THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE, LOMBOK
Lombok is often overshadowed by Bali, yet it stands as one of the most captivating destinations to explore! With its expansive landscapes, dense jungles, exhilarating treks, quaint local villages, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches, this island offers a wealth of experiences and has quickly become one of my favourite places. Having spent two months here, I am thrilled to share some of my favourite activities and hidden gems on the island!
Table of Contents
GETTING AROUND LOMBOK
Getting around Lombok couldn’t be simpler. Generally, there are three options:
Scooter: We always opt to rent scooters, typically starting at around 50,000 IDR per day, and explore independently. Scooters can usually be rented from your accommodation, or they will guide you to where you can secure one. If you are staying longer, it will be cheaper, and you should negotiate!
Driver: Another option is to hire a driver, which is quite popular for day trips around Lombok, starting at around 500,000 IDR. Once again, inquire at your accommodation for this service, or seek out a local travel agent in the area.
Tour: Some of our most memorable experiences in Lombok have been on private tours. For those with limited time or a preference for organised activities, there are fantastic tours available. From Island hopping, to waterfall treks, there’s an abundance of options to keep you engaged on this vibrant island!
BEST TIME TO VISIT LOMBOK
The dry season lasts from May to October, drawing the most tourists to Lombok. The wet season, from October to March, is my favourite time to visit! In the north, mornings are sunny while heavy rain falls in the afternoons. The south experiences less rainfall and mostly sunny days. Another advantage is fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
INTERNET ON THE ISLAND
If you’re a digital nomad or travelling through, you’re probably wondering about the WiFi. Lombok is known for temperamental WiFi, which can be an issue if you are working!
The two best providers are Telkomsel and XL, and you can organise this in Kuta.
The coverage with Telkomsel is generally better throughout the island and the cheaper option for packages. In saying that, I switched to XL as I found that the upload speed was better and more secure.
WHERE TO BASE YOURSELF IN LOMBOK
When considering where to stay in Lombok, it depends on your preferences, budget, and the experiences you seek. Kuta or Selong Balanak are good places to base yourself:
KUTA :
The tourist capital of Lombok, and conveniently the closest stop to the airport! Not to be confused with Kuta in Bali, Kuta Lombok is a laid-back coastal village known for its hipster cafes/ restaurants, and surfing spots. Accommodations here range from budget-friendly hostels to boutique guest- houses and villas.
SELONG BALANAK :
We stayed in Selong Belanak, which was ideal for us. It’s the perfect base to explore the south coast and all its offerings. This area offers some of the most stunning beaches and serves as a central hub for exploring the rest of the island. It’s just a short 25-minute scooter ride from Kuta! Selong Balanak Beach offers excellent opportunities for both experienced surfers and beginners alike. With its pristine sands and perfect waves, it’s an ideal spot to catch some waves or take surf lessons. Additionally, the area also boasts a variety of great restaurants!
SELONG BALANAK
SELONG BALANAK
HOTELS & VILLAS
LINA BOUTIQUE
I adore the decor at Lina Boutique Villas and Spa! Situated near Kuta Beach, each villa boasts a captivating blend of Moroccan architecture paired with rustic finishes and interiors. Every corner of the property is meticulously designed to perfection. Each villa comes with a pool, and spacious rooms.
NANTI VILLAS
Nanti Villas in Kuta Lombok is your perfect escape! Each air-conditioned unit comes with a pool, outdoor spa bath and balcony overlooking mountains and the sea!
ORIGIN LOMBOK
Nestled between Kuta and Tanjung Aan, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lombok. Origin offers a serene getaway amidst lush nature in Lombok. With easy access to surfing, stunning sunsets, and lively nightlife. It is owned by the same people who run Amber. Personally, I prefer Amber, but if you want to be closer to Kuta, this is a great option!
AMBER (SELONG BALANAK)
Amber Hotel offers an incredible stay at a very reasonable price! Situated directly on the beach, this hotel provides stunning rooms and villas surrounded by tropical beauty. Enjoy the onsite restaurant with breathtaking sea views and a pool.
What truly sets this place apart is not just the location, but also the amazing staff!
