Gili Trawangan is a small paradise island where choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. Each area of this car-free island offers a completely different experience, from party vibes near the harbor to peaceful sunsets on the west coast.
I’ve explored every corner of Gili T and stayed in different areas to help you find your perfect match. Whether you’re a backpacker looking for nightlife, a couple seeking romance, or a family wanting calm beaches, this guide will show you exactly where to book your accommodation for the best possible holiday.
Best Hotels: 🏠
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Jambuluwuk Oceano Gili Trawangan
- ✨ 5-Star: Cocana Resort Gili Trawangan
- 🏨 4-Star: Kardia Resort Gili Trawangan A Pramana Experience
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Gili Amor Boutique Resort
- 💸 Cheap: Alam Gili Trawangan by Mahaputra
- 🏢 Apartment: Gili Tenda
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Scallywags Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: Blue Marlin Dive Resort Trawangan
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay: 📋
- 🎉 For Nightlife & Convenience: East Coast Gili Trawangan
- 🌅 For Sunsets & Relaxation: West Coast Gili Trawangan
- 🐢 For Tranquility & Nature: North Gili Trawangan
- 🏛️ For Local Culture & Budget: South Gili Trawangan
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families & Accessibility: Central Gili Trawangan
1. East Coast – Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan for Nightlife and Convenience
Party Central. The east coast buzzes with energy from dawn until the early hours. I’ve spent countless nights here watching the main strip transform from a quiet breakfast spot into Indonesia’s wildest beach party scene, with Sama Sama Reggae Bar and Tir Na Nog Irish pub leading the charge.
Transport Hub. Your fast boat from Bali or Lombok drops you right here at the harbor. Within minutes of arrival, you’re surrounded by bike rental shops charging 50,000-75,000 IDR ($3.40-$5.10) daily, money changers, and the famous Gili Trawangan Night Market serving fresh seafood for 25,000-50,000 IDR ($1.70-$3.40) from 4 PM to 10 PM.
Dining Paradise. The restaurant density here beats anywhere else on the island. I counted over 30 eateries within a 5-minute walk, from Warung Jaman Now charging 15,000 IDR ($1) for nasi goreng to upscale spots like Scallywags Seafood Bar & Grill where dinner costs 200,000 IDR ($13.50).
Essential East Coast Spots:
- Coco Cafe & Ice Cream (opposite the pier, open daily)
- Vacayy Gili (chicken katsu curry specialist)
- Oh Warung Gili (budget-friendly local meals)
- Francesco’s Pizza (Italian food near night market)
| Meal Type | Local Price (IDR) | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food | 10,000-25,000 | $0.70-$1.70 |
| Mid-range Restaurant | 50,000-150,000 | $3.40-$10.20 |
| Fine Dining | 200,000-400,000 | $13.50-$27 |
Nightlife Access. Every major bar and club sits within walking distance. The legendary party rotation includes different venues each night, with happy hours from 5-6 PM and open bars from 7-7:30 PM at places like Jiggy Bar.
Shopping Convenience. ATMs, pharmacies, dive shops, and souvenir stores cluster around this area. Casa Vintage offers unique vintage apparel, while street stalls along the main road sell sarongs and pearl jewelry with bargaining expected.
Best Hotels in East Coast Gili Trawangan
Luxury Hotels
- Blue Marlin Dive Resort Trawangan – This beachfront dive resort offers premium accommodations with direct beach access and professional diving facilities for underwater enthusiasts.
- Villa Unggul – An elegant villa-style accommodation featuring spacious rooms with modern amenities and peaceful garden settings away from the main tourist areas.
- Blu d'aMare – This boutique beachfront property combines luxury with intimate atmosphere, offering stunning ocean views and personalized service.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Vamana Resort - CHSE Certified – A CHSE certified resort providing comfortable accommodations with traditional Indonesian architecture and modern facilities at reasonable prices.
- Cinta Cottages – Charming cottage-style accommodations surrounded by tropical gardens, offering a peaceful retreat with authentic local atmosphere.
- Marc Hotel Gili Trawangan – A well-located hotel providing comfortable rooms with essential amenities and easy access to beaches and island attractions.
Best Hostels
- Gili Beach Bum Hostel – A popular backpacker hostel offering budget-friendly accommodations with a social atmosphere and close proximity to nightlife areas.
- Warna Beach Hotel – Budget-friendly beachside accommodation featuring colorful bungalows and easy access to swimming and snorkeling spots.
- Cosè Gili Beach Resort – An affordable beach resort offering simple but comfortable rooms with direct beach access and a relaxed island vibe.
2. West Coast – Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan for Sunsets and Relaxation
Sunset Strip. The west coast delivers Indonesia’s most spectacular sunsets without the crowds of Bali’s Tanah Lot. I’ve watched the sky explode in orange and pink hues while sipping coconut water that costs just 15,000 IDR ($1) at beachfront spots like Malibu Beach Club.
