Gili Air
Nestled among the mesmerizing Gili Islands, Gili Air stands out as a destination where the best of both worlds collide in perfect harmony. This tropical haven offers a unique blend of serenity and excitement, enticing travelers with its captivating beauty, vibrant culture, and diverse experiences.
Bali to Gili Air
from IDR 440,000
RETURN
per person
per person
Snorkel with Friends
Like all the Gili Islands, snorkeling on Gili Air is a hugely popular pastime. You can get amongst it almost anywhere along the east coast, where the fringing reef is abundant and a close stroll offshore. Many dive shops offer scuba and snorkel tours around Gili Air’s crystal-clear waters, or rent equipment from almost any cafe or shack close to the beach for about IDR 30,000. You're sure to see plenty of stunning corals, fish, stingrays, and even sea turtles!
Initially, Bugis fishermen used the Gili islands as a stop-off location for their voyages around the archipelago. In 1971 the governor of Lombok, Wasita Kusama, began to establish coconut plantations and gave land rights to private companies. Inmates from the overcrowded Mataram prison were sent to help with the first harvests between 1974 and 1979, many of whom remained on the Islands as permanent settlers.
Continued investment in tourism is resulting in the rapid development of the islands, and each year new resorts and accommodations open their doors. Its proximity to Gili Meno, the smallest and most secluded of the islands, and to Gili Trawangan, the largest of the three, with its well-earned party-hard reputation, makes Gili Air a destination that combines relative seclusion with great amenities.
There are no cars or motorbikes on Gili Air- shocking, we know! It’s actually quite incredible to not have to hear the hum of motors at all times of the day.
If you’re wondering how people get around without vehicles, don’t fret. Gili Air is small; you only need your own two feet. In fact, you can meander around the whole of Gili Air in about 90 minutes.
We also highly recommend renting a bicycle to explore the island. Though the roads can be a bit iffy in some places, it’s really fun to bike along the beautiful shores.
Most of the accommodation and other tourism facilities are on the south and east coasts, facing Lombok. The boat landing is in the center of the south coast.
A coastal path leads you around the perimeter of the island, and a leisurely stroll all the way around will take about 90 min.
For such a small island, the maze of paths that criss-cross the island can get surprisingly confusing, but they always lead back to the coastal path...eventually!
A coastal path leads you around the perimeter of the island, and a leisurely stroll all the way around will take about 90 min.
For such a small island, the maze of paths that criss-cross the island can get surprisingly confusing, but they always lead back to the coastal path...eventually!
- There is an ATM outlet of CIMB Niaga bank on the island. It is located a few dozen meters up the main road from the ferry arrival area. A second ATM can be found further north on the same main beach track past the Turtle Beach hotel. These are the only two on the island but are generally reliable.
- There are a few shops selling basic necessities close to the boat landing, and on the eastern coast. In the same area, there are also a number of vendors with an interesting ensemble of Lombok handicrafts for sale.
- A large number of places on Gili Air advertise free WiFi, although many of these can be slow and unreliable. Most travelers rely on a SIM card with a router. A few places advertising "high speed" fiber are still very slow and over-subscribed. On Gili Air, the best option now is to buy a SIM for your phone, tablet, or laptop. XL is the only provider that has a 3G/HSDPA mast on the island and data coverage is good over most of the island. Telkomsel/SimPATTI has almost no data coverage except on the west-facing beach via its mast on Gili Trawangan and the other networks have no presence at all.
Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey through the vibrant dining scene on Gili Air, where a tantalizing array of flavors and culinary delights awaits. This tropical paradise offers a diverse selection of dining options that cater to every palate, ranging from authentic local cuisine to international fusion creations.
Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Indonesian cuisine as you indulge in the local delicacies that Gili Air has to offer. Begin your culinary exploration with a taste of Nasi Campur, a flavorful dish consisting of rice, vegetables, and various meats or tempeh. Don't miss out on trying Ayam Taliwang, a spicy grilled chicken specialty that will leave your taste buds tingling.
For seafood lovers, the island's grilled fish and prawns served with fragrant rice will surely satisfy your cravings for the ocean's bounty.
Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Indonesian cuisine as you indulge in the local delicacies that Gili Air has to offer. Begin your culinary exploration with a taste of Nasi Campur, a flavorful dish consisting of rice, vegetables, and various meats or tempeh. Don't miss out on trying Ayam Taliwang, a spicy grilled chicken specialty that will leave your taste buds tingling.
For seafood lovers, the island's grilled fish and prawns served with fragrant rice will surely satisfy your cravings for the ocean's bounty.
Fabulous Food
Savor a truly idyllic dining experience at one of Gili Air's beachfront restaurants. Feast on fresh seafood caught right from the surrounding waters as you enjoy the stunning ocean views and soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Indulge in grilled lobster, prawns, and calamari, all expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in a romantic ambiance while dining under a canopy of stars.
Gili Air caters to global tastes with its diverse range of international dining options. Whether you're craving Italian, Mexican, Japanese, or Mediterranean cuisine, you'll find restaurants that specialize in crafting international dishes with a unique twist. From wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas to zesty tacos and fresh sushi rolls, the island's culinary scene ensures that you can satisfy your cravings for flavors from around the world.
Gili Air caters to global tastes with its diverse range of international dining options. Whether you're craving Italian, Mexican, Japanese, or Mediterranean cuisine, you'll find restaurants that specialize in crafting international dishes with a unique twist. From wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas to zesty tacos and fresh sushi rolls, the island's culinary scene ensures that you can satisfy your cravings for flavors from around the world.
Signature Dishes
Gili Air is a haven for health-conscious travelers, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options that are as delicious as they are nutritious. Discover cozy cafes and eateries that specialize in plant-based cuisine, serving up innovative dishes made from organic, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you are a committed vegan or simply looking to explore a healthier culinary experience, Gili Air provides a wealth of options to cater to your dietary preferences, from vibrant Buddha bowls and nourishing smoothie bowls to hearty plant-based burgers and delectable vegan desserts.
The island's laid-back atmosphere is perfectly complemented by its charming cafes and bakeries, where you can unwind and indulge in freshly brewed coffee, homemade pastries, and delectable desserts.
The island's laid-back atmosphere is perfectly complemented by its charming cafes and bakeries, where you can unwind and indulge in freshly brewed coffee, homemade pastries, and delectable desserts.
Local Delicacies
Our Favourite Gili Air Eateries
Imagine a place where time slows down, the worries of the world fade away, and all that matters is embracing the essence of relaxation. Welcome to Gili Air, an island oasis where tranquility reigns supreme and accommodations offer a serene haven for weary travelers in search of peaceful respite. Prepare to be enchanted by the chilled-out vibe, picturesque landscapes, and the array of accommodation options that promise a truly rejuvenating experience.
Gili Air's beachfront bungalows epitomize the art of relaxation. Picture yourself waking up to the gentle sound of waves caressing the shore, stepping out onto your private terrace to witness breathtaking sunrises, and feeling the soft sand between your toes as you take leisurely strolls along the beach. These bungalows offer a seamless blend of comfort and nature, with rustic-chic interiors and stunning views of the azure ocean. Unwind in a hammock beneath swaying palm trees, sip a refreshing drink while lounging on a sunbed, and let the island's tranquility wash over you.
Gili Air's beachfront bungalows epitomize the art of relaxation. Picture yourself waking up to the gentle sound of waves caressing the shore, stepping out onto your private terrace to witness breathtaking sunrises, and feeling the soft sand between your toes as you take leisurely strolls along the beach. These bungalows offer a seamless blend of comfort and nature, with rustic-chic interiors and stunning views of the azure ocean. Unwind in a hammock beneath swaying palm trees, sip a refreshing drink while lounging on a sunbed, and let the island's tranquility wash over you.
Stay in Style
For those seeking ultimate privacy and seclusion, Gili Air's serene villas provide an oasis of calm. Tucked away amidst lush tropical gardens, these villas offer a sanctuary where you can truly disconnect from the outside world. Revel in the spaciousness of your own private retreat, complete with a secluded garden, a refreshing plunge pool, and luxurious amenities that cater to your every need.
