How to Get to the Gili Islands From Bali

The Gili Islands, a paradise on earth with stunning white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, vivid marine life (including beautiful sea turtles), and a tropical climate, are a popular escape from Bali or Lombok for many travelers.

But how do you get from Bali to the Gili Islands? Well, there is only one way: by boat. While you can always hire one of the many fast boats – which you can consider as a private boat – to do the crossing to one of these three, the most common, safe, and popular option is to book a public ferry ride from one of the ports in Bali.

Below, I put together a comprehensive guide to help you get to the Gili Islands from Bali.

About the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands, located off the northwest coast of Lombok, are three small islands where no motorized vehicles are allowed. If you're still not sure the Gili Islands are for you, I recommend you read this article (by the end, you'll know they are).

Gili Trawangan

The largest and most developed island, Gili Trawangan, usually called Gili T, is known for its nightlife (hence its nickname, “party island”) and is perfect for anyone looking for lots of social activities, beach bars, and water sports.

Gili Air

On this Gili island, you'll find the perfect blend between the lively and relaxing vibe of the other Gili islands. This is the best island for a relaxing romantic getaway – learn more about this stunning small island here.

Gili Meno

The smallest and quietest island, Gili Meno, is ideal for a peaceful retreat with its pristine beaches, clear waters, and minimal nightlife.

Your Travel Options to the Gili Islands

As I said above, the most common and convenient way to get from Bali to Gili Islands' ports is by public ferry. Here is all the information you need.

Departure Ports and Ferry Operators

1. Padang Bai Port

Padang Bai is the most popular and busiest port for traveling to the Gili Islands. Located in East Bali, it has frequent daily departures, making it a reliable option for travelers from all over Bali.

Travel time from Padang Bai to the Gili Islands depends on your final destination typically takes about 1.5 hours to Gili Trawangan, 2 hours to Gili Air, and 2.5 hours to Gili Meno.

Best Ferry Operators from Padang Bai Port:

1. BlueWater Express: This operator runs multiple daily departures to the three Gili islands and Lombok. Prices range from US$50 to US$70 one-way.
2. Gili Gili Fast Boat: Gili Gili also offers multiple daily departures to the Gili islands, with prices ranging from US$40 to US$60 one way.
3. Eka Jaya Fast Boat: Eka Jaya operates several public boats daily to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Lombok, with prices ranging from US$40 to US$60 one-way.

2. Serangan

Serangan, located in South Bali near Denpasar and Kuta, is another popular departure point. The travel time from Serangan to the Gili Islands is slightly higher than from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan takes about 2 hours, Gili Air 2.5 hours, and Gili Meno 3 hours.

Best Ferry Operators from Serangan:

1. Gili Getaway: Gili Getaway offers two daily departures to the Gili Islands and Lombok. Prices range from US$60 to US$80 one way.
2. BlueWater Express: This operator runs multiple daily departures from Serangan to the Gili Islands. Prices range from US$50 to US$70 one-way.

3. Amed, Northern Bali

Amed Port, located on the east side of Bali, is ideal for travelers coming from the northeastern side of Bali, including Amed Beach, Tulamben, and the nearby coastal areas. Due to its proximity to the Gili Islands, Amed is the port with the shortest crossing time.

The travel time from Amed to Gili T is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, to Gili Air around 1.5 hours, and to Gili Meno about 2 hours. The facilities at Amed are more limited, offering only basic waiting areas, but it's not an issue if you come prepared.

Best Ferry Operators from Amed:

1. FreeBird Express: FreeBird Express offers one or two daily departures to Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. Prices range from US$40 to US$50 one-way.
2. Kuda Hitam Express: This operator runs one or two daily departures from Amed to the Gilis, Trawangan, and Air. Prices are US$40 to US$50 one-way.

4. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida

For those staying on the Nusa Islands, fear not. You also have direct fast boat services to the Gili Islands.

The travel time from Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida to the three Gili Islands is approximately 1.5 to Gili Trawangan, 2 hours to Gili Air, and 2.5 hours to Gili Meno.

Best Ferry Operators from Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida:

1. Scoot Fast Cruises: Scoot Fast Cruises runs daily departures from Nusa Lembongan to the Gili Islands and Lombok. Prices range from US$50 to US$70 one way. Travel time to
2. Rocky Fast Cruise: Rocky Fast Cruise offers daily departures from Nusa Penida to the Gili islands Trawangan and Air. Prices are US$50 to US$70 one-way.