Peaceful Vibes. This side feels like a different island entirely. The beaches stretch wider, the music plays softer, and conversations happen in whispers rather than shouts from the east coast party scene. Most restaurants close by 10 PM, creating a natural rhythm.
Romantic Dining. Beachfront restaurants here cater to couples seeking intimate dinners. Pearl Beach Lounge offers candlelit tables directly on the sand, with fresh grilled fish starting at 75,000 IDR ($5.10) and romantic three-course meals reaching 300,000 IDR ($20.40).
West Coast Highlights:
- Malibu Beach Club (10 AM-11 PM daily, sunset DJ sets)
- Casa Vintage Beach (Caribbean cuisine with beach tables)
- Gili Teak Resort Restaurant (4-star beachfront dining)
- La Cala Beach Club Gili (cafe with sea views)
Activities for Relaxation:
- Beach yoga at Gili Yoga studio (200,000 IDR/$13.50 single class, 8:30 AM sunrise flow)
- Traditional massage on the beach (100,000 IDR/$6.80)
- Snorkeling equipment rental (25,000 IDR/$1.70)
- Sunset horseback riding (150,000 IDR/$10.20)
Beach Quality. The sand feels softer here, and the water stays calmer throughout the day. I found the swimming conditions consistently better than the sometimes choppy east coast waters, especially near the luxury resorts.
Best Hotels in West Coast Gili Trawangan
Premium Hotels
- Kardia Resort Gili Trawangan A Pramana Experience – A sophisticated 4-star resort offering modern amenities with traditional Indonesian design elements and excellent beachfront location.
- Ombak Sunset – Perfectly positioned on the west coast for spectacular sunset views, featuring comfortable accommodations with direct beach access.
- Aston Sunset Beach Resort - Gili Trawangan – A well-established beachfront resort offering reliable service, modern facilities, and prime sunset viewing location.
Mid-Range Resorts
- Santorini Beach Resort – A charming Mediterranean-inspired resort with whitewashed buildings and beautiful garden settings near the beach.
- Mala Garden Resort and Spa – A peaceful resort featuring lush tropical gardens, spa facilities, and comfortable accommodations away from the main tourist areas.
- FRii Resort Gili Trawangan – A modern resort offering good value with contemporary design, swimming pool, and easy access to island attractions.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Royal Regantris Trawangan – A reliable budget hotel providing clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities at affordable rates.
- THE EXILE Sunsetpoint – A unique boutique property offering artistic design and sunset views at competitive prices for budget-conscious travelers.
- Mad Monkey Gili Trawangan – A popular backpacker hostel chain offering social atmosphere, organized activities, and budget-friendly accommodations with modern facilities.
3. North Gili Trawangan – Top Place to Stay in Gili Trawangan for Tranquility and Nature
Untouched Paradise. The north remains Gili Trawangan’s best-kept secret. Development here moves at a snail’s pace, preserving the natural beauty that first put this island on the backpacker map decades ago.
Nature Immersion. Wild chickens roam freely, coconut palms grow untrimmed, and the only sounds come from waves and tropical birds. I spent hours here without seeing another tourist, especially around the quieter stretches near Kuno Villas area.
Snorkeling Heaven. The coral reefs off the north coast teem with marine life. Casa Bonita Restaurant sits over the water and provides free snorkeling equipment for turtle spotting, with visibility often exceeding 20 meters during calm weather conditions.
North Coast Essentials:
- Casa Bonita Restaurant (wooden hut over water, turtle snorkeling spot)
- Kuno Villas area (traditional Indonesian architecture)
- Turtle Point (best morning snorkeling 7-9 AM)
- Coral gardens (afternoon visits recommended)
| Activity | Price (IDR) | USD | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turtle Spotting Tour | 100,000 | $6.80 | Early morning |
| Private Snorkeling | 150,000 | $10.20 | Mid-morning |
| Coral Garden Visit | 75,000 | $5.10 | Afternoon |
Limited Infrastructure. Only a handful of warungs serve food here, with simple meals costing 20,000-40,000 IDR ($1.40-$2.70). The lack of development means longer walks to reach restaurants and shops, but bike rentals help bridge the gap.
Perfect Isolation. If you’re seeking digital detox and natural beauty over convenience, the north delivers exactly what Instagram influencers pretend to find elsewhere. WiFi becomes spotty, and that’s precisely the point.
Best Hotels in North Gili Trawangan
Luxury Hotels
- Jambuluwuk Oceano Gili Trawangan – A premium 5-star beachfront resort offering luxurious accommodations with world-class amenities, spa services, and direct access to pristine beaches.
