Sea turtles
Snorkelling close to shore.
Christine Anggeline — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Vyacheslav Argenberg — CC BY 4.0 · Midori — CC BY 3.0 · NFarras — CC BY-SA 4.0
The largest and liveliest of the three Gili islands, a small island off Lombok's north-west coast that you can walk right round in about two hours. There are no cars or motorbikes; people get around by bicycle and small horse carts, so the island feels like another, calmer world despite its fame. Its beaches are white sand and its water clear turquoise, ringed by rich coral reefs home to sea turtles, so snorkelling and diving are its best-known activities, and turtles can be seen close to shore. The west coast has a famous sunset spot, with the sun going down behind Bali's Mount Agung, and underwater sculptures lie in the sea for divers. There is no fee to enter the island; public or fast boats from Bangsal harbour on Lombok take about fifteen minutes, and fast boats from Bali about two hours. An important note: the island is known for loud nightlife in parts, so stay at the quiet end if you are with family. For families seeking calm, Gili Meno and Gili Air suit better. Whichever you choose, bring sun cream and enough cash, as ATMs are few, and be wary of dubious food and drinks in bars.
Snorkelling close to shore.
The sun behind Mount Agung.
Bicycles and horse carts.
The Gili Islands, off Lombok's north-west coast
Trawangan for buzz and activities, Meno for total calm, families and couples, and Air for a balance with more local life. For conservative families, Meno or Air suit better.