The busy high season may be over but there is no let-up here for things to do on the Gili Islands. Read on for new ways to have fun, get inspired for your next weekend Gili Island getaway or dine in style.
First time in the Gilis? Check out our introduction to Gili Trawangan beyond the hype. We also showcase one of the most unique attractions anywhere in Lombok—the famous underwater statues of Gili Meno.
Enjoy a cosy luxury stay at Villa Luna on Gili Air or a vibrant weekend getaway at Lumi Resort. We give you the inside story about Gili T’s legendary Sama Sama bar courtesy of owner Acok, and profile the culinary delights at nearby Kayu Café, another long time favourite in Gili T. Bastian, Chef at BASK Gili Meno, talks about his life and experiences.
Relive all the action at the recent Gili Triathlon as well as other local events for turtle tote bags and at Rabbit Jump. With the summer crowds gone, now is the time to really make the most of the Gili Islands’ laid back experience.
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INTRODUCING GILI TRAWANGAN
THE OLD BACKPACKER FAVOURITE TURNED ISLAND HOLIDAY HOTSPOT
PAK ACOK BASSOK
THE MAN BEHIND SAMA SAMA REGGAE BAR
EXPLORE
INTRODUCING GILI TRAWANGAN
The Old Backpacker Favourite Turned Island Holiday Hotspot
Lombok’s celebrated Gili Trawangan needs little introduction. This is a diminutive island that punches well above its weight.
Gili T is the first sight of land in Lombok for many visiting travellers coming east from Bali by fast boat.
Gili T has come of age since the first arrival of these fast boats in the early 2000s but it still exudes that chilled back to basic island lifestyle—once you venture away from the built-up east coast beach strip, the old school laid-back vibe is not hard to find.
What’s so special about Gili Trawangan? The enduring appeal of Gili T (and neighbouring Gili Meno and Gili Air) is the refreshing lack of any motorized transport which makes for such a pleasant alternative to congested Bali. The local 'taxi' service comes courtesy of 'cidomo' horse drawn carts or bicycles for rent everywhere. In fact, you don’t even need to expend energy on peddling anymore—e-bikes are becoming ubiquitous now. Just what you need to escape the busy beach strip in search of a small stretch of uncrowded beach all to yourself.
The Gili T hype as Lombok’s hotspot of late night entertainment is real. The long beach strip is a cosmopolitan mix of loungey beachfront venues, dive bars (in both senses) live music jams and legendary all-night full moon parties.
It doesn’t take much to get the party started—especially with a long strip of stylish lounges and beach clubs out on the far west coast too, offering a front row seat to the iconic ocean sunsets looking across the water to Bali in the distance. View the sunset from a different, more sweeping perspective by climbing up Gili Trawangan hill for a panoramic view.
The three Gili Islands’ claim to fame was as a haven for scuba diving. This remains true with dozens of accessible dive sites for all levels of diving expertise. There are numerous 5-star PADI accredited dive resorts, along with a whole scuba subculture on the island. Snorkellers can glide effortlessly across pristine coral reefs just metres from the beach in the company of turtles, or try a spot of water sports. Adrenaline junkies have an opportunity for wakeboarding, windsurfing or kayaking. Less taxing activities on Gili T include sports fishing trips, island cruising, horse riding and even boozy sunset cruises.
Gili T’s rise in the past 20 years or so has seen it evolve from a laid-back backpacker haven to a full-on cosmopolitan vacation hotspot where you are just as likely to rub shoulders with nouveau riche millennials from Jakarta or Bali, adventurous empty nesters and honeymooning couples.
The Gili tourist economy has developed to offer a more multifaceted experience for every conceivable budget catered for. The budget bungalows and cheap warungs are still here and have been joined by swanky villas, quirky treehouses and stylish glamping, as well as global dining options to titillate every tastebud. Yet, some things never change—especially such a timeless experience as
the Night Market. This vibrant foodie hub is still the goto spot for freshly grilled food and a convivial traveller atmosphere.
Similarly, once you venture away from the bright lights of the beach strip, the beating heart of Gili Trawangan remains the same. You will come across dusty paths filled with roaming goats, roosters and local kids playing. This is a taste of authentic village life and many travellers choose to stay here. As well as a more chilled atmosphere, the indigenous ‘Sasak’ traditions are on show, combined with a relaxed and tolerant outlook thanks to years of exposure to tourism.
‘NEST’ GILI MENO
Underwater Work of Art Highlighting Marine Conservation
Gili Meno’s most unique and photogenic attraction is one that is technically not on the island at all. To experience it means you’ll need to take the plunge with a snorkel and mask.
Conceived and created by celebrated artist Jason deCaires Taylor, 'Nest' is a circular statue installation submerged on the seabed just metres from Gili Meno’s white sandy beach. It’s not just an elaborate underwater art piece —it functions as a living coral reef attracting abundant marine life, as well as a neverending array of Instagram reels from snorkelers. deCaires Taylor is well known for installations that merge art with conservation.
