Larger than its neighbour Gili Air, Gili T is paradise for sun-seekers, and those in search of a good time. Sink your toes into the white sand, soak up the sunshine, and float into the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
When the sun sets, the island comes alive with beachfront bars, music, and a fun atmosphere that makes you to dance the night away.
The Good
- 🎉 Decent nightlife
- 😋 Decent food options
- 🍜 Streetfood
- 🦄 Strong nomad community
- ☀️ Fantastic weather
- 👮 Safe
- 🏝️ Nature & beaches
- ⛰️ Stunning scenery
- ☺️ Relaxing
- 🤿 Scuba diving
- ⛱️ Great beach
- 🥰 Beautiful
The Bad
- 📡 Unreliable wifi
- 📡 Not many public wifi spots
- 🚌 Limited public transport
- 📸 Very Touristy
- 🚧 Tricky to reach
- ✈️ Far from airport
- 🔦 Power cuts
- 🌉 Poor infrastructure
Living costs
- Gili Trawangan is the cheapest place (out of 12) to live in Indonesia
- It's about 517% cheaper to live in Gili Trawangan than it is New York
- You can expect to spend around $891.44 per month living here
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- Prices are estimates and should be used as a guide only. We accept no responsibility for inaccuracies in data.
- Prices adjusted to reflect exchange rates as of 10th Jun 2026
Safety
Generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates; however, petty theft can occur, so remain vigilant.
Where to stay
1. The Main Port Area
The main port area of Gili Trawangan (where the boat arrives) on the eastern side of the island is where you'll find most of the action and a range of accommodation. Staying near here puts you close to the main harbour, popular restaurants, bars, and shops. It offers a lively atmosphere and easy access to the island's activities and nightlife. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
2. Sunset Point
Located on the south-western side of the island, Sunset Point is known for its stunning sunsets and relaxed atmosphere compared to the central area. It offers a range of accommodation, including beachfront bungalows and mid-range resorts. Staying in this area allows you to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and breathtaking views while still being within reach of the east-central area's amenities.
3. Northern Area
The northern part of Gili Trawangan offers a quieter and more secluded experience. It's ideal for travellers seeking a quieter getaway. This area has a mix of accommodation, including boutique resorts and beachfront villas. While it is slightly further away from the main action, it provides a nice retreat and easy access to beautiful beaches whist still only being a short bike ride or horse-cart trip to the main area.
Where to eat
Trawangan Night Market
Seafood market offering freshly caught fish and shellfish, alongside skewers. Choose your dish then relax as it's fileted and cooked to perfection on open fire grills.
Nightlife
Chappies Bar
Chappies is practically the first place you will encounter upon arriving at the port at Gili T. Always busy and great for social drinks next to the beach. Just look for Manta Dive.
Sama-Sama Reggae Bar
A lively bar with live music every night. More rock than reggae though. Kick back, swig some bintangs and hit that dance floor.
The Irish Bar
An irish bar is always a good idea. And this is no exception. Great meet up point right on the main strip.
Fitness
Total Body Fit
Air con gym right on the beachfront. Full glass windows let you see out (and passers by see in) as you beat your deadlift PB.
Transport
Bicycle
Yes. That's right. There are no motor vehicles on Gili T at all (other than some electric scooters). So the easiest way to get around is to hire a bicycle.
They are super cheap (around 50k IDR per day) and there are many vendors to rent from along the beach front.
Some hotels will also have free complimentary bike hire so make sure you check where you are staying first.
Horse Drawn Cart
The next option (if you have a lot of luggage) is to jump on a horse drawn cart. You will see these waiting at the side of the road and will often see (and hear) them trundling along the streets.
Walking
Gili T is pretty small so you can actual walk to most places. Just try and avoid the hottest part of the day as it will get super sweaty.
Strolling around the island is a great way to find cool little places to eat or that perfect spot to sunbathe.
Internet speed
Internet can be a little hit and miss on Gili T and the island is prone to power cuts from time to time - especially in bad weather.
Time difference
🤫 Pro tip
If you enjoy snorkelling there's a resident family of turtles just off the beach to the north east of the island - look for Mr Bean Bar and search the reef behindWhen to visit
Average temperatures
Who it suits
Places near Gili Trawangan
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Amed
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Ubud
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Sanur
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Kuta
Nightlife, surfing, and cheap beers.
Seminyak
Sun-kissed beaches, trendy cafes and fancy boutiques.
Canggu
Surfers, coconuts, and beach clubs.
Pererenan
Trendy, developing beach town
Uluwatu
Stunning clifftops and surf breaks