The Gili Islands near Bali

Are you planning your Bali vacation or a trip to Lombok? Then you should treat yourself to a break in the Gili Islands. The three breathtaking islands - Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air - are easily reachable by boat from Bali or Lombok.

The Gili Islands in the Indian Ocean are a trendy destination to truly relax. Since there are no proper roads and no motor vehicles on any of the three islands, you can recover from the turbulent traffic of Bali here. You can leave your smartphone at home - the motto is: 'Leave the world behind!' So lean back and let yourself be taken into a beautiful paradise. We will show you our tips for the Gili Islands, revealing everything you need to know about this small but exquisite island paradise.

Located in the Indian Ocean, east of Bali and directly off the coast of Lombok, you will find the Gili Islands. The three islands Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air comprise the Gilis. Anyone who has visited will understand why these islands are called a small paradise.

The easiest way to reach one of the three Gili Islands is from Bali or Lombok. You can perfectly combine your Bali vacation with a break on the Gili Islands. Since there are no airports on the Gilis, you will arrive by boat. Various ports in the south and east of Bali, as well as in the west of Lombok, are available to you. We recommend traveling from Amed or Padang Bai in Bali to Gili Air, Trawangan, or Meno in about 90-120 minutes. From Lombok, you can reach the Gilis in just 20-30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased for as low as about €20, depending on the timing and provider.

Alternatively, you can book your transfer from Bali to the Gili Islands online in advance of your vacation.

The largest of the three sandy islands is affectionately known as Gili T: Gili Trawangan. The island offers pretty much everything a vacationer could wish for: white sandy beaches, shimmering blue waters, cute sea turtles, and small bars and restaurants where live music is played in the evenings.

Gili Trawangan is the liveliest of the three islands. Here, you can hang out with other travelers in the evenings, enjoy a few drinks, and embrace life. There are no cars on the island. Instead, you can get around by bicycle - which is manageable given the island's small size. The focus here, however, is on relaxation, which you will notice as soon as you check into your accommodation: Expect paradisiacal pools nestled among palms, bamboo roofs, and small four-poster beds with ocean views.

Interestingly, swings that stand in the middle of the sea are especially popular on Gili Trawangan, giving a sense of endless freedom.

Vacation Guru Tip: If you arrive at the swings during sunset, be prepared to spend some time in line, as it can get busy.

Gili Meno is the smallest of the three Gili Islands, where you can let your soul soar and simply enjoy life.

The paradisiacal beaches invite long walks, and the blue sea is perfect for snorkeling or diving. Here, you can discover not only sea turtles but also the Nest Statues by Jason de Caires Taylor, which stand on the ocean floor. Since Gili Meno is not only the smallest but also the quietest island of the Gilis, it is perfect for anyone looking to escape from everyday life. Lay back in one of the many hammocks on the beach with a good book and relax. If that sounds like too much, you can also take one of the boats from Gili Meno to Gili Air or Trawangan every day.

Gili Air is the third island in the group of Gili Islands in the Indian Ocean. Here, the majority of the Gili island residents live: nearly 1,400 inhabitants call this paradise home.

That is likely why Gili Air has maintained its authentic charm despite tourism. In the small village, you will find many small warungs - little Indonesian shops - and restaurants where you can not only eat deliciously but also sip on gigantic colorful smoothies in various flavors. The lovingly prepared Indonesian cuisine can be enjoyed at Firda Warung. This family-owned establishment treats its guests with fresh and ample meals at very fair prices. If you want to enjoy your meal on the beach, we recommend the Chill Out Bar & Bungalows.

In addition to lounging, walking, cycling, surfing, diving, or even horseback riding, you can also try the trendy sport of stand-up paddling thanks to the calm waters. If you prefer to be underwater, you will have plenty to enjoy on the Gilis, as the best diving spots are right off the islands and easily reachable by boat. Would you rather sample culinary delights? Then be sure to stop by the Local Market, which has various street food stalls with numerous treats that you can enjoy at modest prices. We have compiled a selection of possible activities here. You can easily book them online with just a few clicks.

Due to the growing tourism, the Gili Islands are suffering: visitors leave trash on the beach and in nature, causing the islands to become increasingly polluted. Volunteers now organize beach clean-ups to tackle the problem - perhaps you would like to contribute during your vacation on the Gilis. Additionally, the offshore coral reefs are dying more and more. If our beautiful nature is as important to you as it is to us, take a look at our comprehensive travel guide on sustainable tourism. Here, you can learn how to actively help conserve nature while traveling.

Have we sparked your longing for a white sandy beach, blue sea, and absolute tranquility? Then pack your swimwear and let's go. Here, you will find many offers for a trip to Bali - how to get from there to the Gili Islands, we have already revealed to you.