Which Gili Island Is Best For Honeymoon – Gili Islands Guide

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If you’re travelling to Bali for your honeymoon, then a trip to the Gili Islands is a must! These heavenly island paradises of Indonesia are just a few hours from Bali, yet a world away.

While is so much to see and do on Bali, a Gili Islands trip is the perfect opportunity to turn your big trip into a heavenly island hopping honeymoon.

Along with the Nusa Islands, the Gili Islands are the most convenient islands in Indonesia to add on to Bali.

Lying on the beach, sipping on a fresh coconut, a cool bottle of Bintang or a delicious cocktail at a beach bar, getting an iconic shot on an ocean swing, snorkelling and diving, having the most relaxed fun in the crystal-clear waters and watching the most beautiful sunsets.

These are the things Gili Islands’ honeymoon dreams are made of. Will it be Gili Trawangan, dubbed ‘the party island’, Gili Meno dubbed ‘the honeymoon island’ or the Gili Air ‘the in-between island’?

Read some of other articles about Indonesia:
Ultimate Bali Honeymoon Guide
The best time to visit Bali
Things To Do In Bali
Thailand or Bali, which is the best?
Maldives or Bali, which is the best?

Let’s help you decide which Gili island is best for honeymoon with our Gili Islands Honeymoon Guide.

About the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a trio of islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air in Indonesia.

Known locally as Gili Indah, which means “small beautiful islands”. They’re a beautiful and popular add on to a Bali honeymoon itinerary, so which Gili island is best for honeymoon is one of the biggest questions we get asked!

Just a 10-15 minute speedboat ride away, the Gili Islands are actually closer to Bali’s equally large neighbouring island, Lombok.

However, the vast majority of couples planning a Bali honeymoon will get to the Gili Islands by taking the fast boat from Bali. The Gili Islands have a much slower pace of life, with no motorised vehicles.

Getting to the Gili Islands

To get to the Gili Islands from Bali is easy, with many boats travelling from different ports in Bali.

Fast boats depart from Serangan (south), Padangbai (centre) and Amed (north) and will go to Gili Trawangan.

There aren’t as many direct ferries to Gili Meno & Gili Air, so sometimes boats will do multiple stops. It takes between 1 hour (from Amed), 1.5 hours from Padangbai to 2.5 hours (from Serangan) to get to Gili Trawangan.

Book your Bali to Gili Trawangan ferry
Book your Bali to Gili Air ferry
Book your Bali to Gili Meno ferry

From Lombok, it’s just a 10-15 minute speedboat from Teluk Nare harbour or 30 minute ferry from the popular resort hub, Senggigi.

It’s worth noting for couples planning to get to the Gili Islands from Bali, when the seas are rough, the boat companies can cancel boat transfers.

While this is OK if you’ve time to kill, if you’re on a shorter honeymoon, it’s not ideal.

From October to April, during the rainy season, we recommend considering taking a flight to Lombok (airport code: LOP) rather than a boat because of the unpredictable sea conditions and the possibility of last-minute boat cancellations.

Getting around the Gili Islands

Most couples get around the Gili Islands by foot or by bike and many hotels and villas are only a few minutes’ walk away from the port.

If your accommodation is further away, you can also opt for a cidomo, a local horse-drawn carriage.

These are a common means of transportation. However, the welfare of the horses can vary. Opting to walk or cycle if you’re not sure.

You could leave your bags in Bali (either with your hotel or in storage) and travel light to the Gili Islands.

Accommodation on the Gili Islands

On the Gili Islands, you won’t find the same standard as the ultra luxury resorts that you find in Bali, so it’s important to manage your expectations in this respect if you’re thinking about which Gili Island is best.

The Gili Islands have more of a backpacker vibe, but there are some cute boutique style properties that are more than suitable for a heavenly honeymoon.

We’d recommend booking in advance, too. Don’t just turn up without having your accommodation booked.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan, affectionately known as Gili T, is the largest, most developed, and most visited island among the Gili Islands.

With a clear view of Bali, this tropical paradise has stunning sunsets that stretch across the horizon, creating the perfect honeymoon backdrop.

Gili Trawangan’s reputation is of the party island and it definitely is, with bars and restaurants concentrated along a bustling strip.

