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If you’ve travelled to Bali often enough, you must have heard about the Gili islands.

Made up of three small islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – that lie a short distance west of Bali, the Gilis have been rising up on travellers’ radars as the next go-to destination, mainly for its untouched and laidback appeal.

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From left to right – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air

It can be a little daunting when it comes to planning your trip though. Although the islands, especially Gili Trawangan, are all undergoing a massive rehaul and boost in tourism, they are still far less tourist-friendly as compared to Bali, and thus require much more pre-trip research.

Also read: 

13 fun things to do in Gili islands you never knew existed

20 extraordinary things to do in Lombok you never knew existed

10 unique Lombok hotels that will convince you to travel there

But who likes planning for trips, anyway?

So we have done that for you. With this comprehensive guide, all you need to do is to just pack your bags, book your flight and villa, and go – literally.

1. How to get to the Gili Islands

Contrary to popular belief, getting to the Gili islands requires little to no effort at all, and there are even different ways to get there that cater to your personal preferences.

From SingaporeFrom Jakarta

From Singapore, You’ll definitely have to travel to either Bali or Lombok before taking a transfer to the islands:

Route 1: The Bali Route

i) Fly to Bali via AirAsia
Duration: 2.5 hours+
Price: ~ SGD$160 (return flights)
ii) After you get to Bali, take a fast boat from Amed or Padang Bai. We recommend to take from Amed as it’s the shortest boat ride from Bali. (less sea sickness)
How: You can book through Pacha Express as they are one of the reputable boat services from Amed, and they have better safety records too.
From Padang Bai, you can try BlueWater Express.
Cost: ~US$18 – US$60
Duration: 45 min – 1.5 hours
Tip:
Purchase your ticket in advance, because all fast boats leave early in the morning, i.e. 8 – 9 am. Although booking tickets online is convenient, you can email in to negotiate further like we did. Avoid travelling from Bali during the wet season, as the currents can get really choppy, which wouldn’t be comfortable at all.

Route 2: The Lombok Route

i) Fly via Singapore Airlines or SilkAir
Duration: 2 hours 40 min
Price: ~ SGD$360 – SGD$380 (return flights)
ii) After you get to Lombok, there are 2 ways to get to the islands

A:

How: Take the public boat at Bangsal harbour.
Tip: The boat operates twice per day,
at 8:15 am and 4:30 pm.
You have to be on time if you’re planning
to take the public boat, as it waits for no one!

Cost: US$0.60
Duration: 2 hours

B:

How: Charter your own private boat
with Lombok Network.
Cost: From US$45 (one way)
Duration: 10 min

From Jakarta, You’ll definitely have to travel to either Bali or Lombok before taking a transfer to the islands:

Route 1: The Bali Route

i) Fly to Bali via AirAsia, Sriwijaya Air or LionAir
Duration: 2 hours
Price: ~ US$110 (return flights)
ii) After you get to Bali, take a fast boat from Amed or Padang Bai. We recommend to take from Amed as it’s the shortest boat ride from Bali. (less sea sickness)
How: You can book through Pacha Express as they are one of the reputable boat services from Amed, and they have better safety records too.
From Padang Bai, you can try BlueWater Express.
Cost: ~US$18 – US$60
Duration: 45 min – 1.5 hours
Tip:
Purchase your ticket in advance, because all fast boats leave early in the morning, i.e. 8 – 9 am. Although booking tickets online is convenient, you can email in to negotiate further like we did. Avoid travelling from Bali during the wet season, as the currents can get really choppy, which wouldn’t be comfortable at all.

Route 2: The Lombok Route

i) Fly via LionAir
Duration: 2 hours
Price: ~ US$110 (return flights)
ii) After you get to Lombok, there are 2 ways to get to the islands

A:

How: Take the public boat at Bangsal harbour.
Tip: The boat operates twice per day,
at 8:15 am and 4:30 pm.
You have to be on time if you’re planning
to take the public boat, as it waits for no one!

