurants

One of the things that surprised us the most about Gili Trawangan was the almost overwhelming number of tasty restaurants. We kept finding places we wanted to eat but simply ran out of time!

Here are a few of our favorite spots: 

• Jali Kitchen | We both agreed this was our favorite dinner on Gili Trawangan! Serving up Indonesian comfort food, as well as classics from across southeast Asia, the food at Jali Kitchen was fresh, tasty, and filling. We ordered beef rendang (strongly recommend!), pad thai, and two beers, all for about $15 USD! 
• Lolita | Located right on the main strip of Gili T, we were drawn to Lolita’s for its vibrant curb appeal, beachside seating, and our collective craving for tacos. And we were not disappointed! The cocktails here were absolutely amazing and the tacos were to die for! 
• Francesco’s Pizza | This is the only restaurant we ever had to wait to be seated on Gili Trawangan and after tasting their pizza, we understand why. Let’s just say an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean isn’t a place I expected to eat delicious wood-fired pizza with a crispy crust and ooey-gooey cheese. 

11. Try the grilled street corn

All around Gili Trawangan, you’ll see little carts selling grilled corn . They’ll grill the corn right in front of you and then slather it with a buttery mixture of chili, lime, garlic, and salt… delicious!

We highly recommend grabbing a corn and heading to the beach to enjoy it!

12. Spend the day on a luxury catamaran

One of the things to do on Gili Trawangan that we personally skipped (we’re on a budget, people!), but heard great things about, is the luxury cruise on Utopia Catamarans . 

Offering both a morning and sunset cruise option with food and snorkeling provided, Utopia Catamarans are the pinnacle of luxury on the Gili Islands. 

13. Party on Gili Trawangan

As we’ve mentioned above, Gili Trawangan has a well-earned reputation as a party island. The nightlife on Gili Trawangan is always bustling , and you can easily find a party any night of the week! 

There are tons of big bars, live music venues, and night clubs across Gili Trawangan. We particularly enjoyed the live music at Sama Sama Reggae Bar (although we didn’t enjoy their high beer prices).

Although drugs are strictly illegal across Indonesia, there seems to be a much more relaxed attitude towards psychedelic mushrooms on Gili Trawangan. To be very clear, we don’t suggest or condone any illegal activity. We’re just here to pass along information. 

And it’s pretty clear that “magic mushrooms” are widely available and a largely accepted part of the Gili Island culture. You can go to almost any bar on Gili T and they will offer shakes that promise to “take you to the moon,” which is the local way of saying that the shakes have mushrooms in them. 

You’ll walk past plenty of bars with signs publicizing these special happy shakes wherever you go on Gili T. 

Again, we don’t condone any illegal activity but those sunsets probably look a little more spectacular from the moon! As the Indonesian saying goes, “ Never try, never know! ” 

Gili Trawangan FAQs

Does gili trawangan live up to its party reputation .

Of the three Gili Islands, Gili Trawangan has a reputation for being a party island. And it is certainly true that you can find a beach party or bustling bar any night of the week on Gili T . If you want to party, Gili T is certainly the place to go! 

That being said, it definitely isn’t a pervasive or all-encompassing party atmosphere. There are so many more great things to do on Gili Trawangan! 

Based on what we heard, we were expecting it to be like Cabo or some other American spring break scene where college kids are wasted at all hours of the day but it isn’t like this at all. 

Most people are well put together throughout the day before letting loose at night. And, if you don’t want to party, simply don’t go out! 

We spent a majority of our time on Gili T recovering from an illness, so let’s just say partying every night wasn’t in the cards for us. Even so, we had a great time and would recommend Gili T whether you’re looking to party or not.

How do I get to Gili Trawangan ?

You can travel to Gili Trawangan from either Bali or Lombok. Keep reading for more details.

Gili Trawangan from Bali

• Cost | Between 250,000 IDR ($15.77 USD) and 500,000 IDR ($31.54 USD).  

Your best bet to get to the Gili Islands from Bali is to book a fast boat through 12go.asia .

The fast boats leave from a number of different ports on Bali and take between about 2 to 2.5 hours to reach Gili Trawangan, possibly with a stop in Lombok on the way. The fast boats can fill up so make sure to book your ticket at least a few days in advance. Several different companies run the fast boats from Bali to Gili Trawangan and there honestly isn’t much difference between them.

Expect the boat to be at least a few minutes late, the AC will not work, and everything will be a bit hectic (like most travel in Asia). Plus the journey can get a little choppy, and the boats aren’t exactly sea-faring vessels. If you have a sensitive stomach, the ride may make you feel seasick.

Tickets on the fast boat will cost you anywhere between 250,000 IDR ($15.77 USD) and 500,000 IDR ($31.54 USD).  

There is a public boat but it takes upwards of 9 hours and is not worth it.

Gili Trawangan from Lombok

The easiest way to reach Gili Trawangan is from Bangsal Harbor in Lombok. From Bangsal Harbor you can take either a fast boat or slow (public) boat.

We highly recommend the public boat. It’s much cheaper and takes only 5-10 minutes longer than the fast boat, but we’ve provided details about both options below.

Option 1 | Public Boat from Bangsal Harbor

• Cost | 26,000 IDR ($1.64 USD)

The public boat is definitely the best option for reaching the Gili Trawangan from Lombok. Boats are scheduled to leave every hour from Bangsal Harbor, but we’ve heard that they often simply leave when they are full.

When we visited the Gili Islands in 2023, it cost 26,000 IDR ($1.64 USD) per person for a one-way ticket. The ride takes about 20 minutes to Gili Trawangan.

A quick note about Bangsal Harbor: The area around the harbor is quite chaotic. There is an official boat ticket stand right in front of the pier. Make sure you buy your tickets directly from this ticket desk. 

Option 2 | Fast Boat from Bangsal Harbor:  

• Cost | Approximately 150,000 IDR ($9.45 USD)

You can also book a fast boat to any of the Gili Islands on the reputable website, 12go.asia . However, these fast boats only save you about 5-10 minutes and cost up to 5 times the price of the public boat.

The main advantage of booking a fast boat is to pre-arrange your tickets and avoid the chaos (and risk of being scammed) at Bangsal Harbor. The boats are also perhaps a little more comfortable, but in our opinion, they aren’t worth it.

When is the best time to visit Gili Trawangan?

• Peak | June through August
• Shoulder | May and September-October
• Avoid | There are no seasons you absolutely need to avoid but significantly fewer people come during the rainy season (November-April)

Gili Trawangan experiences two unique seasons each year – dry season and rainy season. 

Dry season runs from about May through October, while the wet season runs from November through April. 

That being said, the typical dry and wet season patterns can shift year to year. One local told us that there simply was no dry season in 2021 and it rained every month. 

If you’d like to give yourself the best chance to avoid the rain, you should visit between May and September. During these months, the temperatures are hotter (high 80’s to mid 90’s during the day) but there is very little chance of rain. Despite the lack of rain, the air is still very humid and it often feels hotter than the temperature on the thermometer. 

The peak tourist season is between June and August, while most people are on summer break. 

Unlike other areas of southeast Asia, the wet season here typically doesn’t entail much more than a passing afternoon shower. The wet season is also still warm (temperatures in the low to mid 80’s) and the islands will be greener with lush vegetation. Add in the fact that fewer people visit during the rainy season and honestly, it might not be a bad time to visit the Gili Islands. 

Where to Stay on Gili Trawangan

One of the great things about Gili Trawangan is the wide range of accommodations available on the islands. From budget hostels to swanky resorts, you can certainly find accommodations for any budget or traveling style. 

Having spent 6 nights on Gili T, here are a few of our takeaways about where to stay on the island:

• The main area of Gili T runs along the eastern side of the island. This is where all of the bars and late night spots are located. If you don’t want to deal with the noise that the late night revelry brings, don’t stay on the main drag. Although farther from most of the restaurants and the main attractions, the western side of the island is much quieter. 
• It seems like most of the swankier resorts are located along the southeastern, southern, and southwestern sections of Gili T. If you want to stay in probably the most luxurious area of the island, stay along the southern stretch. 
• The north and central parts of the islands seem to be where most of the locals live and some of the streets are pretty run down and dirty. Frankly, some of these areas are a bit depressing. But, there are some nice, cheap places to stay in these areas. This is the area where we stayed and it worked out quite nicely. Our hotel was nice, cheap, and away from the noise of the main drag.

