This blog post is all about how to get to the Gili Islands from Bali.
If you’re planning a trip to Bali and find yourself with a few extra days, do yourself a favour and add the Gili Islands to your itinerary.
These tiny islands just off the coast of Lombok offer a complete contrast to the buzz of Bali: no traffic, no stress, just white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and island time.
There are multiple ways to get to the Gili Islands from Bali, depending on your budget, schedule, and whether or not you’ve got a strong stomach.
In this post, I’ll break down each route including the fast boat, slow boat, and flying to Lombok. Plus tips on which Gili Island to choose and why it’s absolutely worth the trip.
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This blog post is all about how to get from the Gili Islands to Bali.
Where Are the Gili Islands?
The Gili Islands are three small islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno—off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia.
Even though they’re closer to Lombok than Bali, most travellers access them from Bali because it’s the better-known destination.
Despite their growing popularity, the Gilis still feel laid-back and untouched compared to the busier parts of Southeast Asia.
Which Gili Island Should You Visit?
If you’re short on time, you might only be able to visit one of the Gili Islands like we did.
Below is a guide to each island to help you decide which one you might want to visit based on your preferences and travel style.
1. Gili Trawangan (Gili T)
The biggest and most developed of the three, Gili T is known for its lively nightlife, sunset swings, and backpacker buzz.
But there’s more to it than this. Think quiet northern beaches, yoga studios, great diving spots, and boutique villas if you want something more peaceful.
Best for: First-timers, solo travellers, and anyone looking for a mix of beach, fun, and social vibes.
2. Gili Air
Sitting between the party of Gili T and the peace of Gili Meno, Gili Air has a relaxed feel with beach cafés, chilled bars, and great snorkelling just off the shore.
Best for: Couples, digital nomads, or travellers wanting a balanced island escape.
3. Gili Meno
The quietest of the trio, Gili Meno is all about peace and seclusion. There’s not a huge amount to do, but that’s the point. Think honeymoon vibes and empty beaches.
Best for: Honeymooners, introverts, or anyone needing a digital detox.
How to Get to the Gili Islands from Bali
There are three main ways to get to the Gili Islands from Bali:
- Fast Boat
- Slow Boat via Lombok
- Fly to Lombok, then boat to the Gilis
Each has its pros and cons, and which one you choose will depend on your travel style.
Option 1: Fast Boat to the Gili Islands from Bali
This is the most common way to get to the Gili Islands from Bali and the most frequently advertised in places like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud.
If you’re short on time and budget-conscious, this is the route most backpackers take.
Fast Boat Departure Ports in Bali:
- Padang Bai: The main departure point (around 1.5–2.5 hours from Canggu or Ubud depending on traffic)
- Serangan: Closer to southern Bali and Denpasar
- Amed: In East Bali, and the closest point if you’re already exploring that side of the island
Padang Bai is the most popular, but if you’re looking to shorten the sea journey, Amed is your best bet.
Fast Boat Travel Time:
- Bali accommodation to Padang Bai: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Waiting and check-in: ~30 minutes
- Fast boat ride: 1.5–2.5 hours depending on sea conditions
Total travel time: ~4 to 5 hours
Fast Boat Cost:
- Around IDR 350,000 to 500,000 (approx. £18–£28 / $23–$32 USD) one way
- Round-trip packages are usually better value
- Most tickets include hotel pickup in Bali
What to Expect on the Fast Boat to the Gili Islands from Bali
Now, full honesty, this option can be rough.
On a calm day, you’ll glide across the sea and be in paradise before you know it. But on a bad day? It’s 2+ hours of bouncing off waves, nausea, and possibly a cabin full of queasy travellers.
I’ve heard stories (and seen TikToks) of people regretting this decision mid-ocean. So if you’re prone to motion sickness, skip ahead to the flying option (like us).
That said, for budget travellers and those on short trips, this is the fastest and cheapest way to get to the Gili Islands from Bali.
Option 2: Slow Boat to the Gili Islands from Bali (via Lombok)
This is the cheapest way to get to the Gili Islands from Bali, but definitely not the quickest or most comfortable.