It’s a unique attraction which alone has become the essential stop for Gili Island snorkel trips. Just four metres below the water, its easily accessible to all. It is located beside the BASK eco-friendly resort, which commissioned the underwater sculpture installation.
The artist arranged the 48 life-size human figures in a 'circle of life' configuration. This, he says, is a representation of the close connection between the human and marine worlds. The statues were made of special materials which attract rapid coral growth in nutrient-rich environments.
deCaires Taylor explained: “Soft corals and sponges should flourish quickly paving the way for delicate hard corals and a fully established reef. I hope people visit it both as a piece of art and as an entrance point to the underwater world.”
In fact, Nest is more human than you would think. The artist made the statuesque figures out of casts of real people. It uses pH neutral, environmental quality concrete which has created a vibrant, biodiverse artificial reef teeming with fish. It’s now a thriving ecosystem.
Nest is a haunting installation depicting a circle of embracing couples which itself surrounds an inner circle of people lying on the seabed. This is the ‘echo of the circle of life’ showing how everything is connected, according to the artist.
Many dive centres and operators offer guided snorkeling tours to the site. It is best enjoyed in the morning when visibility as at its best and the water is calm. All snorkellers are encouraged not to touch the statues.
PAK ACOK BASSOK
The Man Behind Sama Sama Reggae Bar
“ Save water, drink beer!”—a slogan you’ve probably heard echoing down Gili T’s main street. Behind those words is Mr. Acok Bassok, founder of the island’s iconic Sama Sama Reggae Bar and a long-time community leader whose love for Gili Trawangan runs deep.
Tell us a bit about your background. I was born right here on Gili Trawangan. I went to elementary school on Gili Air, because there were no schools on Gili Trawangan at the time. Then high school in Lombok. I started my career at sea—first as a boat captain, then became a divemaster with Blue Marlin. My heart has always been in Gili T. I’ve been helping to build tourism here since the early 1990s, when everything was still very quiet. Since the 1970s or 80s, I’ve seen this island grow from quiet fishing beaches into one of Indonesia’s most famous tourism spots.
When did Sama Sama Reggae Bar first open?
About 18 years ago—around 2006. It started as a small bamboo beach bar with chilled reggae vibes. We didn’t even have full electricity back then; the island power was sporadic and the lights went off at midnight!
How would you describe Sama Sama today?
Sama Sama has always been about good vibes and live music. I love reggae, but really, I love all kinds of music, especially when performed live. It’s still one of the only places on the island where you can enjoy proper live bands—reggae every Saturday night, and acoustic sets from 5 pm to 8 pm every evening.
What events do you host at Sama Sama?
We hold Bob Marley tribute nights, and an annual Reggae Festival that brings people together to celebrate music and island life. Additionally, we host community events like the Independence Day Parade, inside the week-long Gili Trawangan Festival, beachside pop-up markets and really fun inter-island sporting events, like the recent Gili Strong Triathlon.
Are you involved in any other island projects?
Yes—I’m part of the Lembaga Masyarakat Adat Gili Trawangan (LMAGT), our community association. We work on tourism, cleanliness, and security. I’m also busy renovating Sama Sama and opening a new coffee shop and co-working space called Kira Kira, set to open in late November.
We’ve seen big clean-up efforts every Sunday. The island is looking great!
Yes! Every Sunday each neighbourhood (RT) joins to clean up. We use WhatsApp groups to communicate and organise.
Our slogan is: “ Bersih, aman, nyaman, dirindukan ”—Clean, safe, comfortable, and always missed.
We’ve seen more locals joining in recently, which is great. To get even more people involved, tourists and islanders, I think we need to share more on social media and keep spreading the message.
What are you most proud of?
Seeing Gili T grow. Since the 1990s, the economy and opportunities here have improved so much. I’m proud to have played a small part in that journey.
Have you received any awards or special recognition?
Yes! In 2015, we received a MURI (Museum Rekor-Dunia Indonesia) award for an event featuring 2,297 umbrellas —the most ever used in one installation in Indonesia. Thousands of beautiful red & white umbrellas to celebrate Indonesia’s Independence Day. It was a stunning view and a very proud moment for our community.
What are the biggest challenges facing Gili Trawangan right now?
Waste management. Rubbish is our biggest issue. We’re working on waste separation to keep the island green and beautiful. Watch this space!
What are your plans for the future?
We’re preparing for the Trawangan Festival, August 2026, and continuing to grow Sama Sama while keeping its roots —music, community, and love for the island.
What do you love most about living here?
The weather, the people, and the mix of cultures. You meet people from all over the world every day. That’s what makes Gili T special.
Anything you’d like to add?
Come enjoy the music! Sama Sama always has live acoustic sessions from 5 pm to 8 pm, and full live bands from 8 pm onwards.
