Gili Air Travel Guide: Things to Do, Where to Stay & Travel Tips

On By saar.decosterIn Asia, Indonesia

Gili Air was one of my favourite stops in the Gili Islands. It’s the kind of place where your plans quickly become very simple: find a good breakfast spot, spend some time in the water, maybe do a yoga class, cycle around the island and finish the day with cocktails while watching the sunset.

Honestly, that sounds like a pretty good day to me.

Located just off the coast of Lombok in Indonesia, Gili Air combines a laid-back island atmosphere with plenty to do. You can go scuba diving, snorkel with sea turtles, join a cooking class or simply spend a few days doing very little.

I stayed at H2O Yoga and Meditation Center, which I genuinely enjoyed, and one of my favourite things to do was watch the sunset at My Happy Place. It’s one of those places where you sit down for one drink and suddenly have no intention of going anywhere else.

In this Gili Air travel guide, I’ll share where to stay, the best things to do, how to get around and my personal recommendations for making the most of your visit.

If you’re planning a longer trip around Indonesia, you can also explore my Indonesia travel guides, including my guides to Uluwatu and Nusa Penida.

Is Gili Air Worth Visiting?

Yes! Gili Air is a great choice if you’re looking for a relaxed Indonesian island with a mix of beach time, snorkelling, wellness activities and social places to eat and drink.

It’s small enough to explore without much planning, but there are enough activities to keep you busy for several days if you don’t want to spend your entire trip on a sunbed.

One of the best things about Gili Air is its slower pace. There are no cars or motorbikes, so you get around on foot or by bicycle. You can spend the morning exploring the island, the afternoon in the sea and the evening watching the sunset.

I’d particularly recommend Gili Air if you enjoy:

  • Snorkelling and swimming with the chance of seeing sea turtles.
  • Scuba diving or learning to dive.
  • Yoga, meditation and wellness activities.
  • Cycling around a small tropical island.
  • Beach bars, sunset drinks and relaxed evenings.
  • A mix of social activities and quiet time.

If you’re expecting big parties every night, Gili Air might not be the best fit. The island has bars and social spots, but its appeal is more about relaxed evenings than a full-on nightlife scene.

Where to Stay in Gili Air

Choosing where to stay in Gili Air depends on what kind of trip you want. You can find accommodation around the island’s coastline as well as quieter places further inland.

For a first visit, I’d look for somewhere that makes it easy to reach the beach, restaurants and activities on foot or by bicycle.

H2O Yoga and Meditation Center

This is where I stayed on Gili Air, and I genuinely really liked it!

H2O Yoga and Meditation Center has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great option if you enjoy wellness activities or simply want somewhere peaceful to come back to after a day exploring the island.

There’s a swimming pool, and you can join yoga classes and other wellness activities. I also liked the location, which made it convenient to get around and enjoy different parts of Gili Air.

You don’t have to be a serious yoga person to appreciate staying somewhere like this. Even if you only join a class occasionally and spend the rest of your time swimming, exploring or relaxing, it’s a lovely setting for an island stay.

I’d definitely consider staying here again.

Which Area of Gili Air Should You Stay In?

If H2O isn’t quite what you’re looking for, think about what matters most to you when choosing accommodation.

Near the harbour and east coast: A practical choice if you want easy access to boat connections, restaurants, dive centres and snorkelling spots.

West coast: Worth considering if sunset views and relaxed beach bars are high on your list.

North coast: A quieter option if you want a slower stay away from the busier parts of the island.

Further inland: Good to consider if you’d prefer a more residential atmosphere and don’t mind walking or cycling to the beach.

Gili Air is small enough that you don’t necessarily need to stay directly on the beach to enjoy it. I’d prioritise a place you like staying at over paying extra for a beachfront location you might barely use.

How to Get Around Gili Air

One of the things that makes Gili Air different from many other Indonesian destinations is that there are no cars or motorbikes on the island.

