7 Unmissable Things to Do on Gili Trawangan | Travel Guide
Let’s be honest — a trip to Bali isn’t really complete until you’ve caught a boat, prayed to the sea gods, and landed on the sandy shores of the magical Gili Islands. And by magical, I mean no motorised vehicles and scooters buzzing in your ear, just the sound of your sandals slapping along sandy beach roads. Turquoise waters invite you to snorkel and dive with sea turtles and around underwater structures and sunsets paint the sky in unforgettable colours. Whether you’re after a laid-back escape or a night out, this place will not disappoint.
Though technically part of Lombok, the Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—are an easy, popular side trip from Bali. Each has its own charm, but here, we’ll dive into the best things to do on Gili Trawangan, also known as Gili T, perfect for first-timers and anyone looking for a lively island experience.
In this guide, I’ll share essential tips, must-do activities, where to stay, how to go from Bali to Gili T and some personal highlights to help you make the most of this island escape. Ready to explore?
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps me keep this blog running. Thanks for your support 🙂
Gili Trawangan, commonly known as Gili T, is the largest and most popular of Indonesia’s three Gili Islands, located off the northwest coast of Lombok. Don’t let its size fool you though, because there are loads of incredible things to do on Gili T. Picture powdery white beaches, lively beach bars, and epic snorkelling spots where you can swim past turtles and those Insta‑famous underwater statues.
Once a backpacker hub in the 90s, Gili T has evolved to welcome all types of travellers, from families to solo explorers, offering the perfect mix of tropical beauty and modern comfort. Despite its buzz, the island keeps that slow, salty rhythm that makes you forget what day it is.
My first visit to Gili T was back in 2014, fresh off a year of backpacking around New Zealand. This was before the 2018 earthquake, which devastated parts of Lombok and the Gilis, destroying around 30% of buildings and damaging 40% more. But the community came together in an inspiring way, rebuilding the island and restoring its character at record speed. Since then, I’ve returned twice, and each time I step onto this sandy paradise, I know I’m in for another unforgettable adventure.
How to Get to Gili Trawangan from Bali
Since the island doesn’t have an airport, getting from Bali to Gili T involves a scenic boat ride! The most popular way of transport is via fast boat from Bali, with departures from South Bali (Sanur, Serangan), Central Bali (Padang Bai), and North Bali (Amed). Most travellers opt for Padang Bai Harbour on Bali’s eastern coast, where fast boats whisk you over in around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the sea’s temperament. You can grab tickets online or pop into any local tourist agency for booking.
Another option is to take a quick 30-minute flight from Bali to Lombok. From Lombok Airport, it’s roughly a 1.5-hour drive to the northern harbour, followed by a speedy 15-minute boat ride to Gili T.
For those on a tight budget, there’s also a slow ferry from Padang Bai to Lembar in south Lombok. However, this journey takes around six hours and includes multiple transfers—not ideal unless you’re super patient and up for a long haul!
And once you’re on any of the Gilis, getting between the islands is easy with local boats that run regularly.
Note: Do keep in mind that the seas can be rough, so pick a good weather day if you can. If you are prone to sea sickness, taking motion sickness tablets before departure could help.
Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan offers everything from budget guesthouses, bungalows and cosy guesthouses to mid-range beachfront hotels and luxurious villas. During peak season (July-September & December), booking ahead is a must to avoid ending up without a place to stay!
Here’s a quick rundown of top picks for all budgets:
- Budget: Good Vibes Bungalows– Affordable, with all the essentials and a friendly vibe, perfect for budget travellers and a 5-minute walk from South East Beach.
- Mid-Range: Gili One Resort – Comfortable 4 start thatch-roofed accommodations with air conditioning and an outdoor pool, balancing value with a laid-back island experience.
- Luxury: Cocana Resort Gili Trawangan– For ultimate indulgence, this luxury 5-start hotel offers ocean views, a garden, private beach area and premium restaurant.
How Many Days in Gili T
I’d recommend staying at least three days to truly soak in the island vibe. This way, you can explore at a relaxed pace and savour all the beauty Gili T has to offer. You’ve made it all the way to this slice of paradise, why rush? Give yourself time to slow down, unwind, and enjoy the experience.