SEGARA LOMBOK
Segara is a stunning hotel located in Selong Balanak, offering a pool area, private secluded beach, and a lovely restaurant for al fresco dining. They provide gorgeous bungalows, some with sea views. This is a great option if you want to avoid the crowds of Kuta and be close to some of the best beaches in Lombok.
KALMA BAMBOO ECO LODGE
Kalma Bamboo Eco Lodge is known for its eco-friendly approach to hospitality. Surrounded by lush greenery, the lodge offers stunning bamboo bungalows that blend seamlessly with nature. A pool overlooking the lush jungle and stunning spot for sunsets. This place is a dream!
KALMA BAMBOO LODGE
KALMA BAMBOO LODGE
WHERE TO EAT IN LOMBOK
SONYA’S SEAFOOD
The best seafood in town! Fresh BBQ seafood that is not only delicious but also very good value for money. I wish we had eaten here more often as we discovered this warung at the end of our trip. I highly recommend this place!
El BAZAR CAFE AND RESTAURANT
El Bazar Restaurant and Bar in Kuta Lombok is a stunning restaurant that quickly earned its place as one of our favourites. The food is delicious with a Middle Eastern touch, highlighting a focus on wine and shared meals. Experience a cosy ambiance and a unique blend of Mediterranean and Moroccan vibes. With its alfresco terrace, beautiful lounge, open kitchen, cobalt blue courtyard reminiscent of a Riad in Marrakech, and floor-to-ceiling wine cellar, El Bazar provides an incredible dining experience. Please note, they are only open in the evenings!
EL BAZAR
el bazar
TERRA VEGAN
If you’re craving healthy food bursting with vibrant flavours, Terra is your go-to spot. Serving up a colourful array of raw, vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based goodness. Their portions are generous, and their food is scrumptious. Plus, you can savour your meal on their beautiful and refreshing rooftop terrace.
THE MEXICAN IN TOWN
Who doesn’t adore Mexican food? The Mexican in Town, run by a Mexican chef, serves up the real deal. Indulge in all the classics: irresistible baja fish tacos, generously filled burritos, the freshest tuna tostada, which quickly became my favourite and their zesty margaritas to complete your dining experience.
In Lombok, you’ll find two Mexican restaurants: The Mexican in Town and Cantina Mexicana. Despite the big hype surrounding Cantina Mexicana, The Mexican in Town was by far my favourite!
KENZA
Kenza is owned by the same people as El Bazar, so it’s obvious the food will be delicious! With a cosy and inviting space this is a great spot for both brunch and dinner. Do yourself a favour and try their baked halloumi with thyme and honey! Its divine.
KENZA
KENZA
JIANG NAN
If you’re craving homemade dumplings, this is the place to go! From the music to the decor and the delicious food, this place has a vibe! Plus, one of the best cocktails I’ve had since being here. The passion fruit martini is a must! They also offer a special every Wednesday. – All dumplings 30,000!
BUSH RADIO
This is the ultimate brunch spot! Here you can experience long, lazy, and laid-back hangs all day. The rustic and industrial decor draws in the hip crowd. You can enjoy seriously tasty salads, sandwiches, smoothie bowls, and juices—all homemade, fresh, and packed with flavour.
ELAMU
This place is a delightful newcomer and truly lives up to the hype! Run by a Greek owner, it offers not only a stunning restaurant but also mouthwatering traditional Greek cuisine. The decor is impeccable, and the outdoor seating, nestled among trees, transports you straight to the Mediterranean, allowing you to dine al fresco in style. Every Sunday they organise an all you can eat buffet from 11:00 to 15:00. They include EVERYTHING from their menu.-You can expect bbq meats, dips, salads, fruits, and greek delicacies.
The presentation is beautiful and the food is delicious! There is also fresh, free flowing sangria. What makes it better? It’s only 150k pp!
ELAMU
ELAMU
ASHTARI LOMBOK
If you are looking for a place with the best view in Kuta, while enjoying delicious Indian food, this is the place for you! Not only is the view stunning, overlooking Kuta and the sea, they also offer yoga classes, training, workshops, events, and accommodation.
