On my trip to Indonesia, after spending 10 days in Bali I embarked on a journey to a group of islands called The Gili Islands that I have dreamt of traveling to for years.
The Gili islands are made up of three separate islands:
Gili Trawangan (Gili T): This is know as the “party island.” It is known for nightlife, wild parties, crazy backpackers, affordable accommodations, and the hustle and bustle of many people around at many times
Gili Meno: The middle island, known to be more of an island stop-off with few accommodation and restaurant options, but perfect for a day trip from Gili Trawangan or Gili Air
Gili Air: The smallest of the Gili islands, also great for a day trip from Gili Trawangan, but known to be a very quiet and calm island that boasts their image as being a haven for honeymooners and travelers looking for a romantic spot.
Getting to the Gili Islands in Indonesia: The easiest routes are to take a boat from Bali or to fly to Lombok and then take a boat from there.
- Hire a driver for 450,000 idr (27 USD)
- Journey to Padang Bai (about 2 hours to the east of Bali)
- Take the Ekajaya fast ferry
- It stops at Gili T first, then Gili Meno, then Gili Air, and then Lombok
My Favorite Gili Trawangan Hotels: Many of the hotels and accommodations are much more guesthouse oriented and support 7-10 rooms at a time, so there is an incredibly homey feeling. I have compiled a list of great accommodations that I personally have visited, so the list below encompasses some smaller places and larger places to check out.
- Giliranta
- Gili Kulemba Bungalow
- Rumah Canaria
- Frii Resort Gili Trawangan
- SERENE BEACH VILLA
My Favorite Things to do in Gili Trawangan:
Surfing: Each morning I would wake up and go surfing between 8 am – 10 am with a private instructor at Enjoy Life Bar. Though, I spent time at two surf schools that I would recommend.
- KUBU SURF SCHOOL: Excellent surf school with surf camps, accommodations at Rumah Canaria, and a great location, but there is a lot of coral at the entrance into the water, so be mindful. 2-hour lessons are 500,000 idr ($30 USD).
- BONGKAS SURF SCHOOL: Great school with awesome instructors, but be prepared to get your paddle on. 2-hour lessons are 450,000 idr ($27 USD).
The main difference between the surf schools are their placement on the island and therefore the quality and type of waves you can catch. I was trying out different surf spots to see where I enjoyed the most. I would suggest you do this as well!
Diving: While I am diving certified, I did not spend much time diving in Gili Trawangan because I was preoccupied with surfing. Though, I met quite a few diving instructors and they were so lovely! Diving is known to be an incredible experience because there is so much marine life to see around the Gili islands. I will definitely be diving during my next vacation to Gili T.
Snorkeling: The true star of the show in Gili T. Snorkeling was always organized by a father and son who would take us out on a private tour name Emi and Papa and the absolute best part was snorkeling with sea turtles. You can 100% expect to see sea turtles when snorkeling in Gili Trawangan, so if you’re interested in swimming with these incredible creatures then look no further!
Best time to visit Gili Trawangan: It’s best to visit Gili T during Indonesia’s dry season which is from April/May until September/October.
One Cup of Tee 