BASTIAN FROM BASK JUST BASKING BY THE SEA
KAYU CAFE, GILI TRAWANGAN
BREAKFAST,
SWEET TREATS AND A PREMIUM CAFFEINE FIX
BASTIAN FROM BASK
Just BASKing By The Sea
Bastian was born in Iquique, in northern Chile. His interest in cooking began early. He recalls helping his grandmother in the kitchen, making pancakes and cooking simple meals for himself at the age of seven, and later helping in his uncle’s bakery. He spoke with mylombok recently and told us about his career path and where it has led him.
Was there a particular moment when you decided you would make cooking your career?
At 14 years old, my first job was in a catering company. When I was 17, we moved from Chile to Madrid, in Spain; we already had some family there and we speak Spanish. There was plenty of work there at the time. In Madrid, though, I had a lot of awful jobs—like juggling at the traffic lights and doing construction work. That was when I thought: ‘Why am I doing jobs I don’t like?’ So I found a place in the kitchen, as a cook and helper. Basically, I learned by doing. I also took classes at a small cooking school in Thailand.
Tell us about your career and some of the places you’ve worked.
After spending a year in Madrid, I moved to San Antonia, Ibiza, where I was a sushi chef in a beach club. Working in a few different restaurants in Ibiza over the next nine years, I went from sous chef to sushi chef.
Later, in Singapore, where I worked for a year, I gained plenty of experience and learned a lot. The food scene is very competitive and there are plenty of good chefs, so it keeps you motivated and ready to learn. I was working in an Italian-Spanish fine dining restaurant which had tapas downstairs and an oyster and champagne bar on the second floor.
I went back to Ibiza for a year and was then offered a job in Bali, where I worked La Finca, a Spanish restaurant. I was the executive chef there for 3 years. After that, I was a freelance chef on a yacht. It was a high-end phinisi boat —a traditional two-masted Indonesian sailing vessel—that went between Komodo and Raja Ampat. When I wasn’t sailing, I would spend my time in Bali, working as a DJ and doing consulting work in the kitchen. For the next four years, I worked at The Forge and ShiShi Nightclub as head chef.
After that I worked at Luna Beach Club as chef de cuisine for over a year before I moved to BASK as executive chef; I have been here for a year. At BASK I cook, I manage the kitchen and I train all the kitchen staff.
How would you describe or define your cooking?
I like to prepare raw food and Peruvian food. I love seafood and I love to cook over the fire; I especially like the smoky flavour and smell you get from cooking with fire. And I suppose my ‘philosophy of cooking’ is: make it nice; don’t make it twice.
Where do you find inspiration for your dishes?
I get inspiration from ingredients. I discover new ingredients and then I look for ideas about ways to use them in my cooking. I’m also inspired by other good chefs and good restaurants.
Tell us about your work at BASK and the concept for the menu there.
At BASK we cook modern ‘comfort foods’ from different countries. We have such a variety of food that if guests are staying longer than a week, they are never bored with our menu. There’s lots to choose from!
Which dishes do you most like to cook?
I like to cook paella; it brings people together. In Spain we always cook and eat paella on Sundays with families and friends.
What are your favourite ingredients?
I love to cook with fish—good fresh fish.
Which is your ‘must have’ kitchen gadget?
The grill. Nothing compares with using a grill and cooking on a fire. Everybody loves that smoky smell and taste you get from cooking on the flames. The grill gives you that.
Describe a typical day at work.
I arrive in the morning and, first, I say hi to everyone and then we do a round of tastings. We try all the food we’ve prepped for breakfast. We also taste every sauce and every ingredient to make sure everything is done correctly. Then we do the same for lunch and dinner.
After that I spend some time in the office, looking at postings and recipes to get ideas for new dishes. Then I brief the kitchen staff before we start serving for the day. Right now, I am quite busy with a new project, so I’m also spending a lot of time designing plates and ceramics. We are opening a new restaurant soon!
What’s the biggest challenge?
Finding good staff is always a challenge, but if they are willing to learn, you can always train them. And—believe it or not—getting good fresh fish is sometimes difficult. Living on an island, you’d think it would be easy!
What are your hopes and plans for the future?
I’d like to help put this place on the map—in Indonesia and the world, if possible. At BASK we all have the same goals: we want to make this restaurant the best and to achieve complete guest satisfaction.
What do you like most about living on Gili Meno?
I love the peace, and I love living and working next to the sea.
Apart from cooking and creating dishes, I love spearfishing, free diving and scuba diving. I’m a dive master and a selftaught spearfisher. One day, when I was working in Ibiza, a friend lent me a spear gun and I went out on my own to try it; it didn’t work and I caught nothing. I started watching videos on YouTube and became addicted to watching and learning how to do it. I tried again, by myself, and caught my first fish. I have been spearfishing now for almost 20 years. I also like to chill on the beach and go for walks around the island.
Who is your favourite celebrity chef?
