Gili Islands: Best Places to Stay for Your Dream Vacation
Welcome to our guide to the best places to stay for your dream vacation in the stunning Gili Islands! Located off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia, these three picturesque islands offer breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind. Whether you’re seeking luxury villas, budget-friendly bungalows, or beachfront resorts, we have compiled a list of accommodations that will suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of the Gili Islands!
Which Gili Island is the best to stay on?
If you are planning a trip to the Gili Islands in Indonesia and wondering which one is the best to stay on, it depends on your preferences and what you are looking for. Each of the three islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno, offer a unique experience.
Gili Trawangan is the most developed and popular of the three islands. It has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. The island is known for its vibrant nightlife, with beachside bars and clubs offering live music and fire shows. If you are looking for a lively atmosphere, a wide variety of restaurants, and plenty of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and partying, Gili Trawangan is the best choice for you.
Gili Air is the second-largest island and strikes a balance between development and tranquility. It offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to Gili Trawangan. The island has a good selection of accommodation options, restaurants, and bars, but the nightlife is not as lively. Gili Air is great for those seeking a mix of relaxation, water activities such as snorkeling and diving, and a few low-key evenings out.
Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest of the three islands. It is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful and secluded beach getaway. Gili Meno has limited accommodation options and restaurants, but it offers a serene and unspoiled natural environment. The island is ideal for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic retreat or anyone who simply wants to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Is it worth staying on the Gili Islands?
We give this a big fat YES. The Gili islands are well worth a visit. We absolutely loved our time there. If you’re looking to slow down, relax, chill out and explore some beautiful waters – Gili has lots to offer.
The Gili Islands, consisting of Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno, offer a unique and idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These small islands are known for their stunning white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and vibrant underwater life. Whether you’re a beach lover, water sports enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Gili Islands have something for everyone.
One of the main attractions of the Gili Islands is the opportunity to snorkel or dive in the pristine coral reefs. The underwater world around the islands is teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and even reef sharks. You can rent snorkeling or diving equipment from the local shops and explore the underwater beauty at your own pace.
In addition to water activities, the Gili Islands offer a laid-back atmosphere and a chance to disconnect from the outside world. There are no motorized vehicles on the islands, so you can explore the small paths and beaches by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage known as cidomo. This adds to the charm and tranquility of the islands.
The Gili Islands also have a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The food scene on the islands is diverse, offering a variety of cuisines including local Indonesian dishes, fresh seafood, and international fare. You can enjoy a meal with your feet in the sand while watching the stunning sunset over the ocean.
In terms of nightlife, Gili Trawangan is the liveliest of the three islands, with beach bars and clubs offering live music and DJ sets. Gili Air and Gili Meno have a more relaxed and quiet atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Overall, the Gili Islands offer a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the underwater world, or simply unwind in a tropical paradise, the Gili Islands are well worth a visit.
Which side of Gili Air is the best to stay on?
Inland would be our pick for the best place to stay on Gili Air if you want to experience a more local feel. This part of the island is away from the beachfront and offers a quieter and more traditional atmosphere. Here, you can find charming guesthouses and homestays that are surrounded by lush greenery and local communities. Staying inland allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with friendly locals, and get a glimpse of the authentic way of life on the island.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for the best beaches, the east side of Gili Air would be our recommendation. The beaches here are known for their crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and stunning sunrises. This area is also home to a wide range of beachfront accommodations, from budget-friendly bungalows to luxurious resorts. You can spend your days lounging on the beautiful beaches, snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant marine life, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of the ocean.
Ultimately, the best side of Gili Air to stay on depends on your preferences. If you want a more local experience, choose the inland area, while beach lovers should opt for the east side with its picturesque beaches. Whichever side you choose, Gili Air offers a laid-back and idyllic island escape that is sure to leave you enchanted.
How many days should you stay on the Gili Islands?
I would recommend spending around 3 days in Gili Trawangan to fully take advantage of a visit. Three days (and two nights) will give you enough time to take part in activities, relax on the beach, and of course, view a couple of magical sunsets.
Gili Trawangan is the largest and most developed of the Gili Islands, and it offers a range of activities to suit different interests. If you enjoy water sports, you can try snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island. There are also opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even surfing. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, you can simply lounge on the beautiful beaches and soak up the sun, or indulge in a massage at one of the beachfront spas. In the evenings, Gili Trawangan comes alive with its bustling night market and vibrant nightlife scene, offering a variety of dining options and entertainment.
Which part of Gili Trawangan is the best?
In Gili Trawangan, there are two distinct areas to stay, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. The East side, where the ferry leaves you, is a bustling area known for its vibrant nightlife and party scene. This is the best option if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, enjoy beach parties, and experience the island’s renowned nightlife. Here, you’ll find a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to party-goers, as well as some of the most affordable accommodations in the Gili Islands.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more peaceful and relaxed experience, especially for family or couple trips, I recommend staying on the West side of Gili Trawangan. This area offers a serene and tranquil ambiance, with stunning sunsets and a quieter beach scene. The West side is perfect for those looking to unwind, enjoy long walks on the beach, and simply soak up the island’s natural beauty. Accommodations on the West side tend to be slightly higher in price compared to the East side, but they often offer more luxurious amenities and a more serene atmosphere.
Ultimately, the best part of Gili Trawangan depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. Whether you’re looking to party the night away or unwind in peace, Gili Trawangan has something to offer for everyone.
