Ten years after our first visit, we found ourselves back on Gili Trawangan, one of the small Gili islands off the coast of Lombok in Indonesia. Known for its white-sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, and excellent diving spots, Gili T attracts a wide variety of travelers.
Despite several changes over the past decade, the island remains a bustling, beautiful, and party-centric destination. It’s easy to get to Gili Trawangan from Bali, given the direct fast ferry service, so the island receives a significant number of Bali’s visitors.
One of the unique features of Gili Trawangan is the absence of motorized vehicles and dogs. This makes the island free from vehicle pollution and nighttime barking. If you’re into relaxing on the beach, reading a good book, or scuba diving, this island is perfect for you.
When choosing where to stay on Gili Trawangan, think about what kind of vacation you want. The east coast is great if you want to be close to the action, party at night, dive during the day, and have easy access to bars and restaurants. However, the west coast offers luxury resorts and a quieter atmosphere, while the south and north ends are also relatively peaceful. The center of the island has residential homes and some Airbnbs.
Back in 2009, during the high season, we struggled to find budget accommodation and ended up in a tiny, dark room. Contrast that with our recent visit where we stayed in a beautiful villa, courtesy of Lotus Hotels. Located on the more peaceful northern end of the east coast, Villa Almarik offered us a spacious, bright room with a private verandah just steps away from the beach. The property also had a spa, a saltwater swimming pool, and a dining area with a lavish breakfast buffet.
Around Gili Trawangan, activities primarily revolve around the sand and sea. Many people enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking when the sea is calm, while snorkeling and scuba diving are hugely popular due to the island’s offshore reefs and abundant marine life. Dive sites like Shark Point and Meno Wall are famous for their clear waters, turtles, and coral reefs. If you’re new to diving, you might consider getting your PADI Open Water certification here, though it’s crucial to choose a reputable dive shop.
For a more laid-back experience, there’s nothing better than watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand. Sunset spots like Paradise Sunset, which has swings in the water, offer picturesque views. Alternatively, you can hike to the viewpoint on the island’s only hill for a panoramic sunset or sunrise view.
It’s also fun to explore the island by bike. Renting a bicycle is common and can be a great way to see more of the island without getting exhausted from the heat.
Getting to Gili Trawangan can be a bit of an adventure. Fast boats from Bali take about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on sea conditions. Flights from Bali to Lombok take about 25 minutes, followed by a short boat ride to Gili Trawangan.
While Gili Trawangan has grown with more restaurants and hotels, it retains its party vibe and laid-back atmosphere. For a couple in their mid-30s not into partying, it wasn’t our top choice in Indonesia, but the beaches, restaurants, and diving still offer plenty of appeal. Our favorite spots include Gangga Island, Raja Ampat, and quieter areas like Candidasa and Sanur in Bali.
If you’re looking for a lively island with great nightlife, Gili Trawangan is a fantastic choice. For younger travelers, it’s a must-visit destination. What about you? Does Gili Trawangan sound like your kind of island?