Gili Air, a stunning island in Indonesia just off the coast of Lombok, is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re searching for things to do in Gili Air, or simply want to unwind by the beach, this island offers peaceful settings, crystal-clear waters, and some of the most beautiful white sand beaches we’ve ever seen.
Wondering if it’s worth visiting the Gili Islands? Absolutely! While each island has its own unique vibe, Gili Air stands out as the ultimate gem. It’s a perfect mix of a laid-back atmosphere and buzzing spots for food, drinks, and fun. It feels like Gili Trawangan was a few years ago, offering a more relaxed yet lively experience with exciting new cafes, beach bars, and an undeniable charm.
If you’re planning your Bali itinerary or exploring more of Indonesia, make sure Gili Air is on your list. Ready to dive into the best things to do in Gili Air? Let’s explore together!
How to Get to and around Gili Air
Getting to Gili Air from Bali or Lombok
Gili Air is easily accessible by boat from Bali and Lombok. The most common route is from Padang Bai in Bali, with multiple fast boat companies operating daily services. You can also take a short boat ride from Bangsal Harbor in Lombok, which is the fastest and most budget-friendly option.
Getting around Gili Air
Like the other Gili Islands, Gili Air has no motorised vehicles. The best way to explore is by bicycle or on foot. Bike rentals cost around IDR 50k per day, and walking the entire island takes about 1.5 hours. If you have luggage, local horse carts (cidomos) are available, but we preferred to walk or cycle for a more relaxed experience.
If you need further information about the logistics or want to learn more, check out our Gili Islands Travel Guide.
Things to Do in Gili Air
Gili Air strikes the perfect balance between laid-back island vibes and just the right amount of liveliness. You can unwind in a hammock by the sea, explore vibrant coral reefs, or enjoy fresh seafood at the island’s beachfront cafes.
If you thought Gili T had great snorkeling, Gili Air takes it to another level with plenty of turtles, colourful fish, and stunning underwater landscapes to discover. Plus, if you’re looking to recharge, Gili Air is home to several yoga retreats where you can find peace and balance while surrounded by breathtaking nature.
1. Snorkeling with Turtles in Gili Air
Just when we thought snorkeling in the Gilis cannot get any better, Gili Air managed to blow our minds! The water here is crystal clear, and the reefs are alive with vibrant corals and an abundance of marine life, including plenty of sea turtles.
You can snorkel right off the beach or hop on a boat tour to explore the best spots around the Gili Islands. For us, the northeast side of Gili Air was the ultimate spot to catch the turtles in action.
2. Snorkel at the Bask Nest Underwater Sculptures
Another popular snorkeling experience is visiting Bask Nest, the famous underwater sculpture installation off the coast of Gili Meno. Here are your options:
- Join a group tour that includes Nest and other top snorkeling sites
- Hire a private boat for a more flexible and personal experience
- Take a morning boat from Gili Air to Gili Meno and visit at your own pace
- Stay overnight on Gili Meno for a more relaxed experience and an early morning snorkel
Our tip: Stay overnight on Gili Meno and head out super early to experience the site before the crowds arrive!
Good to know
This spot has become incredibly popular. When we visited, groups arrived non-stop throughout the day, making it nearly impossible to enjoy the sculptures without a crowd. Many visitors are focused on getting the perfect Instagram shot, often kicking around without much awareness of others.
3. Explore the Island by Bicycle
Cycling around Gili Air is a must! The sandy paths are more compact and easier to navigate than on Gili T, making for a smooth and scenic ride. We loved discovering hidden beach spots, beachfront cafes, and cosy bars along the way. You can find bike rentals along the pier or rent one through your accommodation for convenience.
4. Relax on Stunning White Sand Beaches
Gili Air has some of the most breathtaking beaches we’ve seen in Indonesia. With soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to sunbathe, swim, and soak up the island vibes.
Unlike the busier beaches on Gili T, Gili Air feels more tranquil, and you’ll often find a stretch of sand all to yourself. The east side is great for snorkeling, while the west side boasts some of Gili Air’s best beaches, especially for catching a dreamy sunset.