Booking Tickets to the Gili Islands

You can book your boat tickets from Bali to Gili Islands' ports in a few ways. Choose the one that best suits you:

• Online: One of the most reliable platforms for booking ferry tickets online is 12Go, which offers many options and has an easy booking process. You'll be able to find multiple operators and book within a user-friendly interface.
• Travel Agencies and Hotels: You can also book tickets through tour agencies or directly with your hotel in Bali. Travel agencies are abundant and offer competitive prices, so you won't have any problem getting from Bali to Gili Trawangan, Air, or Meno. Additionally, many hotels and hostels in Bali offer ticket booking services, so you can also book your tickets directly with them.
• Directly at the Harbor: This option is convenient if you prefer to buy tickets in person, although you can run the risk of not being able to book the tickets you want because they easily sell out. If you really want to follow this option, I suggest arriving early, especially during peak seasons.

Ferry Boat Schedules to the Gili Islands

Schedules vary depending on the season, with more frequent departures during peak times (June-August and December-January). For that reason, you must check the latest schedules on the website of your boat company or through booking platforms like 12Go to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and availability.

I'm leaving here some boat departure times that are usually the ones in place during the high season:

Padang Bai:

• BlueWater Express: Departures at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 1:00 PM.
• Gili Gili Fast Boat: Departures at 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM.
• Eka Jaya Fast Boat: Departures at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 1:00 PM.

Serangan:

• Gili Getaway: Departures at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
• BlueWater Express: Departures at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 12:00 PM.

Amed:

• FreeBird Express: Departures at 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM.
• Kuda Hitam Express: Departures at 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM.

Nusa Lembongan/Nusa Penida:

• Scoot Fast Cruises: Departures at 8:30 AM and 1:00 PM.
• Rocky Fast Cruise: Departures at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

Things to Know About the Ferry Trip to the Gili Islands

Before commencing your ferry trip, there are a few important things to consider.

First, always check the weather and sea conditions. Rough seas can affect travel times and the overall comfort of your journey (be prepared!). I believe early morning departures are best, as they are less likely to be impacted by afternoon winds, downpours, or choppy seas. Remember that during the rainy season, typically from November to March, sea conditions between Bali and the Gili Islands can also become rough. Lastly, if you're prone to motion sickness, bring seasickness medication, it will make the journey a little bit more comfortable.

Regarding luggage, it's best to limit your bags to essentials, as storage space on the boats can be limited. Additionally, prepare for wet landings (something I had totally forgotten about!), especially on Gili Trawangan, where there is no pier, and you may need to wade through shallow water with your hand luggage to reach the shore.

How to Get to the Gili Islands From Bali – Frequently Asked Question

🤔 Is it worth going to the Gili Islands from Bali?

Absolutely! The Gili Islands are a stunning part of any Southeast Asia trip, with their unspoiled beaches and beautiful marine life. Going from Bali to the Gili Islands is a definite yes for me.

🏝️ Can you do the Gili Islands as a day trip?

Not really. While visiting these beautiful islands as a day trip from Bali is technically possible, I wouldn't recommend it due to the travel time involved. Fast boats from Bali to the Gili Islands take around 1.5 to 3 hours one way, meaning you would spend a significant portion of your day traveling (not counting the time to get from wherever you are in Bali to your chosen port). Additionally, the beauty of the Gili Islands is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, allowing time for activities such as a snorkel trip or a simple day relaxing on the beach. To fully experience these tiny islands, consider staying at least one or three nights.

🚤 How do I get to the Gili Islands from Ubud?

From Ubud, take a shuttle (request a hotel pick-up) or Uber to Padang Bai, which is about a 1.5-hour drive. From Padang Bai, you can catch a fast boat, private transfer, or public boat. Many fast boat companies actually offer combined tickets that include the shuttle service and the boat ride from Bali to the Gili island of your choice.

How to Get to the Gili Islands From Bali – Final Words

Whether you're departing from Padang Bai, Serangan, Amed, or the Nusa Islands, multiple reliable ferry operators will take you from Bali to the Gili Islands. Always check the latest schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

I hope this guide helps you have a hassle-free trip to the beautiful Gili Islands so you can enjoy your adventure in this tropical paradise!