MILKY WAVE LOMBOK
If you don’t mind splurging, this beautiful restaurant is perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding mountains. Although pricier than other restaurants in Kuta, Milky Way is stunning with one of the biggest bamboo structures in the area! It provides genuine taste run by a Japanese owner, and the sushi is delicious. They also offer sushi nights every Thursday from 6 PM.
MILK EXPRESSO
If you’re on the hunt for a caffeine fix, look no further—this place brews the best coffee in town! But it’s not just about the coffee; this spot also dishes out delicious brunch food. You can expect eggs benedict, flavourful scrambled tofu, and vibrant smoothie bowls that taste as good as they look.
MILK EXPRESSO
MILK EXPRESSO
BEST THINGS TO DO IN LOMBOK
Lombok boasts endless adventures waiting to be discovered! Its southern and northwestern regions are adorned with pristine beaches, while the northern part of the island offers stunning waterfalls, scenic treks, lush rice fields, charming villages, and the iconic Mount Rinjani. And let’s not overlook the secret Gili islands! These pristine gems boast some of the most beautiful coral formations imaginable.
SOUTH LOMBOK
The southern part of Lombok boasts some of the finest beaches on the island. In Kuta, the main town in South Lombok, you’ll find numerous new cafes and delightful restaurants. Whether you’re in Kuta or Selong Balanak, you’re just minutes away from incredible beaches where you can either learn to surf or simply unwind and enjoy the scenery
1-EXPLORE THE BEACHES IN SOUTH LOMBOK
MAWUN BEACH
This beach is easily one of my favourites in Lombok! The cove is embraced by lush hills, crystal-clear blue waters and soft, powdery sand. And the best part? It’s wonderfully secluded, with hardly any crowds! Plus, there are cosy warungs and sun-beds available, making it the perfect spot to relax and spend the day.
MAWUN BEACH
TANJUNG ANN
Tanjung Ann was the first beach we visited when we arrived in Lombok. From the first sight, we were amazed by its beauty. It’s only a 15-minute drive from Kuta. It’s a long beach, with rolling green hills surrounding it. There are many warung’s on the beach with sun-beds if you fancy a refreshing drink and a bite to eat.
Tampah beach
You probably recognise this name from Tampah Hills. Tampah Beach is another paradise! It has a couple of warung’s, sun-beds, and blue waters. This is a very long stretch and has Lancing 1 and Lancing 2 next to it, which are also idyllic beaches.
Pantai Transat
This hidden gem quickly became another one of my favourite beaches. I was honestly amazed by its beauty! With its pristine soft sand and turquoise waters that transport you to the Caribbean, it’s an absolute paradise. What’s better? You usually have the whole beach to yourself. There are no wurrungs, so bring water.
Pantai Transat is near Pantai Nambung. If you walk towards the left end for approximately 600-700 meters, you’ll encounter large coral rocks. At this point, there are crashing waves over the coral, resembling a ‘waterfall’. It’s truly a remarkable sight, especially during high tide in the late afternoon! Unfortunately, we arrived in the early afternoon and missed the spectacle.
Selong Balanak Beach
After Kuta, we stayed in this area, Selong Balanak. Not only is it a stunning beach, but it’s also an ideal spot to pick up surfing skills! Beginners can arrange surf lessons at one of the warungs on the beach, priced at 250,000 IDR per person. This package includes two hours of instruction, a surfboard for the entire day, and a sun-bed.
For those seeking bigger waves, you can arrange for a boat to take you further out from the beach. This service is also available at one of the local warungs.
Serangan beach
Serangan Beach is a picturesque destination in the south of Lombok. Nestled directly on the beachfront is Segara Hotel, offering an excellent opportunity to unwind, swim, and enjoy delicious food! They extend a warm welcome to non-hotel guests, making it perfect for those seeking comfort and relaxation for the day, accompanied by a delightful lunch!
segara lombok- serangan beach
2-VISIT SADE VILLAGE
In Lombok, there are two main Sasak villages where the local indigenous people live: Rembitan and Sade. Sade Village is quite popular and gives visitors a chance to see traditional homes still in use. Though it might seem touristy, exploring the village helps you learn about local customs and culture. Sade Village is known for its hand weaving, traditional huts, and textile vendors. We were tempted to buy many beautiful textiles there.