Here are a few specific hotels we’d recommend:

• Budget |  Jati Village . A good option if you want to party and meet other travelers, with rooms starting at just 320,000 IDR ($20 USD) per night during the peak season.
• Budget to mid-range | Sadev Resort (this is where we stayed). It was clean, breakfast was great and the staff were so nice. It’s located inland, so the road to get there is a bit rough but its definitely quieter than staying on the main street.
• Mid-range |  Nero North . A beautiful modern hotel located in a quieter section of the island, with rooms starting at 1,500,000 IDR ($100 USD) during the peak season.
• Luxury |  Pondok Santi Estate . We biked past this place several times and the grounds were absolutely beautiful. Pondok Santi offers a range of accommodations, from standard double rooms to a luxurious villa with a private pool.

How do I get around on Gili Trawangan?

There is no motorized transportation on any of the Gili Islands. The best ways to get around are via bike or horse-drawn carriage , also called a Cidomo.

Within seconds of arriving in the port area, you’ll surely see one of these carriages careening down the main drag! We had heard reports that the horses on Gili T were not treated well so were skeptical of riding in any of the cidomos.

After spending a week here, we definitely saw some horses that seemed to be treated well and some with protruding ribs huffing and puffing in the hot sun. We opted not to use the horses. Like anything else, use your best judgment and your own conscience when deciding to ride in a Cidomo. 

Is Gili Trawangan dirty?

Like much of Indonesia, trash is a huge problem on Gili Trawangan . There are no trash removal services (an all-too-easily overlooked luxury of living in the United States), which means that local people resort to burning trash to get rid of it. This releases toxic fumes in the air (you will almost certainly catch a whiff while staying on the islands) and contributes to the area’s poor air quality. 

While the main tourist areas on Gili Trawangan are kept clean by the restaurants and shops that operate there, the interior of the island and public beach areas are littered with trash. It’s a side to the islands that you just don’t see in the picture-perfect Instagram and blog posts, and frankly, it’s a bit disheartening. 

So what can you do to help? The easiest way to limit your footprint is to avoid single-use plastics wherever possible and bring your own water bottle to refill at the stations ( read more below ). 

Is Gili T dirtier than the other Gili Islands?

We didn’t think so.

Before heading to Gili T, we talked with a French couple who said that they didn’t love Gili T because it was dirty and a bit run down and they preferred Gili Air. Like Gili T’s party reputation, this only tells part of the story. 

Yes, the inland area of Gili T, where most of the locals live, is dirty and undeveloped. But the more touristy areas are perfectly fine. And most importantly, the beaches are kept impressively clean (largely by the beach clubs that set up shop there)! 

We didn’t think the undeveloped areas of Gili T were much different than Gili Air. Given that there are simply fewer people who visit Gili Air, it probably is a little bit cleaner overall but we didn’t see a huge difference between the islands. 

Is the water safe to drink on Gili Trawangan?

No, drinking water in Gili Trawangan (and the rest of Indonesia) is notoriously bad so don’t even think about drinking unfiltered tap water. We tried using our water filters to sanitize the tap water for a few days but even after running it through our filter, it tasted bad. Plus most water filters (like LifeStraw) filter bacteria but not viruses, which can be present in the water in Indonesia.

Eventually, we heard about Refill MyBottle , an app that marks different hotels, cafes, bars, or restaurants that will refill your bottle with clean water for free or for a small fee. The initiative was actually started in Bali to help stop the use of single-use water bottles. 

We highly recommend downloading the app before you head to the Gili Islands and plan to refill your own water bottle throughout the day. To be completely honest, we walked into some places that are marked on the app asking to refill our water bottle and the people there had absolutely no idea what we were talking about. 

Other places that were listed as free refill spots ended up charging us. So the system isn’t perfect, but it’s better than purchasing plastic bottles every day. We ended up finding a convenience store that charged just 5,000 IDR ($0.33 USD) to refill a large bottle and just stopped there every morning and afternoon. 

What is the culture like on Gili Trawangan ?

I think it’s important to note that, like the majority of Indonesia, the people of Gili Trawangan are devoutly Muslim. 

Frankly, it’s quite the contradiction to see string bikinis and countless bars in such a religious place but the locals obviously make it work and don’t seem to have a problem (as far as I can tell) about the scantily-clad tourists partying on the Gili Islands. That being said, you will hear the calls for prayer throughout the day (starting at 4:30a.m.!) and please be respectful of the local religion. 

If you are walking through a local village, please remember to wear a shirt or sarong over your bikini/bathing suit. 

At the end of the day, it’s important to add that, in general, the Indonesian people are some of the nicest, most hospitable people we’ve ever met. It seemed like everyone wanted to have a conversation with us and were proud of the area they call home. If you’re ever lost, confused, or need someone to point you in the right direction, just ask! Most people will be happy to help you.

Is Gili Trawangan Safe?

Given that you may be out late at night after partaking in a few adult beverages, you may be wondering about general safety on the Gili Islands. We found the Gili Islands to feel very safe and again, most local people are incredibly friendly.

If there is anyone you need to look out for, it’s probably the fellow tourists. As usual, it’s better to walk home in a group (remember there are no street lights) and use common sense. There are a number of medical service facilities on the islands should you have a health event that requires attention. 

Other useful resources

Looking for more adventures in Indonesia? You may also be interested in these resources!

Gili Islands

• Which Gili Island is the best?
• Snorkeling on the Gili Islands

Nusa Penida

• Things to do on Nusa Penida
• Best Beaches on Nusa Penida
• Peguyangan Waterfall Trail Guide
• Thousand Islands Viewpoint
• Tembeling Beach and Forest
• Pandan Beach Guide

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Sarah Vaughan

Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah

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17 Amazing Things To Do On Gili Trawangan

Looking for the best things to do on Gili Trawangan!?  Well, you’ve come to the right place, because Gili Trawangan is definitely one of my favorite destinations in all of Southeast Asia! 

I actually lived and worked on “Gili T” during my days as a long-term traveler, and it was such a wild and crazy experience spending a few months over there!

Gili Trawangan, located just off the coast of Lombok, is known as the “party island” of three Gili Islands, and is definitely one of the best places to party in Southeast-Asia !  There are so many different bars and clubs to choose from for nightlife, and of course the infamous magical mushroom adventures on the Gili Islands ! But if nightlife isn’t for you, no worries at all, as there are plenty of other Gili Trawangan island attractions to keep you more than entertained!

From snorkeling with sea turtles every day just minutes from the beach, swimming in crystal clear water, scuba-diving at the dozens of different nearby dive sites, trying all the different cafes & restaurants, movie nights on the beach, and marveling at the most glorious sunsets every night – you’ll certainly fall in love with Gili Trawangan!

So without further ado, please check out what I think are the BEST things to do on Gili Trawangan in 2023!

How To Get To Gili Trawangan

Alright, let’s begin this Gili Trawangan guide on how to get there! Gili Trawangan is located just off the North-western coast of Lombok, but most travelers decide to come here as apart of their Bali itinerary ! 

When you’re on Bali, you will see countless of tour agencies/ operators who will be glad to book your transport to/from the Gili Islands, and they make it incredibly easy. There are several different fast-boat companies that offer transport to to Gili Trawangan, and it roughly takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and should cost around 450K Indonesian Rupiah.

If you decide to book your own transport, you’ll need to get dropped off at Padang Bai Port.  There are several departures every day in the morning/ afternoon. You can book online using Gili Ferries to compare times/ companies. They all pretty much offer the same service, so I wouldn’t overthink which company to use. 

Best Time To Visit Gili Trawangan

Typically, the most popular and busy season of Gili Trawangan is during the dry season between June to early-October.  There’s basically no rain, and you are guaranteed to have sunny blue skies, magnificent sunsets, and wild nightlife parties. 

With that being said, there is NO BAD TIME TO VISIT GILI TRAWANGAN.

I just recently got back from a week-long stay on Gili T during the rainy season, and I had an absolute blast. The island was a bit less crowded, prices were cheaper, and it was a very relaxing getaway in paradise. While it did rain a decent amount, it wasn’t a big deal and the majority of days were perfectly sunny with some afternoon rain.

Where to Stay on Gili Trawangan

There is no shortage of incredible places to stay on Gili Trawangan — from backpacker hostels, budget-friendly home-stays, boutique hotels, and luxury resorts. Here are my top recommendations though for different budgets! But also, another tip for the scuba-divers would be to reach out to dive centers and ask about their accommodation packages, as sometime they’ll offer great combos!

The Pearl Trawangan – My Top Choice

This is where I recently stayed for a week on Gili Trawangan, and I really did have an incredible stay! It’s conveniently located within walking distance from the port, but also pretty close to the sunset side of the island (so I don’t think there’s a better location on the island).

Breakfast is included and is quite delicious, and the views from the two-story restaurant overlooking the beach/ Lombok are magical! While wi-fi isn’t that great depending on which room you stay in, it’s a fantastic luxury but affordable stay. 

