Gili Gede: A Serene Island Escape in West Nusa Tenggara
Discover the tranquil beauty of Gili Gede, an unspoiled island retreat in West Nusa Tenggara with stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
A brief summary to Gili Gede
- West Nusa Tenggara, ID
Gili Gede is a breathtaking island located in the serene waters of West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, this hidden gem offers tourists an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The island features pristine white sandy beaches, surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The vibrant underwater world is teeming with colorful marine life, making it an excellent destination for both beginner and experienced divers. As you explore Gili Gede, you'll find a laid-back atmosphere that is conducive to relaxation. The island is relatively less crowded compared to its more famous neighbors, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty at their own pace. Local accommodations range from cozy bungalows to luxurious villas, providing a variety of options to suit different budgets. Additionally, the island's small size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, giving tourists the chance to discover hidden coves and picturesque viewpoints. Gili Gede is also a great base for island hopping, with easy access to nearby islands such as Gili Asahan and Gili Layar, each offering unique attractions and stunning scenery. The local cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood and traditional Indonesian dishes readily available at beachside restaurants and warungs. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Gili Gede offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful surroundings, making it a must-visit destination in West Nusa Tenggara.
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (April to October) for the best weather and water activities.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore the beautiful coral reefs around the island.
- Try local seafood dishes at the beachside restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
- Consider renting a bicycle to easily explore the island’s less-traveled paths and hidden spots.
- Stay overnight to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and the peaceful ambiance after day-trippers leave.
Getting There
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Car
If you have a rental car, drive to the nearest port on Lombok, which is located at Lembar Port. From Gili Islands, take a local boat or speedboat from Gili Trawangan or Gili Air to Lembar. The boat ride will take about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Lembar Port, you can find local transportation options like taxis or bemos that can take you to a nearby harbor that offers boat services to Gili Gede.
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Public Transportation
From wherever you are in the Gili Islands, take a boat back to Lombok first, ideally to Bangsal Harbor. Once at Bangsal, you can take a local bemo (shared minivan) or a taxi to Lembar Port. The bemo ride typically costs around IDR 20,000 to IDR 30,000. After arriving at Lembar Port, you can hire a boat to Gili Gede, which may cost about IDR 200,000 to IDR 300,000 for a private boat, or find other tourists to share the cost.
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Boat
To reach Gili Gede specifically, you can also charter a private boat directly from Gili Trawangan or Gili Air. This option is more convenient as it avoids the need to go back to Lombok first. The boat ride takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and costs may vary but expect to pay around IDR 1,000,000 to IDR 1,500,000 for a private boat, which can accommodate several passengers.
Landmarks nearby to Gili Gede
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Buwun Mas Hills (Bukit Buwun Mas)
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Pondok Santi Estate Luxury Beachside Resort
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Taman Ujung
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Casa Vintage Beach
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Gili Trawangan Beach
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Manta Dive Gili Trawangan
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Pelabuhan Gili Trawangan
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Gili Meno South-East Beach
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Gili Meno Sea Turtle Sanctuary
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Gili Castle Building 2
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Gili Trawangan
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Gili Meno beach
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Gili Meno
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Private Trip Gili
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Gili Meno Fresh-water Lake