However, if you venture away from this area, you’ll find quieter stretches of pristine beaches and areas to have a quiet beer or cocktail.

The island is tiny and you could walk around it in around 2 hours. Grabbing a bicycle is the perfect mode of transportation for Gili Trawangan as it’s a car free paradise.

There isn’t much law enforcement. Which lends itself to a, let’s say, looser atmosphere on Gili Trawangan (in terms of drugs and alcohol).

On the eastern side of Gili Trawangan, the main street, next to the old port and newly built harbour, you’ll find a concentration of bars and restaurants that are open well into the early hours.

However, if you’re not into partying or being in the centre of it all, the western coast of Gili Trawangan is less developed, so it is ideal for an escape from the crowds with its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters of the Java Sea and the most beautiful sunsets in the world.

They recently built a road looping from east to west, making it easier to navigate if you want to stay on the west side with access to the nightlife of the east side.

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to learn how to dive and get your PADI certificate. For experienced divers, there are many dive spots, including a chance to swim with majestic sea turtles.

Gili Meno and Gili Air are tranquil in comparison, but Gili Trawangan provides a well-rounded experience with its mix of parties, diving, snorkelling, more secluded corners with the best choice of hotels and dining.

Essentially, a Gili Trawangan honeymoon can be whatever you want it to be!

Where to stay on Gili Trawangan

PinkCoco Gili Trawangan is ideal for barbie vibes and the location of some of the best sunsets. It’s a great for couples who want something fun in the heart of the action.

Ponte Villas, Utara Villas or Kaleydo Villas are worth considering for their spacious, bright accommodation.

Aston Sunset Beach Resort has long been a favourite of honeymoons.

Pondok Santi Estate is one of the most luxurious hotels nestled in a former ancient coconut plantation centre of the island.

Where to eat on Gili Trawangan

Indulge in Voodoo Kitchen’s tasty burgers, the pizzas at Francescos are a must, spend the night feasting on Mexican-inspired cuisine and cocktails at Tiki Grove, and enjoy Jali Kitchen’s soul food.

Experience Casa Vintage’s sunset and bites and Night Market has warung-style vendors selling fresh seafood that is really affordable.

Things to do on Gili Trawangan

• Scuba Diving: Explore the spectacular dive sites around Gili Trawangan with colourful fish and vibrant reefs. Blue Marlin and Trawangan Dive Centre will sort all your diving needs, including PADI courses, for beginners and advanced divers.

• Snorkelling: It’s easy to snorkel in Gili Trawangan and you can hire equipment from the water centres on the island. Grab a bike and head to the northern coast, where you’ll find the best marine life for snorkelling.
  
  Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and witness the vibrant underwater world up close, include majestic turtles. If you prefer, you can book a guided snorkelling trip, too.

• Horse Riding: Connect with nature and animals by embarking on a horseback riding adventure with STUD Horse Riding and Rescue.
  
  Ride across the island’s diverse landscapes, gallop on the beach, and even take a refreshing dip in the water. Sunset rides and pony paddle experiences are also available. Book in advance on Viator.

• Cooking Classes: Learn to make some delicious Indonesian dishes with Gili Cooking Classes. Choose from their selection of three different courses using local ingredients. Secure your spots with Viator.

• Walk or Bike Around the Island: Explore the picturesque surroundings of Gili Trawangan on leisurely walk or bike ride.
  
  The island’s looping pathway has stunning views. Don’t miss the hill in the centre of the island, which is also a lovely spot to watch the sunset too.

• Spa Day: Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating Balinese massage. Gili Trawangan has numerous spas and wellness centres where you can unwind and revitalise your senses. Try The Rose Spa and You Spa.

• Gili Market: Shopping by day, eating by night. If you want to pick up some locally made goods, this is the place to do it. You can dine cheaply at the Gili Trawangan Night Market in the evening.

• Yoga time: Unwind and find inner peace at one of the many yoga studios on Gili Trawangan.
  
  Try Sunset Beach Yoga, which is a treehouse. Immerse yourself in calming practices and reconnect with your mind, body, and soul.

• Ocean swing: Capture stunning photos at some of the iconic swings. The one located at Hotel Ombak Sunset is probably the most popular and you’ll usually have to queue. It’s one of those things that has to be done!

