Gili Trawangan Harbour
Gili Trawangan Harbour: Your vibrant entry to an island paradise known for stunning sunsets, incredible marine life, and a lively atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunset magic awaits!
Gili Trawangan Harbour
Best Time
Sunset magic awaits!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gili Trawangan Harbour: Your vibrant entry to an island paradise known for stunning sunsets, incredible marine life, and a lively atmosphere.
"The island's vibe is addictive, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure."
🎯 Book Boat Tickets Wisely
Always buy from official ticket counters to avoid scams. Eka Jaya is a popular, secure option. :ticket:
🚲 Island Transport
Rent a bicycle for easy island exploration. Horse carts are also available but can be pricey. :bike:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Views
West Coast
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Mount Agung, a daily spectacle that draws crowds. Perfect for photos and relaxation.

Underwater Wonders
Snorkeling & Diving Spots
Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with turtles, and if you're lucky, spot majestic manta rays.

Island Cycling
Around the Island
Rent a bicycle and leisurely explore the island's beaches, cafes, and hidden spots at your own pace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Travel Essentials
Island Orientation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Boat Tickets Wisely
Always buy from official ticket counters to avoid scams. Eka Jaya is a popular, secure option. :ticket:
🚲 Island Transport
Rent a bicycle for easy island exploration. Horse carts are also available but can be pricey. :bike:
💰 Beware of Scams
Don't believe claims that your pre-booked boat is broken. Go directly to the official company office. :warning:
🤿 Dive into Adventure
Gili T is a prime spot for diving and freediving. Many dive centers offer courses and trips. :diving_mask:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Boat Tickets Wisely
Always buy from official ticket counters to avoid scams. Eka Jaya is a popular, secure option. :ticket:
🚲 Island Transport
Rent a bicycle for easy island exploration. Horse carts are also available but can be pricey. :bike:
💰 Beware of Scams
Don't believe claims that your pre-booked boat is broken. Go directly to the official company office. :warning:
🤿 Dive into Adventure
Gili T is a prime spot for diving and freediving. Many dive centers offer courses and trips. :diving_mask:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is intense! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for comfortable island hopping. :sunny:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gili Trawangan Harbour is a gateway to an island paradise, praised for its natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. While some find it busier and pricier than other Gili islands, its charm and activities like snorkeling and sunset viewing are consistently highlighted. Travelers appreciate the convenience of the harbour, though advise caution against potential scams.
"Really easy just buy your tickets at the official ticket office, which is opposite PANDAWA medical, it is facing out to the water but if you see in the video you will be able to locate, ive been taking the island hopping boat as it was the easiest option and always runs on time, no waiting around busy or not and pretty cheap at 40k but Gili T has a reputation for being a party island but I didn't really see it that way, hotel was quiet and had nice places to eat its just more busier than the other two islands meaning they everything is higher price and harder to get sun beds but very good vibes all around."
Jai martin
"Beware of Scammers that tell you your boat is broken and is not leaving. Totally untrue, just go to the ticket office of the company that you booked with and get your boarding pass. The guy in the picture tried to scam me into buying another ticket"
Finn Lucas
"Perfectly serviceable ferry port by SEA standards.
The “slow boat”/public ferry goes between the Gili Islands twice a day (currently 9am & 3pm as of June 2025)
Otherwise you can catch the “public fast boats” that leave approx every hour on the hour (or once they fill up) for 85K per person. Make sure to only buy from the official ticket counter!"
Victor Chua
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by fast boat from Padang Bai Harbour or Serangan Harbour in Bali. The journey typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Companies like Eka Jaya and Golden Queen are popular choices.
You can take a public ferry from Bangsal Harbour or Teluk Nara, which is a shorter and cheaper option, taking about 10-15 minutes. Fast boats are also available from various Lombok ports.
Yes, many fast boat operators offer direct services from Bali's main harbours to Gili Trawangan Harbour, minimizing travel time and hassle.
Fast boat journeys can sometimes be rough, especially in choppy seas. It's advisable to take seasickness medication if you are prone to it.
