The Gili Islands, an archipelago of three idyllic islands off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia, offer a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, this guide will provide an in-depth review of the best places to stay in the Gili Islands.
Gili Trawangan: The Party Island
With its lively bars, nightclubs, and vibrant nightlife, Gili Trawangan is the most popular island in the archipelago. It offers a wide selection of accommodation options, from beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses.
Luxury Resorts:
- Vila Ombak Resort: This 5-star resort offers private villas with stunning ocean views, a private beach, and an extensive spa.
- Kokomo Resort: Located on the secluded northwest coast, this resort features luxurious overwater bungalows with private decks.
Mid-Range Hotels:
- The Time Resort: A stylish and modern hotel with a rooftop pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Pink Coco Gili Trawangan: A boutique hotel with a tropical garden, a swimming pool, and a popular restaurant.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses:
- Good Vibes Bungalows: A cozy guesthouse with a communal kitchen, a garden, and free Wi-Fi.
- Tir Na Nog Irish Pub & Hostel: A social hostel with a lively bar, a pool table, and comfortable bunk rooms.
Gili Air: The Tranquil Escape
For those seeking a more relaxed and serene experience, Gili Air is the perfect island. It offers a tranquil atmosphere, pristine beaches, and a variety of charming accommodation options.
Luxury Resorts:
- Gili Air Resort: This beachfront resort features elegant rooms and suites, a spa, and a private beach.
- The Pearl of Trawangan: A secluded and intimate resort with a private beach, a swimming pool, and a spa.
Mid-Range Hotels:
- Gili Air Green Cottages: A collection of cozy cottages with private balconies, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
- Mandi Mandi Resort: A beautiful resort with a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses:
- Little Eden Villas: A charming guesthouse with a garden, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
- Santai Homestay: A cozy and affordable guesthouse with a friendly staff and a communal kitchen.
Gili Meno: The Honeymooners’ Haven
Gili Meno is the smallest and most secluded of the three islands and is an ideal destination for couples and honeymooners. It offers romantic and private accommodation options, from luxurious villas to cozy bungalows.
Luxury Resorts:
- Meno Royal Pure Villas: This exclusive resort offers private villas with plunge pools, a private beach, and a spa.
- Mahamaya Private Beach Villa Resort: A romantic and secluded resort with beautiful villas, a beachfront restaurant, and a private beach.
Mid-Range Hotels:
- Meno Cottages & Restaurant: A peaceful and charming hotel with a garden, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
- Bulan Madu Bungalow: A cozy and private bungalow with a terrace, a garden, and free Wi-Fi.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses:
- Gili Meno Guest House: A simple and affordable guesthouse with a garden, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
- Mutia Homestay: A family-run guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
When choosing accommodation in the Gili Islands, it’s important to consider your travel style, budget, and desired level of comfort.
Luxury Resorts: Offer the highest level of comfort and amenities, including private beaches, spas, and gourmet dining. They are ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway or a luxurious experience.
Mid-Range Hotels: Provide a comfortable and convenient stay with amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and air conditioning. They are a good option for families and those who want a balance of comfort and affordability.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: Offer basic and affordable accommodation with shared facilities and limited amenities. They are a good option for backpackers and travelers on a tight budget.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Gili Islands is during the dry season (April-October).
- Getting There: The islands are easily accessible by boat from Lombok or Bali.
- Transportation: You can rent a bicycle or scooter to explore the islands.
- What to Pack: Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
- Budget: Accommodation prices range from $15-$500 per night, depending on the level of comfort and amenities desired.
| Category | Name | Location | Price Range | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Resorts | Vila Ombak Resort | Gili Trawangan | $400-$1,000 | Private villas, private beach, spa |
| Mid-Range Hotels | The Time Resort | Gili Trawangan | $100-$300 | Rooftop pool, restaurant, bar |
| Budget-Friendly Guesthouses | Good Vibes Bungalows | Gili Trawangan | $20-$50 | Communal kitchen, garden, free Wi-Fi |
| Luxury Resorts | Gili Air Resort | Gili Air | $200-$600 | Elegant rooms and suites, spa, private beach |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Mandi Mandi Resort | Gili Air | $100-$200 | Swimming pool, restaurant, bar |
| Budget-Friendly Guesthouses | Santai Homestay | Gili Air | $20-$40 | Friendly staff, communal kitchen |
| Luxury Resorts | Meno Royal Pure Villas | Gili Meno | $500-$1,500 | Private villas, plunge pools, private beach |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Meno Cottages & Restaurant | Gili Meno | $120-$250 | Garden, swimming pool, restaurant |
| Activity | Cost | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snorkeling | $20-$50 | 2-4 hours | Explore the crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. |
| Scuba Diving | $50-$100 | 2-4 hours | Dive into the underwater world and see colorful corals and tropical fish. |
| Sunset Cruise | $20-$50 | 2-3 hours | Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise with drinks and snacks. |
| Island Hopping | $50-$100 | Full day | Visit all three islands in one day and explore their unique attractions. |
| Restaurant | Location | Price Range | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Luna | Gili Trawangan | $20-$50 | Seafood, Italian |
| Warung Pari Gili | Gili Air | $5-$15 | Indonesian |
| The Gili Cooking School | Gili Meno | $25-$50 | Cooking classes, Indonesian |
| Pearl Beach Lounge | Gili Trawangan | $10-$30 | Cocktails, tapas |
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, it’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Consider the Nightlife: If you’re looking for a lively nightlife, Gili Trawangan is the best choice.
- Respect Local Customs: The Gili Islands are a Muslim community. Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Bring Mosquito Repellent: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so bring plenty of mosquito repellent.
- Be Prepared for Sand: The islands are sandy, so be prepared to get sand in your shoes and clothes.
The Gili Islands offer a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious getaway, a comfortable stay, or an affordable retreat, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in this idyllic archipelago.
