Why did I end up staying so long on Gili Trawangan (Gili Indah)? The small island has a lot to offer. Let me tell my story and impressions about my time on Gili Trawangan in year 2023.
The Magic of Gili Trawangan
The first time I visited Gili Trawangan was in 2014, and even back then, it was already a popular tourist destination. However, the island wasn’t as built up as it is now, with fewer beach clubs and modern resorts. Today, nearly a decade later, you can still see the effects of the earthquake that hit the island in 2018. Many buildings have been restored, but there are still some damaged buildings. That reminds how vulnerable this paradise can be.
Originally, I only planned to stay for four days, but Gili Trawangan’s charm quickly made that impossible. Nearly a month later, I was still there! The snorkeling was absolutely incredible, especially if you head out early in the morning while the island is still peaceful. Turtle Point, with its graceful sea turtles, quickly became my favorite snorkelling spot. It is also advisable to bring your own snorkelling set, then you will automatically snorkel much more, than If you have to borrow it every time. Here is a recommendation via amazon.
Turtle Point
Swim alongside sea turtles in the peaceful waters of Turtle Point. A magical experience.
Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets from the island’s famous Sunset View. An ideal spot for relaxation.
Island Vibes
Embrace the laid-back island lifestyle with beachside restaurants, cozy cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
As well the Meno statue, also known as the “Nest” or “Bask Nest”, is a great spot. It is an underwater sculpture installation located off the coast of Gili Meno (between Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno). This sculpure was created by the renowned British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. The statues are submerged at a shallow depth, making them accessible to snorkelers. Over time, the sculptures have become encrusted with coral and marine life, blending art and nature in a unique way. This project aims to raise awareness about ocean conservation and the importance of marine ecosystems.
Visiting the Meno Statue is a popular activity for tourists exploring the Gili Islands, offering a perfect mix of artistic wonder and underwater adventure. If you’re hoping to see the famous Meno statues, it’s best to book a tour. A private trip around 7 a.m. is ideal to avoid the crowds. Around 9 a.m., its get much busier, and the experience just isn’t as magical with so many people snorkelling around there. And the other thing is, there’s often a strong current near the Meno statues. That means having a good boat trip with an experienced crew that looks out for you is important for safety and comfort.
The small island has a lot to offer. It is easy to explore by bike and the centre of the island is much quieter than the busier coastal areas. However, it’s noticeable that waste management isn’t running as smooth as it should be. Some parts of the island are quite dirty, which is a shame. But there are organisations working on to tackle the issue. But the infrastructure seems to be struggling to keep up with the increasing number of tourists. The beaches, fortunately, are cleaner, especially in the areas frequented by visitors.
As you get closer to the beach, you’ll notice the small mushroom bars that line the shore. They add a relaxed, bohemian vibe to the area.
One of my favorite spots on the island remains Sunset View. It’s the ideal place to catch the sunset or enjoy some surfing. Near the harbor, you’ll find plenty of cool restaurants offering a wide range of options, from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
I spent the day time outside and by the afternoon, I often needed a short nap – because of the strong sun. In the evenings, there are plenty of options—you can go partying, but I was usually too tired from the sun and activities, so I preferred a more relaxed evening. Something like trying out open-air cinemas or new restaurants or listening to live music.
If you’re into partying, this island is great for you, but if you prefer a quieter vibe, you’ll also find peaceful spots. But Gili Air, compared to Gili Trawangan, has more families with children and is generally much calmer. While there are quieter areas on Gili T as well, you often need to pass through busier sections to reach them. All in all – it is a very popular travel destination, especially during high season.
Gili T has definitely changed over the years, but it still has that unique charm that makes it so special. Despite the challenges with waste and infrastructure, it’s an island that continues to captivate. If you ever get the chance to visit, immerse yourself in the different vibes each part of the island offers.
Conclusion
So why did I end up staying so long? I would say, it was the combination of the amazing people, the stunning beaches, the crystal-clear water, and, of course, the turtles! Some days, I would grab a stand-up paddleboard and a snorkel set and just head out to explore different parts of the island. It was not only a great way to discover new areas but also an excellent workout!
And I discovered a VERY GOOD pizza place there – it called Francesco’s Pizza. Their salami pizza quickly became my favorite. I have to admit, I’ve never had a pizza like that – not even in Italy! Sorry, but it’s true – but don’t feel offended Italians, the owner is an Italian! 🙂
Gili Trawangan has this special way of pulling you in, whether it’s through its beauty, the adventures, or simply the great food. Nearly a month later, I was still there, soaking up every moment of this little island paradise.
