Lombok vs Gili Islands: Which Should You Visit?

For first-time travelers looking beyond Bali, deciding between Lombok and the Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno—comes down to the experience you’re after.

The Gili Islands offer easygoing beach vibes, lively nightlife (especially on Gili T), and car-free paths on islands you can walk around in less than 30 minutes. Lombok, a MUCH larger and more diverse island brings a bit of everything from volcano trekking to finding far-flung surf beaches and of course, the rich, welcoming Sasak culture.

While the Gilis feel like a compact tropical escape more akin to Bali, there are so many fun things to do in Lombok, especially if you’re a fan of adventure. Both are just a short boat or flight away, but in this guide we’ll share our local insights, exploring the highlights of both to help you decide whether to visit Lombok or the Gili Islands–or both 😉

Overview: Lombok vs Gili Islands

If you’re choosing between Lombok and the Gili Islands, it helps to know that each offers a different experience, from Lombok’s expansive landscapes and adventure spots to the Gili Islands’ relaxed, social atmosphere. Here’s a quick comparison to guide your decision.

• Location & Access: Gili Islands are a set of 3 islands just off the coast of Lombok. Getting to Lombok or the Gili Islands is easy via a short boat ride from Bali, but Lombok also has an international airport as well. Ferries connect the Gili Islands directly with Lombok and Bali.
• Activities & Adventure: Lombok is best for adventure seekers, with options like trekking Mount Rinjani, exploring jungle waterfalls, and motorbiking the famous Lombok Loop. The Gilis are perfect for beach relaxation, snorkeling, and socializing, especially on Gili Trawangan, which has the liveliest nightlife scene.
• Beaches & snorkeling/diving: Both have stunning beaches, but Lombok’s options are more varied—from secluded bays to well-known surf spots like Selong Belanak and Mawi. The Gili Islands beaches are a bit more crowded but are easy for snorkeling or diving. Gili Air and Gili Meno offer laid-back vibes with clear, shallow waters ideal for snorkeling right off the shore.
• Culture & Local Experience: Lombok offers a rich local culture with traditional Sasak villages, local markets, and cultural festivals, making it a great pick for travelers looking for an authentic experience. The Gilis have a laid-back vibe with beach bars and cafes but expect more of a washed cultural scene akin to Canggu on Bali.
• Accommodation Variety: Both offer a range of accommodations, but Lombok has more options for luxury resorts and secluded homestays, while the Gilis cater mainly to budget and mid-range travelers, with cozy bungalows and beachside villas popular choices on all three islands.
• Overall Vibe: Lombok is diverse, rugged, and ideal for travelers looking for a mix of adventure and local culture. The Gili Islands are relaxed, social, and focused on beach time and water activities, with each island offering a slightly different atmosphere (Gili T for nightlife, Gili Air for balance, Gili Meno for quiet).

Things to do

When it comes to activities and what you’ll actually do on your trip, Lombok and the Gili Islands offer completely different experiences.

Lombok is ideal for adventure seekers, with activities like hiking Mount Rinjani, exploring waterfalls such as Tiu Kelep, and touring local villages.

The Gili Islands, on the other hand, are more about relaxation and water activities, perfect for beach lovers and snorkelers, especially on Gili Air and Gili T.

If you’re looking for variety in both outdoor and cultural activities, Lombok has more to offer. For those wanting a laid-back island atmosphere focused on beaches, snorkeling, and partying, the Gili Islands are a great choice.

Lombok

Lombok is a paradise for adventure and culture enthusiasts, offering a mix of nature, hikes, and authentic local experiences. We might be a bit biased– but we think Lombok is the adventure capital of Indonesia!

Here’s what you can’t miss:

• Mount Rinjani Trek: A two to three-day trek with stunning views, taking you to Indonesia’s second-highest volcano. Accessible from Senaru or Sembalun.
• Waterfalls: Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile in the north, and Benang Kelambu in Central Lombok, are must-visit waterfalls for jungle hikes and refreshing swims. But there are many more to explore!
• Tetebatu Rice Terraces: A quieter alternative to Bali’s rice terraces, with nearby hiking trails and views of Mount Rinjani.
• The Lombok Loop: A 4-day motorbike tour around the island covering beaches, hills, and scenic roads for a deeper dive into Lombok’s beauty.
• Surfing: South Lombok has world-class surf spots like Selong Belanak and Mawi Beach, ideal for all skill levels.
• Remote Peninsulas: There are so many remote regions in Lombok to explore. For a quieter escape, Sekotong offers empty beaches, snorkeling, and peaceful island views without the crowds, and the high-altitude mountain villages of Senaru and Sembalun are excellent for hiking.