Ferran Adrià—a Spanish chef who changed the world of food. He introduced molecular cuisine. He modernised everything, working with scientists and looking at food in a different way. He started to use ingredients we don’t usually use in food, to achieve different textures and flavours; he surprised everyone by doing that. His restaurant was a school for learning; for six months of the year it was open as a restaurant and during the other six months it was used for research and development. A lot of young chefs follow his path.
What would you say are the most important qualities that make a successful chef?
There are several: patience; perseverance and good communication skills. Obviously, it’s also essential to understand the basic techniques and have solid cooking skills.
If you hadn’t become a chef, what do you think you would be doing right now?
I’d be diving. When I was in Ibiza, I worked twelve hours a day, with no day off, for six months. I had planned to become a dive instructor but it didn’t happen and I became a sushi chef—with better pay and conditions. Now I get to dive and cook!
1. In a food processor, blend white fish with salt, white pepper, and egg white.
2. Fold in finely chopped lobster and fresh herbs, lemon zest
Forming the Ravioli:
1. Roll out pasta dough thinly (setting 6 to 7 on pasta machine).
2. Place teaspoons of filling, spaced evenly.
3. Cut into ravioli shapes. Chill or freeze until cooking.
Lobster Bisque:
1. Sauté lobster shells in oil. Add shallot, garlic, chopped carrot, celery and tomato paste. Cook until caramelized.
2. Deglaze with white wine. Add shellfish stock (crab, lobster or prawn or mix), thyme, and bay. Simmer 30 to 40 minutes.
3. Strain, reduce slightly, then stir in cream and cognac.
Season to taste.
4. Reserve 100ml before adding cream for foam.
Tuna Tataki
Ingredients
• 400g sashimi-grade tuna loin
• Salt & pepper
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Teriyaki
Wakame Seaweed Salad
• 20gr dried wakame seaweed (rehydrated)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• 3 cherry tomatoes cut in halves
Yuzu & Avocado purée
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tsp yuzu juice (or substitute:
1 tsp lime + 1 tsp orange juice)
• Salt to taste
Teriyaki Glaze
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp sake (optional)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp grated ginger
Method
Tuna Tataki Preparation:
1. Season the tuna loin with salt and pepper. Sear briefly on all sides (10 to 15 seconds per side) with a torch gun or seared in a pan with sesame oil—the center should remain raw.
2. Chill quickly in an ice bath or refrigerate. Slice into ½ cm thick pieces before plating.
Wakame Seaweed Salad:
1. Soak wakame in cold water for 10 min until soft. Drain and squeeze out excess water.
2. Mix with rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil and sesame seeds. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Chill until serving. Add cucumber or radish for extra crunch if desired.
Yuzu & Avocado purée:
1. Blend avocado, yuzu juice, and a pinch of salt until silky.
2. For fluid gel: Use as is and pipe with a squeeze bottle.
3. For firmer gel: Add 1g agar-agar, bring to a boil, cool in a flat tray, and blend again to make a smooth gel.
Teriyaki Glaze:
1. Combine soy, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and ginger in a pan.
2. Simmer on low heat until reduced to a thick glaze (about 10 to 15 minutes). Cool.
KAYU CAFÉ, GILI TRAWANGAN
Breakfast, Sweet Treats and a Premium Caffeine Fix
Amainstay for breakfast, brunch and lunch on Gili Trawangan’s main beach strip, Kayu Café is a Gili T institution – a familiar pitstop for all-day quality bites, cakes and fresh coffee. It’s a quirky and inviting spot and is aptly named.
Kitted out in natural wood throughout with large wooden roof beams and a bright and airy ambience, Kayu café spans two levels. The upper floor is a breezy spot overlooking the beach and ocean with little nooks to relax with a book, get work done, or simply sip a coffee. There are also tables laid out on the beach to enjoy breakfast with a view.
It has a chilled vibe, which has made it an expat favourite, attracting a loyal crowd of patrons. A pioneer of the Gili T organic café culture, it remains the go-to spot for the health-conscious, especially with the wide-ranging vegan and gluten free options on offer.
Kayu Café attracts a busy crowd during breakfast time and showcases a diverse and wide ranging array of breakfast bites from a full cooked breakfast to gourmet omelettes, fluffy pancakes and muffins, breakfast burrito and much more. On a heath kick? Try a smoothie bowl, muesli or granola with fruit and yoghurt, along with a cold pressed juice.
The breakfast offerings are available through the day and are bolstered by a daytime menu that covers all the bases with ease. It includes classic Pan-Asian fare like Beef Rendang and Pad Thai as well as rice bowls, plus bagels and paninis. Other healthy lunchtime favourites include Greek salad, soups, and there are classic tapas bites too.
Kayu’s daily sweet treat selection is famed in Gili T. Choose from a daily assortment of cheesecakes, fudge cakes, tarts and vegan desserts. Baked goods include a delectable array of specialty breads, croissants, cinnamon rolls and more.