Cost: US$0.60
Duration: 2 hours

B:

How: Charter your own private boat
with Lombok Network.
Cost: From US$45 (one way)
Duration: 10 min

Just a tiny tip: Try to avoid travelling to the islands from Lombok’s Bangsal harbour, as the cunning locals are more than capable of swindling your money with a few exaggerations about lack of seats and long waiting times.

Chances are, if you leave your stuff with them, you’ll end up having to pay an arm and a leg just to get your things back.

Also, it’s a 2 hours ride from Lombok airport to Bangsal harbour and it costs around 200,000 Rupiah via a private car or Blue Bird taxi.

Yes, I want to download this PDF travel guide book in my inbox for FREE!


2. How you can get around the Gili Islands

The Gili islands are really small – you can explore the whole of Gili Trawangan in just one hour if you rent a bike. But don’t judge the excitement you can get from its size!

Each Gili island has its own specialities and unique characteristics:

  • Gili Trawangan is a happening island where you can find lots of beach bars and night life.

trawangan via lisanimhaille, traveljunkieid

Photo via lisanimhaille, traveljunkieid

  • Gili Meno is loved for its gorgeous untouched beaches and pure island life

gili meno via ugo.monticone

Photo via ugo.monticone

  • Gili Air strikes the perfect balance with hip lifestyle and rustic atmosphere rolled into one.

via fashionsurprises

Photo via fashionsurprises

Your schedule might be rather loose if you choose to have a relaxing time on only one of the islands, but why not explore all three, while you’re at it?

Check out the map here too! Click below to download higher resolution copy.

map-gili-low-res

There’s a island-hopping boat service that loops between all three islands twice daily:

Island-hopping shuttle schedule
Itinerary Departure time Price
Gili Meno to Gili Trawangan 8:15 am & 3:20 pm US$1.43
Gili Meno to Gili Air 9:50 am & 4:20 pm US$1.43
Gili Air to Gili Meno 8:30 am & 3:00 pm US$1.36
Gili Air to Gili Trawangan 8:30 am & 3:00 pm US$1.89
Gili Trawangan to Gili Meno 9:30 am & 4:00 pm US$1.43
Gili Trawangan to Gili Air 9:30 am & 4:00 pm US$1.74
Tip: Do check with the offices located at each of the islands’ beach/harbours
(where you can also get your tickets) for the latest shuttle schedules,
as they are always subject to changes.

 

You can also rent your own boat at a fixed price of IDR225,000 (approximately US$17), with a maximum of 10 passengers allowed.

Just keep in mind to dress appropriately (i.e. sandals and shorts) when you have to board a boat, as they mostly dock along the main stretch of the beach, where you will be required to step into the water in order to reach the boat!

step-into-the-water-via-lornatravellinglight

Photo via lornatravellinglight


3. Best time to go to the Gilis

Any time of the year is a good time for this little escapade and have some time to yourself, but depending on the season and weather, each trip to the islands can be a completely new experience.

Whether you’re up to meeting new people, going for a solo retreat, or even dancing in the rain, check out our season chart to decide on when you should apply for leave!

High season
July, August, September and December
Tip: Book early if you’re planning to travel during this period,
or risk being disappointed!
Low season
February, March, April and November
Tip: This season is for the people-haters.
You can have the whole beach to yourself.
Rainy season
November – April
Tip: Don’t travel during this period if you want to dive and see wildlife.
Underwater visibility is reduced greatly during the wet season.

 

Read till the end to find out how you can have a movie date in a hut on the beach! Don’t miss out our things to do and where to dine suggestions in the Gilis.

4. Where to stay at the Gilis

In the past, it is not easy to find accommodation on the Gili islands, as too few places were let out to tourists. But now a tourism development boom, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

You can actually find unique Airbnb listings ranging from luxury resorts and villas to homey private accommodations.

Wanna indulge in the island life or spoil yourself with villas fit for a king?

You only have to make the call, and it won’t be easy, not with all these beautiful places calling out to you.

Gili Trawangan – Accommodation on the most happening island

Gili Trawangan is the fastest developing island among the three, and has the largest variety of villas and resorts.

But that doesn’t mean you’ll burn a hole in your wallet. There are plenty of budget to mid-range villas that’s suitable for backpackers or families.

