Discover the Hidden Magic of Gili Islands: Best Guide!
Which Gili Island Should You Visit?
Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno
or Gili Air?
Planning your tropical getaway and not sure which of the Gili Islands is right for you? You’re not alone — this is a super common question for travelers heading to Bali or Lombok.
Although the Gili Islands are geographically closer to Lombok, they’ve become a must-do side trip for many visiting Bali. Their crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life — including turtles, coral gardens, and colorful fish — make them a paradise worth visiting.
In this guide, I’ll help you choose between Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air based on your travel style, budget, and vibe — and I’ll also share some of my personal tips and experiences after visiting all three!
How to Get to the Gili Islands from Bali
The easiest and most common way to reach the Gilis from Bali is by fast boat from Padang Bai port. The journey to Gili Trawangan takes about 2 hours.
💸 A one-way ferry ticket costs around 260,000 IDR (~€5) and can be booked online in advance [insert your booking link here].
Cultural Tip: Know Before You Go
Unlike predominantly Hindu Bali, the Gili Islands and Lombok are mostly Muslim. You’ll notice mosques on each island and hear the call to prayer five times daily. It adds a beautiful, cultural layer to your island experience — just bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper!
Gili Trawangan: The Party Island with a Wild Side
Gili T, the largest and liveliest of the three islands, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, social scene, and beach parties. It’s rustic and raw — don’t be surprised to see goats, chickens, and cows casually hanging around.
While it attracts younger crowds and backpackers, Gili Trawangan also offers lovely mid-range and upscale accommodations, beach bars, and delicious food spots.
🔥 Party Vibe:
Nightlife every day of the week
Reggae bars, beach raves, and casual sunset gatherings
Plenty of energy and people from around the world
🤿 Snorkeling
Gili T is also the best base for snorkeling trips, especially around the famous underwater statues, turtle points, and fish gardens between Gili T and Gili Meno.
You can:
Join a public snorkeling tour for 150,000 IDR (~€8) — shared with 15–20 people.
Or go private for 1,200,000 IDR (~€60), which I highly recommend if you want a more peaceful and flexible experience.
💡 Insider tip: In my Bali Guide, I share the contact of a local boat guy who gives you a special discount if you mention me — only 1,000,000 IDR (~€50)!
🤿 Accomodation
You’ll find everything from hostels to oceanfront resorts, with average nightly prices between €30–€50. We even found a charming, nature-surrounded stay for just €20 per night!
Gili Meno: The Romantic Escape
If you’re dreaming of quiet beaches, romantic sunsets, and minimal crowds, Gili Meno is your island.
Known as the honeymoon island, it’s the smallest and least developed of the three — but still has cozy resorts and dreamy beachfront bungalows.
✨ What to Expect:
Peaceful, laid-back atmosphere
Fewer restaurants and shops
Perfect for couples or solo travelers wanting solitude
🐢 Snorkeling:
You don’t even need a boat! Just rent gear and head into the water — turtles are often just steps from shore. It’s magical.
Gili Air: Boho Vibes & Island Balance
Gili Air is my personal favorite. It blends the social buzz of Gili T with the tranquility of Gili Meno, making it perfect for those who want a bit of everything.
It’s clean, walkable, and has an amazing balance of local charm, boho cafés, and chic beach restaurants.
🍽️ Food & Vibe:
We found a local warung with incredible dishes for 50K IDR (~€3)
And yes… the best beachside pizza I’ve had since moving to Bali — no joke!
🐠 Snorkeling:
Although it’s farther from the main snorkel spots, you can still rent gear on the beach and see tons of fish — and maybe even a turtle if you’re lucky.
👉 Best snorkeling & relaxing beaches are on the east coast.
Quick Island Comparison
| Island | Best For | Vibe | Snorkeling | Nightlife | Peace & Romance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Gili Trawangan |
Party + Social |
Lively |
Excellent |
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 |
🌟 |
|
Gili Meno |
Honeymooners |
Quiet |
Great |
🌟 |
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 |
|
Gili Air |
Balanced Travel |
Chill + Boho |
Good |
🌟🌟 |
🌟🌟🌟🌟 |
Want the Full Gili Guide?
If you want all my Gili tips — where to stay, what to eat, exact snorkel spots, local contacts, and hidden gems — I’ve dedicated a full section in my Bali Travel Guide just to the Gili Islands 🌴
As a thank you for reading this post, you can use the code GILI20 to get 20% OFF the full guide!
👉 Get the Bali Travel Guide here and start experiencing Bali (and the Gilis!) like a local.