5. Enjoy the Sunset at a Beach Bar
Gili Air has amazing sunset spots where you can relax on bean bags, listen to live music and sip on fresh coconut drinks or cocktails as the sky turns golden.
Some of our favourite spots to catch the sunset include:
- Mowie’s – A laid-back beachfront bar with stunning views and delicious happy-hour cocktails
- Legend Bar – A lively spot with reggae vibes, great drinks, and a fun crowd
- Queen Sunset Gili Air – A dreamy setting with panoramic ocean views and a perfect place to unwind with a cocktail in hand
6. Take a Yoga Class
The island has a growing wellness scene, making it a perfect place to slow down and recharge. Thanks to the increasing digital nomad community and the island’s tranquil vibes, you’ll find several yoga and meditation centres in Gili Air offering drop-in classes, workshops, and retreats.
If you want to start your day with a sunrise yoga session or unwind with a guided meditation, Gili Air offers plenty of options. Popular yoga spots include:
- H2O Yoga – Known for beachfront classes and a relaxing atmosphere
- Flowers and Fire Yoga Garden – A peaceful studio surrounded by nature, offering yoga classes, retreats, and wellness experiences in a tranquil setting
- Salim Yoga at Salim Resort – Located at Salim Resort, this studio provides drop-in classes, private sessions, and wellness retreats in a serene tropical environment
7. Indulge in a Spa Treatment
If you require some pampering, there’s no shortage of spa and massage options in Gili Air offering everything from traditional Balinese treatments to holistic therapies.
For the ultimate spa experience, Slow Spa is hands down the most popular and highly rated spa on the island, and for good reason! The atmosphere is pure bliss, with expert therapists and a peaceful setting that makes you feel instantly relaxed. If you’re planning to visit, we highly recommend booking a session in advance!
8. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Gili Air
Experience the crystal-clear waters of Gili Air by renting a paddleboard. With calm seas and beautiful surroundings, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful and scenic paddle.
You can rent paddleboards along the north and west coast, especially near Legend Bar and Le Boheme. These areas offer tranquil waters, allowing you to fully relax and take in the stunning views as you paddle along the coastline.
9. Take a Cooking Class in Gili Air
Dive into the delicious world of Indonesian cuisine with a cooking class in Gili Air. Local cooking schools offer hands-on experiences where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, island-grown ingredients. Guided by friendly, English-speaking chefs, these enjoyable classes cater to all skill levels. For more information visit Gili Cooking Classes.
10. Diving in Gili Air
Gili Air (along with Gili T) is a fantastic spot for diving, with several dive schools offering everything from beginner dives to advanced PADI certifications. If you’re new to scuba diving or looking to level up with your PADI Open Water or Master Diver certification, Gili Air has something for you.
Popular dive schools like Manta Dive Gili Air and Blue Marlin Dive Gili Air offer multiple dive sessions each day, making it easy to find a time that fits your schedule. These schools are known for their friendly staff and professional approach to diving.
For more details or to book a dive, check out their website to learn more about the best dive sites around Gili Air. With beautiful reefs, turtles, and diverse marine life, you’re sure to have an unforgettable diving experience!
Restaurants and Cafes in Gili Air
Gili Air’s food scene is thriving, with a mix of Indonesian and international cuisine. Some of our favourite spots include:
- Burger Lady (great burgers)
- Flavornesia (great local cuisine)
- I am Bagus Sport Bar (the fresh grilled chicken is to die for!)
- Kopi Susu Gili Air (good coffee and great brunch options)
- Pachamama Café (great vegan options)
- Pituq Café (vegan food & drinks, The nut date is our favourite)
- Warung Mexicana (delicious wraps, try the chicken hummus one)
- Pineapple Resto (cheap, delicious local food)
- Warung Sunny (a popular local restaurant with Indonesian dishes)
- The Rising Sun Café (try their heavenly combo of mochaccino and carrot cake) *this place is called now Blue Sail
- Gili Coffee Roasters (great coffee and cakes)
- Mowie’s Gili Air (Beachfront dining with amazing smoothie bowls and seafood dishes)
Where to Stay in Gili Air
From budget hostels and cosy guesthouses to resort hotels and luxurious beachfront bungalows, Gili Air offers accommodation options to suit every type of traveller.