Just like on Gili Trawangan, the main ways to get around are walking and cycling.

Walking

Walking is perfectly fine for short distances, especially if you’re staying close to restaurants, cafés or the beach.

You can explore the little paths, wander through the village and stop wherever something catches your attention. Just remember that some paths are sandy, which can make walking with heavy luggage a little less fun.

Cycling

I’d recommend renting a bicycle if you’re staying for a few days.

Cycling makes it easy to explore different parts of Gili Air, find a beach spot or head to the other side of the island for sunset. You can stop whenever you want without having to organise transport.

It’s also a nice way to discover places you might otherwise miss if you spend your entire trip around your accommodation.

What About Horse-Drawn Carts?

You may also see cidomo, traditional horse-drawn carts used for transport on the Gili Islands. These can be an option for luggage or longer journeys, although I would personally prioritise walking or cycling when practical.

If you do use a horse-drawn cart, look for signs that the animal is being treated well and avoid overloading it, especially in the heat.

Stay Connected on Gili Air with an eSIM

I use Holafly as my eSIM whenever I travel and honestly love how easy it makes staying connected abroad.

Having an eSIM means I can use Google Maps, check transport, look up restaurants, book accommodation and stay connected as soon as I arrive, without having to find a local SIM card or deal with changing SIM cards.

If you’re looking for an eSIM for your next trip, I definitely recommend Holafly. You can get 5% off with my code LIFEASSAAR.

Best Things to Do in Gili Air

Gili Air is small, but there’s more to do than simply lie on the beach. These are the activities I’d consider adding to your itinerary.

1. Go Scuba Diving

The waters around the Gili Islands are popular for scuba diving, and Gili Air is a good place to look into a dive trip or try diving for the first time.

There are dive centres offering courses for beginners as well as fun dives for certified divers. Depending on conditions and the dive site, you may see tropical fish, coral and sea turtles.

If you’ve never dived before, you can ask a reputable dive centre about an introductory dive or an Open Water course. If you’re already certified, check which sites are suitable for your experience level and the conditions on the day.

Even if diving isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to enjoy underwater with just a snorkel and mask.

2. Snorkel with Sea Turtles at Turtle Point

Snorkelling is one of the activities I’d put near the top of your Gili Air list.

Turtle Point is a well-known area for looking for sea turtles, and the waters around the Gili Islands are famous for turtle sightings. Depending on the conditions, you may be able to snorkel from the shore or join a boat trip that visits several snorkelling spots.

Seeing a turtle swimming naturally through the water is such a special experience. Just remember that sightings are never guaranteed, even at popular turtle spots.

A few responsible snorkelling tips:

  • Keep a respectful distance from turtles.
  • Never chase, touch or feed marine life.
  • Avoid standing on or touching coral.
  • Check the current and tides before entering the water.
  • If you’re not a confident swimmer, consider going with a reputable local guide.

If you’re planning a boat trip, ask where it stops and whether the operator follows responsible wildlife practices.

3. Join a Yoga or Meditation Class

Gili Air has a lovely wellness scene, and yoga is an easy activity to fit into your stay.

You can start the morning with a class, spend the day exploring and finish with a relaxed evening by the sea. Some centres also offer meditation and other wellness sessions.

H2O Yoga and Meditation Center is a good place to start if you want to look into classes. You can check its official website for current schedules and offerings.

Even if you’re not someone who normally books yoga classes at home, an island setting can make it a nice way to slow down for an hour.

4. Take an Indonesian Cooking Class

If you enjoy learning about local food, consider joining a cooking class on Gili Air.

It’s a fun way to do something different from the usual beach-and-snorkelling routine, and you get to learn more about Indonesian ingredients, flavours and cooking techniques.

Depending on the class, you may learn to prepare dishes such as nasi goreng, satay or other Indonesian favourites.

Availability and menus vary between providers, so check what is included before booking. I’d look for a class that includes hands-on cooking rather than simply watching someone else prepare the food.