Budget stays – Gili Trawangan

1. Surfaholics ahoy: Le Pirate Beach Club (from US$100 per night)

So you’re in the Gili islands for only one reason – to enjoy its beautiful beaches and have a smashing time surfing. So why spend too much money on your accomodation?

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For the perpetually broke student out to have fun with friends, Le Pirate Beach Club is both budget-friendly and a convenient choice. Not only is the beach right at your doorstep, you’ll also have a myriad of activities – including tennis, volleyball, horseback riding, outdoor cinema – to choose from.

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The cosy huts with their closely connected bunk beds are also the perfect place for some late night heart-to-heart talks and horror storytelling sessions. Nobody’s ever went to bed bored, that’s for sure.

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Le Pirate Beach Club

From $100 per room per night

Location: Gili Trawangan, Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Timur 83352, Indonesia

Check Rate on Agoda

2. Glamping with nature: La Cocoteraie Ecolodge (from US$70 per night)

Although Gili T is now mainly known for its quality nightlife and parties, the Gili islands were first and foremost known for the awe-inspiring nature they house. Isn’t it a waste, then, to not experience this nature in all its full glory?

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If you’re after the experience of another side of Gili T, away from the parties and social events, why not try out this glamping experience with La Cocoteraie Ecolodge? At this fully air-conditioned glamping site, you’ll be able to enjoy the serenity of living in a coconut plantation, but with all the modern amenities that you need at the same time.

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The lodge is also a short 400m away from the beach, where you can make full use of the snorkelling gears and bikes provided. Or better yet, you can just sit back, listen to the sound of the wind, and enjoy the warm glow of the sun.

La Cocoteraie Ecolodge

From $70 per room per night

Location: Pemenang, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Check Rate on Airbnb

Not an Airbnb member yet?
Get a $25 credit by using this link

3. In the middle of it all: Belukar Resort (from US$80 per night)

The Belukar Resort has lovely villas tucked a mere five minutes away from the beach. It’s also a short 15-minute bike ride away from the heart of Gili T, where all the nightlife action happens.

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Despite that, this villa still remains cut off from the noise and bustle of the island, offering you the perfect balance between peaceful solitude and a wild, crazy night out.

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Belukar Resort

From $80 per room per night

Location: Gili Trawangan, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Check Rate on Airbnb

Not an Airbnb member yet?
Get a $25 credit by using this link

Luxury Stays – Gili Trawangan

If you’re more interested in some hardcore pampering for yourself after months of intensive gruelling work, these luxury beach villas will take away every remaining vestige of your stress and heal your spirit.

1. Island life in luxury: The Bhuvana (from US$250 per night)

This exotic villa, with its own private garden and pool, is the dream stay for those who would like to experience the local flavour without giving up on the little comforts.

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Located on the Northern side of Gili T, The Bhuvana stands on the more untouched part of the island, away from the modernised atmosphere and parties that now characterise Gili T.

You’re practically tucked away into your own little haven (except for the fact that the villa is also extremely close to the beach), and the unique infrastructure will make you feel like you’re in another world entirely.

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Not only that – you’ll also have your own service staff, including a maid, gardener and manager, to cater to your every need. What else could you possibly need?

The Bhuvana

From $250 per room per night

Location: Gili Trawangan, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Check Rate on Airbnb

Not an Airbnb member yet?
Get a $25 credit by using this link

2. Self healing: Sama Lama Villa (from US$247 per night)

This secluded villa in Gili T is the best place for you to unwind and enjoy some time with yourself.

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The atmospheric lighting in the villa and its artistic decor are all part of a healing experience. If you lounge in the pool near evening, when the lights of the villa are turned on, you’ll even get to witness the beautiful sight of the whole building ensconced in a warm orange glow.

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The villa is also 10 minutes away from the beach, making it extra convenient for you to sneak down to the beach and settle down with your favourite book.

Sama Lama Villa

From $247 per room per night

Location: Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia

Check Rate on Airbnb

Not an Airbnb member yet?
Get a $25 credit by using this link

 

Read till the end to find out how you can have a movie date in a hut on the beach! Don’t miss out our things to do and where to dine suggestions in the Gilis.

