A Backpacker’s Guide to The Gili Islands
- Martha Pillin
- Nov 11, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Dec 27, 2024
Nestled off the coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for backpackers. With their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere, these islands are a haven for those seeking both thrill and tranquility. Whether you're diving into underwater adventures, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or exploring charming local eateries, the Gili Islands promise an unforgettable escape that caters to every backpacker's desires.
How To Get To The Gili Islands
To reach the Gili Islands you will need to take a boat from either Bali or Lombok. Public ferries and fast boats operate from Bangsal Port (Lombok) and Padangbai Port and Serangan Port (Bali) to the Gilis.
Public Ferry
Travel Time: 30 - 60 minutes from Lombok / 1.5 - 2.5 hours from Bali.
Ticket Price: Start at 10’000 IDR (50p) from Lombok / start at 300’000 IDR (£15) from Bali.
Fast Boat
Travel Time: 15 - 30 minutes from Lombok / 1.5 - 2 hours from Bali.
Ticket Price: Start at 150’000 (£7.50) IDR from Lombok / 350’000 IDR (£18) from Bali.
Travel Tip
The boat journey from Bali to the Gili Islands is well known for its tediousness so be prepared for rough seas. Bring seasickness remedies if you are prone to motion sickness. If taking a fast boat, try and sit somewhere in the middle. You can get very wet sitting at the back or right at the front.
Getting Around The Gili Islands
Getting around the Gili Islands is relatively straightforward, with a few main options:
Bicycles
Renting a bicycle is a popular and eco-friendly way to explore the islands. It’s easy to find rental shops, and cycling is a great way to see the sights at your own pace.
Walking:
Many areas on the islands are walkable, especially on Gili Trawangan, where most attractions are close together. Walking is a great way to soak up the island’s atmosphere.
Horse-Drawn Carts (Cidomos):
Traditional horse-drawn carts are available for hire on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. They are a charming and practical option for short trips, however the treatment of the horses is known to be poor therefore taking a horse taxi is not encouraged.
Scooter Rentals:
Scooters are available for rent but can be more challenging to use due to the lack of paved roads and the need to be cautious around horses and cyclists.
Taxi Boats:
For trips between the islands or to reach different beaches, you can hire a local taxi boat. They are flexible and can be arranged at the beach or through your accommodation.
Electric Vehicles:
On Gili Trawangan, you might find electric scooters and small electric vehicles for rent, which are more environmentally friendly than gasoline-powered scooters.
Each island has its own character, so the best mode of transport can vary depending on your destination and preference.
Things To Do On The Gili Islands
The Gili Islands offer a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some of the best things that can be done on each of the islands:
1. Snorkeling and Diving
The Gili Islands are known for its excellent snorkelling and diving spots. Visit dive locations like Shark Point, Meno Wall, and Turtle Point to see vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including turtles, reef sharks and sunfish. Make sure not to miss out on snorkelling the famous Gili underwater sculptures!
2. Beach Relaxation
Enjoy the beautiful beaches of all three Gili Islands, with Gili Meno offering less crowds. Relax under the sun, swim in the clear waters, or take a stroll along the shore.
3. Cycling Around the Island
Rent a bicycle and explore the island at your own pace. The flat terrain makes cycling easy, and you can discover hidden beaches and local spots. Most hostels offer bikes to rent, or you can find the main rental place on Gili Air by the port.
4. Sunset Viewing
Head to the western side of the islands to catch stunning sunsets. Popular spots include the beachfront bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy a drink while watching the sun go down.
5. Visit the Night Market
Experience local culture at the night market. Sample a variety of Indonesian street foods and browse handmade crafts.
6. Water Sports
Have a go at some water sports like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or kite surfing. Rental shops and tour operators can provide equipment and lessons.
7. Yoga and Wellness
Participate in yoga classes and wellness retreats offered by several resorts and studios on the islands.
8. Explore the Local Scene
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars and restaurants offering live music, cocktails, and local cuisine.
9. Island Hopping
Take a boat trip to explore the neighbouring Gili Islands. Each island offers unique experiences and beautiful sights. The less visitied Gili Islands in the southwest of Lombok make for a great day of exploration.
10. Visit Turtle Conservation
Visit the Gili Trawangan or Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary to learn about local conservation efforts and see turtles up close.
Gili Trawangan
Accommodation
Mad Monkey Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant.
Common Areas: Social lounge, rooftop bar, and pool area for relaxation and events.
Extras: Daily social events, pub crawls, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, bars, and Gili Trawangan’s nightlife.
Cost: £15–£25/night.
