Gili Trawangan, or commonly known as Gili T, is one of the Gili Islands – the three small islands located in the northwest of Lombok, Indonesia. Gili Trawangan is the largest island among the three, while the rest two are Gili Meno and Gili Air.

Most visitors come and stay in Gili Trawangan to get the most of the accommodations and facilities and make a short trip to the other two islands. Its well-known relaxing white sandy beach, underwater beauty, and notorious nightlife have invited all kinds of travelers to this beautiful island, from solo backpackers, romantic honeymooners, families with kids, adrenaline junkies, zen enthusiasts, or anything in between.

Gili Trawangan can be reached by 30 minutes boat ride from Bangsal (the closest harbor in Lombok), or regular daily fast boats departing from Bali. A wide range of accommodations is available throughout the island, along with restaurants, café, and dive centers. ATMs are available in Hotel Villa Ombak and Coral Beach in Gili Trawangan.

Best Things to Do in Gili Trawangan

  • Water sports and activities
    Many dive centers and operators line up along the beach, so you can book a trip to go snorkeling or scuba diving on the 25 dive sites around the three islands, or just simply rent the snorkeling gear for half a day.
    You can also do island hopping between Gili Islands, to Gili Meno, and Gili Air islands. However, be aware of the strong current and avoid swimming between any islands. Besides snorkeling and scuba diving, you can also arrange fishing trips, boat charters, or have fun with water sports like a jet ski or banana boat.
  • Relaxing on the beach
    If you are not into extreme sports or activities, enjoy the beach, do sun-bathing, or bar-hopping can be something fun, too. Grab a sip of fresh coconut water and enjoy the art of doing nothing here, while waiting for the appearance of the majestic sunrise and sunset. However, be aware that some streets have some signs not to allow wearing a two-piece bikini in a particular area.
  • Party, nightlife, and food
    Gili Trawangan becomes more alive at night. Enjoy your evening by going out and enjoying the vibes along the street and beach with the food, beers, and dancing accompanied by the DJ on the beach bars.
  • Explore the island
    Since there are no motorized transportations is allowed on the three islands, you can explore the island by foot (approximately 2 hours), bicycle, or pony carts known as cidomo.

Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan

For budget accommodations, Gili T has Alexyane Paradise, Blue Star Bungalows, Abdi Homestay, Turtle Bungalows, Flush Bungalows, and Pomodoro Homestay. While for mid-range options, you can try Gili T Resort, The Beach House, Dream Village, Good Heart Bungalow, and Villa Unggal. If you are keen on middle up range luxury stays, a few choices are Scallywags and Danima Resort, and private, and luxury villas include Sunset Beach Villa, Villa Romane and Lucas, Villa Bhuvana, Villa Rumah Rindah, Pandawa Beach Villas and Resort, Gili Teak Resort, Villa Luna, Pearl of Trawangan, and Aston Sunset Beach Resort.