Top Gili Island Attractions

With the stunning three islands comprising Gili Islands, there are so many things to see and do. You and your besties will love the water sports adventures of snorkelling and scuba diving. Why not enjoy a sunset swing above the crystal-clear waters or learn how to surf? Head to Gili Trawangan Viewpoint, where you can take in the spectacular views of the other islands. Go horseback ride along the beach and hit the night markets, which are a foodie’s delight with local seafood and traditional dishes served up. You can also watch a traditional Stick Fighting combat tournament. Whether on land or at sea, you’ll find so many wonderful things to explore at Gili Islands.

We have some great Wicked Hens packages with Gili Island Attractions, and we also allow you to build your own package by incorporating a range of our ideas.

To make the most of your time in Gili Islands, we have compiled a list of ten unforgettable experiences and attractions you should do when visiting these gorgeous islands.

Enjoy a full-day snorkelling tour around the Gili Islands

There’s no better way to explore the wonderful coral reefs underwater than with a private snorkelling tour on a glass-bottom boat. The trip includes stops on all three islands where you can spot sea turtles, green turtles, and hawksbill turtles. You’ll also see bounty wrecks and underwater sculptures during your snorkelling adventure. You’ll even stop for a delicious lunch. It’s a must-do experience for Gili Island Attractions.

Tour the Islands by foot, bike or boat

You can walk around Gili’s on foot, which will take you approximately one to two hours, with trails weaving against the stunning beach backdrops. Alternatively, on Gili Trawangan, you can rent a bike and explore the island that way. Another way to see the islands is by public boats departing twice daily or chartering your own boat. Whichever way you choose to take in the breathtaking sights of the Gili Islands, it will be well worth it.

Visit the Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary

Turtles are precious to Gili Islands, with the most common being the Green Turtle. Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary was set up to help preserve the turtle wildlife on the island, and a visit there is something you definitely should do. You’ll get to see baby turtles being nurtured in a small pool, and after about eight months, they are released into the sea.  

Head to Gili Trawangan Viewpoint

Take in the jaw-dropping views of Gili Islands and Lombok at Gili Trawangan Viewpoint. The viewpoint, located in the southern part of the island, is only a short walk (a 100-meter hill) and is the highest point on Gili Trawangan. If you’re looking for a great place to catch a dazzling sunset, then this is it!

Learn how to surf at Gili Trawangan

Have you always been envious of watching the ladies jumping in the ocean with their board and catching the waves? Then a surfing lesson at Bongkas Surf School is a must for Gili Island Attractions. Bongkas Surf School is located in Gili Trawangan, which is highly regarded as the best surf spot, and the classes are excellent for beginners. You can also try windsurfing, too.

Take a horseback ride along the beach

You don’t need to be an equestrian to embark on a horseback ride on one of the beautiful beaches of the Gili islands. There are a variety of options available that are suitable for beginners. The King Stable Horse Riding Tour is one of the most popular. The one-hour tours allow you to either catch a glimpse at the beautiful sunrise or sunset.

Live it up on a party boat

If you’re in the mood to party, then five hours onboard the best boat party in Gili not only provides breathtaking views but an amazing atmosphere as you sail through the islands. You’ll enjoy a complimentary welcome drink, swim at Lombok and jump from the top of the boat in the crystal blue water and drink rounds of free shots afterwards. There are drinking games and a DJ pumping out the hottest tunes. The boat cruises run every Wednesday and Saturday from 2.00 pm – 7.00 pm, so be prepared to party like a rock star!

Tuck into delicious food at the night market

You’ll have some Insta-worth pictures that will leave food lovers drooling when you visit the market square at Gili Trawangan at night. From 6 pm, you can tuck into fresh fish and seafood and grilled corn on the cob. There are also rice and noddle dishes with vegetables, eggs, meat, or tofu, served up piping hot. At the markets, you’ll get to sample traditional Indonesian fare at a fraction of the cost you would pay at a restaurant, but it’s equally delicious! 

Sunset Swing

If you’re looking for a unique way to catch the stunning sunset, head to Gili Trawangan for the iconic Ocean Swing (Datu Swing). The hugely popular attraction sees you floating above the crystal-clear blue waters. Most people frequent the area on Gili Trawangan’s southwest side every evening an hour or two before sunset. It’s a sight to behold and one well worth the visit.

Watch a traditional Stick Fighting Combat Tournament

Presean or Stick Fighting is a traditional martial art from Sasak Tribe in Lombok that is popular in Gili Trawangan. It sees two fighters, equipped with a rattan stick and a leather shield, fight each other, with a referee on hand to call the winner or loser. It’s a fantastic way to delve into the history of Indonesian culture, as it is a traditional ceremony to ask for rain – the more bleds, the more rain will follow.

You can also indulge in pampering spa treatments, enjoy happy hour at several beach bars as the sun sets, take a yoga class, or just unwind on the beautiful beaches, taking in the stunning scenery. You’ll definitely feel relaxed and rejuvenated after your trip to Gili Islands.