If you’re not on a strict budget, then I’d highly recommend booking your vacation at the The Pearl Trawangan !

GILI CASTLE – Best Backpacker Accommodation

When I lived on Gili Trawangan, I actually got a job working here at Gili Castle! I was in charge of nightlife coordination, and basically just showed people on pub crawls each night of the week, lol.  We also organized beer pong tournaments, pool parties, and snorkeling trips. I absolutely loved my time working here, and it’s 100% the best hostel for backpackers, budget travelers, and people looking to make new friends!  They’ve got clean and comfortable rooms, has delicious food, is perfectly located, and you really can’t beat the pool + rock climbing wall combo!  Gili Castle does typically sell-out most nights though, so make sure you check availability and book in advance.

Pandawa Beach Villas & Resort – Best Sunset Hotel

If you’re looking for a bit more comfort at an affordable price, then I’d highly recommend booking your stay here at  Pandawa Beach Villas & Resort !  The rooms are all absolutely gorgeous, the staff is incredibly helpful, and you really can’t find a better beachfront location on the sunset side of the island.  It is a bit far from the harbor though, so please be ready to walk 10-15 minutes with your luggage if you decide to stay here!  They’ve got a beautiful pool, sunset swings, and is tucked away from the wild party noises of Gili Trawangan. 

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17 Best Things To Do in Gili Trawangan

Whether you decide to spend all day lazing on the beach or scuba-diving as many times as possible, I promise you’ll absolutely fall in love with this little slice of heaven! While it is a small island, it’s packed with activities to keep you busy during your trip! Here’s what I think are the Best Things To Do in Gili Trawangan!  From eating at the night market, watching the famous Gili T sunset, island hopping on a private boat, and so much more – this list has you covered!

1. Scuba Diving 

First things first, the Gili Islands are famous for the insane visibility, gorgeous coral reefs, and diverse marine wildlife – so if there’s one thing I’d recommend to do on Gili Trawangan, it has to be to scuba dive! 

I just recently got back from a scuba-diving focused trip to Gili Trawangan, and it truly is an incredible and easy place to go diving everyday! The locations are really close to the boat, the conditions are typically perfect, and you’ll get up close and personal with so many incredible sea creatures! 

There are DOZENS of amazing scuba-dive centers on Gili Trawangan, but I’ve been diving with three of them (and all of them were fantastic). These would be:

• DSM Dive Gili Trawangan
• Blue Marlin Gili Trawangan
• Manta Dive Gili Trawangan

If you’re not certified to scuba-dive, this is also one of the BEST places in entire world to get your open-water scuba certification. It’s affordable and fun, and a great way to spend 3-4 days. If you’re not sure if you’ll love scuba, you can also try a “Discover Scuba”, which is a trial one-off dive to test out if it’s the right activity for you.

My personal favorite Gili Trawangan Dives are Shark Point, Bounty Shipwreck, and Halif Reef!  You’ll probably see sharks, turtles, eagle rays, clown fish, stingrays, octopus, and loads more!

2. Gili Islands Snorkeling Trip

So for those who aren’t too keen on scuba-diving, then booking the multi-island snorkeling tour is an absolute must! They’ll take you around to different spots like the Gili Meno Statue and Turtle Haven, as well as see a bunch of amazing coral reefs! 

This trip is offered nearly everywhere around the island, and if you have a group of people you can hire your own private boat for pretty cheap for a tour. There’s no need to book in advance, as there is tons of availability (you’ll get asked daily if you want to join as you walk around the island). 

It’s super affordable, only takes a couple hours, and is a great way to get out on the water and ride around the three Gili Islands. 

If you haggle with the local boat owners, you can combine this with an island hopping trip to Gili Air and Gili Meno, so you can see all three Gili Islands during your time on Gili T!

3. Swim With Turtles

One of my absolute favorite things about Gili Trawangan is that you can literally go swimming right off the beach, and you’re practically guaranteed to spot a few turtles! There’s an area called Turtle Beach on the northern side of the main strip of Gili Trawangan, and you just grab a mask and some fins and swim out around the boats. 

I went out a couple mornings and saw dozens of them swimming, eating, and relaxing. It’s so much, and is a fantastic way to start the day. If you don’t have your own mask and fins, you can rent them for 24-hours for 50k Rupiah (about 3.50 USD). 

Just remember, you can get close, but please DO NOT TOUCH the turtles! 

4. Gili Trawangan Sunsets

Of all my travels in South-East Asia, I honestly believe that the sunsets on the Gili Islands are easily the most beautiful (and that’s really saying something)! So if you aren’t watching the sunset every night, with a cocktail or coconut in your hand, you’re not doing the Gili Islands the proper way! 

There are tons of different small bars, restaurants, and beach hotels along the “sunset side” of Gili Trawangan, and they all can provide a comfy chair and beverage to enjoy while the sky turns into a wide variety of colors.  

Also, be sure to make your way over (or book a few nights stay) to the gorgeous  Ombak Sunset Resort  for the classic “Gili Trawangan sunset swing shot” that you’ve probably seen on Instagram dozens of times! 

5. Walk or Bike Ride Around The Island

There are no cars or motorbikes on the island, so you’ll see everyone riding around on a bicycle or electric moped. Gili Trawangan is a fantastic place to rent a bike, and take a fun ride around the entire island!  You could even make a day of it, and stop at bars or cafes along the way, go for a snorkel, and then make your way to the sunset side to finish off the evening. 

There are tons of different places to organize a bike rental from, and it shouldn’t cost more than a $3-$4 dollars for each day (but you can negotiate for better rates if you’re staying a week).  Just be careful where you leave it, as sometimes they can be stolen unfortunately! 

If you decide to walk around the island, it will take about 90 minutes, and the bike ride just depends on your speed! Since my first to Gili Trawangan, the roads have become a LOT more improved, and there are only a few places where you’ll need to walk the bike through thicker sand. 

It’s a great way to get your bearings of the island and see all the beaches (as well as discover some hidden gems). I’d recommend to do it after 5PM though when it’s not so hot! 

6. Movie Nights On The Beach

While walking up and down the sunset side of the island, you’ll discover several different restaurants/ hotels offering free movie nights on the beach ! They arrange tons of comfortable bean bags on the sand, and set up a projector and speakers – and it is a ton of fun! 

It’s one of my personal favorite Gili Trawangan things to do , and you need to do it at least once! It’s a great activity do after the sunset, especially if you’re not in the mood for a wild party night.

You can find movie nights at Aston Sunset Beach , Skinny Dip Beach Club , and Royal Regantris Trawangan . I watched a movie at all three of these, and it’s a great way to unwind after a long day of scuba-diving/ snorkeling. 

When you go out and explore each day, just be sure to take a photo of their “movie showtimes” so you know which days/ times you’d want to watch!

7. Feast at The Night Market

No visit to Gili Trawangan would be complete without enjoying a massive meal at the Gili T Night Market at least once!  The food is fresh, cheap, and really tasty! 

My best piece of advice would be to go to the  lower east corner grill and eat there! Basically, you’ll pick out your meat skewers, and then all dishes include rice and three vegetable sides + peanut sauce.  It’s mouth waveringly delicious.  Don’t miss this place!  Thank me later… ;-)

It’s one of the best things to do in Gili Trawangan, and I looking forward to eating there every time I visit! 

Also read:  7 Must-Try Places to eat on Gili Trawangan

8. Read, Rest and Relax on The Beach

When you look at pictures of the beaches on Gili Trawangan, one word always comes to mind…paradise.  

The sand is soft and white, the water is crystal clear and the perfect temperature, and it’s simply an idyllic place to spend a day doing nothing. 

Along all the major swimming beaches on Gili Trawangan are fantastic beach resorts, restaurants, and bars with comfy lounge seats and bean bags for your enjoyment. So bring a towel, some reef friendly sunscreen, and a good book – and just enjoy life on island time!    

9. Gili Cooking Classes

A cultural experience for the body and the soul!

“ We all love eating, right?! Food is amazing. It brings people together from all over the world, and Indonesian cuisine is no exception. And for good reason: it’s all based around fresh produce, simple recipes, and delicious food. And where better to learn how to make these amazing dishes, then right here at the source: Indonesia.”

Why not try and learn something new during your time on The Gili Islands..!? Sign-up for one of the sessions at Gili Cooking Classes (offered on Gili Trawangan & Gili Air)!

While this is unfortunately one of the things to do in Gili Trawangan that I didn’t get the chance to attend when I was last there, I walked past it multiple times and it looked like so much fun (and a fun skill to bring back home). There are vegan/vegeterian classes available as well, and the instructors go above and beyond to ensure an incredible time.

