We went to Gili Trawangan in October 2024, and trust me, it’s still worth being on your 2025 bucket list!
Let me tell you why.
First things first—how do you get to Gili Trawangan?
Well, the only way to get to Gili Trawangan is by boat since there’s no airport on the island. So, you’ll need to make your way to Bali or Lombok first and then catch a boat—either a fast boat or a ferry—to Gili Trawangan.
I traveled from Bali and here’s how it went: we left Denpasar at 6 AM and drove to Padang Bai Harbor, which took around 1.5 to 2 hours. We arrived at about 7:30 AM, and let me tell you—there are tons of boat options at the harbor.
Pro tip: choose your boat wisely because not all of them offer the same experience, and bad reviews are pretty common.
So, let me save you some trouble—I highly recommend Wahana Virendra! Here’s why:
Wahana Virendra
Wahana Virendra is a fast boat, but everything about it feels proper and professional.
- The Check-in Area: They have their own spacious lounge area with a cafe and restaurant. Perfect for relaxing with a cup of coffee while you wait.
- The Staff: Super friendly and helpful. I noticed how carefully they handled our luggage—no throwing or mishandling at all!
- The Boat: Honestly, I was impressed! The boat has a spacious double-deck layout, so there’s plenty of seating for everyone. The seats were super comfy with a sleek leather finish, and the cabin was air-conditioned to keep everyone cool.
The ride from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan takes about 2 hours. It was pretty smooth sailing for us, although the return trip was a bit wavy due to bad weather—so keep in mind that sailing conditions aren’t always calm and really depend on the weather.
Arrived in Gili Trawangan
We arrived at Gili Trawangan around 11 AM, and the first thing I noticed? THE WATER. OMG. IT’S SO CLEAR. I instantly wanted to jump in, but we had too much luggage to deal with first—priorities, right?
Getting around the island is a unique experience since motorized vehicles are banned here. Your options:
- Cidomo (traditional horse-drawn carts)
- Bicycles (both manual and electric)
- Good old walking.
We opted for a cidomo to get to our hotel. Don’t worry—here, the horses are well cared for. They only work 4 hours a day and get regular rest. The fare is IDR 150,000 for a one-way trip.
Where to Stay?
We stayed at Santorini Beach Resort, and I absolutely loved it!
- The resort is styled after the iconic blue-and-white theme of Santorini Island, but the architecture incorporates elements of Lombok’s traditional houses (Rumah Adat Bale). It’s such a cool mix!
- The location? Right on the beach—perfect for sunset views.
- Bonus: They have Movie Nights on the beach, which was such a fun and relaxing way to end the day.
We stayed for 3 days and 2 nights, and it was such a satisfying experience.
What to Do in Gili Trawangan?
With its nickname as “The Party Island”, there’s no shortage of things to do here.
First things first—rent a bicycle!
We rented bikes from our hotel for IDR 50,000 to 75,000 per day. Trust me, it’s the best way to explore the island.
Now, here are the two activities you absolutely cannot miss:
- Stand Up Paddling (SUP) & Kayaking
If you love water sports—or even if you’re a beginner—this is for you! We went with Blue Paddle, and I can’t recommend them enough. Our guide, Daniel, was incredibly helpful. He taught us the basics, guided us through the session, and even took drone shots for us—so you’ll have epic photos to show off!Pro tip: Go paddling or kayaking early in the morning (before 10 AM) when the sea is calm, the air is cool, and there’s less boat traffic.
- Snorkeling
This is a must-do. Seriously, it’s not a trip to Gili without snorkeling. We went with Gili’s Official, and they made everything super easy—equipment, guidance, and even GoPro footage!
They’ll take you to 3 iconic snorkeling spots:
- Nest Statue: You’ve probably seen this spot on Instagram—the underwater circle of statues surrounded by colorful fish. The statues are made from eco-friendly materials, so they’ve become a home for marine life. If you can’t dive, don’t worry—the guides will help you get the perfect shot.
- Turtle Point: True to its name, you’re almost guaranteed to see turtles here. I swam with at least three! Just remember—don’t touch them. It’s harmful to their health.
- Sunset Point: After snorkeling, the perfect way to unwind is to relax on the boat and enjoy the sunset. The crew even brought speakers and played chill music. Imagine this: calm waves, an orange sky, and good vibes. Absolute perfection.
Where to Eat?
For dinner, head to the Night Market near the harbor. You’ll find plenty of fresh seafood, vegetables, and snacks starting at IDR 50,000.
If you’re craving local flavors, check out Warung Sumi Sate. They serve delicious beef satay and bebalung (a traditional Lombok beef rib soup). The flavors are rich, and the meat is super tender—definitely worth trying!
And if you’re in the mood for nightlife, there are plenty of beach bars playing reggae music. Just wander around—you’ll likely stumble upon happy hour deals!
So, why does Gili Trawangan deserve a spot on your 2025 bucket list?
- The natural beauty here is stunning—crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and healthy coral reefs.
- The island is (almost) pollution-free, thanks to the absence of motorized vehicles. Plus, you’ll get your daily dose of exercise!
- There’s something for everyone—whether you want adventure, relaxation, or a party vibe.
Not sure which one to choose? Let Diskovera help plan your vacation for a more relaxed and exciting experience! Chat with us on WhatsApp now!
Still curious about Gili Trawangan? Watch the video below and see why this island deserves a spot on your 2025 bucket list!
Written by: Chaterina Velevia
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