To view the hostel click here
Tipsea Turtle Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant.
Common Areas: Chill lounge area, outdoor seating, and poolside.
Extras: Daily events, live music, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, Gili Trawangan’s nightlife, and dive shops.
Cost: £12–£20/night.
To view the hostel click here
Broken Compass Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Relaxed lounge, pool area, and outdoor garden.
Extras: Daily social events, yoga classes, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, bars, and Gili Trawangan’s nightlife.
Cost: £10–£20/night.
To view the hostel click here
M Box Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Daily events, movie nights, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, Gili Trawangan’s nightlife, and dive shops.
Cost: £8–£15/night.
To view the hostel click here
Beach Bum Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Chill lounge, poolside area, and outdoor seating.
Extras: Social events, happy hours, and bike rentals.
Location: Near the beach, close to Gili Trawangan’s nightlife and dive shops.
Cost: £10–£20/night.
To view the hostel click here
Gili Pirates Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Daily events, pub crawls, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, bars, and Gili Trawangan’s nightlife.
Cost: £12–£20/night.
To view the hostel click here
Food and Drink
Gili Trawangan offers a vibrant dining and drinking scene with a variety of options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Here are some popular places to eat and drink:
Restaurants
1. The Banyan Tree: Known for its diverse menu including fresh seafood and international dishes, this spot is popular for its laid-back vibe and beachfront location.
2. Pearl Beach Lounge: Offers a mix of Asian and Western cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients. It's a great place for a relaxed meal with ocean views.
3. Scallywags Organic Beach Club: Famous for its seafood barbecue and organic dishes. It provides a great beachside dining experience.
4. Gili Trawangan Night Market: For a local experience, visit the night market where you can sample a variety of traditional Indonesian street foods at affordable prices.
5. Pituq Café: A cozy spot offering vegetarian and vegan options, known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
Bars and Cafés
1. The Chill Out Bar: A relaxed bar perfect for enjoying a cocktail or a cold beer while watching the sunset.
2. Sama Sama Reggae Bar: Popular for its lively atmosphere, reggae music, and a wide selection of cocktails.
3. Gili Trawangan Brewery: A great place to sample local craft beers brewed on the island. They also offer a variety of pub-style snacks.
4. Blue Marlin: Offers a beachside bar experience with a range of drinks and a laid-back atmosphere.
5. Turtle Beach Club: Known for its great cocktails, relaxed ambiance, and beautiful beachfront location.
Gili Meno
Accommodation
The Rabbit Tree Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Relaxed lounge, outdoor seating, and poolside area.
Extras: Daily social events, bike rentals, and snorkelling trips.
Location: Quiet, central location on Gili Meno, close to the beach and island attractions.
Cost: £10–£18/night.
To view the hostel click here
Gili Meno Escape
Rooms: Private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and modern amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and lounge area.
Extras: Yoga classes, snorkelling trips, and bike rentals.
Location: Quiet area on Gili Meno, close to the beach and local attractions.
Cost: £50-£150/night.
To view the hotel click here
Villa Palma
Rooms: Private villas featuring modern amenities, air conditioning, comfortable beds, and en-suite bathrooms.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, private pool, kitchenette, and daily housekeeping.
Common Areas: Outdoor garden and seating areas.
Extras: Bike rentals, snorkelling trips, and airport transfers.
Location: Located on a quieter area of Gili Meno, with easy access to the beach and local attractions.
Cost: Around £60–£100 per night for a private villa, depending on the season and room selection.
To view the hotel click here
Kampung Meno Bungalows
Rooms: Private bungalows with traditional design, comfortable beds, and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, and room service.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and hammock area.
Extras: Snorkelling trips, bike rentals, and beach access.
Location: Quiet area near the beach, close to local attractions on Gili Meno.
Cost: £25–£40/night.
To view the hotel click here
Sunset House
Rooms: Private rooms and bungalows with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and modern amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and restaurant.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and lounge area.
Extras: Snorkelling trips, bike rentals, and beach access.
Location: Quiet location on Gili Meno, close to the beach and sunset views.
Cost: £40–£60/night.
To view the hotel click here
Fantastic Cottages
Rooms: Private cottages with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and modern amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and room service.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and lounge area.
Extras: Snorkelling trips, bike rentals, and beach access.
Location: Quiet area on Gili Meno, close to the beach and local attractions.
Cost: £30–£50/night.
To view the hotel click here
Two Brothers Bungalows
Rooms: Private bungalows with traditional design, comfortable beds, and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, and room service.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and hammock area.
Extras: Snorkelling trips, bike rentals, and beach access.