There are three different class types to choose from : The Intro Course, Four of a Kind, and The Super Six (all at different prices points). It’s fun, affordable, and a great way to spend some time on the island.

10. Gili T Pub Crawl

If you’re a solo traveler and looking to make some new friends, then the best way to do that is to go on the legendary Gili T Pub Crawl ! Depending on the time of the year it may not occur every night, but it’s always at least on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sunday.

It costs 250k and includes a free shirt, tons of free shots, free bucket, and drink specials at all the different pubs. It’s a great way to discover tons of nightlife spots in one evening, and will typically turn into one of the rowdier nights of your travels! 

11. Late Night Burger at Le Petit Grill

This is probably my favorite place to eat on the entire island.

Looking to grab a bite to eat after heading back to your hotel/ hostel after the Gili T Pub crawl or beach club party – then come to Le Petit Grill (located across the port where the night market is). 

Not only is one of the few spots that stay open 24 hours for food, but everything here is super delicious!  They’ve got a pretty  decent sized menu, but are definitely most famous for their massive burgers!

I’d recommend getting the Greek Burger or the Crunchy Onion burger; which both are solid options.  They’ll only cost you around $6 USD, and are served with some crispy french fries! If you’ve had a long night of drinking, then this is a top spot for a late night meal to soak up some of that alcohol, and help with the hangover in the morning!!  

Read the Le Petit Grill reviews on Tripadvisor for updates as well…  

12. Sama Sama Reggae Bar Live Music

When walking around Gili Trawangan, you’ll see several places that advertise live reggae music.  The two most popular spots are located pretty close to each other along the main stretch, but I’ve found that the music at SAMA SAMA is definitely my favorite. 

There’s a really fantastic vibe here, and it’s an ideal place to chill out, enjoy a beer, and chat with some fellow travelers. It’s a great spot to “pre-game” as well, before heading off on more wild pub hopping parties. 

13. Get a Massage / Spa Day

Just like in Bali or Lombok (and the majority of Indonesia), there are tons of amazing spas for getting a quality and affordable spa treatment. I always loved getting one after going snorkeling/ scuba-diving, and a great way to relax and feel pampered before heading out for sunset drinks.

My personal favorite (that I went to several times) is the Rosa Spa Gili Trawangan (great for nail packages as well as hot-stone massages), but another island favorite among travelers is You Spa Trawangan which is located in the middle of the island!

You Spa Trawangan is the best spa facility on the island, and offers tons of treatments from four-hand massages, facials, body scrubs, flower baths, and so much more! 

There are a couple different yoga studios on Gili Trawangan, and one of them even offer Sunrise / Sunset SUP Yoga! Since I’m not a big yogi myself, I did not do this activity, but there are several classes per day to choose from, and would be a great way to get some exercise while on the island!

15. Utopia Catamaran 

This is one of the best new things to do in Gili Trawangan, as it just recently opened! Offering three different catamaran cruises each day during Breakfast, Lunch, and Sunset.

They’ll take you around the three Gili Islands, and includes a curated menu buffet meal, attentive butlers/ staff on board, towels/dry bags, premium snorkeling equipment, and beautiful views of paradise.

The catamaran is luxuriously beautiful, and spending three hours on board will fly! They serve up fresh cocktails/ drinks on board as well, so it can easily turn into a fun party/ island hopping experience!  

For everything you get, it’s quite affordable at only 1.1M per guest, but I would budget a bit more for tip as the staff are guaranteed to blow you  with their customer service!

16. Party Boat Gili / Booze Cruise

When I used to live and work on Gili Trawangan, there was an amazing booze cruise party that happened a couple times a week. Unfortunately, I’ve learned since my last visit that this is no longer happening. But I’m really hoping they make a return in the future (especially now that travel is finally back to normal).

With all that being said, I still wanted to include what I originally wrote about it…

“THE WILDEST AND COOLEST PARTY IN THE GILI ISLANDS

There are very few things I enjoy more in life than drinking on a boat, in a beautiful destination, listening to great music, and being surround by fun people from dozens of different countries!  While the drinks may be a bit expensive (for your standard backpacker, it’s worth every penny, and it’s easily one of my favorite things to do in the Gili Islands!  

The DJ’s play a really fun variety of music (mostly deep house, hip-hop, and EDM), there are tons of free shots being thrown around, and there are a couple swimming stops where you can jump off the boat.  Believe it or not, I had one of the best days of my life on this boat, and I’ll never forget that sunset sailing back to GIli Trawangan while the sky was a gorgeous shade of pink, and I was surrounded by fellow backpacker friends! 

2023 Update : You can check out the Party Boat Gili page for updates as I do hope they return to organizing tours later this year!

17. Gili Trawangan Shopping 

Last, but certainly not least, there are a surprising amount of new boutique shops offering some really amazing stuff! If you take my advice to ride your bike around the island, feel free to stop and browse at many of the small markets/ stores selling stuff.

I found some really cool and unique t-shirts that I really love, plus some small gifts for friends back home. 

Please DO NOT DO THIS ON Gili Trawangan 

Do not ride the horse carts on Gili Trawangan!!!

Since there are no cars on Gili Trawangan, the only form of “public transportation” available is hiring horse carts that will take you around the island.  The animals are treated quite poorly, and if you give these people money, it just condones this gross behavior.  If you have a lot of luggage, please stay somewhere that’s walking distance to the main Gili Trawangan jetty.

I’ve always refused to take the horse carts in Indonesia, and I hope I can urge you do to the same! It’s a small island, and you really don’t need to be riding in those!

Gili Trawangan Travel Insurance

I never travel anywhere without booking a travel insurance policy , and this is absolutely essential for all visitors to Bali and the Gili Islands. 

It’s great to have peace of mind while traveling, and I highly recommend  HeyMondo  due to their extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths, their fair pricing, and their handy app which allows you to not only manage any claims within the app, but also access free assistance online so you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill while in Indonesia where the charges are steep!

Planning a Trip to Bali & The Gili Islands, Indonesia…?

I’d definitely recommend picking up a copy a copy of the Lonely Planet travel books to help plan your travels.  There’s tons of free versions if you have a Kindle, but the paperback copies are also great to have with you.

• Bali & Lombak Lonely Planet (Travel Guide)
• INDONESIA Lonely Planet (Travel Guide)

And be sure to check out some of my other helpful travel guides, itineraries, and things to do!  I’ve helped countless people plan their travels to this beautiful country, and I know you’d enjoy a few of these articles as well:

• The Ultimate Bali Itinerary | How to Plan the Perfect Bali Vacation
• Magic Mushrooms in Indonesia | Gili Trawangan & Gili Air
• 10 Awesome Things to do in Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia
• 3 Days in Ubud | The Best Travel Itinerary
• 7 Music Festivals in Bali, Indonesia to Experience Before You Die
• The Ultimate Backpackers Guide to Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
• 10 Awesome Things to do on Gili Trawangan
• The 7 Best Place to Eat on Gili Trawangan
• Komodo Island Trip Review | Sailing from Lombok to Flores
• The 5 Best Places to Trip on Magic Mushrooms in Southeast Asia
• The 15 Best Places to Party in Southeast Asia
• The 20 Best Beaches in Malaysia
• The 20 Best Beaches in Vietnam
• The 20 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
• 10 Days in Thailand | The Ultimate 10 Day Thailand Itinerary

Where To Explore After The Gili Islands

While most travelers who come to Gili Trawangan will head back to Bali, I’d recommend heading over to Lombok for a few days for some waterfall explorations, moto rides, and to see a different side of Indonesia. 

You can also book a sailing trip from Lombok to Komodo National Park which I did when I was a backpacker (but fair warning – this is a super budget trip, so don’t expect anything too fancy). 

If you’re interested in scuba diving though, I’d strongly recommend booking a trip over to  Komodo National Park and experience some of the most unbelievable marine biodiversity and scuba-diving in the entire world!  (It’s also one of the best places to do a liveaboard in Southeast Asia, as the prices are relatively affordable (compared to other popular scuba destinations).  

Check out these Komodo National Park liveaboards to view dates, prices, and availability to see if you can squeeze one into your trip to Indonesia ! 

• Adelaar Liveaboard (Bali – Komodo)
• Moana Liveaboard (Komodo National Park)
• Indo Aggressor (Komodo National Park)

Thanks for reading about these things to do on Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan will always hold a special place in my heart, and I really do miss living there! It truly was one of my top South-East Asia travel experiences , and I’m sure you’ll fall in love with just as much as I have.  