Of course, coffee is a key focus of the Kayu culinary experience and offers arguably the widest selection of premium and specialty brews from double expresso to pumpkin spiced latte plus virtually everything in between. To support a detox regime, there are tropical juices, smoothies, wheatgrass and healthy shots to imbibe.
Kayu effortlessly blends style and comfort amid the eye-catching antique wood décor. In short, it’s a compelling mix of old world décor with a relaxed social vibe. Kayu Café also hosts afternoon social events like ‘Matcha Party’ DJ sets by the ocean gets involved in regular Gili T beach cleanups.
Gili Trawangan +6281803490572 kayucafegili
HOTEL LUMI, GILI TRAWANGAN
SEASIDE BLISS AND A GILI OCEAN SUNSET EXPERIENCE
VILLA LUNA, GILI AIR
ESCAPE TO A HIDDEN VILLA HAVEN
HOTEL LUMI
Seaside Bliss and a Gili Ocean Sunset Experience
Hotel Lumi positions itself as the perfect epitome of ‘seaside bliss.’ This is no small feat on bustling Gili Trawangan, but boutiaue resort effortlessly achieves this, thanks in no small part to its location on the tranquil Gili T west coast.
Designed by celebrated architect Andra Matin, the accommodations flawlessly combine stylish comfort, artistry, and natural harmony. They are surrounded by lush landscaping and soothing sounds of the waves. Lumi is crafted as a serene tropical haven, designed by nature and built with no trees harmed in the process.
The vibe is all about escapism, peace of mind and ample space to enjoy nature without the incessant crowds. The hotel grounds span a large area offering ample space to find quietude as well as gaze across the water at the nightly sunsets. The dozens of lumbung style cottages are draped in traditional thatched alang alang, exuding a tropical Lombok ambiance. It also features modern designed cabins in crisp white decor.
Each of the interiors has a modern, light and airy feel, utilising mostly natural materials with matching artwork. Each of the ensuite bathrooms are plush, shiny and modern. Rooms come with a smart TV, free Wi-Fi and plush beds and seating for a restful stay. All have a platform terrace overlooking the lush greenery.
Lumi is of course an ideal getaway spot to escape, but there is nevertheless plenty of opportunity to get social and have fun. The resort centrepiece is the Skinny Dip Sunset Club, a stylish spot for wining, dining, sipping sundowners or simply mingling with friends beside the pool.
With cosy daybeds, a refreshing outdoor pool, and front-row views of the island’s best sunset spot, Lumi is designed for beach lovers, art enthusiasts. It exudes tropical warmth with a refined island elegance.
The moat-like curved infinity pool also features cabanas by the water and a fully stocked swim up bar to chat and sip a cool cocktail or two. In the early evening, Gili T’s west coast comes alive. Kick back in a cabana and be entertained by live acoustic music and DJ sets. The Skinny Dip Sunset Club lays on all-day dining with dedicated lunch and dinner menus as well as all-day snack options.
It’s an expansive and very inventive menu covering all the bases for global travellers with discerning palates. It showcases an array of modern fusion bites, along with classic dishes and sharable combo platters with many vegetarian and vegan options.
The menu includes lesser-known local dishes like Bebalung and Sate Rembiga plus pan-Asian favourites Chicken Hainan Rice and Malaysian curry. There are stacked burgers, pasta, grilled fish and a selection of desserts. For something a little more special, private dining on the beach with a dedicated butler service is available.
It’s also a haven for lovers of art. In collaboration with Les Fauves Island, the gallery founded by RizRizRizz, Lumi presents an art-driven resort experience. Guests also enjoy access to the longest pool on Gili Trawangan at Les Fauves which is lined with Rizz’s expressive artwork. The Pool Bar menu is even inspired by this artwork. It’s a partnership celebrating a shared passion for unique design and the art of island living.
For the more active guests, Hotel Lumi can organise snorkelling and diving trips as well as horse riding on the beach. It also arranges private celebrations such as birthdays or corporate retreats and even has a barefoot tropical beach wedding service. The grounds of Lumi are left mostly as nature intended, bringing guests a closer connection to the environment. In short, it’s is an ideal haven to unwind in Gili T.
Desa Gili Indah, Gili Trawangan hotellumi LumihotelGT
www.hotel-lumi.com
VILLA LUNA, GILI AIR
Escape to a Hidden
Villa
Haven
Aweekend escape at Gili Air’s Villa Luna is just the tonic you need at the end of a stressful week. Nestled in a peaceful coconut grove, it’s a boon for a relaxing break for couples, families or even remote workers looking to get work done with minimal distraction.
This contemporary designed two-bedroom villa retreat has the ideal blend of stylish creature comforts and eye-catching design. It has everything you need to unwind in style, with a fully equipped kitchen, a sumptuous lounge and dining, and indoor and outdoor spaces for relaxation or socialising.