Location: Quiet, central location on Gili Meno, near the beach and local attractions.
Cost: £25–£45/night.
To view the hotel click here
Food and Drink
Gili Meno is known for its more tranquil and laid-back vibe compared to its neighboring islands, but it still offers a range of dining and drinking options. Here are some recommended places:
Restaurants
1. Meno Mojo: Popular for its relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh seafood, Indonesian, and international dishes. It’s a great spot for a leisurely meal.
2. Samba Bar & Grill: Offers a variety of Western and Indonesian dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and a welcoming ambiance.
3. Kayu Café: Known for its hearty breakfasts, fresh juices, and casual dining options. It’s a good spot for starting your day with a relaxed meal.
4. Meno Dream: A beachfront restaurant serving a mix of Indonesian and international cuisine. It’s perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
5. The Beach House: Offers a selection of fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options in a laid-back beachside setting.
Bars and Cafés
1. Rust Kafe: A cozy café and bar known for its laid-back atmosphere, good coffee, and light snacks. It’s a great spot for a relaxing break.
2. Lighthouse Bar: A small, charming bar with a selection of cocktails and beers. It’s a nice place to enjoy a drink while taking in the island’s peaceful ambiance.
3. Café Sari: Known for its coffee and light bites, this café provides a cozy atmosphere for a casual hangout.
4. Pojok Café: A relaxed spot for enjoying coffee, smoothies, and simple meals. It’s a great place for a casual meal or a refreshing drink.
5. Lumbung Café: Offers a selection of local dishes and beverages in a laid-back setting, ideal for a casual dining experience.
Gili Air
Accommodation
Begadang Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, pool area, and outdoor seating.
Extras: Daily events, live music, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, bars, and Gili Air’s nightlife.
Cost: £8–£15/night.
To view the hostel click here
Buana Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Relaxed lounge area, outdoor seating, and poolside.
Extras: Daily social events, bike rentals, and snorkelling trips.
Location: Close to the beach, restaurants, and Gili Air’s vibrant spots.
Cost: £8–£15/night.
To view the hostel click here
Koho Air Hotel
Rooms: Private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and modern amenities.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, restaurant, and room service.
Common Areas: Outdoor seating, garden, and lounge area.
Extras: Bike rentals, shuttle service, and tour bookings.
Location: Quiet location on Gili Air, close to the beach and local attractions.
Cost: £25–£50/night.
To view this hotel click here
Captain Coconuts Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Daily social events, pub crawls, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, bars, and restaurants on Gili Air.
Cost: £8–£18/night.
To view the hostel click here
H20 Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, yoga studio, and meditation space.
Common Areas: Relaxed lounge, outdoor seating, and garden.
Extras: Daily yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness retreats.
Location: Quiet area on Gili Air, close to the beach and local attractions.
Cost: £15–£25/night.
To view the hostel click here
My Mate’s Place Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and privacy curtains.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lockers, swimming pool, and bar.
Common Areas: Social lounge, outdoor seating, and pool area.
Extras: Daily social events, happy hours, and bike rentals.
Location: Close to the beach, restaurants, and Gili Air’s nightlife.
Cost: £10–£18/night.
To view the hostel click here
Food and Drink
Gili Air offers a charming selection of eateries and bars, perfect for enjoying a variety of local and international flavors. Here are some notable spots:
Restaurants
1. Mowie’s Bar: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu, including fresh seafood, burgers, and vegetarian options.
2. Warung Sunny: A popular spot for traditional Indonesian cuisine and local dishes. It’s known for its friendly service and authentic flavors.
3. Samsia: Offers a range of Asian and Mediterranean dishes in a cozy setting, perfect for a casual meal.
4. Aqua Restaurant: Provides a mix of Western and Indonesian dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a pleasant ambiance.
5. La Dolce Vita: Famous for its Italian cuisine, including pasta and pizza, as well as a selection of fine wines.
Bars and Cafés
1. The Hangout: A relaxed bar offering a range of cocktails, beers, and light snacks. It’s a great spot to unwind and socialize.
2. Bambu Café: A cozy café with a laid-back vibe, perfect for enjoying coffee, smoothies, and light bites.
3. Café Gili Air: Known for its fresh juices, coffee, and a variety of pastries. It’s a popular spot for a casual breakfast or afternoon snack.
4. Gili Air Santay: Offers a laid-back atmosphere with a range of cocktails and a selection of international and local dishes.
5. Pachamama: A stylish bar and restaurant serving creative cocktails, tapas, and a variety of international dishes in a relaxed environment.
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