Hostels in Gili Islands

Just to the west of the island of Lombok are the paradise islands of Gili Islands, Indonesia. These three islands are only a short boat ride away from the mainland and you can easily hop from one island to the other. The islands are surrounded by pristine white, sandy beaches and they host a wide range of activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and also partying.

The three Gilis all have their distinct character. Gili Trawangan, or colloquially called Gili T, is furthest removed from the mainland and is known as the party island. It is the busiest and most touristy island of the three. Gili Meno, which lies in the middle, is known as the honeymoon island. It is by far the most quiet and least developed of the islands, making it an ideal place for newlyweds. Gili Air, the island that is closest to the mainland, is more quiet than Gili T but still there are many activities to be done here. Come here if you want to avoid the crowds and the noise and relax in a natural environment. Plenty of diving schools operate from Gili Air and some wonderful diving can be done from all three of the islands. In these blue waters, you can feel like a mermaid diving between the corals together with giant sea turtles and the infamous mola mola, a fish so big several divers can fit in.

An interesting fact is that none of the islands allow motorized traffic. That means no noisy motorbikes or cars driving around! Instead you can take a bicycle or horse cart to drive around the islands. The islands are actually small enough to be explored on foot.

When it comes to Gili Islands, Indonesia hostels, Gili T as a backpacking haven has the largest range of options. You do not need to look far, because Gili Islands, Indonesia hostels are scattered across the island. Gili Air and Gili Meno have a somewhat smaller range but a few gems of Gili Islands, Indonesia hostels are also found here.

To reach the islands, you can take a boat from Bangsal Harbour on Lombok, or take the fast boat directly from Bali. To travel between the islands, take a small public boat at the island's harbour. Public boats leave at irregular times whenever they are filled up with people.

Handwritten by local expert for Gili Islands hostels jonno