Feel free to email me or shoot me a DM on social media, and I’d be happy to help out with any questions you have about traveling through Bali, Gili Trawangan, or anywhere in Indonesia!

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30 AMAZING 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 to suit everybody from kids, families, couples, partiers and those looking to chill!

Things To Do in Gili Trawangan

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!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here:

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!

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.

Once you arrive on the island you’ll see many sellers selling snorkelling trips.

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!

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

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!

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.

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

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.

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.

• 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!

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.

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. We enjoyed playing it on Christmas Day one year!

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.

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!

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!

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!

Related post: HOW To Get From Gili T, Gili Air & Gili Meno by FAST Boat & Slow Boat!

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!

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?

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.

It’s 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!

What To Do in Gili Trawangan at Night :

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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. I recommend:

Budget:   Good Vibes Bungalows

Mid Range: Pink Coco Resort

High End: Ponte Villas

For all hotels, hostels and resorts in Gili T, have a look at the huge selection on Booking.com here !

Here are my top 15 Private Airbnb Villas in Gilli T!

How To Get to Gili Trawangan?

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

Bali 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.

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!

I hope this helps you plan your things to do in Gili T!

• 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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The Ultimate Dive and Travel Guide to Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan is part of three small islands off of the coast of Lombok, and a short boat ride away from the island of Bali. Each of the islands have their own vibe and reputation with Gili Trawangan known for being the island with the best nightlife. Though the island itself is small, you’ll easily fill your days snorkeling, diving, doing yoga, dining, sunbathing, shopping, socializing, and more. After just a day here, it’s easy to see why many travelers come to stay for a few days and end up staying for weeks.

In 2018, Gili Trawangan was hit by a series of strong earthquakes, causing many of the buildings to crumble. Fortunately, thanks to the dedication of the locals and expats living on Gili Trawangan, the island is open and all international safety notices have been lifted. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants, shops, and dive shops welcoming travelers. The quick rebuilding of Gili Trawangan is a testament to the strength and hospitality of the people who live there.

If in doubt, go! You won’t regret it. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Gili Trawangan including where to stay, where to dive, and where to surf. 

Travel Guide to Gili Trawangan

Why visit Gili Trawangan?

• The best time to visit Gili Trawangan?
• Accommodation in Gili Trawangan
• How to get around

Top things to do in Gili Trawangan

• Other essential facts

Dive Guide to Gili Trawangan

The best dive sites in Gili Trawangan

The best time to go diving in gili trawangan, what you can expect to see in gili trawangan, the best scuba diving schools in gili trawangan.

• The best freediving schools in Gili Trawangan

Surf Guide to Gili Trawangan

• The best time surf in Gili Trawangan

The best surf spots in Gili Trawangan

Table of Contents

Gili Trawangan is a D.I.Y. adventure island. Are you the type of traveler who can’t sit still for long? Or do you love to spend your holiday relaxing on a beach? Are you a partier with a penchant for strong cocktails, or are you a wellness guru in the making? No matter your interests or travel style, Gili Trawangan welcomes all. Its mix of beaches, activities, yoga shacks, bars, restaurants, and dive centers make it a place where you can be as adventurous or relaxed as you want.

Gilli Trawangan is a scuba diver’s paradise.  With warm water, thriving reefs, shipwrecks, and sea turtles galore, you won’t get bored of blowing bubbles in Gili Trawangan. This island is also ideal for freedivers and snorkelers. Many of the dive boats venture to sites off of Gili Meno and Gili Air, so you won’t be limited in where you go.

Is it safe to visit Gili Trawangan? After the earthquakes, most travelers want to know if the Gili Islands are safe to visit. All international travel warnings have been lifted for the Gili Islands (at the time of publication). Earthquakes and tsunamis are impossible to predict and the entirety of Indonesia is located on the “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic plates meet and earthquakes are likely to happen. As of now, the Gili Islands are open and ready for visitors. You will see rubble and construction happening around as the island rebuilds, but all paths are clear to move around.

The best time to visit Gili Trawangan

The Gili Islands are drier than the Bali and Lombok, making it an ideal spot to visit even during the rainy season (November to April). The dry season with the best weather lasts from May until October. Even when it does rain, the clouds tend to pass over the island quickly and you won’t be stuck in it for long.

If you want to beat the crowds and hiked accommodation prices, we recommend visiting outside of July and August.

Where to stay in Gili Trawangan

Gili Treehouses ($$$)

Channel your inner Jane at Gili Treehouses, a set of one and two-bedroom villas located on Gili Trawangan’s more peaceful side — just a five minute walk to the beach. Each villa is treehouse style and comes with a private pool, bicycle use, wifi, air conditioning, and open-air lounge area. This is one of our favorite spots for those who like to have unique, adventurous stays.

Pink Coco Gili Trawangan ($$)

You’ll know you’ve stumbled upon Pink Coco Gili Trawangan once you see its bubblegum pink building, boats, and beachside lounge chairs. Pink Coco takes pride in its appearance — where there’s no such thing as being too bright or too lively. All rooms come with a fan, air conditioning, hot water showers, a TV, and outdoor lounge bed. Wear pink for special discounts!

Pesona Beach Resort ($$)

Pesona Beach Resort is a favorite of ours thanks to its location, stunning decor, and friendly staff. It’s the best place to stay if you plan to do a lot of diving as the resort is attached to Dive Central Gili. Rooms are colorfully decorated and come with air conditioning, a TV, hot water, and drinking water. There are two pools onsite with one of them being reserved for guests only. Lounge in the restaurant to enjoy sea views and people watching. Consider this a diver’s paradise!

Moana Homestay ($)

Moana Homestay is run by a friendly couple who often welcome their guests with warm smiles and homemade cookies. The communal area has a colorful, welcoming vibe and the rooms are basic but clean. If you’re looking to make friends and stay somewhere central (without spending a fortune), Moana Homestay is a no-brainer. The staff can help you organize budget snorkel and other adventure trips as well.

How to get to and around Gili Trawangan

You can reach Gili Trawangan via private fast boat or by public ferry. Boats go to and from the three Gili Islands every few hours.

There are no cars or motorbikes on Gili Trawangan — which helps explain why it’s such a peaceful place to visit. You can rent a bicycle for 30k-50k IDR per day and cycle anywhere. A leisurely lap around the island takes about two hours. The main stretch of Gili Trawangan can be traversed on foot.

There are also small horse-drawn carriages that go around the island called cidomos . While some of the cidomos are well-cared for, we do not recommend using cidomos for transportation. Many of them are overworked in the high heat and humidity, and are under excess stress due to the construction needed to rebuild Gili Trawangan. Book your accommodation close to the boats and walk or cycle instead. Where to eat in Gili Trawangan

Yoga : Bend and strech at one of Gili Trawangan’s handful of yoga centers. Freedive Gili hosts an array of yoga classes daily. Our favorite is Sunset Beach Yoga, where you can practice aerial yoga on a wooden platform that overlooks the sea.

Snorkel : Search for sea turtles off the coast of Gili Trawangan! Since the fringing reefs are quite shallow, it’s easy to spot a lot of creatures from the surface.

Cycle around the island : A great thing about Gili Trawangan is its lack of motor transportation. The best way to get around is by bike! Cycle around the island or head inland, following wherever the path takes you. Since the island is so small, it’s hard to get lost — and it’s not a big deal if you do.

Party : Gili Trawanagan is one of the best party islands in all of Indonesia. Every night, different bars take turns hosting the biggest party of the week. Join a pub crawl or bounce from place to place in search of the best music. Then, do it all again the next night.

Standup Paddleboard : Explore the reef-protected calm waters surrounding Gili Trawangan from a standup paddleboard. There are organized paddleboard classes and trips, or you can rent them by the hour.

Beachside movie nights : Enjoy a movie under the stars! Many resorts host a sunset movie night that ends just before the parties begin.

Other essential information

The Gili Islands have water shortages and no reliable method of rubbish collection. Being conscious of your water and plastic consumption is a must.

Download Refill My Bottle to see exactly where you can refill your water bottle for free or for just a few cents.

The coral reefs around the Gili Islands are sensitive and under a lot of stress due to the number of tourists going in and out of the water. Wear a rash guard and leggings to cut down your use of sunscreen. When you do put it on, make sure that your sunscreen is reef safe .

Pack a reusable bag and straw to help cut down on single use plastics in the Gilis.

Since the Gili Islands are predominantly Muslim, you’re likely to hear the call to prayer multiple times per day. Bring a pair of earplugs and pick a hotel that’s away from the main mosque if you’re a light sleeper.