Check out some of the best places to stay in Gili Air below:
Budget
- Captain Coconuts (from $15/night for dormitory & $50/night for private room) – A popular and budget-friendly hostel on the west side of the island, offering both dormitory and private room options
- Color Cottage (from $26/night) – A budget-friendly option with simple, comfortable rooms and a laid-back vibe
- Begadang (from $24/night) – A great choice for backpackers, with basic amenities and a welcoming atmosphere
- Parida Guest House (from $28/night)– A charming guesthouse offering good value for money in a quiet setting
Mid-range
- Zipp Bar Restaurant & Bungalows (from $40/night) – Offering a cosy and comfortable stay with a laid-back vibe just steps from the beach
- Mowie’s on the Beach (from $80/night) – A beachfront spot offering great views, spacious rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere
Luxury
- Pink Coco Gili Air (from $120/night) – A stylish boutique resort with modern amenities, located just steps from the beach for a truly luxurious experience
- Slow Villas & Spa (from $150/night) – A peaceful retreat offering private pools, serene surroundings, and exceptional service, perfect for a relaxing escape
- Manta Dive Resort (from $46/night) – Ideal for divers, this resort offers comfortable rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and an onsite dive school
Practical & Budget Travel Tips for Gili Air
Here’s how to enjoy Gili Air without overspending:
- Best Time to Visit: April to October is the dry season, ideal for snorkeling, sunsets, and beach days. We visited in May and loved the calm mornings and golden evenings
- Getting Around: No cars or motorbikes here, just bikes and sandy paths. Rentals cost around IDR 50k/day, or you can walk everywhere (the island is small enough!)
- Budget Tip: No entrance fees, no taxis, and loads of free or low cost activities like beach hopping and snorkeling right off the shore. Gili Air is naturally budget-friendly
- Where to Stay: For easy access to cafes and boats, stay near the harbour. For quieter vibes, the north and east sides are perfect. We stayed up north and loved it
- What to Pack: Light clothes, swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag, and something to cover up when off the beach. Don’t forget mosquito spray and your snorkel gear if you have it!
Check out our Ultimate Packing Guide for more tips! - Cash & ATM: There are ATMs, but they can run out of cash, so always have a bit extra on hand. Most places take cards, but small stalls usually don’t
- Travel Insurance: For snorkeling, island-hopping or just peace of mind, we recommend SafetyWing for flexible, reliable coverage. Click here to get started
- Want more tips? Head to our Ultimate Travel Resources Guide for booking tools, tips, and apps we use
Above all, set up comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for reliable coverage and peace of mind while travelling abroad. For more information and to get started, check out SafetyWing website.
Final Thoughts on Gili Air
Gili Air stole our hearts. It’s the perfect blend of laid-back island life, stunning beaches, and vibrant yet relaxed vibes. If you’re looking to unwind, explore, or enjoy incredible snorkeling, Gili Air is the ultimate destination.
We spent a week here (just like on Gili T), and honestly, we never wanted to leave! What’s even more exciting is that Gili Air has a growing digital nomad community, new vibey cafes, co-working spaces, and yoga and meditation studios popping up all around. It has a Bali-like feel but with its own unique charm.
For more insider tips, make sure to check out our other guides, including 11 Things to Do on Gili Trawangan and The 7-Day Gili Islands Itinerary.
Gili Air Travel Map
Get Inspired
Snorkeling with sea turtles in the Gili Islands is pure magic. Both Gili Trawangan (Gili T) and Gili Air offer crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and the chance to swim alongside two amazing turtle species: Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles. We snorkeled with them almost every day, it was such an incredible experience: calm, beautiful, and unforgettable. The Gili Islands are part of a protected marine area, with local efforts like Gili Eco Trust helping preserve this underwater paradise.
If you’re dreaming of snorkeling with turtles in Gili Trawangan or Gili Air, don’t miss this bucket list adventure. It’s easily one of the best things to do in the Gili Islands!