• Surfing: While the Gili Islands might not have the waves of Canggu or Uluwatu, it has some breaks that are ideal for beginners. Book in advance on Viator.

• Charter a boat: Charter your own boat and crew for the ultimate magical Gili Islands island-hopping experience. Book in advance on Viator.

• Magical Sunsets: Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets that Gili Trawangan is known for.
  
  Head to popular sunset spots like PinkCoco, where you can relax, sip on a cocktail, and witness the sky painted in vibrant hues.

• Party the night away: Once the sun sets, Gili Trawangan’s nightlife comes alive. Music and socialising with fellow revellers is the name of the game.

Gili Meno

Gili Meno, the smallest of the three islands, lies between Gili Trawangan and Gili Air

Gili Meno is extremely quiet and romantic, making it ideal for couples seeking an island escape and a secluded castaway private island feel.

Of all three Gili Islands, Gili Meno gets the least amount of tourists. Yet, despite its secluded ambiance, Gili Meno is only a short speedboat ride away from the other Gili Islands.

Gili Meno has arguably the best beaches, and it’s a haven for those looking for an unspoiled island experience.

Relaxation and romance are the focus here, whether you’re reading a book in a hammock while listening to the ocean waves or exploring the sea searching for turtles.

You can easily explore the entire island on foot or by bike. You might even have some beaches to yourself. Enjoy the serenity and natural beauty.

Spend your days relaxing on the beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, dazzling white sands, and relax under the shade of coconut palm trees.

If you’re looking to switch off together in solitude and quietness, and don’t need lively bars or beach clubs, then Gili Meno is wonderful.

Escape the crowds, unwind, and embrace the tranquil atmosphere of this little paradise.

If you think Gili Meno might be a bit too quiet, you can also take a day trip from the other Gili Islands, too. Book on GetYourGuide.

Where to stay on Gili Meno

Gili Meno has fewer accommodation options but there are some cute boltholes like Gili Meno Escape, Kura-Kura Beach Resort, Seri Resort Gili Meno and Mahamaya Gili Meno.

Les Villas Ottalia has some beautiful villas.

Where to eat on Gili Meno

Gili Meno doesn’t have the same choice of restaurants and bars as Gili Air or Gili Trawangan. Mahamaya Gili Meno is worth checking out.

There are a couple of warungs (that sell cheaper Indonesian food). Jizzy Warung is our top pick and has tasty and cheap food.

Things to do on Gili Meno

• Diving: Explore the spectacular dive sites around Gili Meno, including the Gili Meno Wall.
  
  Encounter fascinating marine life, including majestic turtles. Blue Marlin Dive Gili Meno will sort all your diving needs, including PADI courses.

• Snorkelling: It’s easy to snorkel just offshore and you can hire equipment from the water centres on the island. Look out for turtles.
  
  Visit the “Nest,” an underwater sculpture by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor. Discover the 48 life-sized human figures. If you go early in the morning, you might have this famous site for yourselves.

• Baby Turtles: The Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary is a rudimentary conservation project on the island to give turtles a chance of survival. They nurse them until they’re about 8 months old.

• Salt Lake and Mangroves: Take a walk to Gili Meno Saltwater Lake, located northwest of the island.
  
  Enjoy the tranquil surroundings, observe unique flora and fauna, and appreciate the natural beauty away from the beaches.

• Spa: Indulge in rejuvenating massages and pampering body treatments offered on the island. Unwind and revitalise your senses amidst the serene atmosphere of Gili Meno.

• Island Stroll: Take a leisurely stroll around the island, which can be completed in about two hours. Enjoy breathtaking views of Gili Air, Lombok, Gili Trawangan, and Bali’s Mt. Agung volcano.

Gili Air

Gili Air is the ultimate blend of the other two Gilis, with a unique and chilled-out island experience.

It strikes the perfect balance between the lively atmosphere of Gili Trawangan and the serene vibes of Gili Meno. This is the place to be if you’re looking for a relaxed honeymoon getaway, while still enjoying a range of hotel and dining options.

Gili Air is the second largest of the 3 islands and it’s closest to Lombok, thus, it has a larger local population. Gili Air is the only Gili that offers uninterrupted views of Lombok’s magnificent northern coast.

The east side of the island boasts spectacular views of distant Mount Rinjani in Lombok, especially at sunrise.

The island is surrounded by beautiful clear water teeming with life.