What to Do on Gili Trawangan
Here’s a list of must-do things to do in Gili T to help you make the most of your time on this paradise island:
1) Gili T Snorkeling Tour
It’s no surprise that snorkeling is one of the main draws to the Gili Islands, and it’s a must-do while you’re here! Just a few steps into the crystal-clear water and you’ll find yourself floating over vibrant and healthy coral reefs, spotting a wide variety of native fish, and swimming alongside the adorable sea turtles that frequent these shores. You don’t necessarily need to join a tour to experience the magic underwater world of Gili T, you can just rent snorkeling gear from any of the shops along the main strip for around $2–$5 USD per day, and you’re all set! For a serene experience, head to the northeast side of Gili T, where calmer waters and sheltered reefs offer the best chance of spotting turtles.
For those keen to take it up a notch, I highly recommend booking a snorkelling tour for an unforgettable experience. These tours take you on a glass-bottomed boat, stopping at three prime snorkelling spots, including the famous underwater Nest sculptures. You’ll even have some free time to explore Gili Air, where you can grab lunch and relax for a bit. Opt for the Deluxe Shared Tour, and you’ll also visit Gili Meno, where you can explore Gili Meno Lake and visit the Turtle Sanctuary. Snorkeling gear is provided on all tours, making it a hassle-free way to dive into the Gili’s marine wonders.
2) Loop Around Gili Trawangan
Most people can walk the full loop around Gili T in about 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. The trail is easy and suitable for all fitness levels. Alternatively, you can rent a bike from many shops along the beach or from your hotel, allowing you to complete the loop in just 25–30 minutes. This is a fantastic way to take in Gili T’s tropical beauty from every angle!
3) Gili Trawangan Viewpoint
Located in the southern side of the island, this viewpoint offers a perfect escape into nature, with sweeping views of Gili Air and Gili Meno, the rugged coastline of Lombok, and even the majestic Mount Agung. The spot has a fascinating history, once serving as a WWII naval base, lookout post, and prisoner-of-war camp. Midway up, you’ll pass an old Japanese machine gun bunker—a piece of history tucked into the hillside. It’s a short 15- to 20-minute hike through local farmland, leading you to a breathtaking sunset view where the horizon lights up as the sun dips down.
4) Scuba diving
Gili Trawangan is a world-class diving destination with incredible marine biodiversity, clear waters and great conditions year-round. The island is home to numerous dive centres catering to all experience levels, so whether you’re a novice or a seasoned diver, you’ll find the perfect option here. Scuba diving here goes beyond what you’ll see while snorkelling, opening the possibility of experiencing encounters with reef sharks, manta and eagle rays, tuna, pufferfish, and a whole array of tropical fish.
5) Island Hopping
If you’re keen to explore the unique charms of Gili T’s little siblings, Gili Meno and Gili Air, island hopping is the way to go. The public ferry is an affordable option, costing no more than $4 USD, and runs twice a day from each island, with trips typically taking under 30 minutes (weather permitting). For more flexibility, speed boats run hourly between 8 am and 5 pm. They’re a bit more expensive but still reasonably affordable. Tickets are easy to purchase at each island’s harbour.
6) Sunset Point
Watching the sunset in Gili T is nothing short of magical, it’s honestly one of the most stunning I’ve ever seen. While the Gili Trawangan Hill Viewpoint offers a great vantage point, the southwest side of the island, known as ‘Sunset Point,’ is the place to be as the sun dips below the horizon. Arriving about an hour before sunset lets you find a good spot, as this area is popular for a reason. Here, you’ll find a variety of beachfront bars, each with colourful bean bags, cocktails, and the iconic overwater swings that make for unforgettable photos and moments.
7) Go Party in Gili T
When it comes to nightlife, Gili T is the undisputed party hub of the Gili Islands. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and packed event schedule, there’s always something happening here every night. From live DJs and bands to pub crawls and tempting drink specials, you’ll find plenty of spots to let loose, all within a short distance. Each night, one designated bar stays open late, while the others wind down around midnight or 1 am, ensuring the party vibe stays fresh and the scene remains close-knit.
Final Thoughts
Gili Trawangan isn’t just a stop on the way, it’s a destination worth savoring in its own right. From swimming with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters to cycling around the car-free island and catching unforgettable sunsets from the west coast, Gili T offers the kind of relaxed, sun-soaked escape that’s getting harder to find.
Leave a Reply