How to get to Gili Trawangan

From Bali by fast boat

Fast boats are the most popular way to reach Gili Trawangan. They run daily from Padang Bai on Bali's east coast and from Serangan near Sanur, and the crossing takes roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the harbour and the sea.

Many operators include a shuttle from hotels in south Bali to the harbour, so check this when you book. Some boats stop at Gili Air, Gili Meno or Lombok on the way, which adds a little time.

If you are already in East Bali, boats from Amed make the shortest crossing. From the airport or the south, though, the drive to Amed is long, so Padang Bai or Serangan is usually easier.

• Morning departures usually have calmer water than afternoon ones.
• Book your return boat in advance during July, August and the Christmas holidays.
• Tell us your operator and arrival time so we can be ready for you. We are happy to recommend trusted operators.

From Lombok International Airport

If you fly into Lombok, take a taxi or private car from the airport to Bangsal harbour on the northwest coast. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours through villages and over the Pusuk hills.

Cars stop a short distance before the harbour, so expect to walk or take a cidomo (horse cart) for the final stretch. Buy your boat ticket at the official ticket office inside the harbour.

Public boats cross to Gili Trawangan during daylight hours and leave once they are full. If you arrive late in the day or would rather not wait, a private speedboat makes the trip in minutes.

• Only buy tickets at the official counter, not from people offering help along the road.
• Leave enough time to reach Bangsal before the last public boats of the afternoon.

Arriving on Gili Trawangan

Boats pull up at the harbour on the east side of the island. There are no cars or motorbikes on Gili Trawangan: people get around on foot, by bicycle or by cidomo.

Message us your boat time and we can book a cidomo to bring you and your bags from the harbour straight to the villa. For the rest of your stay we can arrange bicycle rental, the easiest way to explore the island.

Check-in is from 1:00 PM. If you land earlier, we will look after your bags so you can head to the beach.

Tips for a smooth trip

The sea is usually calmest in the dry season, roughly April to October. In the rainy months crossings can be rougher, and boats are sometimes delayed or cancelled when the weather turns, so keep a little slack in your plans.

• Bring some cash in rupiah. The nearest ATMs are around the harbour and our staff can point you to them.
• Pack light or use a bag you can carry. You may step off the boat into shallow water, so wear sandals.
• Take seasickness tablets before the crossing if you are prone to it.
• Keep your passport and valuables in a dry bag or a zipped pocket on the boat.