 

Gili Meno – Accommodations on untouched land

Gili Meno, the most untouched of the three Gili islands, also has its fair share of interesting accommodations, although it has fewer and more expensive choices as compared to the modernised Gili T.

Budget stays – Gili Meno

1. Your private haven: Gili Tibo Houses (from US$44 per night)

Have you ever dreamt about running away to your own private place in the countryside, with your worries cast away and fresh air at your fingertips?

If so, then the Gili Tibo Houses is the place for you. Located in a quiet fenced compound, the villas provide you with all the calm and quiet you need, despite being only a short walk away from the best snorkelling spots on the island.

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Pavilions, hammocks and gardens are readily available for the traveller who has no plan, but simply wishes to experience the joy of a simple life. You know, you don’t need an itinerary to have fun.

Gili Tibo Houses

From $44 per room per night

Location: Gili Meno, Indonesia

Check Rate on Airbnb

Not an Airbnb member yet?
Get a $25 credit by using this link

2. Back to the basics: maoMeno Resort (from US$110 per night)

It can’t get any more rustic than the maoMeno Resort, which is made up of beautiful wooden villas furnished with traditional interiors.

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If you want to experience local life, this villa is your pick. With its timeless architecture and surrounding greenery, the maoMeno Resort is great for anyone who just wants to leave the city life behind and return to the basics.

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Besides, it’s also a 5-minute walk away from the beach, so you’ll never get bored even with the minimal facilities.

maoMeno Resort

From $110 per room per night

Location: Gili Meno, Northwest Lombok, Indonesia

Check Rate on Airbnb

Not an Airbnb member yet?
Get a $25 credit by using this link

Luxury Stays – Gili Meno

1. Beach haven: Karma Reef Resort (from US$340 per night)

If any place is going to make you agree that the Gili islands are the Maldives of Southeast Asia, it would be the Karma Reef Resort.

This luxurious resort is made up of atmospheric bamboo villas located right on the beachfront – in front of all that sparkly, blue and clear seawater.

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The rooms are decorated elegantly with large four-poster beds, from which you can watch the sunset every day.

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Photo via: Bali Traveler, Svadbamag

Massages are also available for guests, and if you’re worried that your lifestyle is getting too stagnant, you can even work out at the gym!

The resort also has day beds placed in front of their villas, where visitors can lounge in on a lazy day. When we talk about relaxation, this is as good as it gets.

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Karma Reef Resort

From $340 per room per night

Location: Gili Meno, Lombok, Indonesia

Check Rate on Agoda

Gili Air – Quirky accommodation in somewhere different

Gili Air is the last of the islands to pick up on the tourism boom, but is quickly attracting a stream of tourists due to its dual appeal: untouched beaches and an alternative social scene.

Naturally, the villas here exude those different vibes too.

Budget stays – Gili Air

1. Huts with local flavour: 3W Cottages (from US$62 per night)

The 3W Cottages, which can be found just merely 5 minutes away from the beach, embodies much of the laidback local life that has attracted people to Gili Air’s shores.

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Armed with gorgeous, fully wooden infrastructure and all the modern amenities you need, we can definitely imagine taking a weekend off to just lay back and relax here.

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The property also has a large pool where you can soak all your earthly woes away.

3W Cottages

From $62 per room per night

Location: Nusa Tenggara Barat, Lombok, Indonesia

Website 

2. Romantic getaway: Gili Guesthouse Bungalow (from US$21 per night)

What happens after Tarzan gives up a modern lifestyle to lead a carefree life with Jane in the jungle? We don’t know, but if they ever built a house, we reckon it would look just like these quaint, teepee-shaped bungalows in Gili Air.

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The simple, cosy interior and open air bathroom are perfect for the newlywed couple still in the throes of marriage bliss (chances are, you won’t want to be apart too much anyway). The hut also lights up with a romantic glow at night, and you can stroll down the tiny walkway with your loved one, under starry night sky.