- Nero North – An upscale boutique hotel located on the quieter north side of the island, featuring modern design and exclusive atmosphere for discerning travelers.
- The Gili Beach Resort – A sophisticated beachfront resort combining luxury with traditional Indonesian hospitality, offering premium facilities and stunning ocean views.
Mid-Range Options
- Eden Eco Resort – An environmentally conscious resort featuring sustainable practices, organic gardens, and comfortable accommodations in harmony with nature.
- Gili Eco Villas – Eco-friendly villas designed with sustainable materials and solar power, perfect for environmentally conscious travelers seeking comfort.
- Desa Dunia Beda Resort – A unique eco-resort promoting sustainable tourism with traditional architecture and community-focused initiatives.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Utara Villas – Exclusive private villas offering complete privacy and luxury amenities, ideal for couples or small groups seeking intimate accommodations.
- Villa Bhuvana with private swimming pool – A stunning private villa featuring its own swimming pool, spacious living areas, and premium facilities for ultimate relaxation.
- Alam Gili Trawangan by Mahaputra – A reliable budget hotel providing clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities at affordable rates without compromising on quality.
4. South Gili Trawangan – Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan for Local Culture and Budget Options
Local Village Life. The south offers genuine glimpses into how locals live on Gili Trawangan. Traditional houses mix with budget accommodations near the main village, creating an authentic Indonesian island experience with morning prayers from the local mosque.
Budget Paradise. Accommodation costs drop significantly here. Simple guesthouses like Havana Hideaway start at 150,000 IDR ($10.20) per night, while Rumah Cahaya offers rooms from 40,000 IDR ($2.70), compared to east coast prices that charge double.
Cultural Immersion. Morning prayers from the local mosque, children playing in narrow alleys, and elderly residents tending small gardens create scenes you won’t find in tourist areas. The authentic village atmosphere peaks during late afternoon when locals return from work.
Budget Accommodation Options:
- Havana Hideaway (from 150,000 IDR/$10.20)
- Rumah Cahaya (from 40,000 IDR/$2.70)
- Local guesthouses (100,000-200,000 IDR/$6.80-$13.50)
- Homestays with families (80,000-120,000 IDR/$5.40-$8.20)
Strategic Location. The south sits perfectly between east and west coasts. I could reach Malibu Beach Club’s sunset views in 10 minutes by bike, or walk to the main strip and night market in 15 minutes via the main road.
Authentic Dining. Local warungs here serve the island’s best Indonesian food at unbeatable prices. Gado-gado costs 12,000 IDR ($0.80), fresh fish curry runs just 25,000 IDR ($1.70), and Pituq Waroeng offers traditional nasi campur in a tranquil setting.
Best Hotels in South Gili Trawangan
Luxury Hotels
- Pondok Santi Estate – An exclusive beachfront estate offering luxurious private accommodations with traditional Indonesian architecture and world-class amenities in a secluded setting.
- The Trawangan Resort – A sophisticated resort featuring premium facilities, elegant design, and prime beachfront location with exceptional service standards.
- Ponte Villas – Upscale villa accommodations offering privacy and luxury with modern amenities, perfect for discerning travelers seeking exclusive experiences.
Mid-Range Hotels
- PinkCoco Gili Trawangan - Constant Surprises - for Cool Adults Only – A vibrant adults-only boutique hotel featuring colorful design, creative amenities, and a fun atmosphere for mature travelers.
- Pearl of Trawangan – A charming mid-range resort offering comfortable accommodations with traditional touches and good access to island attractions.
- Serene Beach Villa – A peaceful beachfront villa providing tranquil accommodations with modern comforts and direct beach access for relaxation.
Budget Hotels
- THE EXILE Sunsetpoint – A unique boutique property offering artistic design and sunset views at competitive prices for budget-conscious travelers seeking character.
- Radika House – A cozy guesthouse providing comfortable accommodations with local charm and friendly service at affordable rates.
- Q'Pelagos Sunset Bungalow – Traditional bungalow accommodations offering authentic island experience with sunset views and budget-friendly pricing.
5. Central Gili Trawangan – Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan for Families and Accessibility
Family-Friendly Hub. Central Gili Trawangan strikes the perfect balance for families. You’re close enough to reach beaches quickly but far enough inland to escape the party noise, with properties like Ponte Villas offering peaceful atmospheres.
Practical Advantages. The island’s main road runs through this area, making transportation to any coast simple. Bike rentals cost 50,000 IDR ($3.40) daily from multiple shops, and horse carts (cidomos) charge 20,000 IDR ($1.40) for short trips around the island.
Mixed Accommodation. This area offers the widest variety of lodging options. Budget hostels, mid-range hotels like Jali Resort, and luxury villas all operate within walking distance of each other, creating options for every budget.
