Gili Islands tourist guide

Located fifty miles east of Bali are three relatively unspoilt paradise islands collectively known as the Gili Islands. All are fringed by glorious white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and deep blue waters containing an astounding array of exotic marine life. Each of these tiny islands has developed its own distinct character and the most commercialised by far is the ‘party island’ of Gili Trawangan. Gili Air is a relaxed place with a more authentic local flavour while the smallest of the three, Gili Meno, offers a true castaway experience. Here you will find very little in the way of entertainment but you can easily have a wide expanse of tropical beach all to yourself.

The Gilis are a genuine scuba diving Mecca with some of the most spectacular coral reefs in Southeast Asia. The diving industry is big business here and there are dozens of offshore dive sites suitable for both beginners and seasoned pros. An alluring attraction of the waters around the Gilis is a huge population of adorable sea turtles which makes snorkeling here an irresistible attraction.

Each island also has a rash of classy beachfront hotels and a few plush private villas. It has also become a popular destination for discerning honeymooners.  Spend a day at the fabulous Bird Park of Gili Meno or its attractive salt water lake, visit one of the islands’ turtle conservation centres or explore dense rainforests and windswept deserted beaches in nearby North Lombok.

The Gili Islands are predominantly Muslim and the atmosphere is markedly different from Hindu Bali. They also portray a very positive image to visitors of simple island life. Beach hawkers and all motorised transport is banned here and the islands and all its surrounding coral reefs form a protected eco-trust.

Attractions
The Gili Islands cannot compete with Bali’s history as it has only been inhabited for around 30 years, but there are some interesting attractions to explore… more

Activities
Its world class dive sites have really put the Gili Islands on the map but there is also a wealth of other rewarding activities by the beach. You can also indulge in thrilling water sports, try a little surfing or explore on horseback… more

Hotels
There is immense variety of accommodation on the Gili Islands for every budget. Originally a haven for back packers in the late 1980s, there is still a great choice of cheap home stays and simple beach bungalows… more

Restaurants
There is a good variety of dining options on the Gili Islands ranging from simple rice dishes to five star resorts with a range of international cuisine… more

Nightlife and bars
Although generally more sleepy than the major beach resorts of Bali, visitors to the Gili Islands still get the chance to let their hair down with some fun beach bars which serve cocktails late into the night… more

Diving
Scuba diving is a major draw to the Gili Islands and there and beautiful reefs in which to learn the basics or get some practice. Snorkeling trips are incredibly popular and not to be missed here… more

Transportation
The Gilis are a car-free utopia refreshingly untainted by traffic noise and pollution. Getting around is always a leisurely exercise, be it on foot, by bicycle or explore some secluded beaches by charming horse drawn cart… more