While Gili is the indigenous Sasak’s word for island, the Gili isles, comprising Gili Trewangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air are probably the best known and most touristed of all the island groups around Lombok. And for good reason. The white sands, azure blue seas and amazing sunsets, not to mention the smiling, friendly locals quickly put the most world weary traveller at ease.
Roughly an hours boat ride from Bangsal Harbour on Lombok’s west coast (also accessible by ferry from Bali), Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular of the three islands in this group. Known for it’s all-night clubs, bars and party atmosphere, Gili Trewangan is a place where young people from around the world come to sun-bake by day before dancing the night away. If you need respite from the non-stop activity, the northern part of the island offers accommodation set away from the main entertainment area.
Gili Trawangan also offers great snorkeling and some excellent dive sites (as do Gili Meno and Gili Air.) A number of reputable companies also offer PADI Diving Certification much cheaper than can be found elsewhere.
In complete contrast to Trawangan, the middle isand, Gili Meno, is the smallest of the three islands and is possibly the closest you could come to being on a desert island without actually being deserted.
Popular with couples and honeymooners due to its idyllic palm lined shores and crystal clear waters, Gili Meno offers coral reefs suitable for snorkelling and diving with an abundance of marine life including turtles and dolphins. Since there are no motor bikes on any of the Gili isles the only way to get around the island is by foot, push bike or traditional horse and cart.
Gili Air is the closest island to the mainland and takes the name Air, meaning water, from the fact that it is the only one of the three islands that has its own fresh water supply. In terms of vibe it finds the perfect middle ground between party central Gili Trewangan and the secluded beachcomber feel of Gili Meno, with a number of chilled beach bars and cafes dotting the shoreline. Snorkelling and diving are popular activities on Gili Air, as is walking around the island which you can do in about 90 minutes.
Things to know before you go – Many people offer package deals to the Gili Islands or pretend you will need to pre-purchase boat tickets but don’t be fooled. The simplest and cheapest way to get to these stunning islands is to simply turn up at the harbour in either Bali or Lombok and purchase your tickets from the main office. Both fast boats and ferries leave at regular intervals throughout the day, seven days a week.