It’s also extremely near to the beach, yet away from the noise and crowds – you can have all the privacy you need.

Gili Guesthouse Bungalow

From $21 per room per night

Location: Mataram, Lombok Nusa Tenggara Barat Indonesia

Check Rate on Airbnb

Not an Airbnb member yet?
Get a $25 credit by using this link

Luxury stays – Gili Air

1. Traditional meets modern: 7SEAS Cottages (from US$277 per night)

The Nautilus Seaview Villa is where the rich tradition on Gili Air meets modernity. The traditionally styled property has little bits of local artifacts, such as pictures and statues, placed all over, creating a calming atmosphere.

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The villa may also be one of the largest accommodations you can find on Gili Air, making it a great choice for families or large groups of people.

Lounging in the pool, playing on the grass, hanging out in the spacious living room – why worry about poor space constraints?

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7SEAS Cottages

From $156 per room per night

Location: Gili Air, Indonesia

Check Rate on Agoda

 

 

5. 10 things you must do at the Gilis

Don’t underestimate the Gilis. They may be tiny islands, but you’ll be amazed by what you can do there!

1. Find adventures under the sea: Snorkeling and diving

Diving is one of the most popular activities at the Gilis – it’s very suitable even for beginner divers because the water conditions are usually good, with gentle currents and good visibility.

The best time to dive is from May to September, when the wet season ends. The Gilis also boast of many amazing diving spots that range from leisurely to challenging – so there’s something for everyone.

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Photo via: Projectaware

Daredevils will find Shark Point at Gili T a great place to make friends with those fearsome creatures, as there have been frequent sightings of the magnificent creatures there.

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Photo via: Gilicat

If you’re more interested in the diversity of underwater wildlife, then Gili T’s Deep Turbo is the place for you – this section of water has tons of little caves which you can explore. However, this course is slightly challenging and is only suitable for advanced divers. An alternative would be Gili Air’s Hans Reef, which is known for its large collection of interesting sea creatures as well, such as the rare frog fish.

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Photo via: oceans5dive

For a sighting of the lovely turtles that are so famed around these areas, your best bet would be to go to Halik Reef, off the coast of Gili T. This place can be attempted even by beginner divers, as there is little to no current; only hordes of turtles.

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Photo via: Tommy Schultz

If you’re a bad swimmer, or diving just isn’t really your thing, you can also try out snorkeling. One of the best spots for snorkeling is off the north-eastern coast of Gili T, where sea creatures are abound and sightings of turtles have been frequently reported. Or you can simply snorkel along any of the main stretches of beach – you’re still bound to have a great experience.

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Photo via: trekkingrinjani

Snorkeling and Diving

Address: Gili Air – Northeast side of island; 15 minute walk from the harbour; Gili Trawangan – Northeast side of island; 20 minute walk from the harbour

Find out more 

2. Watch the sunset at Gili Trawangan’s view point

From the highest point of Gili Trawangan, the view point, you’ll be amazed by an outstanding view extending towards Bali and Lombok. It’s also one of the best places on the island to snap a picture of the sunset.

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Photo via: Flickr by Stuart Mcdonald

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Photo via: Flipflopsandhotpots1

How to: The viewpoint is located on a hill on the southern end of Gili Trawangan. It is about a half hour’s walk from most places on the island. Coordinates here.

3. Play on a giant swing on the ocean

Have you ever stood on a huge swing standing right in the middle of the ocean? It’s time to check that off of your bucket list on your next trip to the Gilis.

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Photo via: Ariana Kendall, Sheridan Kane

How to: You can find the swing standing in the ocean off the northern coast of Gili Trawangan, at Hotel Ombak Sunset.

4. Have a movie date in a hut on the beach

Watching movies is nothing new, but this “cinema” certainly is – a tiny straw hut located on the beach – sure to give you a novel experience.

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Photo via daysontheroad by Louis

How to: To watch a movie in the straw hut, you can rent a beach hut from Beautiful Life, a hotel located on the southeastern coastal strip of Gili Trawangan. You must buy food or a drink in order to be able to watch a movie.