Gili Air is committed to sustainable living, and eco-friendly retreats on the island offer a unique and mindful accommodation experience. Immerse yourself in the harmony of nature as you stay in environmentally conscious resorts that prioritize eco-friendly practices. These retreats often feature traditional-inspired bamboo cottages, solar-powered energy, and lush gardens that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Gili Air is committed to sustainable living, and eco-friendly retreats on the island offer a unique and mindful accommodation experience. Immerse yourself in the harmony of nature as you stay in environmentally conscious resorts that prioritize eco-friendly practices. These retreats often feature traditional-inspired bamboo cottages, solar-powered energy, and lush gardens that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Endless Options
Gili Air's cozy guesthouses provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where you can experience the island's laid-back charm firsthand. These family-run establishments offer comfortable rooms with a touch of local character, ensuring a personal touch and friendly service throughout your stay. Immerse yourself in the island's community, engage in conversations with fellow travelers in communal areas, and let the island's spirit embrace you as you create connections and memories that will last a lifetime.
Gili Air's serene environment is the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation of the mind, body, and soul. Immerse yourself in the island's wellness culture by choosing a yoga retreat or wellness center as your accommodation. Wake up to morning yoga sessions overlooking the sea, nourish your body with wholesome meals, and indulge in spa treatments that restore balance and harmony. Allow yourself to unwind, find inner peace, and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery in these idyllic sanctuaries.
Gili Air's serene environment is the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation of the mind, body, and soul. Immerse yourself in the island's wellness culture by choosing a yoga retreat or wellness center as your accommodation. Wake up to morning yoga sessions overlooking the sea, nourish your body with wholesome meals, and indulge in spa treatments that restore balance and harmony. Allow yourself to unwind, find inner peace, and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery in these idyllic sanctuaries.
Location, Location
Our Favourite Gili Air Stay Options
Please ensure that the ticket you are buying is for the boat company that you want to travel with. Unfortunately, a number of websites advertise cheap tickets to customers for reputable boat companies, but when they arrive at the harbor they discover, to their dismay, that they are booked with a different company, or no record of the booking exists!
Book With Us With Confidence.
Book With Us With Confidence.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Questions
Travel times range from 2 hours for fast boats from Bali to Gili Air and about 1 hour from Amed.
The fast boat services from Bali to Gili Air depart from Serangan, Padang Bai, and Amed in Bali. We suggest choosing your departure harbor based on your pick-up location. Blue Water Express and Gili Getaway depart from Serangan in South Bali, with Gili Gili and Blue Water Express offering Padang Bai departures from east Bali.
If you're staying in Ubud or Candidasa a Padang Bai departure is recommended with Gili Gili or Blue Water Express. They both offer a direct route to the Gili Islands, with Gili Air often the second stop with Gili Gili, and the third stop with Blue Water Express. If you're staying in the North of Bali around the Amed or Tulamben area we recommend a departure from Amed with Freebird Express.
Prices vary from 25 USD to 50 USD depending on the operator and season.
Our prices include FREE hotel pick-up and drop-off (services offered by the boat operator) in Bali (terms apply) unless your hotel is situated outside of the major tourist areas.
Check-in time is 30 minutes prior to departure. If you have arranged your own transport to the departure point you will find the harbor location on your e-ticket.
There is no hotel shuttle service included on departure and arrival on Gili Air.
Our prices include FREE hotel pick-up and drop-off (services offered by the boat operator) in Bali (terms apply) unless your hotel is situated outside of the major tourist areas.
Check-in time is 30 minutes prior to departure. If you have arranged your own transport to the departure point you will find the harbor location on your e-ticket.
There is no hotel shuttle service included on departure and arrival on Gili Air.
It’s easy to travel from one island to the other. From each Gili Island there is an island hopper boat leaving in the morning and returning in the afternoon. On each island you also have the option to charter your own boat at any time.
The rainy season is from November till March but don’t let this hold you back to visit the Gili Islands. The rain commonly falls by the end of the afternoon. There is no better feeling than a natural shower after a long hot day on the beach! The average temperature is between 27C and 32C and the average humidity is 70%.
Prices of accommodation run between IDR 150,000 per night for a dorm room and up to IDR 10,000,000 per night for your own private villa - it depends on your budget. The options are endless but there is something for everyone! Whether you're looking for cheap, budget lodging like homestays, hostels, bungalows, or more exclusive upmarket cottages, villas, and resorts - the glorious Gili's will accommodate you!
Gili Trawangan
Gili Air
Gili Meno
Gili Gede
Lombok
Nusa Penida
Nusa Lembongan