Top 10 Things to Do in Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan is part of the trio of Gili Islands along with Gili Meno and Gili Air. You will surely find lots of things to do on this paradise island that is part serene and part hype.

Affectionately known as ‘Gili T’, this island has a reputation as a party spot for a reason. Half the island is dedicated to late-night bars and loud music. However, the island’s far side is just as beautiful as its two sisters. The beaches are clean and beautiful and make a great base for a day of swimming and snorkeling. Again, there are many opportunities to dive, be it your first or hundredth time.

Cycle and explore the island

One of the best activities around here is cycling, as there are no cars in Gili Trawangan. By cycling, you will also find yourself exploring the island in depth. One can easily rent a bicycle here on Trawangan, and you can spend a few hours circumventing the island.

Enjoy the viewpoint

Gili Trawangan is known for its highest point, aptly named ‘The Viewpoint’. It takes around half an hour to walk there from the island’s central hub, but it is well worth it for the views over the sea and towards the other islands in this part of Indonesia, like Lombok and Bali.

Catch Gili’s famous swing on the sea

Find the famous swing on the sea and get a beautiful picture with the romantic sunset as a backdrop. This swing can be found west of Gili Trawangan at Ombak Sunset resort hotel *.

Diving

The Gili Islands have some of the best dive spots in the country, as the conditions here are clear and calm. Most people choose to dive off the coast from Gili Trawangan as this island has the best variety of dive shops and diving packages. Although not one of the top sites to dive in Indonesia, Gili Islands still offer quite a diving experience with some (harmless) sharks, rays, turtles, and more.

Snorkeling

One of the best and easiest ways to enjoy the sea is by snorkeling. You will find lots of snorkeling rentals in Gili Trawangan, so just grab one and go spotting turtles, colorful fish, and maybe even a baby shark for far less than the price of a diving excursion from Gili Trawangan.

Take a boat tour

A boat tour can be easily arranged from Gili Trawangan with its many operators. They offer boat trips ranging from a simple trip between the islands to a luxurious glass-bottom boat tour of the surrounding seas. If you charter a boat to island hop, it can cost around IDR 300,000, depending on your haggling skills. But if you want to check out the other islands more cheaply, you can get the local ferry for IDR 30,000.

Visit the local night market

The local night market here is something not to be missed. Every evening a night market will be set up in the main square of Gili Trawangan at around dusk. This is also one of the island’s best places to grab dinner. You will find many local stalls selling traditional snacks such as grilled satay and spicy corn on the cob, or you may go for some simple fried noodles or rice dishes. The food here is usually cheaper than the restaurants or cafes on the island, but it is equally, if not more, delicious.

Eat some seafood

Eating loads of fresh seafood is a must if one is on a paradise island. There are many local restaurants here that will display the day’s catch. There are no better ways to enjoy fresh seafood than having them grilled over coconut husks and served with steamed rice.

Nightlife Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is known for being the ‘party island,’ but don’t expect this to be anything like the nightlife scene in Kuta in Bali. Nonetheless, you will find a range of beach bars that play music well into the night. Some venues will have special-themed nights and dance parties, so look out for them. If you prefer a relaxing evening, head to Evolution Bar for live band music.

Try an open-air cinema

This may not sound like an activity you thought you would do here, but it is an experience. If you happen to know one coming up, do give it a try. You can sit on bean bags at the open-air cinema and enjoy a movie on a big screen under the stars. The most famous open-air cinema takes place on the main beach of Gili Trawangan. But many guesthouses and hotels have noted its popularity and set up their open-air cinemas too.


Best Accommodations on Gili Trawangan

Pearl Trawangan
A beachfront resort with an outdoor pool and bar, this place is ideal for those who want to relax in style. Styled with rustic designs, the individual huts are unique and inviting. Themed with a tropical island feel and filled with lush gardens; it is truly a dream to stay here. Prices start from 140 USD.
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *

Desa Dunia Beda
Another beachfront resort features spacious standalone bungalows and villas with a traditional wood interior. Each villa has its private terraces, and there is also an outdoor pool. Prices start from 120 USD.
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com *.
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *

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