3-Sunset at Bukit Merese Hill
This is a magical spot for both sunrise and sunset. Just a short 20-minute drive from Kuta, followed by a brief hike up the hill, you’ll be treated to some of the most stunning views and sunsets in Lombok: rolling hills, the beach below, and the vast ocean stretching out around you. You won’t be disappointed!
4-EXPLORE GILI ASAHAN- THE SECREt GILI’S
When you hear about The Gili’s, you likely think of the three well-known islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air.
However, there are more Gili’s than you might realise. In fact, there are 26 different Gili’s near Lombok. During my time on Lombok, I embarked on the ‘Secret Gilis’ tour. While these islands may not be secret, they are certainly beautiful and offer a new adventure with stunning coral, tiny sandbars, and some of the best snorkelling!
Gili Kedis, Gili Nanggu, and Gili Sudak are three stunning islands in southwest Lombok that are worth a visit! You can organise this from any travel agency in Kuta. Typically, it includes pick-up, drop-off, and a private boat equipped with snorkelling gear.
There is also Gili Asahan, which is a beautiful island on the South coast of Lombok. We stayed here for one night and loved every second of it! Here, you can witness some of the best coral in Lombok, snorkel, and island-hop to the nearest islands. You can arrange a private boat tour through your hotel or negotiate directly with the locals. The boat took us to: Gili Layar, Gili Rengit, and Gili Gede!
You can either arrange a private driver, who will take you directly to the port (Kores Harbour). From there, boats depart to Gili Asahan. I suggest coordinating this with your hotel, as they may even provide it complimentary!
I recommend staying at the Blue Mathis.
GILI ASAHAN
GILI ASAHAN
5-BOAT TO PINK BEACH AND THE SURROUNDING ISLANDS
We booked a tour in Kuta, and it exceeded our expectations! It took about 2 hours from Selong Balanak to reach the port, where we set off on a private boat adventure into the open sea. Our first stop was at a lobster farm floating in the ocean, where you could buy lobster by the kilo and have it cooked for you later on the beach if you wanted. Next, we visited Pink Beach, which was breathtaking! The sand had a delicate pink tint, contrasting beautifully with the turquoise waters and the silhouette of Mount Rinjani in the distance.
The private tour also included visits to Pink Beach 2, Gili Petelu for snorkelling, Gili Gambir for more snorkelling, and Tangsi Beach for a delicious lunch! Depending on the tide, our excursion ended or began at Gili Pasir, a picturesque sandbar in the middle of the sea. It was an unforgettable journey!
The total cost for two was 1,300 IDR, covering hotel pick-up, boat, and drop-off. We arranged this tour through Zila Lombok and highly recommend their services.
PINK BEACH
CENTRAL LOMBOK
In Central Lombok, make sure not to miss the breathtaking Benang Stokel & Benang Kelambu Waterfalls nestled in the heart of the region. We rode scooters from Selong Balanak, which took about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can arrange for a driver. Zila Lombok was fantastic and became our go-to for arrangements.
Consider staying at a nearby guesthouse to fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere before heading north. Ideally, your first stop after visiting the waterfalls should be Tetebatu.
1-VISIT BENANG STOKEL & BENANG KELAMBU WATERFALL
Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls are truly stunning natural wonders! We reached here by scooter from Selong Balnakm, which took us about 1 hour and 20 minutes. It was a fantastic stop on our way to Tetebatu.
Benang Stokel, the first waterfall, boasts two sets of cascades that flow into shallow rock pools below, creating a serene atmosphere. But my personal favorite was the second one, Benang Kelambu. It’s just a 10-minute walk further along a picturesque jungle trail, dotted with vendors selling water and snacks.
What makes Benang Kelambu special are its unique curtain-like falls, unlike any other I’ve seen before. The water flows through the plants on the cliff walls, creating a mesmerizing sight. Interestingly, the name “Kelambu” means curtains, perfectly describing the falls’ appearance. Additionally, there’s a beautiful rock pool where you can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Beyond these two main waterfalls, there are several others to explore along a 30-minute trail through the valley, adding to the charm of the area.
Entrance fee : 50,000 IDR (Depending on the season)
While local guides are available at the entrance, hiring one is not mandatory, regardless of any insistence!