The harbour is centrally located on Gili Trawangan. However, some accommodations might be a considerable walk or require a bicycle/horse cart ride, so check your hotel's proximity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets from official ticket offices at the departure harbours or reputable online travel agents to avoid scams.
Prices vary depending on the operator and departure point, but expect to pay around 300,000-500,000 IDR for a one-way ticket from Bali. Public ferries are significantly cheaper.
Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and potentially get better prices.
There are typically no direct entrance fees for the harbour itself, but you may encounter small environmental or port taxes, especially for public ferries.
Public ferries are slower, cheaper, and make multiple stops between islands, while fast boats are quicker, more expensive, and often offer direct routes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, freediving, cycling around the island, enjoying sunset views, and exploring the local markets and restaurants.
Gili Trawangan has a reputation for being a party island, with numerous bars and nightlife. However, it also offers quieter areas and is suitable for those seeking relaxation.
The island is car-free. You can walk, rent a bicycle, or hire a horse-drawn cart (cidomo) for transportation.
Mornings are generally quieter for arrival and departure. Afternoons are popular for enjoying the beach and preparing for sunset.
While the harbour is busy, the surrounding waters offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving to see turtles, colorful fish, and potentially manta rays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide range of options, from fresh seafood and local Indonesian dishes to Western cuisine, catering to diverse tastes.
Yes, the area around the harbour has many restaurants and cafes. For more dining options, you can explore further inland or along the coast.
Don't miss fresh grilled fish, nasi goreng (fried rice), and satay. Many places offer beachfront dining experiences.
While prices can be higher than on mainland Lombok, you can find more affordable meals at local warungs and night markets.
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting the island's diverse culinary scene.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the 'Gili Trawangan' swing, the underwater statues at Gili Meno (a short boat trip away), and the numerous picturesque beaches, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Consider capturing the unique island transport like bicycles and horse carts, or the vibrant marine life during snorkeling or diving trips.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful. Waterproof gear or a GoPro is excellent for capturing underwater activities.
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas or require permits. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Gili Trawangan has a party reputation, there are quieter areas and family-friendly accommodations available. Consider booking a place slightly away from the main bar strip for a more peaceful stay. Snorkeling is a fantastic activity for families, with plenty of shallow spots to see marine life.
💰 Budget Travelers
The public ferry from Bangsal Harbour is a significantly cheaper way to reach the island compared to fast boats. Renting a bicycle is also an economical way to get around the island, rather than relying on horse carts.
couples
For a truly special experience, consider a private boat trip to explore nearby islands or a secluded snorkeling spot. The island's laid-back vibe makes it perfect for unwinding together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Waters: Boat Travel to Gili Trawangan
When booking your boat, it's crucial to use official ticket offices or reputable online agents. Travelers have reported scams where individuals claim pre-booked tickets are invalid, urging them to buy new ones. Always verify with the official company. Companies like Eka Jaya are frequently mentioned for their reliability, though prices can vary.
Be prepared for the possibility of a choppy sea journey, especially during certain times of the year. If you're prone to seasickness, bringing medication is a wise precaution. The harbour itself is a bustling hub, and while convenient for arrival, consider the proximity of your accommodation to avoid long treks with luggage.
Exploring the Island: Getting Around Gili Trawangan
For those with heavy luggage or who prefer not to cycle, horse-drawn carts (cidomos) are available. However, these can be more expensive and are often found closer to the harbour. It's worth noting that some accommodations are located on the opposite side of the island from the main harbour, so factor this into your arrival plans if you have a lot of gear.
The island's compact size means you can circumnavigate it relatively quickly by bike, offering diverse perspectives from sunrise on the east coast to sunset on the west.
Underwater Adventures: Snorkeling and Diving
For a truly unforgettable experience, many visitors seek out opportunities to swim with manta rays, particularly in deeper waters. Freediving is also a popular activity here, with several centers catering to all levels. The underwater statues at nearby Gili Meno are another popular attraction, easily accessible by a short boat trip.
Numerous dive shops operate on Gili Trawangan, offering PADI certifications, introductory dives, and guided snorkeling tours. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, the clear waters provide excellent visibility for exploring the underwater world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit