Gili Air

Gili Air is a small coral island in the Gili Islands archipelago off the coast of Lombok, with fine white sand beaches surrounded by a fringing reef. The shoreline is lined with palm trees and traditional wooden structures, while shallow waters invite swimming and snorkeling.

The island was first settled in the 1970s when the Indonesian government transformed the undeveloped land into coconut plantations. This early development established the foundation for today's island community and its basic way of living.

The island's residents maintain Indonesian customs visible in daily life, from how families use the beaches to how local shops and homes are organized. The absence of cars creates a relaxed social rhythm where people gather and interact in ways that reflect island living traditions.

Regular boat services connect the island from Bangsal Harbor in Lombok, while fast boats operate from various ports in Bali. Bring cash, as automated teller machines are limited and many places do not accept credit cards.

The island enforces a complete ban on motorized vehicles, with bicycles and traditional horse-drawn carts called cidomos serving as the only transportation. This rule creates an unusually quiet environment without engine noise or fumes, something increasingly rare in tourist destinations.

Location: Gili Indah

Elevation above the sea: 10 m

Part of: Gili Islands

Address: Gili Air, Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

GPS coordinates: -8.35750,116.08139

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:45