Destination Guide
Car-Free Paradise Islands
Escape to the Gili Islands - three tiny tropical paradises off Lombok where no cars exist, only bicycles, horse-drawn carts, and crystal-clear waters teeming with sea turtles.
The Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air) are three small islands off the northwest coast of Lombok, offering a unique car-free island experience that has made them legendary among travelers seeking tropical paradise. With no motorized vehicles allowed, transportation is by bicycle, horse-drawn cidomo carts, or simply on foot, creating a peaceful atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Indonesia.
Gili Trawangan (Gili T) is the largest and most developed, known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining scene, and excellent diving schools. The island comes alive after sunset with beach bars, fire dancers, and live music, while still maintaining beautiful beaches and world-class snorkeling spots. Despite its party reputation, Gili T offers quiet corners and luxury resorts for those seeking tranquility.
Gili Meno, the middle island, is the quietest and most romantic of the three, perfect for honeymooners and those seeking complete relaxation. The island features pristine beaches, a turtle sanctuary, and some of the best snorkeling in the area. With minimal development and few tourists compared to its neighbors, Gili Meno offers an authentic island escape.
Gili Air combines the best of both worlds - more laid-back than Gili T but more developed than Gili Meno. The island attracts a diverse crowd from backpackers to families, offering affordable accommodation alongside upscale resorts. The eastern side features calm waters perfect for swimming, while the western side offers spectacular sunsets and excellent snorkeling.
Visit the turtle sanctuary on Gili Meno or snorkel with wild sea turtles around all three islands. These gentle creatures frequent shallow waters, offering easy encounters for snorkelers.
Iconic swings in shallow turquoise water perfect for photos at sunset. Multiple swing locations around Gili T offer this Instagram-famous experience with stunning backdrops.
Dive or snorkel around the famous Nest sculpture garden and other underwater art installations between Gili T and Gili Meno, creating artificial reefs teeming with marine life.
Rent a bicycle and circle any of the three islands in 1-2 hours. The flat terrain and car-free roads make cycling the best way to explore beaches, restaurants, and viewpoints.
Join beach yoga classes at sunrise, particularly popular on Gili Air and Gili T. Many resorts and independent instructors offer daily sessions with ocean views.
Experience the underwater world after dark with guided night snorkeling tours on Gili T, encountering nocturnal marine life and bioluminescent plankton in season.
Season: April to October (Dry Season)
Months: Best months: May, June, July, August, September
Sunny skies, calm seas perfect for diving and snorkeling. Peak season July-August sees most crowds.
From: Padang Bai or Serangan Harbor
Duration: 1.5-2 hours by fast boat
Budget
Hostels and guesthouses from $10-25/night, particularly abundant on Gili T and Gili Air with shared facilities.
Mid-Range
Beach bungalows and boutique hotels $40-100/night with pools, restaurants, and beachfront locations on all three islands.
Choose Gili Trawangan for nightlife, diving schools, and the most amenities. Pick Gili Meno for honeymoons, peace, and pristine beaches. Select Gili Air for a balanced experience with good snorkeling, fewer crowds than Gili T, but more facilities than Meno. Many visitors island-hop to experience all three.
Explore our curated tours and experiences
Visit all three Gili Islands in one day with snorkeling stops at turtle spots and underwater statues. Includes equipment and lunch.
Includes:
from
$45 USD