5. Watch the Sunset at My Happy Place

This was one of my favourite things to do on Gili Air.

My Happy Place became my go-to spot for sunset drinks, and honestly, it’s exactly the kind of place I love finding while travelling.

Think cocktails, cushions to sit on and a beautiful view as the sky changes colour over the sea. It’s a lovely place to end the day after swimming, cycling or exploring the island.

I especially liked the relaxed atmosphere. You can settle in, order a drink and enjoy the sunset without needing to do anything else.

If you’re visiting Gili Air, I’d definitely recommend setting aside at least one evening for sunset on the west coast. Arrive a little before sunset so you can find a comfortable spot and enjoy the changing colours.

My Happy Place was my personal favourite, but it’s always worth checking recent reviews and current opening information before heading there, as venues and opening hours can change.

6. Cycle Around the Island

You don’t need a strict itinerary to enjoy Gili Air. One of the easiest things to do is rent a bicycle and explore at your own pace.

Follow the paths around the coastline, stop for a drink, find a quiet beach and take a few detours through the village.

The sandy sections can make cycling a little slower in places, so don’t expect a perfectly smooth ride all the way around. That’s part of the experience, though.

I’d recommend doing at least one relaxed island loop during your stay. It helps you get your bearings and discover which parts of the island you want to return to.

7. Spend Time at the Beach

Of course, a trip to Gili Air wouldn’t be complete without some time by the sea.

You can find beachside cafés and places to relax around the island, although swimming conditions vary depending on the coast, tides and reef.

The east and north-east sides are popular for snorkelling, while the west coast is particularly appealing in the late afternoon for sunset views.

If your main priority is swimming, check the conditions rather than assuming every beach will have deep water at all times. At low tide, some areas can be shallow or rocky.

Bring reef-safe habits with you: avoid standing on coral, take your rubbish with you and use sun protection that doesn’t involve damaging the marine environment.

Where to Eat and Drink in Gili Air

One of the nicest things about Gili Air is how easy it is to combine a day of activities with relaxed meals and drinks.

You’ll find local Indonesian food, cafés, beachfront restaurants and places serving international dishes. It’s a small island, but there’s enough variety to change things up during a multi-day stay.

My suggestion is to leave some meals flexible instead of planning every restaurant in advance. Walk around, see what’s busy, check recent reviews and choose somewhere that appeals to you.

For sunset drinks, My Happy Place would be my personal starting point. If you want to try somewhere else, explore the west coast and see which beach bar has the atmosphere you’re after.

How Many Days Do You Need in Gili Air?

I’d plan for two to four nights in Gili Air, depending on how much you want to do.

Two nights gives you time to explore the island, snorkel and enjoy at least one sunset. Three or four nights feels more relaxed and leaves room for a diving trip, yoga, a cooking class and plenty of downtime.

If you’re travelling slowly around Indonesia, you could easily stay longer. Gili Air is the kind of destination where doing less can be part of the appeal.

Here’s a simple way to plan your time:

One day: Cycle around the island, spend time by the sea and watch the sunset.

Two to three days: Add turtle snorkelling, a yoga class, a cooking class or a dive.

Four days or more: Take your time, explore different parts of the island and leave some days without plans.

Is Gili Air Better Than Gili Trawangan?

That depends on what you’re looking for.

Gili Air is a good choice if you want a relaxed island atmosphere, yoga, snorkelling, diving and beach bars without making nightlife the focus of your trip.

Gili Trawangan has a livelier social scene and more of a reputation for parties. If that’s what you’re looking for, it might suit you better.

For me, Gili Air is appealing because you can still find places to socialise and enjoy a drink, but the overall pace feels relaxed.

You don’t necessarily have to choose only one island, either. If you have enough time, you can visit more than one of the Gili Islands and see which atmosphere you prefer.

You can explore more destinations in my Indonesia travel guides, including Uluwatu and Nusa Penida.

