Gili Islands From Bali: What You Need To Know Before You Go

If you’re planning a vacation to Indonesia and have come across the Gili Islands from Bali, you've found heaven. Only a short boat trip from Bali, the three Gili Islands are a little piece of paradise off the coast of Lombok. 

Tourism has grown dramatically in the past ten years as people have learned about these small pockets of beauty. Even though they aren't as tranquil as they once were, the Gili Islands are nonetheless incredibly beautiful and well worth a visit. It's definitely a must-see on any Bali itinerary!

If you're looking to travel from Bali to Gili and need assistance planning your holiday, then you're come to the right place. We'll walk you through the best way to travel to Gili Islands from Bali and other useful information.

How To Travel From Bali To The Gili Islands

Fast Boat

The best way to travel from Bali to Gili Islands is by fast boat. It is the most convenient option and provides the best overall value. You have several ports to choose from, various boat companies and departure times.

For the majority of fast boats from the Gili Islands to Bali, tickets can be bought at the pier, although we strongly advise buying them online in advance. It ensures you a seat, which is crucial during peak season, and the price difference is negligible.

Padang Bai is the port with the most options and the quickest journey time (around 2 hours). For visitors staying in central and northern Bali, as well as those without a reservation, it serves as the primary entry point to the Gili Islands. Take traffic into consideration and try to arrive 30 minutes before departure. 

The best way to travel from Bali to Gili Islands is by fast boat

Ferry

Public ferries are the longest route from Bali and Gili. This was formerly the most economical way in case you intended to explore Lombok before traveling to the Gili Islands. Allow us to simplify the journey for you so that you may grasp what we mean: To get to the Gili Island of your choice, take a public ferry from Padang Bai to Lembar Harbour in Lombok. From there, take a cab or shuttle to Bangsal Port.

Public ferries are the longest route from Bali and Gili

Helicopter

Helicopter travel is the most costly way to get to the Gili Islands from Bali. When searching  "how to get to Gili from Bali," this is probably not the mode of transportation you would anticipate, but it is unquestionably a singular and remarkable experience. And you don't have to worry about getting seasick!

You may take in breathtaking aerial views of Bali and Lombok during the about 30- to 40-minute trip. Fly Bali and Air Bali are the firms that provide this service. Be aware of luggage limits and budget about $600 per person.

Best Time To Visit Gili Islands From Bali

The Gili Islands are normally best visited between June and October. This is the dry season and offers the best opportunity for calm waters and clear skies. Traveling during the dry season, however, also represents traveling at the busiest time of year. Accommodations may sell out quickly during this busy time. Just make sure to book as far in advance as you can if you'll be traveling at that time.

However, Bali is well-liked all year round, and many tourists would rather avoid the crowds with a chance of rain. However, it's recommended to book for more favorable weather if your vacation is rather short. Storms during the rainy season may also have an impact on ferry schedules and make boat trips to the islands uncomfortable.

The Gili Islands are normally best visited between June and October

Best Things To Do In The Gili Islands

Gili is a well-liked vacation spot for tourists from around the world. It's hardly surprising that the Gili Islands offer enough activities to occupy you for a few days. Be sure to add this to your to-do list whether you are taking a day trip to Gili Islands from Bali or spending multiple days on the island.

Scuba dive the reefs of the Gili Island

Snorkeling and diving are the top activities on the Gili Islands. Good snorkeling is available from the beaches, and there are two dozen places within a half-hour boat ride, making it both accessible and rewarding. 

Shark Point, Hann's Reef, Meno Wall, Halik, and Manta Point are some of the most popular dive destinations. Diving centers typically send boats to at least three different locations each day because they are so close, giving customers a lot of options and flexibility.

Snorkeling and diving are the top activities on the Gili Islands

Engage in some exhilarating water activities

Scuba diving isn't the only activity on the Gilis. Here, visitors can kayak, wakeboard, surf, freedive, and parasail. The reef breaks off Kokomo, Trawangan, and the southern edge of Gili Air are the ideal places to go tubing.

Visitors can kayak, wakeboard, surf, freedive, and parasail at Gili Islands

Party on Gili Trawangan

A trip from Bali to Gili T is well worth it. The well-known nightlife of Gili T centers on a few locations that alternate hosting sizable gatherings a few times a week (from roughly 10 p.m. till 3 a.m. or later). Around sunset, when large numbers congregate at the beach for pictures, the west and southwest portions of the island are extremely popular for drinks. 

Head north to Karma Kayak for a more relaxed atmosphere at sunset. The southeast shore, which is remote from the settlement, turns into Gili T's famous party scene as the evening wears on.

Mellow Meno

You don't need to travel back in time to enjoy the Gilis of yesteryear; simply take a boat to the laid-back Meno, a Gili without the crowds. With a population of about 500, Meno is the smallest and most peaceful of the islands.

There's lots of room to gaze at the horizon, some stunning uninhabited beaches, and a pleasantly laid-back, barefoot atmosphere. With views of Gili Air and Lombok to the east and Trawangan and Bali's Gunung Agung to the west, a leisurely walk around the island takes roughly two hours.

Experience the thrill of horseback riding on the shore

For those who enjoy horses and adventure, stud horseback riding excursions on the Gili Islands provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The island's stunning beaches and verdant scenery may be experienced in a new and exhilarating way by horseback riding across the pristine seas. 

Riders may enjoy the spectacular vistas and the refreshing sea wind as the knowledgeable guides lead them around the island's breathtaking surroundings. This is a fantastic activity to undertake when visiting the Gili Islands from Bali, regardless of your level of riding experience.

Stud horseback riding excursions on the Gili Islands provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience

Visit Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary

Visiting the Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary is one of the top things to do in the Gili Islands. Numerous sea turtles call the refuge home. In addition to learning about the conservation efforts being done to save these incredible animals, visitors may get up close and personal with endangered turtles. The Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary provides a special chance to engage with sea turtles sustainably and responsibly.

Conclusion

The dreamy island lifestyle that one imagines for any beach holiday is lounging beneath a palm tree, with sandy toes beside the blue waters. If you are planning your Indonesia itinerary, it's likely that you won't want to pass up the opportunity to explore the Gili Islands from Bali.

Regardless of which one of the three Gili islands you choose,  you can enjoy white sand beaches, pristine oceans, vibrant nightlife, or a quiet retreat. 

Before embarking on your adventure, make sure you have all the needed travel documents. Applying for an Indonesia eVisa is fast and simple on our site. Our services make sure the visa process is smooth, safe, and saves you time and work. With our expert support, you can skip the long lines and hard forms at your local embassy. Apply now and get set to enjoy the sights of Gili Island from Bali with ease!