BENANG STOKEL WATERFALL
3-EXPLORE THE SERENITY OF TETABATU
Spending a couple of days in Tetebatu, I wished we stayed longer!
Often compared to the bustling “Ubud of Lombok,” Tetebatu offers a serene escape. Unlike Ubud, it’s not crowded with cafes, luxurious villas, or hordes of tourists. Instead, it’s a tranquil village that feels like a journey back in time, where you can glimpse a simple, self-sufficient lifestyle.
Nestled at the foot of Mount Rinjani, which overlooks the village, Tetebatu is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty! It’s a great place to stay after visiting Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, just an hour’s drive away.
We stayed at Les Rizieres, and it was perfect! The owners were lovely and gave great tips about Tetebatu and the surrounding area.
TETABATU - MOUNT RINJANI
MONKEY FOREST
3-VISIT TETABATU MONKEY FOREST
Tetebatu Monkey Forest is a dense forest and home to grey and black monkeys. We assumed that there would be monkeys everywhere, but this was not the case for us. We walked for ages and didn’t see a single one! We specifically wanted to see the black monkeys (black langurs), which are rare to spot as they are shy and often sit high up in the treetops. Just as we were leaving, we finally caught a glimpse of them before the rain hit. Make sure you ask the locals to point you in the right direction, which we found very helpful. You can also organise a guide, who may know the areas where you are most likely to see them since it’s a large forest and you can easily get lost.
4-WALK THROUGH THE RICE-FIELDS IN TETABATU
This was one of my favourite experiences in Tetabatu! It was recommended to us by the friendly owner of the guesthouse. There’s a stunning loop walk, which takes about an hour or so. You will start the walk at a sunrise viewpoint overlooking rice fields with Mount Rinjani in the background. Then continue through lush rice fields, meeting locals along the way, and finish at a hidden waterfall. This was truly magical and something I will always remember! (I have attached the map here)
TetabATU
FRIENDLY LOCALS
NORTH LOMBOK
If you’re planning a trip to the North, Senaru is a great base. Situated at the foot of Mount Rinjani, Senaru is a delightful village offering a range of activities and attractions for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. You’ll find various accommodations from simple guesthouses to eco-lodges, all near hiking trails, waterfalls, villages, and Rinjani.
Senaru is the likely starting point for your Rinjani trek. Consider adding a day before or after the hike to relax by the waterfalls. Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile waterfalls are stunning spots worth exploring in this area.
1-SENDANG GILE & TIU KELEP WATERFALL
Sendang Gile Waterfall and Tiu Kelep are renowned as the most spectacular waterfalls in Lombok, tucked away in the scenic North. To reach these natural wonders, we stayed in Sengigi and arranged a driver, which took us about 2 hours. Alternatively, staying in Senaru village, close to the waterfalls, is another option with guesthouses and villas available, perfect for a night before the trek. I highly recommend starting early; we arrived at 7:30 am and had the majestic waterfalls all to ourselves until we left at 11:30 am, just as more visitors were arriving.
The adventure begins at Sendang Gile waterfall, a quick 10-minute walk offering stunning views as you descend down the steps. The journey continues to Tiu Kelep, where the hike becomes a bit trickier but can still be accomplished without a guide. However, if you’re uncertain or not confident with trekking, hiring a guide at the entrance is advisable. Follow the river for approximately twenty minutes, navigating through water streams and crossing multiple times. Eventually, you’ll reach a breathtaking basin where mist envelops the surroundings, showcasing the powerful beauty of Tiu Kelep. Prepare to get wet, so avoid bringing items susceptible to water damage or carry a waterproof bag. This magical experience left an unforgettable impression and stands out as one of the highlights of our Lombok adventure.
Entrance fee: Adults – 10,000 IDR per person (providing access to both waterfalls).
Operating hours: Open daily from 7 am to 5 pm.
TIU KELEP
SENDANG GILE
2-HIKE PERGASINHAN HILL
Pergasingan Hill offers stunning views from the peak, reached via a steep one-hour trail in northern Lombok. Suitable for most hikers, it’s best to visit during sunrise or sunset. Camping at the summit with a guide is also an option for an unforgettable experience!
