Gili Islands: Which one is best for you?

Best for backpackers and party-goers

The largest of the three islands, Gili Trawangan, is also the most visited. With bars and restaurants lining the beaches, expect a lively atmosphere with travellers from all corners of the globe partying late into the night. 

What to do You won’t run out of things to do on Gili Trawangan. Beyond snorkelling and scuba diving, there are other watersports like paddle boarding, parasailing, and wakeboarding. On land, explore by horseback at Stud Horse Riding Stables, cycle around the island, or get competitive at Gili Golf. Once the sun goes down, check out the infamous party scene – there are a whole host of bars, pubs, clubs and live music venues to choose from here.

Where to eat Jali Kitchen is one of the highest-rated restaurants on the island, serving home-style Asian fusion dishes. Be sure to leave room for dessert – their cakes and baked treats are particularly delicious. For beachside dining, La Cala Beach Club serves everything from savoury burgers and grilled dishes to healthy options like fresh salads and poke bowls. It’s the perfect spot to lounge and sip cocktails with a sea view.

Where to stay There’s something for every budget in Gili Trawangan. Majo Private Villas offers beautifully designed accommodation, each boasting a private pool and chill-out area amongst tropical gardens. Meanwhile, La Cocoteraie Ecolodge has luxury safari tents and a pool nestled in a shaded coconut grove.

Best for honeymooners and travellers who want to disconnect 

Although right next door, Gili Meno feels like a world away from the bright lights and booming speakers of Gili Trawangan. With much less infrastructure and no nightlife scene, it’s no surprise that it’s a favourite choice for couples and older travellers seeking a peaceful beach holiday. 

What to do There isn’t much to do on Gili Meno, but that’s part of the appeal. Days consist mainly of swimming, sunbathing, and taking it slow by cycling around the island or strolling around the saltwater lake. Gili Meno is the best island for snorkelling, with colourful reefs and the famous Nest underwater statues, a popular spot to take Instagram photos.

Where to eat For a fancy dinner, head to the restaurant at BASK for refined dining, including sushi, steak, and sharing dishes. There are also plenty of places to try local food, and Le’ Batavia is a standout with its delicious food, generous portions, friendly service, and great prices.

Where to stay Mahamaya is worth splashing out for, with a range of suites and beachfront villas. Also on the beach is Sunset House Gili Meno, where each room offers sea views and a private balcony.

Best for families, yogis, and those looking to chill out

Gili Air is an idyllic blend of the other two, with a more laid-back nightlife and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It has more of a community feel, with many locally-owned businesses, including cafes, clothing boutiques, and spas.

What to do Gili Air is ideal for beach bums, with vast stretches of soft, white sand without the crowds. It also has more amenities than Gili Meno, so you’ll easily find bean bags and loungers to set up for the day. Gili Air is also excellent for yoga enthusiasts – H2O Yoga and Flowers and Fire are two of the most popular studios.

Where to eat You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to places to eat, with everything from street food to beachside dining. Warung Sunny serves authentic Indonesian food and barbecued seafood dishes, and also offers cooking lessons. No talk of Gili Air would be complete without mentioning Mama Pizza, the most popular spot on the island – they’re open for lunch, but if you want to bag a table on the sand for sunset, come around 5pm to avoid disappointment and very long queues. Their wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta are often cited as being better than you’d find in Italy. 

Where to stay Surrounded by greenery, L’Archipel has luxury rooms set around a swimming pool, each one with a private terrace and open-air shower. On the island's north side is Ama-Lurra Resort, where each villa has a private pool and lawn area. You’re just steps away from the beach with fantastic sunset views.