Gili Trawangan

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
Submerged sculptures in Nusa Tenggara's vibrant sea, perfect for underwater exploration.
Stijn Dijkstra, Pexels

Gili Trawangan is a popular Indonesian island renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, offering both vibrant nightlife and exceptional opportunities for marine activities such as diving and snorkeling.

The primary social hub for tourists and backpackers is concentrated along the island's eastern coastline, where a variety of beach bars, live music venues, and clubs host nightly parties, pub crawls, and special events. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the island's west side provides picturesque settings to enjoy sunsets. Additionally, many hostels feature communal areas with pools and bars that foster social interaction among guests.

Top 7 Things to do in Gili Trawangan

Activities on Gili Trawangan primarily involve marine adventures, leisurely island exploration, and cultural engagement.

1. Snorkeling and Island Hopping Tour

Embark on a boat tour to discover the vibrant underwater world surrounding Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. You can expect to swim alongside sea turtles at 'Turtle Point,' marvel at the unique 'Nest' underwater statues near Gili Meno, and explore colorful coral reefs. Both shared group tours and private charters are available, offering flexibility for your experience. Group tours typically last around 4-5 hours and include multiple snorkeling stops.

Cost: Shared group tours generally cost between IDR 150,000 and IDR 214,000 per person, often including snorkeling equipment and mineral water. Private tours vary, starting from approximately IDR 550,000 (around $35 USD) per group for a half-day, and can go higher depending on the operator and inclusions.

Transport: Tours typically depart from the main eastern strip of Gili Trawangan, which is easily accessible on foot or by renting a bicycle from your accommodation.

2. Scuba Diving

Explore the diverse marine life and coral formations beneath the waves, as Gili Trawangan is renowned as a diving hotspot suitable for all experience levels. Many professional dive centers offer introductory 'Discover Scuba Dive' experiences for beginners, as well as fun dives for certified divers. Advanced courses, like the Open Water certification, are also widely available.

Cost: A 'Discover Scuba Dive' (introductory dive) typically ranges from IDR 1,150,000 to IDR 1,700,000 for one or two dives. For certified divers, a single 'fun dive' is approximately IDR 590,000 to IDR 750,000, with discounts often provided for booking multiple dives. Additionally, a one-time marine park fee and Gili Eco Trust donation (around IDR 50,000 - IDR 150,000) is usually applied per diver.

Transport: Dive shops are conveniently located along the main eastern stretch of the island, making them easily walkable from most accommodations.

3. Cycling Around the Island

Circumnavigating Gili Trawangan by bicycle is a popular and enjoyable way to explore its diverse landscapes. The island is small enough to ride around in about an hour, though allowing more time for stops at scenic beaches, local eateries, and quiet inland paths is recommended. While most of the path is flat, be aware that some sections on the west side can become sandy, requiring you to push your bike briefly.

Cost: Bicycle rental is affordable, typically costing between IDR 50,000 and IDR 75,000 per day. Electric bicycles are also available for rent at a higher price, ranging from IDR 250,000 to IDR 350,000 per day.

Transport: Bicycles can be rented from numerous shops and accommodations across the island, providing self-service transport.

4. Experience a Sunset on the West Side

Witness the breathtaking sunsets from the quieter west coast of Gili Trawangan. The sky often lights up with vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, and on clear days, you may even see Mount Agung on Bali in the distance. Numerous beach bars and restaurants line this side of the island, offering comfortable beanbags and drinks from which to enjoy the spectacle. Popular spots include West Sunset Point and Pinkcoco Beach Club.

Cost: The cost depends on your food and drink purchases at the beach bars or restaurants.

Transport: The west side is easily reached by a 15-30 minute bicycle ride from the main eastern strip. Alternatively, you can take a horse-drawn cidomo, though prices vary by distance.

5. Attend an Indonesian Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in Indonesian culinary traditions by taking a cooking class. These hands-on sessions teach you to prepare popular local dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Many classes culminate in enjoying the meal you've prepared, offering a delicious way to connect with the island's culture.

Cost: Prices for cooking classes generally range from IDR 350,000 to IDR 450,000 per person for sessions lasting 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Transport: Cooking schools are often centrally located or a short walk/bike ride from the main tourist areas.

6. Practice Yoga

Find your inner calm and physical balance by joining a yoga class on Gili Trawangan. The island offers a variety of yoga styles, including Vinyasa, Hatha, and Yin, often held in serene garden studios or even on Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUP Yoga). Classes cater to all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners.

Cost: A single group yoga class typically costs around IDR 200,000. Private yoga classes are also available, with prices around IDR 800,000 for up to four guests. SUP Yoga classes may have different pricing.

Transport: Yoga studios are generally situated near the main hub of Gili Trawangan, easily accessible by walking or a short bicycle ride.

7. Visit the Gili Trawangan Turtle Sanctuary

Learn about crucial conservation efforts at the Gili Trawangan Turtle Sanctuary. This center is dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles by safeguarding their eggs, nurturing hatchlings until they are strong enough, and ultimately releasing them into the ocean. Visitors can observe young turtles in various stages of development and gain insight into their mission.

Cost: Entry to the Gili Trawangan Turtle Sanctuary is free, though donations are highly encouraged and appreciated, as the sanctuary relies on these contributions to fund its vital conservation work.

Transport: The sanctuary is located on the island and can be reached by walking or cycling from the main strip.

Check out our other pages on Gili Trawangan

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