5. Chillax by the bonfire at Casa Vintage Store

Casa Vintage Store is a shop selling vintage apparel, located on a back street near II Pirata. However, it’s also a bar, a perfect place to watch the sunset, and home to a lovely bonfire every evening.

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Casa Vintage Store

How to: Casa Vintage Store can be found in front of Cafe Kecil, about 50m away from the harbour at Gili Trawangan. It is open daily, from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Contact: +6281917243808

Official site 

6. Spot exotic birds at Gili Meno’s bird park

Drop by Gili Meno’s bird park for the awesome experience of seeing 300 exotic birds living in a completely natural and free habitat – eagles, peafowls, pelicans… you name it, they have it.

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Photo via: Elisatravels, Baligetaways

Gili Meno’s Bird Park

Location: Desa Gili Indah, Kec. Pemenang, Gili Meno, Nusa Tenggara Barat 80361, Indonesia
Contact: +62 821-4451-3630
Tickets: ~IDR70,000 (approximately US$5.20) per pax

7. Visit Gili Meno’s salt lake

If you’re here for the nature, you definitely can’t miss a visit to Gili Meno’s famous salt lake, where you can catch a glimpse of amazing flora and fauna, as well as exotic creatures like the blue kingfisher and the giant monitor lizard.

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Photo via: gilifastboat

How to: The salt lake is located in the west side of Gili Meno, and can be reached by foot. Bring along your bird whistle if you have one; you never know what might happen.

8. Explore abandoned houses at Bounty Club Beach Bungalows

If you’re up for some spine chilling adventure, you can also head to one of Gili Meno’s most spooky places, the abandoned Bounty Club Beach Bungalows.

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Photo via: Treadwithwonder by KaitlinBarketDavis and RobDavis

Who knows what you’ll find there?

How to: The Bounty Beach Club Bungalows are located on the southwest coast of Gili Meno.

9. Go on a boat party at Gili T

We all know that Gili T is known for its parties and nightlife, but did you know that you can attend a boat party as well? The island is the only one amongst the Gilis that offers this unique experience.

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Photo via: Drunken Monkeyz

How to: You can book tickets online from Jiggy Boat Party for a starting price of IDR350,000 (approximately US$26) per person. If you don’t want to pay for a boat party, you can also try hanging out near the Blue Marlin Dive Centre at night. According to previous visitors, you might be able to find a rep to get you on for free.

10. Challenge yourself to a UV night dive

Diving in the day is fun, yes, but things have advanced – now, you can choose to dive at night with UV sticks in your hands, and watch the underwater world light up before your eyes.

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Photo via: lutwala

How to: Only Advanced Open Water divers can do this. You can book a UV night dive session with the South Sea Nomads for IDR845,000 (approximately US$63) per person, and rent underwater cameras for IDR235,000 (approximately US$17.60).

 

6. Where to eat at the Gilis

Gili Trawangan

1. Organic food and ocean view: Kayu Cafe

This cafe boasts of healthy organic food, as well as an amazing view of the ocean.

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The cafe is separated into two buildings; an air-conditioned one for sweltering hot afternoons, and a separate beach cafe where you can down your food as you watch the sun set over your heads. Be sure to try out the Pad Thai, duck fried rice and spring rolls!

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Photos via: Kayu Cafe

Kayu Cafe

Address: Gili Trawangan, Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
Contact: +62 878-6573-8182
Opening Hours: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm

Website 

2. Bamboo house by the sea: Pearl Beach Lounge

This gorgeous beach lounge is a prime location for sunset watching on the island. Made almost entirely out of bamboo, the restaurant is situated right on the beach itself, providing you with the ultimate vantage point when you look out to sea. It’s definitely much more pricy compared to the other selections on Gili T, but every cent is worth it.

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Photo via: Bliputu

Some of the recommended dishes are the Roasted Yellowfin Tuna, Rice Paper Roll with Prawn, and the Wagyu Beef Burger.