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are all about enjoying the simple pleasures of island life—swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the relaxed vibe. Here’s a breakdown of the top things to do:

• Snorkeling: Easily accessible from shore, Gili Air and Gili Meno are perfect for spotting turtles, colorful fish, and coral gardens.
• Beach Lounging: Each island has its own vibe—Gili Trawangan for lively beach bars, Gili Air for laid-back cafes, and Gili Meno for quiet beaches. Since the islands are very small, most beaches are private and owned by bars, restaurants, or cafes, many who have beach chairs to rent.
• Sunset Views: Gili Trawangan is famous for its swing sets on the beach and sunset sips.
• Scuba Diving: With reputable dive centers on all three islands, the Gilis are a great place for beginners to learn, with calm waters and abundant marine life.
• Nightlife on Gili Trawangan: The largest of the islands, Gili T has regular beach parties, live music, and vibrant nightlife options, perfect for those wanting a social atmosphere. Unlike Lombok, alcohol is everywhere in Gili Trawangan.

Places to Stay

Accommodation options vary greatly between Lombok and the Gili Islands, offering unique experiences suited to different budgets and travel styles.

There are a broader selection of places to stay in Lombok– from luxury resorts overlooking the ocean to cozy homestays in local villages.

The Gili Islands on the other hand are more compact but all the beaches are lined with beachfront bungalows, mid-range hotels, and budget hostels that cater to the laid-back, beachside atmosphere of each island. In recent years there have also been some new luxury hotel developments.

For travelers seeking a mix of everything, Lombok is the better choice, while the Gilis excel in affordable, beachside lodging with easy access to social scenes.

Lombok

Lombok has a diverse range of accommodations and it’s easy to craft a perfect travel itinerary for any budget of travel style, whether you want luxury or local charm.

• Luxury Resorts: For a high-end experience the hotels in Senggigi offer luxury stays and laid-back family resorts with beachfront views and top-notch amenities.
• Homestays & Local Stays: Lombok has plenty of homestays you can choose from if you’d prefer to stay with a local family in the rice terraces to experience our authentic local hospitality and cultural immersion. In fact, we’ve partnered with one of our favorite homestays for one night of the Lombok Loop.
• Boutique Hotels: There are many great accommodation options in Kuta, especially some hip boutique surf hotels close to popular beaches and surf spots.
• Budget-Friendly Options: Areas like Senggigi and Kuta Lombok have budget backpacker hostels and guesthouses with a great social vibe.

Gili Islands

Accommodation on the Gili Islands focuses on beach proximity and relaxed vibes, with options ranging from beachfront bungalows to social hostels and a couple of fancy hotels too.

• Beachfront Bungalows: For private yet affordable stays Gili Air and Gili Meno have some great beachfront rooms with tropical island charm away from the party crowds of Gili T.
• Mid-Range Hotels: There are many modern hotels on Gili Trawangan with good amenities for easy access to the island’s beaches and nightlife.
• Budget Hostels: Gili Trawangan has several social and party hostels, as well as some more laid back ones.
• Eco-Friendly Lodging: For a unique experience, stay at eco-lodges like Meno Eco House on Gili Meno, which emphasize sustainability and blend with the natural surroundings.
• Family-Friendly Villas: On Gili Air, families and groups will find villas like Slow Villas, which offer more space, private pools, and family-friendly amenities.

Beaches

When comparing beaches, Lombok and the Gili Islands each offer stunning coastlines but with unique atmospheres and activities.

Lombok’s beaches are more diverse, ranging from surf-friendly waves in the south to secluded, white-sand shores in the Sekotong Pensula to black volcanic beaches in the North.

The Gili Islands, while smaller, have easily accessible white sand beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially on Gili Meno and Gili Air.

If you’re looking for variety and adventure, Lombok is ideal; for relaxed beach days and vibrant sunsets, the Gili Islands are great too.

Lombok

Lombok’s beaches offer a mix of surfing, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and relaxing– honestly our beaches are some of the best in the world and we have a spot for everthing! Here are some great options:

• Selong Belanak: A long stretch of soft white sand, great for beginner surfers, with rentals and lessons available right on the beach.
• Tanjung Aan: Known for its powdery sand and shallow, turquoise waters, ideal for families and a great spot for a beach picnic.
• Mawun Beach: A more secluded, crescent-shaped beach that’s perfect for a quiet day of swimming and lounging.
• Pink Beach: Famous for its unique blush-colored sand and excellent snorkeling spots just off the shore; best accessed by boat from Kuta.
• Mawi Beach: A favorite among surfers, with strong waves and a rugged, natural landscape, offering a more adventurous beach experience.

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands’ beaches are all about ease of access, just walking down to the shore from your hotel to relax or swim with turtles.

• Gili Trawangan Main Beach: A lively beach with clear waters, popular for sunbathing, and known for its iconic swings and sunset views.
• Gili Meno Beach: The quietest of the three islands, with pristine sands and shallow waters perfect for a relaxing swim.
• Gili Air’s East Coast: A great snorkeling spot, with easy access to coral reefs and frequent sightings of sea turtles.
• Sunset Beach on Gili Trawangan: Known for its vibrant sunset views and social vibe, with beach bars and swings along the shore.
• Secret Beach on Gili Meno: A lesser-known beach offering a peaceful escape with fewer crowds and clear, calm waters perfect for snorkeling.

Snorkeling

For snorkeling, both Lombok and the Gili Islands offer crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life.

The Gili Islands are known for their vibrant coral reefs and ease of access, with most snorkeling spots reachable from the shore on Gili Air and Gili Meno.

Lombok, while less concentrated, has a few prime snorkeling locations as well, especially more secluded spots like the “Secret Gilis” in Sekotong and our famous but remote Pink Beach.

If you’re after convenience and a lively underwater scene, the Gili Islands are best; for more secluded spots that are a bit of an adventure to reach- Lombok is the pick.

Lombok

Lombok’s snorkeling spots are a bit more spread out but offer rich marine life in quieter, less-touristy settings.

• Pink Beach: Known for its clear waters and vibrant reefs, with boat-accessible snorkeling spots where you can see tropical fish and huge healthy coral formations.
• Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis: These “Secret Gilis” off Sekotong are excellent for uncrowded snorkeling, with healthy coral reefs and diverse marine life, accessible by a short boat ride.
• Senggigi Coastline: Has a few snorkeling spots with coral gardens, though visibility can vary; perfect for those staying nearby who want a quick snorkeling fix.
• Tanjung Aan: Though primarily a beach spot, the far ends of Tanjung Aan have some calm waters where you may spot small fish while snorkeling close to shore.

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a snorkeler’s paradise and it’s super easy. You can just walk down into the water from your hotel and be swimming with sea turtles within 5 minutes.

• Gili Air’s East Coast: Known for its close-to-shore coral reefs, perfect for spotting sea turtles, colorful fish, and soft corals.
• Turtle Point on Gili Trawangan: A well-known snorkeling spot where you’re almost guaranteed to see turtles in their natural habitat, along with clear visibility.
• Gili Meno’s Coral Garden: Features stunning reefs, small statues, and diverse marine life, making it a popular choice for snorkeling right off the beach.
• Gili Trawangan Wreck: An artificial reef created from a sunken ship, attracting a variety of fish and marine creatures, popular for more experienced snorkelers.
• Statue Garden on Gili Meno: Famous for its underwater statues and sculptures, offering a unique snorkeling experience and popular for underwater photography.

Culture

Even though the Gili Islands are part of Lombok, in terms of cultural experiences– Lombok and the Gili Islands are completely different.

Lombok offers a rich tapestry of traditional Sasak culture, including local villages, markets, and religious sites that give a glimpse into the island’s heritage.

The Gili Islands, while more laid-back and beach-centric, showcase a unique island culture that leans more to an international vibe.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in authentic traditions, Lombok is the better choice; for a relaxed, social setting with a light cultural touch, the Gili Islands fit the bill.

Lombok

Lombok is a hub of Sasak culture, with opportunities to connect with local traditions, food, and customs.

• Sasak Villages: Visit Sade or Ende villages near Kuta to experience traditional Sasak houses, handicrafts, and weaving.
• Pura Lingsar Temple: A significant cultural and religious site that represents harmony between Hindu and Muslim communities; open to visitors interested in learning about local beliefs.
• Lombok Weaving Centers: Sukarara Village offers a look into the art of handwoven textiles, where you can watch artisans at work and even try weaving.
• Traditional Markets: Ampenan and Cakranegara markets in Mataram provide a local shopping experience, selling everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods.
• Cultural Festivals: Events like the Bau Nyale festival, where locals gather to catch sea worms, offer insight into Lombok’s unique traditions and community spirit.

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands offer a casual blend of local and international cultures, perfect for those looking to relax with a touch of local charm.

• Local Arts and Crafts: While limited, some small shops on Gili Air and Gili Trawangan sell locally-made jewelry, batik, and handicrafts that support island artisans.
• Mosque Visits: On Gili Trawangan, the island’s mosque provides insight into the Islamic faith practiced by local residents, contributing to the island’s soundscape with its calls to prayer. You are free to visit.
• Culinary Mix: The Gilis feature a blend of local warungs and international restaurants, reflecting the islands’ social, global vibe; try local dishes like nasi campur or freshly grilled fish.
• Eco-Initiatives: Efforts to reduce plastic use and conserve marine life are part of the local ethos, especially on Gili Air, which promotes eco-friendly practices like beach clean-ups and reef protection programs. Check out the Gili Eco Trust.

Conclusion: Lombok or Gili Islands?

Ultimately, if you have the time, we recommend experiencing both Lombok and the Gili Islands for a well-rounded Indonesian adventure.

Starting with a fast boat from Bali, spend a few days unwinding on the Gili Islands, enjoying their relaxed beaches, social scene, and vibrant underwater world. Then, hop over to Lombok—just a short boat ride away—to dive into more diverse activities like hiking Mount Rinjani, discovering hidden waterfalls, and joining us for the famous Lombok Loop, Indonesia’s answer to the Ha Giang Loop (though we think it’s better!)

Whether you’re after laid-back island vibes or thrilling outdoor experiences, exploring both destinations gives you the best of both worlds.