Top Things to Do in the Gili Islands Bali City: Your Ultimate Guide For 2024

When you visit the Gili Islands in Indonesia, one of the best islands in Bali, you’ll feel relaxed as soon as you step onto the white sandy beaches. The clear blue waters, abundant marine life, and stunning sunsets make it feel like a tropical paradise, and the absence of motor vehicles adds to the peaceful atmosphere. These are some of the best activities to get indulged in your Bali trip.

Even though the islands are small, there’s plenty to do. If you’re adventurous, you can enjoy water sports and explore the islands, while those looking for a more laid-back experience can relax at beach bars and spas. No matter which island you choose, here are the top things to do in the Gili Islands.

Unique Things To Do In Gili Islands

1. Snorkeling and Diving

Snorkelling

The Gili Islands are famous for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making them ideal for snorkelling. Each island offers unique snorkelling spots:

• Gili Trawangan: Visit the Turtle Point for a chance to swim with sea turtles.
• Gili Meno: The Meno Wall is home to an array of marine life, including colourful fish and corals.
• Gili Air: The eastern coast is known for its diverse underwater ecosystem.

Snorkelling tours are available, often including trips to all three islands and the underwater statues near Gili Meno.

Diving

For diving enthusiasts, the Gili Islands are a haven. Dive sites such as Shark Point, Manta Point, and Deep Turbo offer encounters with reef sharks, manta rays, and an abundance of tropical fish. Many dive centres on the islands provide PADI certification courses, catering to both beginners and experienced divers.

2. Beach Activities

• Gili Trawangan: Known for its lively beach bars and sunset views. The western side of the island is particularly popular for sunset watching.
• Gili Meno: Offers a more secluded and tranquil beach experience. The beaches here are less crowded, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
• Gili Air: Combines the lively atmosphere of Gili Trawangan with the tranquillity of Gili Meno. The beaches here are great for both relaxation and water sports.

Suggested Read : 7 Amazing Adventure Activities in Bali You can’t refuse

3. Island Hopping

Make sure to look for ticket booths on the Trawangan islands to find transportation to other islands. If you’re a group of 10 or more, you can even choose your own charter boat for a complete round trip at a cost of 350,000 rupiah. It’s a much more effective option than public transport. 

4. Cycling

5. Horseback Riding

6. Partying

You’ll also get to enjoy some awesome reggae music from well-known Indonesian bands. And hey, there’s even a group called South Sea Nomads who have a party boat—just $25 for a trip from noon to sunset, including food, as they sail around the Gili Islands. 

7. Nightlife

8. Watching A “Stick Fight” Tournament

9. Culinary Experiences

10. Sunset Viewing

11. Shop in the Night Market

In the market, you can try dishes like Nasi Campur, a unique Indonesian rice with lots of vegetables, eggs, meat, peanuts, and fried noodles. There are also many food booths where you can try grilled Red Snapper and tofu. 

12. Spa Treatments

13. Fishing

14. Cultural Activities

15. Underwater Sculptures

16. Water Sports

• Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP): Glide over the clear waters and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Kayaking: Explore the coastline and nearby smaller islands.
• Kitesurfing: The windy conditions, especially on Gili Air, make it ideal for kitesurfing.

17. Day Trips to Lombok

18. Photography

19. Cooking Classes

Best time to visit Gili Islands Bali

Places to stay in Gili Islands Bali

Gili Trawangan

Luxury

• Karma Reef: Offers upscale beachfront villas with stunning views and top-notch amenities.
• Pondok Santi Estate: A luxurious resort featuring spacious bungalows, a private beach, and an infinity pool.

Mid-Range

• Pearl of Trawangan: A beautiful beachfront resort with modern rooms and excellent facilities, including a pool and spa.
• Scallywags Resort: Known for its comfortable rooms, great restaurant, and relaxing atmosphere.

Budget

• La Boheme Mini: A cosy hostel offering dormitory and private rooms with a friendly, social vibe.
• Gili Castle: A popular backpacker spot with a lively atmosphere, pool, and bar.

Gili Meno

Luxury

• Meno House: A boutique beachfront resort with stylish bungalows and a serene environment.
• Mahamaya Boutique Resort: Offers beachfront villas and a tranquil setting perfect for relaxation.

Mid-Range

• Sunset Gecko: A charming resort with eco-friendly bungalows and stunning sunset views.
• Les Villas Ottalia: Features private villas with pools, offering a blend of comfort and privacy.

Gili Air

Luxury

• Slow Gili Air: A boutique resort offering spacious villas with private pools, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
• Manta Dive Gili Air Resort: Combines comfortable accommodations with a top-rated dive centre.

Mid-Range

• Bel Air Resort: Offers well-appointed rooms, a pool, and a great location near the beach.
• Villa Karang Hotel & Spa: Features comfortable rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.

Budget

• Captain Coconuts Gili Air: A budget-friendly option with dormitory and private rooms, known for its eco-conscious approach.
• Bedolo Bungalows: Simple, clean accommodations close to the beach and local amenities.

Suggested Read : 12 Romantic Honeymoon Hotels in Bali: Luxurious Escapes