Gili Air is definitely the crowd pleaser. It will connect with just about anyone popular with many different types of traveller, for many different reasons. Yoga retreats – vintage shops – brekky bars – A badminton centre, this island doesn’t want for much. From the east coast’s main tourist strip to the west coast’s sunset strip, explore the many scenes within this diverse Gili Island.
From a locals perspective, what makes Gili Air truly unique is it’s incredibly close community. You’ll arrive one of the many and leave with some one-off mates to return too visit on your next trip. Keep returning, and soon you’ll be a Gili Islander for life.
Accommodation on Gili Air
It wasn’t that long ago that we were all sleeping in basic borugas on the beach. Accommodation on Gili Air has definitely come a long way since then. From hostels to homestays to hotels, Gili Air has a huge variety of places to stay. And of course the beach borugas will always be an option!
Cafes, Restaurants & Bars:
From the north, east, south and of course west, Gili Air offers up a huge variety of feeds. Enjoy a cheap street-side nasi campur or beach-side seafood platter. Imported coffee or exported beer. Exotic night market or classic pizza joint. The Gilis have got your dietry requirements covered.
Things to Do on Gili Air
Scuba Diving
All dive sites around the Gili Islands are coral fringed and teeming with an impressive array of marine life ranging from “guaranteed” turtle sightings on every dive to black & white tip reef sharks and the occasional whale shark, manta ray and even mola mola passing by.
Freediving / Apnea
Learn to become a breath-hold diver. Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced freediver, the range of courses on Gili Air will train you to be more efficient with oxygen and provide you with the skills necessary to have you diving to depths of up to 20m in no time. For some, Apnea may be about diving deep and conquering inner fears while for others it’s a way to peacefully interact with the underwater world.
Snorkeling
Gili Air has several amazing snorkel sites around the island. Masks & fins are abundantly available for rent at several kiosks, dive shops and resorts. Please bear in mind that the currents can get a little strong at full and new moon and it is not advisable to attempt swimming between the islands. You can also book snorkeling trips around the 3 Gilis, Gili Air, Gili Meno & Gili Trawangan.
Other water sport
Gili Air is a great place for all kinds of watersports, from water skiing & wakeboarding to SUP stand up paddle boarding and the newest fun water activity Subwing.
Yoga
Are you looking to feel completely connected to your mind, body and spirit? Take a breather from regular island life and sign yourself up for one of the yoga classes or retreats available on Gili Air.
Nightlife on Gili Air
Gili Air has a more laid-back party scene than Gili T. The east coast is the liveliest part of the island with a handful of bars and restaurants. Parties take place on several days of the week, rotating between different bars. Bear in mind that during the month of Ramadan (July) the party scene is a little more toned down. Follow us on facebookfor the latest updates on what’s going on.
Insider Info: Unlike Gili Trawangan which offers up nightly parties, Cheeky Monkey Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Legend Bar are when Gili Air really goes off.
Massage and Spa
Several resorts and villas offer massages but you can also find salons dedicated to a wide range of “urut”, traditional massages and other treatments. H20 Yoga offers a broad menu of therapeutic massage treatments.
Watch the Sunset
Head to the west side of the island, sit back with a couple of beers and watch the colors of the sky change as the sun sinks behind Bali’s Mount Agung. Check out K69 in the north west, Mowies, Luckys and Sunset Zipp on the south west of Gili Air.
Cycle around Gili Air
You can cycle around Gili Air in less than an hour for a healthy workout or cycle at your own leisurely pace and really get to know the island. Don’t forget to bring water and your snorkel equipment. A bike ride is extra special on Gili Air as half the journey offers majestic views of Mt. Rinjani on Lombok
Surfing
There is a right hand break 500m off the south-west of the island called PlayGilis. Don’t be fooled by its name, however: the wave breaks over very sharp coral and rocks, providing solid barreling sections, making it more suited for experienced surfers. It is not a very consistent break but guarantees a solid session when it’s firing. There is another, more friendly break on the south of the island in front of Tami’s Neverland. Check the surf report for Gili Air here.
Horseback riding
Stud Stables offers a unique opportunity to explore Gili Air on horseback. Ride down picturesque paths and through shady coconut groves then along the beach.
Cooking Classes
Learn how to make some famous Indonesian dishes by participating in a cooking class. The 3 hours class offers a unique opportunity to learn the secret of six tasty and delicious Indonesian dishes and Lombok specialties. Experienced teachers will guide you in English through a session of “completely hands-on” fun filled courses. One cooking station is shared by two and you will make and eat your own food. Gili Cooking Classes are located in the harbor, next to Oceans 5 Dive Resort.
Island Hopping between Gili Air, Gili Meno & Gili Trawangan
All three islands have their own unique style and a day spent island hopping is a good way to discover the Gili islands of your dreams. Each island is within short distance of the other and the waters between the Gilis are usually calm. Charter a local boat for a day of exploring, or arrange a package tour around the Gili islands that includes snorkelling and lunch on a one of the other Gili islands. There is an island hopper boat commuting twice a day between Gili Air, Gili Meno & Gili Trawangan. And a public speed boat running every hour from Bangsal (Lombok) via Gili Air and Gili Meno to Gili Trawangan.
The island hopper boat leaves Gili Air at 8:30 am and 3 pm, stopping first at Gili Meno then at Gili Trawangan.
Feel free to share the sunshine!