Slow Boat Route Overview
- Drive from your Bali accommodation to Padang Bai (~2 hours)
- Public ferry from Padang Bai to Lembar Port in Lombok (~4–6 hours)
- Taxi or shared car from Lembar to Bangsal Port (~1.5–2 hours)
- Public boat to the Gili Islands (~30 minutes)
Total travel time: 10+ hours
Slow Boat Cost Breakdown
- Slow ferry: From IDR 40,000 (~$2.50 USD)
- Taxi from Lembar to Bangsal: IDR 300,000–400,000
- Public boat to Gilis: From IDR 25,000
- Total: ~IDR 380,000+ (approx. £20 / $25 USD) one way
What to Know About the Slow Boat to the Gili Islands from Bali
- The slow boat is local-style, meaning it’s often crowded, doesn’t guarantee a seat, and has minimal comfort
- Expect long waiting times and few facilities on board
- It’s not always available depending on weather or demand
- Can be arranged through tourist shops or by piecing it together yourself
If you’re truly on a tight budget and don’t mind a long travel day, this is the route for you. It also makes a great travel story, though possibly not one you’d repeat.
Option 3: Fly to Lombok, Then Take a Boat to the Gilis
This is what we did, and if you struggle with sea sickness like I do, I highly recommend it.
It’s more expensive but way more comfortable and predictable than the boat options.
Lombok Flight Details
- Depart from Denpasar Airport (DPS) in Bali
- Arrive at Lombok International Airport (LOP)
- Flight time: 30–40 minutes
- Airlines: Wings Air, Lion Air, Garuda Indonesia, Citilink
- Cost: From IDR 800,000+ (~£40 / $55+ USD), depending on season
Airport Transfer to Bangsal Port
- Drive time: ~2 hours
- Cost: IDR 250,000–400,000 for a private car or taxi
- We used inDrive—cheaper than Grab and easy to arrange from the airport
Boat from Bangsal to the Gilis
- Public boat: From IDR 25,000 (~$1.70 USD), runs when full
- Private boat: Around IDR 250,000–400,000, faster and flexible
- Takes around 30 minutes
Total Travel Time
- Flight: ~40 mins
- Airport to port: ~2 hours
- Boat to Gilis: ~30 mins
- Total: ~3.5–4 hours
Why Choose This Route to the Gili Islands from Bali?
- Best for comfort and reliability
- Ideal if you get motion sick
- Flights run multiple times a day
- A great excuse to also explore Lombok (which is beautiful and much less touristy)
Quick Comparison of All Routes to the Gili Islands from Bali
| Route | Travel Time | Cost (approx) | Best For | Downsides |
| Fast Boat | 4–5 hrs | £20–£30 | Budget, short on time | Can be rough at sea |
| Slow Boat via Lombok | 10+ hrs | £20–£25 | Tight budgets, adventurous types | Long, uncomfortable, indirect |
| Fly to Lombok + Boat | 3.5–4 hrs | £60–£100+ | Comfort, seasick travellers | More expensive, multi-step |
Final Tips for Travelling to the Gili Islands from Bali
- Check the weather before booking boats—bad conditions = cancelled trips
- Book early during high season (July–Aug, Dec–Jan)
- Bring cash for Bangsal Port and boat tickets—cards aren’t always accepted
- Travel insurance is a must and SafetyWing is what I personally use
- If arriving late in Lombok, you may need to stay overnight before getting the boat to the Gilis
So, Which Route Should You Take to the Gili Islands from Bali?
If you’re on your first Bali trip, just go with the fast boat. Especially if you’re staying near Padang Bai or want to keep it simple.
If you’ve already had a rough ferry ride (or want to avoid one), fly to Lombok—you won’t regret the comfort.
And if you’re really pinching pennies or in it for the adventure, the slow boat via Lombok is a budget-friendly option with a bit more grit.
Whichever way you go, the Gili Islands are so worth it. Especially Gili T, which I’d recommend if you’ve already done Bali once or are looking for something different.
Beach swings at sunset, bicycles instead of cars, and nights under the stars? What more could you want?
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