Villa Luna is a design-led two-story modern villa divided into two wings, which are separated by an open-air hallway that connects the entrance to the private swimming pool and lush tropical garden. The layout is designed to provide communal spaces between the bedrooms for added privacy – perfect for a group of friends or families with older children.
The general configuration makes for seamless use of the indoor-outdoor amenities, from lounging, to dining, to lazing by the pool. The upper level features a dedicated air-conditioned office space for digital nomads who wish to work or for a private spot to relax. The rooftop Moon Deck is a breezy spot for early evening sunset or even an early morning yoga session.
The lunar theme continues with the moon-shaped private pool surrounded by plush seating and shady areas to laze the day away and enjoy a cool cocktail or two. As well as the interior dining space, there is a dedicated outdoor spot for dining under the stars. Surrounded by a manicured lawn and tropical vegetation beneath tall coconut trees, there is ample space for kids to safely play.
The overall design aesthetic of the villa is stylish contemporary, with a minimalistic twist, incorporating bold colours, like dark grey and emerald green, set against a backdrop of crisp white walls and natural wood and rattan fixtures. It also showcases some interesting quirky touches too.
The two bedrooms are set apart for privacy and feature double and twin configurations, comfortably accommodating a family group. They have a spacious balcony and ground floor terrace respectively. They feature ensuite bathrooms with the master bedroom boasting a sumptuous open bathroom. Luxe linens, bathrobes and boutique Sensatia bath products are provided. Along with the outdoor pool and deck, the lower mezzanine lounging area serves as the social hub of the villa with plush sofa seating, just steps form the modern kitchen and indoor dining space. Villa Luna is a unique tropical home that feels so welcoming and features absolutely everything you need to truly experience the chilled Gili island vibe.
Gili Strong Triathlon:
Sweat, Smiles, and Island Spirit!
Saturday, October 25th, 2025 saw Gili Trawangan bursting with energy in one of the most anticipated annual sporting events—the Gili Strong Triathlon, proudly organized by Lembaga Masyarakat Adat Gili Trawangan and the Gili Eco Trust. With turquoise seas and sunshine overhead, it was the perfect day to swim, cycle, and run around paradise. This year’s event drew an incredible 87 participants, including 24 solo athletes and 63 team members. The energy was contagious as locals, divers, and island guests gathered to cheer from the sidelines, making it a true community celebration. After the last racer crossed the finish line, the festivities continued with traditional dances, an impressive Gendang Beleq drum performance, and in the evening, a live orchestra at Sama Sama—the perfect finale to a day of endurance, fun, and local pride. The Gili Strong Triathlon has become a highlight of the island’s calendar—a blend of fitness and community spirit. If you missed it this year, don’t worry—there’s another exciting challenge on the horizon!
All images courtesy of @jerryunderh20
Get Ready For: The FirstEver Tri-Island-athon!
Mark your calendars for December 13th, when the very first Tri-Island-athon—a sunrise adventure across all three Gili Islands in a single morning! The route begins on Gili Air before dawn with a 5 km run around the island, followed by a quick boat ride to Gili Trawangan for a 7 km jog, and then one last hop to Gili Meno for a 5 km circuit to the finish line—all wrapped up by 8 a.m. This isn’t a competition but a fun run and celebration of island life, with the first Gili inter-island race. So lace up, dive in, and get ready to run for a cause—island style!
Turtle Tote Print Workshop— Craft for a Cause!
Even when sea turtles aren’t nesting, Proyek Penyu is still hard at work protecting them—this time through creativity and community! During the rainy season, when plastic debris often washes ashore from nearby islands, the rangers engage in creative activities to raise awareness and promote education for turtle conservation. They joined forces with Hotel Lumi to host a Turtle Tote Bag Workshop—a handson “crafternoon” with purpose. Guests rolled up their sleeves to turn recycled beach rubbish into art. Discarded flip-flops collected from cleanups were washed, cut, and transformed into colourful stamps and stencils. Everyone received a reusable canvas tote, then got to work designing their own ecofriendly masterpiece—from stamped turtle prints to hand-painted ocean scenes. In just a couple of hours, creativity flowed, conversations bloomed, and every bag became a unique reminder that small plastic-free choices make big waves. So next time you visit Gili Trawangan, skip the plastic bag and join a Turtle Tote Workshop—where protecting turtles starts with creativity and canvas!
LET’S GET WET! LET’S GET WILD!
On November 28th and 29th, Rabbit Jump, Gili Trawangan turned up the heat with its first—and largest—Wet & Wild Party, headlined by Indonesia’s top female DJ, @dinar_candy, who electrified the crowd with her signature high-energy, sultry beats. The atmosphere was charged as dynamic DJs, live saxophone performances, and dazzling dancers transformed the venue into a playground where rhythm met desire on the dancefloor.
As the night peaked, a burst of spectacular fireworks painted the sky, marking the perfect finale. The energy was electric, the smiles contagious, and the crowd’s wild spirit set the tone—turning two nights on Gili T into a celebration that won’t soon be forgotten.