Halik: A coral reef that ranges from 10 to 25 meters in depth with a vast variety of reef fish, octopus, reef sharks, eels, scorpionfish, and lion fish. Turtles are often spotted towards the 15 meter mark and above. Advanced open water students often complete their deep dive at Halik. Deep Turbo: Hang around the dive guides long enough and you’ll often hear them rave about Deep Turbo, a large coral bommie accented with Gorgonian sea fans. Here, you’ll see a variety of reef fish as well as an abundance of interesting macro life like nudis and pygmy seahorses (often camouflaged in the sea fans). The good stuff starts at 18 meters, so this site is typically reserved solely for those who have their advanced certification. Shark Point: What Shark Point lacks in currents, it makes up for in abundant sea life. This coral reef is home to green sea turtles, octopus, eels, and white tip reef sharks who tuck away under the coral overhangs during the daytime. Occasionally, divers are lucky enough to spot a black tip reef shark cruising through.

Glenn Nusa Wreck: Once a working tugboat, the Glenn Nusa rock is one of the latest projects created by a handful of dive centers to encourage the growth of new corals. Located at 25 meters, the boat is an interesting site to get your wreck specialty or deep dive specialty. It’s common to see schools of fish hiding underneath the bow.

Manta Point: Perfect for divers of all abilities, Manta Point is a sloping reef rife with green and hawksbill sea turtles. Cruise over the reef and keep an eye out for white tip reef sharks, peacock mantis shrimp, nudibranchs, and a variety of corals. Like its name suggests, you can occasionally spot manta rays if you look out into the blue.

Diving in the Gili Islands is great all year round as the water temperature rarely drops below 27°C (80°F). Visibility is best from April to September, the dry season. Crowds gather around the dive sites from late June to August.

Love sea turtles? The Gili Islands are a safe-haven for hawksbill turtles and green turtles, both endangered. You’re nearly guaranteed to see one on just about every dive — especially near the coral reefs.

There are also a variety of black and white tip reef sharks, scorpion fish, trigger fish, octopus, parrot fish, anemone fish, frog fish, nudibranches, spotted stingrays, and a variety of corals.

Dive Central Gili : A PADI 5-Star dive resort that overlooks the ocean. Dive Central Gili is run and managed by divers who have spent years on Gili Trawangan, and know the island better than most. Dive Central Gili is a mid-size operation that offers fun dives, PADI courses, and stay-and-dive packages.

Manta Dive : You can’t miss Manta Dive’s always-happening dive center located on Gili Trawangan’s main stretch. Manta Dive has an efficient system to move many divers throughout the day without losing a sense of personal service. Join a fun dive or use Manta Dive as a base to learn a variety of PADI and SSI courses. Blue Marlin Dive : The first dive center to set roots on Gili Trawangan, Blue Marlin is where many seasoned scuba divers took their first breath underwater. Blue Marlin is a PADI 5-Star dive center with a strong emphasis on safety. It’s a great place to learn no matter if you’re a beginner or looking to advance as a technical diver.

Find Dive Resorts in Lombok

Freediving in Gili Trawangan

The freediving in Gili Trawangan is top notch. Many of the world’s top freedivers train at Freedive Gili , a freediving and yoga center run by Kate Middleton and Mike Board.

The best time to surf Gili Trawangan

Surfing in Gili Trawangan can be a hit or miss all year round, but break best from May to October.

There is only one decent surf spot in Gili Trawangan. Found on the southern point of the island near Kokomo Resort, the surf spot at Gili Trawangan is a hollow, fast, right-hander that needs a large S-SW swell to get going. Currents are strong and the reef is sharp, so it’s good for experienced surfers only.

Since most of the surf travelers head to Bali or Lombok mainland for waves, there’s little competition in the lineup.

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Best Time To Visit Gili Trawangan

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What is the best time to visit Gili Trawangan?

The best time to visit Gili Trawangan is from May to September when the weather is generally dry and pleasant with little to no rainfall. The sunny days make it a perfect time to relax on the beaches and enjoy the many water sports Gili Trawangan has to offer. Like most of Indonesia, Gili Trawangan experiences two main seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is from April to September, while October to March is the wet season with hot and humid days and tropical rainfall. The temperature remains between 27 to 32 degrees Celcius almost throughout the year. Peak Season: July to September is the peak tourist season in Gili Trawangan, which coincides with the dry season. December is another peak tourist month. The atmosphere on the island is very lively and festive during these months, with lots of beach parties happening all night long. However, the downside is that the huge number of tourists makes it difficult to get seats at bars and restaurants and crowded diving and snorkeling sites. Also, the accommodations are almost always sold out during the peak season, so make sure to book in advance if visiting during this time. Shoulder Season: April to June and September can be considered the shoulder season in Gili Trawangan. These months coincide with the beginning and end of the dry season, which makes it the best time to avoid crowds. The weather is dry and sunny during these months, and although the waves are slightly higher, the visibility is great, making it the perfect time for snorkeling, diving, and surfing in Gili Trawangan. The Gili Festival takes place in September, a great experience with many cultural performances, activities, and live music. Off Season: October to November and January to March are the off-season in Gili Trawangan, which is also the rainy season. During this time, the island sees fewer crowds, and the vibe is very relaxed. While it might be difficult to relax on the beach or enjoy water sports, you can go for indoor activities like yoga, spas, cooking classes, etc. 

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29 Coolest Things to Do on Gili T, as Tried By Me

I spent six days on Gili T, or Gili Trawangan to give it its full name. The beautiful paradise island attracts party people, scuba dubas and snorkel lovers as that’s pretty much all there is to do there. I like to think that despite my injury, I made a good effort at doing all the cool things to do on Gili T and would like to share my new found knowledge with all my beautiful readers.

I can’t lie, or pretend to be cultured, the week has consisted of too many Bintang beers, sitting on the beach or in bars, food at the night market and drinking games that only ended to go to the clubs. 

Gili T is pretty cheap, but the trouble for me was that it was so cheap I consumed more, totally cancelling out the cheapness. Standard behaviour. I spent around £200 for the week, accommodation, beer money, food and all. Here’s how…

Cool Things to Do on Gili Trawangan

Read on to find out the best Gili Trawangan things to do, including where to stay, what to eat, where to party and what to drink.

Enjoy this Gili T travel guide.

1. Stay at La Boheme Hostel

La Boheme absolutely deserves its place on this best things to do in Gili T list. It’s thanks to this hostel that I had as an incredible time on the island as I did. As soon as I checked in I met some cool people, and we stuck together for the few days I was there.

I had some great sleeps here, thanks to the rooms being so dark, and there was plenty of social space for meeting new people. It was only a short walk to the boats and the main strip, and the staff were awesome too.

Also, free pancakes.

La Boheme was one of my favourite hostel experiences of ALL TIME. Stay here!

HOSTEL: Check out the latest prices for La Boheme on Gili T here

2. Go scuba diving

Don’t stress about finding the best price for scuba diving

If you want to go scuba diving on Gili T, there’s a cap of $35 for everyone. Just chat to people and go with one you like.

3. Day trip to Gili Meno or Gili Air

Gili Meno and Gili Air are so close and easy to get to from Gili T, you’d be mad not to.

You can do the booze cruise below, or just chat with the local fishermen to take you over. The other islands are more peaceful if Gili T gets too much for you!

4. Do yoga at the Yoga Palace

You get a discount if you stay at La Boheme as it’s just opposite. I loved doing yoga here – it was one of my favourite things to do on Gili T – as it balanced out the boozey week.

EDIT: This has now shut down. Sad times. There are quite a few other yoga places on Gili T though, just ask around and look out for signage. Namaste.

5. Go snorkelling

The Gili T snorkelling trip that’s advertised everywhere on the island is actually pretty shit as you don’t see much and you’re packed onto a boat. I’d actually still recommend it though as it’s cool to get out on the water and dive in from the sides. There’s some amazing marine life here.

Also great fun and a good opportunity to meet people too.

6. Drink at Sama Sama Reggae Bar

Watch out for the steps though.

Don’t stub your toe worse than you’ve ever stubbed it before at Sama Sama Reggae Bar, like I did. Meant I couldn’t do anything but drink and eat for the week. Terrible.

The front of my toe was falling off and if I’d been in England I would’ve gone to A&E. I just drank through the pain though – gutted that it meant I couldn’t put a flipper on to go scuba diving.

Honestly, it was so painful my toe was throbbing for days. Especially grim when I had to wash the sand out of it at the end of the night with a high power hose.

Sama Sama Reggae Bar is really cool though.

7. Don’t pay to get on the daily boat party

Find the right people at night by this bar and you can get a band to get in free. Probably only works for the ladies TBH.

Where is Gili T?

