The Gilis are three flat coral islands off Lombok: Trawangan (the lively one, with bars and parties), Air (the balance of quiet and infrastructure) and Meno (the honeymoon island, nearly empty). There is no motor transport at all — just bicycles and horse carts. The main activity is snorkelling: green turtles graze right off the beach, no long swims required.
Fast boats leave from Padang Bai (1.5–2 hours) and from Amed on the east coast (about an hour), around Rp 350,000–500,000 one way; combo tickets with hotel transfer are the easy option. Don't attempt a day trip — the travel eats everything. Plan at least one night, ideally two or three: the islands are tiny, the rhythm is slow, and that's the whole point. The strait can be rough in wave season, and ATMs on the islands are few — bring cash.
Tips
- •Pick your island by mood: Trawangan for buzz, Air for balance, Meno for silence
- •The three-island boat snorkelling trip is the best Rp 150,000–200,000 you'll spend there
- •Book your return boat ahead — morning departures fill up in high season
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