Gili Trawangan Adventure Guide: Activities, Places to Stay, and Local Tips
This guide covers the top attractions on Gili Trawangan, the best places to stay and essential tips on getting there, what to pack, and where to catch the perfect sunset.
Many say a Bali trip isn’t complete without visiting the enchanting Gili Islands, and I couldn’t agree more. Picture stepping onto an island with no motorised vehicles, where turquoise waters invite you to snorkel and dive with sea turtles and around underwater strucutures 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 of Gili T, perfect for first-timers and anyone looking for a lively island experience. 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 the growth and its lively reputation, Gili T has managed to keep its relaxed island vibe and it remains a place where you can still unwind to the rhythm of the ocean.
In this guide, I’ll share essential tips, must-do activities, where to stay, and some personal highlights to help you make the most of this island escape. Ready to explore?
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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. Despite taking only under 1.5 hours to walk a whole loop around this island and being just about 3 kilometers long and 2 kilometers wide, this small island offers a packed itinerary for travelers. From pristine beaches with white sand and lively beach bars to world-class diving and snorkeling spots, including its famous underwater statues, Gili T is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.
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 T?
Since Gili Trawangan doesn’t have an airport, getting there involves a scenic boat ride! The most popular way to reach “Gili T” is by 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.
Accommodation
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 Long Should You Spend in Gili T?
While you could technically see the highlights of Gili T in 24 hours, 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.
Top Things To Do
Snorkelling
It’s no surprise that snorkelling 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 need to join a tour to experience this magic—just rent snorkelling gear from any of the stalls 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 the island of Gili Air, where you can grab lunch (not included) 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. Snorkelling gear is provided on all tours, making it a hassle-free way to dive into the Gili’s marine wonders. Tours can be booked online.
Please give turtles space to feed, rest, and surface for air—don’t chase, touch, or crowd them, as this may cause stress. If they feel threatened, they might avoid surfacing for a breath, which can be dangerous for them.
Loop Around the Island
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!
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.
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.
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 about twice the price but still reasonably affordable. Tickets are easy to purchase at each island’s harbour.
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.
Go Out
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.
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