Gili Trawangan is known for its nightlife and Gili Meno for honeymoon couples, Gili Air is for those wanting to seriously chill out and slow down. It's where hordes of backpackers would come and to a certain extent, still do.
As with the other two Gili Islands you can go snorkeling for the enjoyment of being closer to the many fish species, turtles and coral. There is a diving center where you can learn the basics of diving and get your certificate, allowing you to dive. If you've never dived before now would be as good a time as any. Lessons start from US$500.
The east side of Gili Air has the best snorkeling spots due to the waters being the calmest. There are plenty of vendors renting snorkeling equipment in the area so don your trunks, or bikini and enjoy yourself.
As you walk around the Island ― honestly, it'll take you no more than 30 minutes ― you learn the best places to stay and eat are found on the east coast. It's also where the best water-based sport is found. On the opposite side of the Island is where the best outdoor food is served, making it a great place to socialize. You have the raves following the sunsets on certain weekdays, lasting into the small hours.
Locals congregate in the center of the Island and that's where you find the cheapest accommodation. It is village life up close and personal and aside from being cheap if you want a slice of Gili life from the local's point of view then come here. Otherwise, the luxury resorts are to the east, and hotels to the north.
The west coast has those sought after sunsets. You will find many restaurants right on the beach serving excellent food and they're usually doing a roaring trade going into the early evening. In some establishments there is live music and a bar. A beach party atmosphere brews as the daylight diminishes.
Only once you've been to Gili Air and Gili Trawangan will you decide which Island has the best nightlife. We won't spoil it for you.
A public ferry arrives and leaves twice a day, in the morning and the afternoon. Our recommendation is to use the fast boats because the journey time is much shorter. It's best to book your trip the day before, and likely cheaper too. An open return ticket to one of the Gili Islands, from Bali costs US$30 per person. Once on Gili Air Island and you want to move around, the three of them wait for the public ferry (mornings and late afternoons) or take a fast boat.
Be wary of ticket touts and scams regarding the ticket for the public ferry.
Peak season is July and August when it is cooler and there is less chance of rain (but more crowds). However, any time between April and October is a safe bet, it's Indonesia's dry season.
There isn't all that much to separate Gili Air from Gili Trawangan really, both are similar. Sort of. The only noticeable difference is Gili Air is more chilled ― and relaxed, easier going. You can appreciate why the Island appeals to backpackers (the cheap homestay accommodation helps of course). What also appeals to many backpacking on their gap year is the rave music being blasted out.
Both Gili Air and Gili Trawangan have a vibrant nightlife but Gili Air the nightlife isn't necessarily every night, only on selected days. On Gili Air the parties last into the following morning whereas on Gili Trawangan that isn't so. We found Gili Air to be more sociable: large groups of people get together just as the rave music starts. You don't experience that on Gili Trawangan.
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Hello, we are George and Elle Mae Melyre.
Over the years, amidst work and family life, we have traveled extensively throughout Asia. Any chance to briefly escape or properly holiday in our beloved Asian destinations is eagerly seized, motivated by the enduring dream of leaving behind the UK's dreary cold for tropical climes.