Just like the other Gilis, Gili Air maintains its tranquil atmosphere by prohibiting cars and motorbikes. The island is so small that you can explore it entirely by bicycle in just 30 minutes.

With more locals on Gili Air, the island has an authentic Indonesian atmosphere. The people outside of Bali in Indonesia are Muslim rather than Hindu, although religions may differ, ethnically, the people are the same in language and ancestry.

When it comes to food and drinks, Gili Air has many more options than Gili Meno with a variety of restaurants and bars.

However, the mood here differs completely from the party scene on Gili Trawangan’s main street, although there are a handful of livelier bars, too.

Gili Air has everything that you need except for a party strip like Gili Trawangan. You can relax in honeymoon bliss with plenty of bike rides, beach days, snorkelling and diving.

Where to stay on Gili Air

If you’re wondering where to stay on Gili Air for honeymoon, the island has some lovely options, from little boutique boltholes to stunning villas.

Villa Tokay is a little boutique paradise with heavenly villas. The Leaf at Villa Tokay is one of our top picks for honeymoon hotels in the Gili Islands. The bamboo villa has a contemporary feel and you won’t find better service in the Gili Islands.

PinkCoco Gili Air – for Cool Adults Only is another great pick with frivolous bright rooms, beach location and iconic swing.

Mola2 Resort Gili Air is in a quiet location. Rimba Villas Gili Air is also stunning and Villa Casa Koko is a standalone villa worth considering.

Where to eat on Gili Air

You’ll find a wide range of dining and imbibing establishments to choose from. From beachside cafes, traditional Indonesian warungs to international cuisine, Gili Air has something for your tastebuds.

Mowie’s is a popular spot known for its craft cocktails and delicious food. Pachamama Organic Cafe is a lovely option and ideal for vegan and vegetarians.

Delicious pizza is available in Classico Italiano. Try Zipp Bar for good BBQ and Warung Sunny is worth a stop, too.

Have a sunset drink at Legend Bar. If you’re in the mood for gelato, try Scooperific.

Things to do in Gili Air

• Diving: Like all the Gili Islands, there are plenty of diving centres. We’d recommend Oceans 5 and Blue Marlin Dive.
  
  You can explore vibrant coral reefs and fascinating marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are options for fun dives and PADI training courses.

• Snorkelling: You don’t have to go far to discover coral reefs and colourful reefs. Head for the north island for a chance to swim with turtles.

• Watch the sunset: On the western side of Gili Air, where you’ll find pristine white-sand beaches and iconic ocean swings at Gili Lumbung Beach Club and PinkCoco (with no queues like you sometimes find on Gili Trawangan)

• Take a yoga class: Tranquility and wellness on your little slice of paradise. There are many yoga centres on Gili Air but H2O Yoga and Meditation Centre is our favourite.

• Cycling: Hire a bicycle and embark on a leisurely ride around the entire island.
  
  Admire the view of Lombok’s rugged coast, including the magnificent Mount Rinjani in the distance. Within about an hour, you can explore the charming coastal path.

• Stand-up Paddleboarding: Hire a paddleboard and cruise around the island. Just beware of strong currents!

• Cooking Classes: Learn to make some delicious Indonesian dishes with Gili Cooking Classes. Choose from their selection of three different courses using local ingredients.

• Heavenly Spa: Indulge in a relaxing spa at The Slow Spa

• Take a day trip to Gili Meno: Gili M is just a few minutes speedboat ride away so it’s easy to visit for a morning or full day if you’ve time.

The Secret Gilis

Did you know about the secret Gilis? Well, maybe not exactly secret! Gili simply means ‘island’ or ‘islet’ in the local Sasak language.

Lombok is surrounded by Gilis. Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, Gili Tangdok, Gili Petelu and Gili Kedis, to name a few!

You can easily visit them on a boat trip if you’re staying in Lombok.

Some are no more than tiny sandbars with vegetation and incredible snorkelling. However, if you want to get a little of the beaten track, consider Kokomo Resort Gili Gede, which has beautiful villas where you can soak up the secret Gili Islands’ life!

Frequently Asked Questions

We hope you’ve found this Gili Islands guide useful and figured out which Gili Islands is best for honeymoon for you and your love. Let us know which island you choose!

Happy Planning x