Practical Travel Tips for Gili Air

A few simple things can make your visit easier.

Bring some cash. There are ATMs on the Gili Islands, but it’s sensible to have some Indonesian rupiah available in case an ATM is out of service or a business doesn’t accept cards.

Pack light if possible. You’ll likely be walking or cycling along sandy paths, so large, heavy suitcases can be inconvenient.

Check boat connections in advance. If you’re travelling from Bali or Lombok, confirm your departure point, arrival harbour and transfer arrangements before travelling.

Check the tides and sea conditions. These can affect snorkelling, swimming and how easily you can enter the water.

Respect marine life. Never touch or chase turtles, and avoid standing on coral.

Don’t expect motorised transport. Walking and cycling are the main ways to get around, so plan your accommodation and luggage accordingly.

Leave time to do nothing. This might be the most important tip. Gili Air is best enjoyed when you don’t try to squeeze an activity into every hour.

Is Gili Air Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed island stop in Indonesia.

I loved staying at H2O Yoga and Meditation Center, having the option to join yoga classes and spend time by the pool, and finishing the day with cocktails at My Happy Place.

Add in snorkelling, scuba diving, cooking classes and the freedom to cycle around the island, and there’s plenty to make a few days here worthwhile.

Gili Air might not be the place for you if you’re looking for a big nightlife scene or a packed schedule of attractions. But if your ideal island trip involves a mix of water activities, wellness, good drinks and slow afternoons, it’s definitely worth considering.

For me, the best part is that you don’t need to do much to enjoy it. Some of my favourite moments were simply spending time by the sea and watching the sun go down.

And honestly, sometimes that’s exactly what a trip should be.

Planning a Trip to Indonesia?

I’ve written more Indonesia travel guides based on my own experiences, including destinations, stays and things I actually did during my trip.

If you’re planning your own Indonesia adventure, check out my Indonesia travel guides for more honest travel tips, places to visit and ideas for your itinerary.

→ START HERE: Indonesia travel guide

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→ BALI TRAVEL GUIDE
→ LOMBOK TRAVEL GUIDE

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Frequently Asked Questions About Gili Air

Is Gili Air worth visiting?

Yes! Gili Air is worth visiting if you enjoy snorkelling, diving, yoga, relaxed beach bars and exploring a small island without cars or motorbikes. It’s a great option for travellers who want a mix of activities and downtime.

What are the best things to do in Gili Air?

Some of the best things to do in Gili Air include snorkelling with sea turtles, scuba diving, joining a yoga or meditation class, taking a cooking class, cycling around the island and watching the sunset at a beach bar such as My Happy Place.

Where is the best place to stay in Gili Air?

It depends on your preferences. I stayed at H2O Yoga and Meditation Center and really enjoyed it, especially the swimming pool, yoga options and location. The east coast is convenient for snorkelling and restaurants, while the west coast is a good option if you prioritise sunset views.

Can you swim with turtles in Gili Air?

Sea turtles can be spotted around the Gili Islands, including near Gili Air’s popular snorkelling areas. Sightings are never guaranteed, and you should always keep a respectful distance and never touch or chase them.

How do you get around Gili Air?

There are no cars or motorbikes on Gili Air. Most visitors get around on foot or by bicycle. Horse-drawn carts are also available in some situations.

How many days should you spend in Gili Air?

Two to four nights is a good starting point. This gives you time to explore the island, snorkel, try an activity and enjoy the sunsets without rushing.

Is Gili Air good for solo travellers?

Gili Air can be a good option for solo travellers who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and activities such as diving, yoga and snorkelling. Joining a class or boat trip can also be a way to meet other travellers.

Is Gili Air better than Gili Trawangan?

Neither island is best for everyone. Gili Air is generally a better fit for a relaxed trip with wellness activities and beach bars, while Gili Trawangan is known for a livelier social and nightlife scene. Your choice depends on the atmosphere you’re looking for.

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