Gili Islands
Three sun-kissed islands form a popular vacation destination off Lombok’s northwest coast. The Gili Islands represent three versions of tropical island paradise. Characterized by white sand beaches and warm turquoise seas, each island — Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air — has its own personality. The islands are easily reached by boat from Lombok or Bali and are well-known for diving, surfing, partying, and serenity. The Gilis are located in North Lombok Regency, approximately 2.5 hours via transfer from Lombok International Airport.
The Gili Islands form a line off the coast jutting into the straits of Lombok towards Bali. Their micro-climate tends to be warmer and drier than the surrounding islands because they are bookended by Mount Rinjani to the east and Mount Agung to the west. The inhabitants of the Gilis are primarily Muslim, with a few Western expats. First “discovered” by backpackers in the 1980s, the islands are now facing booming development and the strain of increasing tourism. They do possess many delights, and prices for basic accommodations remain eminently affordable.
Gili Trawangan, also known as Gili T, is the farthest from the coast of Lombok, and the largest island. Gili T is known as the party island of the three, a product of its rapid development and the proximity of many quality dive sites. The island attracts backpackers, divers, and the party crowd. It has the most restaurants, hotels, and the widest range of accommodations that cater to every budget.
Gili Meno is the middle island and the smallest of the three. It is almost the polar opposite of Gili T. Late night parties are banned and there are long stretches of desolate but beautiful beach to explore. It’s the least developed of the three islands, but there are both luxury resorts and budget accommodations. Gili Meno is a favorite of honeymooners and those seeking to truly get away from it all.
Gili Air is the closest to shore, but exists squarely in the middle - it’s the second largest island, and has a healthy mix of what Gili’s T and Meno have on offer. Half the island is lively and populated while the other side is more peaceful and desolate. The crowd is older and more expats live here. It has accommodations, restaurants, and bars to fit a variety of tastes and budgets. Watersports, diving, snorkeling and visiting the beaches are the main activities.
Gili Islands itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Gili Islands itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Our Love in Bali & Beyond!
Make a lasting memory when you unplug from the digital world and tune into nature and each other. Island hop your way to happiness and a deeper connection.
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Experiences in Gili Islands
Explore hand-picked Gili Islands tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Gili Islands
A Snorkelers Paradise: swimming with sea turtles
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Gili Islands
Three Gili Islands Tour
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Where to stay in Gili Islands
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Gili Islands accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Villa Almarik
Villa Almarik sits right on the sand of Gili Trawangan, where coastal paths start at the edge of the grounds. This 27-room hotel provides a beachside stay in Indonesia's Gili Islands. The property is not wheelchair accessible.
Karma Reef Resort
Immediate access to the coral reef in the Bali Sea anchors the beachfront setting of Karma Reef Resort. Located on the island of Gili Meno in Indonesia, this resort sits along a private stretch of sand reached by boat and shuttle transfer. Arrival details require confirmation at least two days prior to travel, as front desk staff do not accommodate late check-ins.
Hotel Ombak Sunset
Art Deco buildings face directly onto a private beach at Hotel Ombak Sunset, a 152-room resort on the Gili Islands of Indonesia. Beside Gili Trawangan Beach, the waterfront resort provides cabanas, sun loungers, and an outdoor pool facing the sea.
Gili Eco Villas
Gili Eco Villas maintains a small scale as a five-room guesthouse in the central interior of Gili Trawangan in Indonesia. A 15-minute walk leads to Gili Trawangan Beach and the coastline at Turtle Shore, while the ferry terminal sits 1.2 miles away. Shuttles from the ferry dock and the 24-hour airport connection carry a fee and require notice two days before arrival.
Karma Kayak
Karma Kayak holds just eight rooms on the Gili Islands of Indonesia, a single minute on foot from Gili Trawangan Beach. Staff man the front desk strictly between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM, leaving no option for late check-in. Outdoor areas like balconies, patios, and terraces might pose safety concerns for young children.
Kardia Resort Gili
At Kardia Resort Gili, three outdoor pools stay open 24 hours a day along a private stretch of shore on the island of Gili Trawangan in Indonesia. This 28-room hotel sits directly on the oceanfront, connecting to the water through a walkway that opens onto an on-site beach club.
Cafe Gili Bungalow
Cafe Gili Bungalow clusters its three rooms around a shared garden on the island of Gili Trawangan in Indonesia. This hotel permits pets to stay on the grounds alongside their owners, and maintains interconnected spaces for families. Outdoor spaces feature open sun terraces surrounded by planted greenery.
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