The Gili Islands are made up of three islands off the coast of Bali and Lombok in Indonesia. There’s Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. I spent all six nights on Gili Trawangan, affectionately known as Gili T. On day four I decided to take the boat over to Gili Meno – a paradise island more popular with honeymooners than party people. It was stunning.

I just lay about reading The Bell Jar  for the second time and eating my new favourite lunch, Nasi Goreng – spicy rice with egg on top and prawn crackers on the side.

To get around Gili T you can either walk, like I did, or use one of the horse and carts. There are no cars on the island so the only traffic sounds you can hear are the horn of the guys in the cart. These are pretty scary when you’re walking round at night though – the horses suddenly appear eerily in the distance. Reminded me of the  Woman in Black  film.

8. Eat huge burgers at La Petit Grill

Or the falafel, or the veggie curry, or the Nasi Goreng, it’s all good.

La Petit Grill also has happy hour between 6 and 8 and you can get cheapo beers and cocktails with tapas.

As you’ll have noticed, one of the main things to do on Gili T beside getting in the water is to sit around and eat and drink. Nothing wrong with that!

9. Hang out at the treehouse at Kuta Bar

Oh I LOVED this treehouse. Such a cool space if you can get some of your La Boheme friends together. We had some shroom shakes (totally legal on Gili T) and just chilled up there for the evening.

If you’re wondering what to do in Gili Trawangan – get high! Up the tree I mean…

10. Watch the nightly turtle show at the Lombok Grill

I didn’t actually get to do this but apparently the turtles all come up as the sun sets and you can see them from the restaurant. It’s one of the most popular Gili T activities, especially for loved up couples on Gili Trawangan.

11. Rent a cycle and explore the island

The ones that charge 30k probably don’t have brakes so you might be better off paying 50k. I did and had a lovely day by myself exploring the whole island.

Great if you want to get more perspective on Gili Trawangan than just the bars and the bottom of the ocean.

I randomly saw this reggae band having a photoshoot. Thought you’d like to see the photo.

12. Chill out in the day at The Surf Bar

They were playing Tracy Chapman when I went. Loved it.

Just, chill.

13. Go there at sunset too

We played Frisbee as the sun went down and they pumped out some minimal techno tunes. In those minutes life was brilliant, even more so than usual.

I was so happy here.

14. Find the nightly party

There are loads of clubs but every night there will be one particular one that holds the party . It will be crazy.

One of the best nights on Gili T was spent in a treehouse overlooking the beach at Kuta Bar. The six of us from the hostel had a few beers on the go and ended up chilling in there for over 7 hours just watching the sun set and playing games.

Some nights were spent drinking the hostel and others at the ridiculous amount of bars and clubs that line the beach at the front of the island.

15. Eat desserts at the night market

The night market on Gili T is amazing , and open every night. There’s so much to see and eat, and it’s all so tasty too. Look for the queues to find the best food on Gili T.

Us three girls agreed the donuts were some of the best we’d ever tasted.

16. And get some fresh fish or meat

You can pick what you want and then it’s all cooked to order. Choose it raw and they’ll give you a shout when it’s ready.

Can’t get much fresher than that!

17. Enjoy the nightly cinema at Villa Ombak

Villa Ombak is one of the swankiest places to stay on Gili T.

This cinema is one of the most popular things to do on Gili T pre-drinking time. Just remember to load up on bug repellant first. They’re worst when the sun goes down.

18. Drink from a coconut from the stall at the top of the island

Didn’t quite catch the name, but that’s all the fun of your trip to Gili T – discovery.

Sup on a coconut from here and not only will you really feel like you’re on a desert island, it’s also good for you.

Great to match this up with your Gili T bike ride.

19. Go shopping

Spend all your spare money on jewellery, or bikinis, or I heart GT tshirts you’ll never wear again. There are actually some really nice shops on Gili T – go and have a look around and support local businesses!

20. Just relax

There’s virtually no crime on Gili T and if anything goes wrong the facts are brought to the village head who decides the punishment.

Check out this tourist mug who was forced to do the Walk of Shame on Gili T after robbing another tourist last week.

21. Chill and read

Sit on the beach bean bags lining the beach and read a book – buy a drink and you can stay all day. Heaven is yours!

22. Eat at Kayu Café

I had a delicious halloumi and quinoa salad with a smoothie at Kayu Cafe on Gili T – definitely recommend.

Perfect for lessening the guilt of all the huge Bintangs I was drinking.

23. Watch the sun set at Exile Bar

What to do in Gili Trawangan? Enjoy those sunsets!

I had fish fingers at Exile Bar, with a cold beer – they were huge and delicious. I’d love for you to experience the same joy I did.

24. Jiggy Boat Party

The Jiggy Boat Party is one of the top things to do on Gili T. It’s a #BoobsCruise – if that’s your thing. That’s the kind of vibe we’re dealing with here.

It’s a 5-hour boat party around the Gili islands. Setting sail at 2pm you’ll get free shots, the chance to party into the sunset, and Indonesia’s best DJs too. Prices for Jiggy’s Boat Party start at around $30.

25. Go in a glass bottom boat

If you’re on Gili T you don’t have to join a scuba or snorkel trip to see underwater, find a glass bottom boat to go in and you can still see under the ocean.

A great way to experience underwater Gili without getting too wet!

26. Gili Trawangan view point

One of the most unique things to do on Gili T, is to watch the fantastic sunsets. It’s hard to imagine better ones, well, they were pretty sweet in Bali too. But anyway…

The highest point on Gili T to watch them from is the popular viewpoint in the south of the island. From here you can see Lombok and Mount Rinjani, and Bali with Mount Agung.

27. Get a Tattoo

There are a few places offering tattoos on Gili T, one with bamboo. Think carefully before you commit to a tattoo. This is one of the very few things to do on Gili T I haven’t done.

28. Take a cooking class

There are a few cooking schools on Gili T for you to get involved in. Why not learn a new skill and recipe to take make to your mates at home. Nasi Goreng will always impress!

29. Walk around Gili T

This wouldn’t be a great things to do in Gili Trawangan blog without just saying the obvious – take the time to soak up what you’re seeing.

Walk round Gili T, take some pics (respectfully ), and just enjoy being on the island. One of the best Gili Trawangan activities is to just do nothing.

How to Get From Gili T to Gili Meno

Gili T is an awesome party island, as I’ve said, but if you’re over that way I’d strongly recommend you go to Gili Meno too. Getting from Gili T to Gili Meno is easy.

Here’s your complete guide on how to get from Gili T to Gili Meno. The prices may have gone up a little though…

The easiest and most popular way to get to Gili Meno from Gili T is to walk down to the harbour, to the white building next to the fruit shop, and buy a ticket. The Gili Island Hopping ticket is 35k one way (£1.81) and 70k return . Any maths minds out there will see there is no saving. But if like me you manage to lose the return ticket on Meno, you get to pay 105 instead.

The journey from Gili T to Gili Meno takes around 30 minutes and you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with views like this…

The Gili Meno to Gili T island hopping boat also goes to Gili Air afterwards.

You can bring all your luggage on the boat to stay on the island, or you could just go as a day tripper, like I did. It leaves at 9:30am and comes back at 3:20pm – the perfect amount of time to get a feel for Gili Meno.

Things to do on Gili Meno

And that’s the beauty.

I walked round the circumference which took an hour. Then I saw a man collecting flip flops off the beach so decided to help with the clean up. Then I sat in a hut on the beach for a few hours reading and eating Nasi Goreng. There were some good waves and I saw a few dive shops too but the whole point of Gili Meno is to relax, take in the beautiful paradise surroundings and chill out. I’m getting real good at that.

Getting back to Gili T from Gili Meno

I was at the harbour where I was dropped off at 3pm. Just enough time for an ice lolly to lick while I was waiting. The boat was dead on time at 3:20pm and it took about 20 minutes to get back to Gili T.

Easy and as you can see from the photos, well worth it!

Visiting Gili T

With the lack of decent Wi-Fi, cool people and basic living it reminded me a little of my Tao Sailing Experience in the Philippines , although I don’t think anything will ever be quite the same.

After six days I decided it was time to move on from Gili T, and Lombok was calling. I got an apartment there with the team I met at La Boheme restaurant.

Just 12k for the boat (70p) and a quick motorbike ride and here I am to spend the last few days of my Indonesia jaunt chasing waterfalls and  hopefully  hiking volcanoes.

Things to do on Gili T

I had a brilliant week exploring all the cool things to do on Gili T and was sad to leave but excited to get away from all the delicious temptations the island offers.

If you’re ever in Indonesia or travelling South East Asia I’d definitely recommend adding it to your list of things to see and do.

Has this made you want to go to the Gilis?