Pergasingan Hill is located near Mount Rinjani in Sembalun. As you trek along Pergasingan Hill, you’ll pass the starting point for the Mount Rinjani Trek, with the majestic volcano looming in the background across the valley.
3-BUKIT SELONG RICE FIELD VIEWPOINT FOR SUNRISE
Bukit Selong is approximately an hour’s drive from Senaru. Despite being somewhat secluded and lacking other tourist attractions nearby, the Bukit Selong Rice Fields viewpoint is undoubtedly worth the journey if you have spare time. The views it offers are truly extraordinary and contribute a unique touch to any Lombok itinerary!
The trek to the viewing platform is quite easy, requiring just a short 10-minute walk from the car park. From the viewpoint, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of the valley, featuring a patchwork of colourful farm plots and rice fields. Additionally, there are several platforms and structures available to enhance your experience and capture the beauty of the fields in the backdrop!
bukit selong
4-TREK MOUNT RINJANI
Tackling the adventure of trekking Mount Rinjani is a must for those seeking a challenge! The journey is guided by experienced guides and porter.
The best time for conquering Mount Rinjani is from April to January. It’s best to avoid trekking after January due to the onset of the rainy season.
Embarking on this expedition guarantees an unforgettable experience. Despite its challenges, the rewards are truly breathtaking.
There are three different packages. The prices vary depending on the amount of people you are in your group.
Two days, one night to the summit-
2-4 people : 3.100.000 per person// 5- 8 people : 2.800.000 per person//8 people up : 2.500.000 per person
Three days, two nights to the summit and lake-
2-4 people : 3.600.000 per person // 5-8 people : 3.300.000 per person// 8 up : 3.000.000
Four days, three nights to the summit, lake and hot-springs –
2-4 people : 4.700.000 per person// 5-8 people : 4.350.000 per person // 8 up : 4.000.000
These prices include trekking poles, jackets, hiking shoes, and camping gear.
I highly recommend Ronny and his services! You can contact him directly here- +62 813 3762 8546. He can organise everything for you, including transfers.
Mount rinjani
mount rinjani
5-EXPLORE THE “SECRET ” GILI’S IN NORTH LOMBOK
Embark on an unforgettable experience in the North by joining an exciting island-hopping boat tour, where you’ll visit stunning destinations like Gili Kapal, Gili Kondo, and Gili Petagan. Explore beautiful beaches, clear waters, and colorful coral reefs teeming with fish. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of each island!
Since it’s quite a distance from the south, anticipate a full-day trip and a lengthy journey to reach there. We paid 1,200 IDR for two, which covered the taxi fare to and from the destination as well as the boat ride.
We booked through Ronny, and his services were excellent. He organises a variety of tours around Lombok and is a very reliable driver.
You can contact him at +62 813 3762 8546
North gili's
north gili's
WEST LOMBOK
Senggigi used to be one of the more popular tourist destinations, but this has changed, and most people now base themselves in Kuta. There are beautiful untouched beaches, palm trees, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a wide range of resorts and villas there. We stayed at Living Asia Resort and Spa, and it was perfect. Senggigi is a great place to stay for a night or two before you go and explore the three Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno
1-Motorbike Senggigi Coastline
One of the best things to do in Senggigi is to rent a scooter and explore the coastline, hopping from one beach to another. This is the best way to discover hidden gems, find the best restaurants, and meet locals!
Traveling from Senggigi to Pemenang is the ideal route, offering a scenic coastal drive with stunning ocean views!
2-VISIT THE GILI’S
Senggigi is very close to the three Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno. The Gili Islands are a stunning group of three small islands, each characterised by its own unique vibe and charm. All share sandy beaches fringed with palm trees, coral reefs just offshore, and crystal-clear turquoise waters where you can spot many sea turtles!
Despite their popularity among tourists, the Gili Islands still manage to retain their tropical paradise feel. Getting around the islands is easy since there are no cars or scooters allowed, allowing you to explore on foot, by horse-drawn cart, or by renting a bicycle for the day.
Gili Trawangan, or “Gili T,” is the largest and liveliest of the three islands, with plenty of bars and restaurants, making it a favourite among backpackers and partygoers. Gili Air is a quieter option, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind. Finally, Gili Meno is the smallest and least developed of the three.