THIS IS THE GILIS!
GETTING THERE
From/to Lombok: There are public outrigger boats from each island direct to Lombok throughout the day starting around 7.00am. A faster (more expensive) option is the hourly speedboat service stopping at all three islands.
GETTING AROUND ON THE ISLANDS
Refreshingly all forms of motorized transport are forbidden on the Gilis. That leaves travel by “Cidomo” horse cart, bicycles or let those feet do the walking. All three islands can be circumnavigated on foot within about two hours. There are numerous bicycle rental kiosks along the beachfront on all three islands—both traditional bikes and increasingly, e-bikes.
ISLAND HOPPING
A scheduled twice a day island hopping service by outrigger boat runs between all three islands in the morning and afternoon, meaning you can visit another island for several hours and return in the late afternoon. A more flexible option is the hourly speedboat service to and from the Lombok mainland which connects Gili Trawangan, Gili Mano and Gili Air throughout the day.
MONEY MATTERS
There are money changers and a wealth of ATM machines situated on each islands’ main beach strip. All accept Mastercard and Visa withdrawals.
POWER
Electricity coverage is 24/7 but power outages are not uncommon. The good news is they are generally brief and many hotels and restaurants have a back up generator. Power outlets use two-pin plugs. International plug adapters are available for sale. Free wi-fi is available at many hotels, guest houses and restaurants.
HEALTH
Each island has health clinics able to treat minor ailments and illness, and you’ll find pharmacies for most over the counter medicines. For dental work or more serious injuries, you’ll need to go to the Lombok mainland.
STAYING SAFE
Even just metres from the shore, currents can be sudden and strong. Know your limits when swimming or snorkeling. Never attempt to swim between the islands.
BE A RESPONSIBLE VISITOR
There are many ways each visitor can do their bit to help keep the Gili Islands as pristine as possible. Conserve water where possible and turn off unnecessary power when leaving your hotel room, such as fan, lights s and air conditioning. Don’t litter streets or the beach —use the trash bins and when shopping, use a reusable bag. There are many ways you can get involved to help keep the Gilis clean, such as weekly beach cleanups where all are welcome.
THE DIRECTORY
EAT
Gili Trawangan
BORA-BORA Sunset Beach Club
+62 811 388 8339
@bora_bora_gilit
Kayu Café
+62 878 6239 1308
@kayucafegili
Pearl Beach Lounge
+62 819 9715 6999
@pearloftrawangan
La Cala
+62 8177 2852 855
@lacalagili
Chappies Bar
+62 812 3788 9378
@mantadivegilit
Gili Sands
+62 823 3945 3707
@gilisandshotel
Pearl Sunset Resort
+62 8113 9009 050
@pearlsunsetresort
Pesona Lounge
+62 8133 8088 963
@pesonaloungetrawangan
Pizzeria Da Marco
+62 818 1827 9613
@pizzeriadamarco24
Rabbit Jump
+62 859 7118 1942
@rabbitjumpgili
The Roast House
+62 8174 9160 04 @giliroasthouse
Gili Air
Flow Gili Air
+62 813 3943 9078
@flowgiliair
Papaya Beach Club
+62 819 0784 7382
@papayagili
Gili Coffee Roasters
+62 859 6034 2360
@gili_coffeeroasters
Kopi Susu
+62 821 4737 1516
@kopisusu_giliair
Pachamama Cafe + Cantina
+62 821 4649 5915
Yanai
+62 853 3829 5422
@yanaigiliair
Poke
+62 822 3667 9253
@poke.gili.air
Sabai Sabai
+62 822 4791 2464
@sabaisabai_giliair
Gili Meno BASK
+62 812 3764 7471
@baskgilimeno
WELLNESS
Gili Trawangan
Azure Spa
+62 823 3910 4881
@azurespagili
YOU SPA
+62 821 4456 7093
@youspaexperience
DIVING
Gili Trawangan
Blue Marlin Dive
+62 877 5936 7889
@bluemarlingilitrawangan
Dive Central
+62 812 2956 9183 @divecentralgili
Lutwala Dive
+62 859 5521 6926 @lutwaladive
Manta Dive
+62 812 3788 9378 @mantadivegilit
Gili Air
Blue Marlin Dive
+62 813 3283 9446
@bluemarlinair
Gili Meno
Blue Marlin Dive
+62 812 3727 0361
@bluemarlinmeno