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

21 Comments

Hi.. My name is Hafid live in Makassar South Sulawesi Indonesia. It is interesting blog. Have you been to South Sulawesi ?

No, not yet! Hopefully I’ll get there one day but not yet. How is it over there?

Hey Vicky ! Thanks for your tips. It’s making me want to go even more. I’ll probably be there next November by myself and the La boheme hostel seems really cool to meet fellow travelers ! 🙂

Oh brilliant news. Still to date my favourite hostel experience!

Aaaa you make me want to go back sooo bad! I think a did a fair few of your points. Hope you are enjoying India… my fave place! xx

Thanks Jen! Yep enjoying it so far – ups and downs! Just met up with my friends so today should be a good day 🙂

That sunset at the Exile Bar looks seriously cool, not so sure about the fish fingers though lol

Ha, they were deelish! Not like a crappy Birds Eye fish finger but a big chunky fresh fish in delicious batter x 5. Maybe I should’ve said ‘goujons’.

Looks great, was it Digital Nomad friendly as in WiFi freely available in most places or was it limited availability or had to pay for it etc ?

Hey Dan, I’ve actually found Indonesia really difficult with Wi-Fi. I wouldn’t recommend Gili T for a long time if you need to work. It kept cutting out in the hostel and there was a few places around with WiFi but I wouldn’t recommend them if it’s important.

Ok thanks Vicky thats really useful info!!

I need to put in few hours work online each day, then rest of time on the beach preferably So looking for that dream location , super cheap, super chilled, lovely beaches, people, food, low crime etc etc BUT with reliable & fast WiFi 🙂 Should you, or have you, discover/ed such a place pls do let me know? 🙂

Happy Travels !

Hey Dan, I know a lot of people go to Chang Mai – but yeah, no beaches. Otherwise another popular place is Ubud in Bali, but you’re still an hour from the beach. I will let you know if I do find somewhere as I’m also looking for somewhere similar for next year. I was recently in the Philippines and loved it, but I need to test out a few islands as it fulfilled all the other requirements apart from the fast Wi-Fi so far.

I’ll keep you updated!

Gili T Was amazing! your post has made me want to go back! La Boheme was the perfect hostel.

Yeah, it was great there. I met so many people and the owners were really cool. Loved the free pancakes!

It’s definitely made me want to go, this is an awesome guide. I’ll have to keep all of it in mind! I’m not sure how I feel about the head of the village deciding on punishments. I mean it’s cool but quite a bit strange for me.

Ha, I think it’s a great idea! I don’t think it happens very often there which kind of shows that it works. Loved Gili T. I can see it from where I am in Lombok 🙂

So neat – I am bookmarking for our future visit to Indonesia 🙂

Gorgeous photos, Vicky – what camera do you use? Makes me want to jump on the first plane out there, gah! x

Thanks Emily 🙂 It’s just my iPhone 5, which sadly is no longer with us after a water injury. Hopefully I’ll get something to replace it soon!

Oh how I miss Gili T. However it looks like it has changed a lot since I was there, think the last time was in 2009 or something. I presume it has gotten even more touristy. It really had it charm in 2006 (the first time I was there) when it wasn’t that many people around. Gili Meno and Air wasn’t even possible to go to, nothing there. I would go back though.

Yeah quite a few people said it had changed a lot in just a few years. I loved it, but I’m sure if I went back in a few years it would’ve developed a whole lot more. You could see them building more hotels on Meno, so that could be the next one to get the backpacker treatment!

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The Best Time to Visit Gili Trawangan, Indonesia for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Gili Trawangan for ideal weather are

May 21st to October 14th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Gili Trawangan Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Gili Trawangan Travel Info

Weather in gili trawangan.

Average temperatures in Gili Trawangan vary very little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot all year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 15th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Gili Trawangan, the hottest months are November, October, and then December. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid October where highs are regularly around 91.1°F (32.8°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 75°F (23.9°C) at night.

Gili Trawangan Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Gili trawangan temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Gili Trawangan Perceived Temperature (F)

Gili trawangan perceived temperature (c), average gili trawangan temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Gili Trawangan are August, July, and then June. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around mid July. For example, on the week of July 16th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early to mid January with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of January 8th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Gili Trawangan.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Gili Trawangan (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Gili Trawangan has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is August (68.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is December (78.1%).

Wind in Gili Trawangan is usually calm . The windiest month is August, followed by January and September. August’s average wind speed of around 5.4 knots (6.2 MPH or 10 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early February where average top sustained speeds reach 12.5 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Gili Trawangan.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to gili trawangan.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Indonesia; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 14, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Gili Trawangan, Indonesia is March, followed by June and April. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Gili Trawangan in September. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall gili trawangan travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 89.9°F (32.2°C) and 88.3°F (31.3°C) with similar temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 5 to 10 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the least precipitation with 1 to 2 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in Gili Trawangan, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 91.1°F (32.8°C) and 87.5°F (30.8°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 3 to 9 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Gili Trawangan to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 89.6°F (32°C) and 87.2°F (30.7°C). On average, it rains or snows a great amount: 9 to 11 times per month. These times of year are fairly slow with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Indonesia › Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

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Best Time to Visit Gili Islands: Avoid Crowds and Rain

Figuring out the perfect time to visit the Gili islands is super important if you want to dodge the hordes of people on the beaches and steer clear of the sudden downpours that can happen anytime.

When is the best time to visit the Gili islands?

May is the best time to visit the Gili islands. The rainy season is over, and everything looks super beautiful in nature. Plus, there aren't as many people around, so you can enjoy the place without big crowds.

When is the worst time to visit the Gili islands?

The worst time to plan a visit to Gili islands is during the high season which stretches from July to September.

During this period, the island becomes incredibly crowded and prices skyrocket, making it less enjoyable.

It's also better to avoid December and the first few months of the year, as they tend to have more frequent rainfall.

I've arrived at this claim by thoroughly analyzing the data I've gathered and making personal observations. Now let’s jump into the details!

Gili Islands seasons

Being in a tropical area, the Gili islands have just two seasons the dry season and the rainy season.

The rainy season in Gili islands happens from October to April , lasting for a stretch of seven months. On the other hand, the dry season takes place from May to September , covering a shorter span of five months.

Based on this data, it's pretty clear that we'd want to dodge rainy days and gloomy skies when we visit the Gili islands. That's why it's best to come during the dry season.

But there are a couple of downsides we should keep in mind. First off, the dry season falls right around the holiday season, so there's gonna be more people around which can be a hassle.

Secondly, during this time, nature might not look its absolute best since it doesn't get as much water.

Now check out these two awesome pictures of Padar Island in the Komodo National Park.

The first picture was taken during the rainy season, and you can see how the grass looks all lush and green, making the island look absolutely fantastic.

The second image was snapped during the dry season, which explains why the grass appears kinda brownish and a bit dirty.

That brownish color usually shows up during the last two months of the dry season, especially in September. That's when you'll end up with a bunch of dusty shoes too!

Just so you know, Padar Island is known for its barrenness, so don't worry, Gili islands won't be as dry as this island during the dry season.

The weather gets pretty extreme at the start and end of the rainy season. November can get scorching hot, even indoors, while April doesn't see much rain but tends to bring seasonal sickness.

If we're talking about the worst months to visit Gili islands based on the seasons, September takes the cake with its brownish and dirty look, November gets you feeling like you're in an oven, and February showers almost every single day.

Number of visitors

Now that we've got a handle on the seasons, the next thing to think about before heading to the Gili Islands is how crowded they get each month.

Since the Gili Islands are near Bali and people usually visit Bali first, let's check out some data on the number of tourists in Bali.

Bali is a hot spot for both local Indonesians and international travelers all year round. But there's definitely a pattern when it comes to how many visitors show up each month.

Check out this table showing the number of international visitors in Bali during 2019 when everything was running smoothly:

It's easy to notice that Bali had loads of tourists in August while February had the least visitors back in 2019.

This pattern keeps happening with July and August being the busiest months when prices tend to go up and January and February being the quieter period when prices are usually more wallet-friendly.

Now, it's not directly about the best time to visit Bali, but it's interesting to see where all these visitors are coming from on this table below.

Bali international visitors in 2019

When it's the rainy season in Gili islands, everything looks super fresh and green. But when the dry season starts, things can get a bit dry.

Looking at the numbers, we can say that May is the best time to visit the Gili islands. Nature still looks amazing, it's not too crowded, and you won't have to worry much about rain ruining your trip.

If you want to save some money, January and February are great months to visit the Gili islands. It's the cheapest time to go and have a fun adventure!

We're still working on it. Sorry.. 😅

Gili Islands Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

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

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

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

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

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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