Gili Trawangan/Gili T (lombok)
Mixed feelings arise when discussing Gili Trawangan. Positioned as the largest among the three smaller islands dotting the Lombok coast, Gili Trawangan (also known as Gili T) stands as the hub for tourists seeking the vibrant party atmosphere as well as the bigger resorts, compared to its neighboring islands, Gili Air and Gili Meno. That said, Gili Trawangan is has a really laid back atmosphere. In some places of the island you would wonder if there is anyone at all!
N.B. There are no cars and no scooters on the island. Most people walk or bike around the island. You also have the possibility to take a carriage for about 100.000 IDR per trip
How to reach Gili T from Bali:
Boats from Bali only leave from Padang Bai and the journey lasts approximately 1h30 minutes.
I recommend taking the company called Wahana Virendra. It is not the cheapest company, but they have steady departures, the boat has air conditioning, the seats are big and comfortable, and they are not over crowding the boats.
Where to stay on Gili Trawangan:
Guava Garden - Located in the middle of the island (10 minutes walking from the port and 23 minutes from the northern coast/sunset point), this hotel is very charming and calm. The price is definitely worth it and remains totally affordable. It has a perfect size swimming pool to cool you down in, rooms with comfy beds and a terrace as well as an open shower (my favorite!), as well as a nice included breakfast. They have bicycle you can rent per day.
Where to eat on Gili T:
Ponte Restaurant Barbeque and bar: This lovely local restaurant is located on the southern part of the island. You can choose your fish and they’ll grill it on the spot. You have many side dishes you can choose from, and you can have second servings if you wish. The waiters there are sweethearts and you eat right by the water. You should not miss this place away from the touristic area!
Jali Kitchen: An Asian fusion cuisine that is well worth the detour! It is located in the back streets of Gili T. The food is really tasty. I recommend you’d take the beef rendang, tender and with a lot of taste!
Cloud9 restaurant and bar: You can either choose to eat in their restaurant area or on the beach (I recommend eating on the beach under an umbrella!). The service is sweet, the food is good and the portions are generous. It is the perfect place to stop at for a light lunch and a little drink. I recommend having the honey glazed pumpkin if you want something light as well as the greek salad. The classic Nasi Goreng is also good. Right next door you’ll find an Italian ice cream shop and pastries called Cremoso, OH MY!
La Cala: La Cala is a beachfront restaurant serving some tapas (shared food) type of dishes. For those who want their own dish there are many to choose from the menu too. Their speciality is barbecue grilled meet or fish but you’ll find some pasta dishes, salads and other smaller plates. Their cocktails are also really good.
Where to have a drink and go out on Gili T:
If you go along the main road close to the see, you’ll see many bars and beach clubs you can have fun in. There are a few places I’d recommend you’d go for a drink, which are:
👉🏻 La Cala, General Lee’s, Pink Coco (for sunset), the north and north east side of the island for reggae vibes, and generally the north west for sunset!
This island is also known for getting high on mushrooms. If that is your thing you’ll be in the right place!
What to do on Gili T:
Rent a boat and go snorkel around the island and as far as Gili air and Gili Meno. (If you need a contact you can contact me I’ll send you all the needed information). Otherwise you can check Warna Official if you find anything on the internet
Take some mushrooms if that is your thing!
Walk around the island and go say hi to the friendly cows
Read a book by the pool or at a beach club
Cycle around the island
Go to the gym - If you feel like you should train I recommend you’d go to GiliFit
My last thoughts about Gili Trawangan
Depending on what your plans are, and your overall time in Indonesia I would stay on the island for 2 or 3 nights maximum. If Gili T is way out of your way, skip it.