HEALTH & LEISURE
Gili Trawangan Utopia Catamaran
+62 821 4456 7079 @utopiacatamaran
D’Gilis
+62 812 3610 3613 @degilis. Adventure
Rabbit Jump
+62 859 7118 1942 @rabbitjumpgili
NGO
Gili Trawangan
Gili Eco Trust
+62 813 3960 0553 @giliecotrust
Horses of Gili
+62 878 4332 0545 @horsesofgili
Yayasan LUNI Lombok
+62 812 3949 5308
@luni_lombok
Proyek Penyu @proyekpenyu.gili
Gili Air
Yayasan LUNI Lombok
+62 812 3949 5308
@luni_lombok
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Ambulance
P: +62 370 623 489
Emergency Call: 119
Fire Brigade
P: +62 370 672 013
Emergency call: 113
Lombok Police
Jl. Gajah Mada No7, Ampenan
P: +62 370 693 110
Emergency Call: 110
Tourist Police Senggigi
Jl. Raya Senggigi km 1
P: +62 370 632 733
CLINICS ON THE GILIS
GILI TRAWANGAN
Hotel Villa Ombak Clinic
Gili Trawangan
P: +62 370 642 336
D’Gilian Clinic Center
P: +62 878 6567 4141
Trawangan Clinic Center
P: +62 819 1745 1861
GILI AIR
Gili Air Clinic Center
P: +62 878 6206 0248
Gili Air Medika
P: +62 819 0747 3113
Blue Island Medical Clinic
(100 metres from the harbour)
P: +62 81 999 705 703
P: +62370 6198097
GILI MENO
Pillar Medika Meno
P: +62 811 3904 2042
Blue Island Medical Clinic
(50 metres from the harbour)
P: +6281999705702
Gili Emergency Medical Service
P: +62 821 4444 5015
HOSPITALS
Siloam Hospitals Mataram
Jl. Majapahit No.10, Mataram
P: +62 370 6001100
Harapan Keluarga
Jl. Ahmad Yani, Selagalas
P: +62 370 617 7000 / 617 7009
Risa Sentra Medika
Jl. Pejanggik No.115, Cakranegara
P: +62 370 625 560
New Mataram Public Hospital
Jl. Bung Karno No.1, Mataram
P: +62 370 645 045
Mataram Public Hospital
Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram
P: +62 370 623 498
Siti Fajar Moslem Hospital
Jl. Panca Warga, Mataram
P: +62 370 623 498
Anthonius Catholic Hospital
Jl. Koperasi, Ampenan
P: +62 370 621 397
Police Hospital
Jl. Langko No.54, Ampenan
P: +62 370 633 701
Army Hospital
Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto No.11, Mataram
P: +62 370 621 420
Central Lombok Public Hospital
Jl. Jen Basuki Rachmat, Praya
P: +62 370 654 007
East Lombok Public Hospital
Jl. Prof M. Yamin No.55, Selong
P: +62 376 216 80
HEALTH CLINICS
Biomedika Clinic
Jl. Bung Karno No.143, Mataram
P: +62 370 645 137
Medika Husada Clinic
Jl. Raya Senggigi
P: +62 370 664 480
Klinik Prodia
Jalan Pejanggik No.107, Mataram
P: +62 370 635 010
Jolie Sourire Dental Care
Epicentrum Mall
P: +62 370 668 1797
PHARMACIES
Guardian Pharmacy
Mataram Mall
Jl. Pejanggik, Mataram
P: +62 370 629 921
Kimia Farma
Jl. Sriwijaya No.295, Mataram
P: +62 370 633 211
Jl. Pejanggik No.48, Mataram
P: +62 370 638 502
Jl. Catur Warga, Mataram
P: +62370 634 774
TAXI
Bluebird Taxis
P: +62 370 627 000
IMMIGRATION OFFICE
Department of Immigration
Jl. Udayana, Mataram
P: +62 370 632 520
POST OFFICES
Central Post Office
Jl. Sriwijaya, Mataram
P: +62 370 632 645
Jl. Langko, Ampenan
P: +62 370 631 642
Jl. Raya Senggigi
P: +62 370 693 711
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS
Mandalika Intercultural School
Kuta, Lombok
P: +62 813 5357 8345
Nusa Alam
Kompleks Grand Natura,
Jl. Bung Hatta
P: +62 370 647 510
FAST BOATS
Bluewater Express
Gili Trawangan
P: +62 811 380 9555
Gili Air
P: +62 811 380 7555
Bangsal
P: +62 811 380 9555
Einstein Fast Boat
Gili Trawangan
P: +62 82341077750
Gili Air
P: +62 82341077750
Bangsal Office
P: +62 823 4107 7750
Eka Jaya
P: +62 819 1601 9775
Wahana Virendra Fast Boat
P: +62 877 7679 0777
CAR RENTAL COMPANIES
Gilitrans
P: +62 813 1313 7732
FREIGHT/COURIER COMPANIES
JNE Express Gili Air
P: +62 851 7247 4779
PUBLIC UTILITIES
Electricity (PLN)
Jl. Langko No. 25, Ampenan
P: +62 370 632 182
Jl. Raya Sengiggi
P: +62 370 693 535
Water (PDAM)
Jl. Pendidikan No.29, Mataram
P: +62 370 632 510
Jl. Raya Sengiggi
P: +62 370 693 886
CONSULATES IN BALI
Australia (Also consular service for Canada and New Zealand nationals)
