Top 10 activities to enjoy in Indonesia's Gili Islands

Anyone who has visited the Gili Islands in Indonesia would likely agree on one thing – the moment you step onto the soft white sands, relaxation sets in immediately.

These three charming islands off the coast of Lombok are a sought-after holiday destination, and it’s clear why. With their striking blue waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning sunsets, they resemble a tropical paradise. The ban on motor vehicles further contributes to the tranquil ambiance.

Though small, the islands are brimming with activities. Thrill-seekers can fill their days with water sports and island hopping, while those who prefer a slower pace can enjoy the beach bars and spas. No matter which island you choose, here are the must-do experiences for your itinerary.

1. Dive into the pristine waters of the Gilis

The Gilis are an excellent destination to begin your scuba diving journey, featuring numerous international dive schools that offer PADI-certified courses in various languages, along with trips suitable for all experience levels. The waters around the islands are home to intriguing dive sites where you might encounter everything from shipwrecks to shy reef sharks. Notable spots include Shark Point, Turtle Heaven, and Gili Meno Wall, which is particularly great for night dives.

Tip for planning: For optimal underwater visibility, visit during the dry season (April to September). While diving is still possible in the wet season, thunderstorms and higher sediment levels can reduce visibility.

2. Enjoy snorkeling around the islands

If scuba diving isn't your thing, you can still explore the underwater world by snorkeling. Just grab a mask and snorkel! If you don’t have your own equipment, rental shops are plentiful along the beaches. The clear, shallow waters are alive with vibrant tropical fish, turtles, octopuses, and starfish. Snorkeling from the shore is straightforward, with signposts marking the best spots along the coastline. For more remote beauty, like the Gili Meno underwater sculptures created by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, consider joining a boat tour to hop between islands.

3. Take an Indonesian cooking class

If you've fallen for the local flavors and want to recreate them at home, participating in a cooking class is a must. There are several schools where enthusiastic cooks can learn to prepare traditional Indonesian dishes such as mie goreng (fried noodles) and kare ayam (chicken curry) using fresh ingredients from local markets. Gili Cooking Classes is the most popular choice, where English-speaking local chefs guide you through menus that range from three to six courses. Classes are available on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air.

4. Savor fresh seafood at Gili Trawangan's night market

For those on Gili Trawangan, the night market near the harbor is a must-visit. Open every evening at sunset, this vibrant open-air market features numerous stalls offering delicious local dishes. You can find everything from nasi campur (rice with various sides) to traditional sweets like terang bulan (a thick pancake with diverse fillings) and klepon (sweet rice balls filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut). Don't miss the barbecue stalls, where you can select from fresh fish, prawns, and lobsters that are grilled to order.

5. Discover the islands by bike

Walking around the islands takes about one to two hours, but cycling is even faster, with affordable rentals readily available. The flat terrain and many paved roads make this a fantastic family-friendly option. Pedal along the coastal routes and venture into the interiors, passing coconut groves and local villages. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit to enjoy a refreshing swim at the end of your ride.

Local tip: The traditional horse-drawn carts you’ll encounter on the islands are known as cidomo. While drivers might offer you tours, be cautious as there are concerns about animal welfare regarding how the horses are treated; we advise against riding them. For ethical horseback riding experiences, consider Gili Air Horse Riding.

6. Experience the array of water sports the islands offer

In addition to diving and snorkeling, the Gilis boast a variety of thrilling water sports, such as paddle boarding, sea kayaking, water skiing, and banana boat rides. While rental shops are found throughout the islands, Gili Trawangan provides the widest selection of activities. Although professional surfers might prefer the world-class waves of mainland Lombok, the Gilis also feature some decent surf spots, particularly during the dry season (April to September) when the winds pick up.

7. Participate in local conservation efforts

Eco-conscious visitors can contribute to environmental sustainability by engaging with local conservation projects. Gili Eco Trust, an NGO located on Gili Trawangan, runs various initiatives and charities that travelers can support. Cat enthusiasts may want to help out at Cats of Gili, which offers volunteer-led clinics, spaying and neutering programs, and a charity shop. Likewise, STUD Horse Riding & Rescue is dedicated to rescued and retired horses, providing beach and island rides—sunset rides are particularly memorable. Always ensure to evaluate the standards and suitability of any volunteering opportunity before participating.

Planning tip: If you're on Gili Air and interested in horseback riding, consider Gili Air Horse Riding, which features well-trained and well-cared-for horses for a pleasant experience.

8. Enjoy live music and dance the night away

Experience the vibrant nightlife at various bars and pubs throughout Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. For those who love to party, Gili Trawangan offers an energetic scene, featuring live reggae bands at Sama Sama Bar and DJs at Jungle Bar. If you’re seeking a more relaxed vibe, Gili Air’s beach bars, like Legend Bar and Cheeky Monkey, provide a chill atmosphere with cocktails and live music for guests lounging on the sand in comfy bean bags.

Planning tip: Looking to escape the nightlife? Head to Gili Meno, often referred to as the 'honeymoon island' for its serene environment. With a local ban on late-night music and parties, it’s the ideal spot for a peaceful island getaway.

9. Relax at a spa

Amid all the outdoor excitement, take a moment to pause and indulge in a spa day. This is one of the top activities in the Gilis, where you can treat yourself to everything from traditional massages to rejuvenating beauty treatments. If your hotel lacks an in-house spa, you'll find numerous options along the bougainvillea-lined streets.

On Gili Trawangan, the trendy Rose Spa is popular for manicures and pedicures, while You Spa provides a variety of treatments amid serene greenery and private rooms with flower-filled bathtubs. For those on Gili Air, Slow Spa offers a bamboo oasis, and the cavern-like Zone Spa is perfect for melting away your worries. Although Gili Meno has fewer options, you can stroll along the coast and find simple beach shacks offering massages on sea-facing beds.

10. Hike to the Gili Trawangan Hill viewpoint

As the sun begins to set, many flock to the west coast of Gili Trawangan, where beach bars host live music and happy hours. If you prefer a quieter spot, put on your walking shoes and tackle the easy trail that leads to the Gili Trawangan Hill viewpoint. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach the top, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lombok’s Mt Rinjani, Bali’s Mt Agung, and the other two Gilis. It's also a fantastic place to watch the sunrise.

Insider tip: Gili Trawangan served as a naval base during World War II. While you're up here, be sure to look for the Japanese machine gun bunker and the remnants of tunnels that once wove through the hill.