Gili Trawangan, the largest and most famous of the three Gili Islands, is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Located northwest of Lombok, Indonesia, this island attracts travelers from all over the world seeking relaxation, adventure, and an unforgettable island experience. With no motorized vehicles, visitors can explore the island by bicycle or traditional horse-drawn carts (Cidomo), creating a peaceful and eco-friendly atmosphere.

From snorkeling with turtles to sunset beach parties, Gili Trawangan offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a backpacker, honeymooner, or luxury traveler, this island will leave you mesmerized. You can also compare Gili Trawangan with Nusa Penida, which one more beautiful are?

How to Get to Gili Trawangan

Getting to Gili Trawangan is straightforward, with multiple transport options from Bali and Lombok.

1. Fast Boat from Bali to Gili Trawangan

The most common way to reach the island is by fast boat from Bali, which operates daily from several ports in Bali:

• Padangbai (most popular, takes around 1.5 – 2 hours)
• Sanur
• Serangan
• Amed (shorter journey, ideal for those staying in East Bali)

💡 Tip: Book fast boat tickets in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

2. From Lombok to Gili Trawangan

• Take a public boat or private speedboat from Bangsal Harbor.
• The boat ride takes around 20-30 minutes.

3. Flying to Gili Trawangan via Lombok

• Fly to Lombok International Airport (LOP) from Jakarta, Bali, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.
• Drive to Bangsal Harbor (about 2 hours from the airport).
• Take a boat to Gili Trawangan.

Top Attractions & Activities in Gili Trawangan

Whether you’re into adventure, relaxation, or partying, Gili Trawangan has it all!

🏊‍♂️ Snorkeling & Diving in Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a diver’s paradise with stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Popular dive sites include:

• Turtle Point – Spot sea turtles up close.
• Meno Wall – Great for colorful coral and marine biodiversity.
• Bounty Wreck – A sunken pier turned into a vibrant dive site.
• Underwater Statues – A unique snorkeling experience with submerged sculptures.

📌 Tip: Choose a PADI-certified dive center to ensure safety and eco-friendly diving practices.

🚲 Explore the Island by Bicycle

With no cars or motorbikes, cycling is the best way to explore the island. Rent a bicycle for IDR 50,000 – 75,000 per day and ride around the scenic coastline.

🌅 Sunset at Gili Trawangan

Head to the western beaches for the best sunset views over Mount Agung in Bali. Popular sunset spots include:

• Sunset Beach
• The Exile Bar (with the famous ocean swing)
• PinkCoco Gili Trawangan

🎉 Nightlife & Beach Parties

Gili Trawangan is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with beach clubs and bars hosting live music, DJs, and fire performances. The party scene is centered around:

• Sama-Sama Reggae Bar
• Jiggy Boat Party (Party cruise around the Gilis)
• Ombak Sunset Beach Club

🧘 Yoga & Wellness Retreats

For those seeking relaxation, Gili Trawangan has excellent yoga studios and wellness centers. Enjoy a beachfront yoga class or a rejuvenating spa treatment. Popular options:

• Gili Yoga
• The Yoga Place Gili

🐎 Horseback Riding on the Beach

Experience the magic of horseback riding at sunset along the pristine shores of Gili Trawangan. Stud Stables offers ethical horse riding tours with well-cared-for horses.

🏄 Paddleboarding & Glass-Bottom Boat Tours

For a more relaxed adventure, try paddleboarding on calm waters or take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore marine life without diving.

Essential Travel Tips for Gili Trawangan

✅ Book Accommodations & Boat Tickets in Advance

• The island can get fully booked during high season.

✅ Bring Cash

• ATMs are limited and often run out of cash.

✅ Pack Light

• Since there are no cars, you’ll have to carry your own bags or hire a horse cart (Cidomo).

✅ Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

• Help protect marine life by using eco-friendly products.

✅ Respect Local Customs & Environment

• Avoid single-use plastics and participate in beach clean-ups if possible.

✅ Stay in a Quiet Area If You Prefer Relaxation

• The southern part of the island is lively, while the northern and western parts offer a more peaceful atmosphere.