Central Area Amenities:
- Jali Kitchen (international cuisine, quiet atmosphere)
- The Banyan Tree (vegetarian restaurant with beach tables)
- Gili Yoga studio (behind Freedive Gili, daily classes)
- Main supermarkets and ATMs
Family Activity Options:
- Swimming pools at various hotels (day passes 25,000 IDR/$1.70)
- Kids’ playground areas near main road
- Family-friendly restaurants with high chairs
- Bicycle tours suitable for children (100,000 IDR/$6.80)
- Indonesian cooking classes (500,000 IDR/$34 per person)
Shopping Access. The island’s main shops, supermarkets, and services cluster here. I found everything from baby formula to snorkeling gear without venturing to the crowded east coast, with Gili Mart offering the most reliable selection of essentials.
Best Hotels in Central Gili Trawangan
Luxury Hotels
- Pera ONE Villas – An exclusive collection of modern luxury villas featuring contemporary design, private pools, and premium amenities for discerning travelers seeking ultimate comfort.
- Majo Private Villas – Sophisticated private villas offering complete privacy with elegant interiors, tropical gardens, and personalized service in a tranquil setting.
- Green Diamond Tropical Private Villa – A stunning tropical villa featuring luxurious accommodations surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for couples or small groups seeking exclusive experiences.
Mid-Range Hotels
- La Cocoteraie Ecolodge - Luxury Glamping Tents – A unique glamping experience offering luxury tents with modern amenities in a natural setting, combining comfort with eco-friendly practices.
- Shefa Private Villa – A charming private villa providing comfortable accommodations with traditional Indonesian touches and modern conveniences at reasonable rates.
- Coconut Garden Resort – A peaceful resort nestled among coconut palms, offering comfortable rooms with garden views and easy access to beaches and island attractions.
Budget Hotels
- Gili Boho Villas - Aesthetic Private Pool Villas – Stylish budget villas featuring aesthetic design and private pools, offering Instagram-worthy accommodations at affordable prices for young travelers.
- 3 Bedroom Private House – A spacious private house perfect for groups or families, offering three bedrooms with local charm and budget-friendly rates for extended stays.
- The White Bay – A clean and comfortable budget accommodation featuring simple rooms with essential amenities and friendly service near the main areas.
FAQ
Which Gili Island to Stay on for Nightlife?
Gili Trawangan is the best Gili island for nightlife with beach bars and restaurants staying open late. The east side of Gili Trawangan island offers the most party atmosphere compared to Gili Air and Gili Meno.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Gili Trawangan?
The best area to stay depends on your preferences, with the east coast perfect for nightlife and the west side of Gili offering stunning sunsets. Central areas provide the best accommodation in Gili Trawangan for families seeking quiet spots near Gili Trawangan harbour.
How to Get to Gili Trawangan from Bali?
You can get from Bali to Gili Trawangan by fast boat from Padang Bai or Sanur, taking 1.5-2 hours. Book your Gili Trawangan hotel in advance during peak season when visiting the Gili Islands becomes more crowded.
Are Luxury Hotels in Gili Trawangan Worth It?
Luxury hotels in Gili Trawangan offer private beach areas and premium amenities that justify higher prices. The Pearl of Trawangan and other boutique hotel options provide exceptional service right on the beach.
Which Side of Gili Trawangan for Sunset Views?
The west coast of Gili Trawangan offers the best sunset views with beach resort options facing the ocean. This part of the island features romantic restaurants and beach bars perfect for evening dining.
Should I Stay on Gili Air or Meno?
Stay on Gili Trawangan for the most hotel offers and restaurant options, while Gili Air and Gili Meno provide quieter experiences. Deciding which island to stay on depends on whether you prefer Gili T’s vibrant atmosphere or the peaceful vibes of Meno and Gili Air.
What’s the Best Time to Visit Gili Islands?
The best time to visit Gili Islands is during dry season from April to October for optimal weather. Even though the Gili Islands are tropical year-round, this period offers the best conditions to explore Gili Trawangan.
Where are the Best Hotels in Gili Trawangan Located?
The best hotels in Gili Trawangan are spread across different areas, with beachfront properties on the west and east coasts. Accommodation on Gili Trawangan ranges from budget guesthouses to 5-star hotel in Gili Trawangan options.
Can I Island Hop Between the Three Gili Islands?
Yes, you can easily visit all three Gili Islands with regular boat services connecting Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. Many travelers stay in Gili Islands for several days to experience each unique atmosphere.
What Accommodation in Gili Trawangan Offers Best Value?
Mid-range accommodation in Gili Trawangan provides excellent value with beach access and modern amenities. Hotels on Gili Trawangan in central areas offer competitive rates while keeping you close to beaches in Gili Trawangan and main attractions.
