Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Gili Islands, situated on the northwest coast of Lombok in Indonesia, are tropical paradise destinations known for their clear waters, colourful underwater creatures, and leisurely island atmospheres. With Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, the islands are perfect for tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, and peace. Things to do in Gili Islands include snorkelling with turtles, diving with corals, yoga on the beach, and enjoying the nightlife, among several other things! Whether you are an adventure freak or one who loves to explore unspoilt beaches, Gili Islands have a special island experience to offer one and all.
10 Things To Do In Gili Islands
Below are the 10 unforgettable things to do in Gili Islands that have been listed to help you plan your trip.
1. Snorkelling With Sea Turtles
Photo: tourdilombok / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Diving with sea turtles is one of the most beautiful experiences to do on the Gili Islands. Several accommodating sea turtles swim in the cobalt-blue waters around Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno, each promising a thrilling underwater adventure. You can rent a snorkelling kit or opt for a guided tour. Morning or late afternoon would be the best times to enjoy snorkelling. It is a lifetime experience on your trip, and one must do it who likes water and knows how to swim.
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Cost/Person: Rp 150,000
Timings: Early morning or late afternoon for the best visibility
2. Diving At Gili Trawangan
Photo: Sebastian Pena Lambarri / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Gili Trawangan is one of the world’s greatest diving spots and a world-class diving destination; a diving enthusiast should not miss out on planning a trip here. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, the island provides several Dive Centers for PADI certifications and daily diving trips. You will see colourful coral reefs adorned with fish, turtles, and sometimes reef sharks. These dive sites surrounding the Gili Trawangan are renowned for their great visibility, especially during the dry season.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Cost/Person: Rp 500,000 – Rp 1,000,000
Duration: 3 – 5 hours per dive
3. Explore Gili Air’s Coral Reefs
Photo: Ricky Beron / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Gili Air is also famous for its easy shore access to beautiful coral reefs that are ideal for snorkelling and diving. Many water animals from colourful fish to beautiful coral formations- provide a relaxing and scenic underwater experience. Whether you are a casual snorkeler or a diving enthusiast, Gili Air offers a serene ambience to explore the vibrant marine life. Their coral reefs are one of the top things to see in Gili Islands for a serene yet adventurous experience.
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Cost/Person: Rp 50,000 (snorkel rental)
How To Reach: Accessible by foot or bicycle from anywhere on Gili Air
4. Sunset Watching On Gili Trawangan
Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Watching the sunset in Gili Trawangan is a magical experience and one of the must-dos in the Gili Islands. Many beach bars and cafes are located on the west coast of Gili Trawangan. You can sit back, relax, and watch the sun disappear, painting the ocean with golden hues. After an exciting day of exploring or snorkelling, it would never be complete without admiring breathtaking sunset colours. You may also prefer to grab a drink. You can experience this throughout the year and book tickets to go to Gili Trawangan.
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 6 PM – 6:30 PM (during sunset)
How To Reach: Walk or bike to the western side of Gili Trawangan
5. Cycling Around The Islands
Photo: Martin Magnemyr / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
With no motor vehicles being allowed on the Gili Islands, bikes are the ideal way to explore the picturesque settings. Hire yourself a bike and pedal south towards Gili Trawangan Gili Air or Gili Meno while discovering hidden beaches, local shops, and beautiful vistas. Cycling has to be one of the best eco-friendly things to do in Gili Islands with your friends and family, as the rent for the bike is also reasonable.
Best Time To Visit: Morning before 6 AM or late afternoon, after 3 PM
Cost/Person: Rp 50,000 per day
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
How To Reach: Bicycles are available for rent at most hotels and shops on the islands
6. Relaxing On Gili Meno’s Beaches
Photo: yeowatzup / Wikimedia Commons
Gili Meno is home to some of the most serene and beautiful beaches. With quiet beaches of white sand where one can rest up from the bustling Gili Trawangan, you can lay back on the beach, dip your toes into the clear blue waters, or go for a walk upon the shoreline and enjoy the quiet environment during the morning. Quite possibly one of the most relaxing things to do in Gili Islands, this is perfect for a gentle unwinding in nature on Gili Meno.
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Cost/Person: N/A
How To Reach: Accessible by boat from Gili Trawangan or Gili Air
Location: Gili Meno
7. Gili Trawangan Night Market
Photo: Vernon Raineil Cenzon / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
For the foodie traveller in you, the Gili Trawangan Night Market offers one of the best things to do in Gili Islands. While exploring the Gili Islands, don’t miss out on indulging your taste buds in the tantalising affair of lip-smacking street food flavours. With reasonable chefs at each food stall, the market offers various local and international cuisines, ranging from fresh seafood to the Indonesian favourite, nasi goreng. Ideal for a casual dinner after a day of travelling, the market rapidly fills up with local and international food enthusiasts, making it a lively gathering stripe.
Best Time To Visit: 6 PM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/Person: Rp 30,000 – Rp 100,000
Timings: 6 PM onwards
8. Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Photo: Mike Baird / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The clear and calm waters surrounding the Gili Islands are irresistible for adventure enthusiasts to fit into the itinerary of a splendid array of water sports. Stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, remains a favourite for tourists who seek relaxation over splashing in the waters. Amateur and seasoned paddlers visiting the Gili Islands can relish the experience without the necessity of being rushed by the plethora of waves. Access rentals that are abundant and spend the day gliding over the waters at your will.
Best Time To Visit: Morning before sunrise or afternoon after 3 PM
Entry Fee: Rp 100,000 – Rp 150,000/hour
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
9. Yoga And Wellness Retreats
Photo: The Lazy Artist Gallery / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A list of unmatchable things to do in Gili Islands, such as yoga and wellness retreats, is highly recommended for peace lovers. Stretch and revive with daily yoga classes, or hop on a wellness tour that bursting with meditation sessions and sound healing therapies. Various resorts and island rentals offer an extensive array of packages for wellness junkies who fuse the beauty of staying in paradise and focusing on their health. If you find yourself in Gili Trawangan, visit one of the studios on the island of Gili to get a taste of yoga.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Entry Fee: Around Rp 120,000
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/ Person: Rp 120,000 to Rp 200,000/session
10. Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons
For those who prefer staying dry but still want to explore the underwater world, a glass-bottom boat tour is the perfect activity. These boats provide a clear view of the vibrant coral reefs and marine life below without needing to dive or snorkel. Glass-bottom boat tours are especially popular among families and non-swimmers, offering a unique way to experience the beauty of the Gili Islands’ waters. This eco-friendly tour is among the most exciting things to do in Gili Islands, providing stunning views of underwater life.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Entry Fee: Rp 150,000 to Rp 300,000/person
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
The Gili Islands impart that magical cocktail of adventure, serenity, and vibrant island culture. Whatever you decide to do here, from snorkelling around Gili Meno, partying at a beach party in Gili Trawangan, or cycling around Gili Air, the islands provide something for every traveller. A plethora of things to do in Gili Islands guarantees incredible experiences. Book your trip with TripXL to remember the best of aquamarine waters, warm sunsets, and complete relaxation on these Islands.
Cover Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons
