Indonesia > Gili Air
Gili Air is one of the three Gili Islands located off the northwest coast of Lombok, sitting closest to the mainland, with Gili Meno in the middle and Gili Trawangan farthest out.
Gili Air offers the perfect balance between the vibrant energy of Gili Trawangan and the tranquil seclusion of Gili Meno. While Gili Trawangan (often called "Gili T") is known for its lively nightlife, and Gili Meno is a favorite among honeymooners seeking peace and privacy, Gili Air stands out with its laid-back atmosphere, friendly local culture, and a harmonious mix of relaxation and activity.
Gili Trawangan - Furthest from Lombok
Biggest and busiest
Party scene, nightlife, and diving
Best for social travelers and backpackers
Gili Meno - In the middle
Smallest and quietest
Romantic, ideal for couples
Few restaurants, very peaceful
Gili Air - Closest to Lombok
Balanced vibe: chill but social
Great for snorkeling, yoga, and cafés
Perfect mix of calm and community
On Gili Air, there are no motorized vehicles—just bicycles and horse-drawn carts called cidomos—which helps maintain a peaceful, slow-paced environment. The island is small enough to walk around in under two hours.
Activities include snorkeling and diving around vibrant coral reefs, yoga classes, stand-up paddleboarding, and taking in stunning sunsets on the west coast with a beautiful view on Mount Agung, the largest mountain on Bali.
The island is also known for its beachside cafés, fresh seafood, and relaxed music scene. You can spend your days exploring, socializing, or simply swinging in a hammock with a good book.
With its chilled vibe, welcoming community, and natural beauty, Gili Air is perfect for travelers seeking a slower pace without feeling isolated.
Getting to Gili Air is relatively easy. From Bali, you can take a fast boat directly to the island, which usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. From Lombok, it's even quicker—a short drive to Bangsal Harbor followed by a 15–20 minute boat ride.
From Lombok, I recommend taking a public boat from Bangsal Harbor. It's a budget-friendly option (around IDR 20,000, 1 EUR), though the boats only leave once they have enough passengers—usually about 20 people. Usually, you won’t have to wait long, especially during the day when lots of people are going to the island.