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Photo via: Chezabelll, Pearl Beach Lounge

Pearl Beach Lounge

Address: Gili Trawangan Island, Gili Trawangan – Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Contact: +62 370 6194884
Price Range: US$3 – US$10
Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm

Official website 

3. Romance by the ocean: Aston Sunset Beach Resort

A resort located on the beachfront in Gili T, Aston Sunset Beach Resort offers some of the most romantic dinners you can find on the island. Imagine drinking a glass of wine with your loved one on a wooden deck beside the ocean, as you both watch a myriad of colours fill the sky during sunset – doesn’t that sound amazing?

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The resort’s BBQ dinner has received good reviews as well, so do check it out.

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Photos via: Aston International

Aston Sunset Beach Resort

Address: Gili Trawangan, Gili Trawangan, Lombok, Indonesia 83355
Contact: +62 370 633686
Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm

Official website 

4. Luxury dinner with giant swing in ocean: Hotel Ombak Sunset

Hotel Ombak Sunset, the resort in Gili T that came up with the genius idea of putting a swing in the ocean, also has a restaurant, the Sea Breeze Restaurant and Bar, that offers romantic dinners set to the backdrop of that very same swing.

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This is yet another location in Gili T that offers an amazing view of the sunset, and with the swings swaying lightly in the breeze, eating here will also provide you with a great photo opportunity.

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Also, don’t forget to check out their specialty – the sunset and island inspired cocktails.

Photos via: Hotel Ombak Sunset

Hotel Ombak Sunset

Address: Gili Trawangan Island, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara – Indonesia
Contact: +62 878-6573-8182
Happy Hour: 5.00pm to 7.00pm
Opening Hours: 10.00am – 11.00pm

Official website 

Gili Meno

1. Laze by the beach with seafood: Karma Beach Gili Meno

Karma Beach Gili Meno is a beach club with a laidback and relaxed vibe.

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Comfortable rattan chairs are laid out along the beach, where you can sit back and enjoy your meal. The atmosphere gets even better in the evenings, when light jazz music starts to play and the sun casts its last glow on the round tables sitting in white sand.

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Photo via: Mindy The Lion, Royal Resorts, Karma Resorts, A Little More By Amy

Don’t miss the Mediterranean breakfast, fresh grilled reef fish and chilled poached prawns.

Karma Beach Gili Meno

Address: West Nusa Tenggara 83354, Indonesia
Contact: +(62) 370642340
Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm

Official website 

2. Dine under the stars: Mahamaya Restaurant

It can’t get any more romantic than this: you eat surrounded by candles under the stars, while the chef cooks in an open kitchen.

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Photo via: Mahamaya

The Mahamaya Restaurant also has a reputation as the “best restaurant at Gili Meno”, and is an experience that you won’t want to miss.

While you’re there, do remember to try out these yummy recommended – Eggs Benedict, Cinnamon French Toast, and Brown Sugar Pancakes.

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Photo via: hklovebites

Mahamaya Restaurant

Address: Pemenang, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Contact: +62 888-7155-828
Breakfast: 07:00am – 10:00am
Lunch: 12:00pm – 4:00pm
Dinner: 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Main bar: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Pool bar: 10:00am – 6:00pm

Official website 

Gili Air

1. Sunset by the sea: Wiwin Restaurant

This restaurant in Gili Air has a very special point – it has a unique bar area that sits facing the ocean, providing diners with a one-of-a-kind dining experience. When the sun sets, it almost feels as if you are watching a movie on the wonders of nature.

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Photo via: A Kings Life

It’s also the place that sells the cheapest – and super delicious – fresh fruit juice on the island, as well as a yummy margarita pizza. The olah olah and nasi goreng are also popular picks.

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Photo via: The Flow Trells

Wiwin Restaurant

Address: Gili Air , Indonesia
Happy Hour: US$1.90 – US$4.50
Opening Hours: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm

 

The Final Step

You’ve already gotten every single aspect of the Gili islands down pat, so what else do you need? It’s time to get out of that dreary cubicle and experience a new way of life.

Just make sure you bring sunblock with you. After all, it’s a tropical paradise, and only for those who don’t get burnt.

Any other information on the Gilis we’ve missed? Do let us know what else should be included in this guide to Gili islands! Comment below or email to mehthesheep[dot][email protected]!

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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