Off the Indonesian island of Lombok’s northwest coast is a little island called Gili Trawangan. The Gili Islands, which are made up of three islands and are renowned for their stunning beaches, coral reefs, and laid-back environment, include this one.

The largest and most developed of the three islands, Gili Trawangan, is a favorite vacation spot for people looking for sun, beach, and water. The island offers a variety of lodging alternatives, including anything from budget hotels to five-star resorts, as well as a selection of eateries, bars, and retail establishments.

On Gili Trawangan, visitors can go snorkeling, diving, surfing, riding horses, and cycling the entire island. The nightlife on the island is also well-known, with many bars and clubs remaining open late.

Despite the fact that Gili Trawangan is a well-liked tourist destination, it’s crucial to preserve the island’s native practices and natural surroundings. Visitors should practice responsible waste management and refrain from adding to the issue of plastic pollution that plagues many island resorts.

Here is a brief timeline of the history of Gili Trawangan:

• Pre-colonial era: The Gili Islands were inhabited by indigenous Sasak people who lived on Lombok Island, and the islands were used for fishing and agriculture.
• 17th century: The Gili Islands were colonized by the Dutch, who used them as a trading post and established a small settlement on Gili Air.
• Late 19th century: The islands were annexed by the Sasak Kingdom of Mataram, which ruled Lombok Island at the time.
• 1946-1949: The Gili Islands were briefly occupied by Japanese troops during World War II.
• Late 20th century: The Gili Islands began to attract backpackers and other travelers seeking a laid-back, off-the-beaten-path destination.
• 1990s: Tourism on Gili Trawangan began to take off, with the opening of small hotels and restaurants.
• 2004: The Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami devastated parts of the Indonesian coastline, including the Gili Islands. However, Gili Trawangan recovered relatively quickly due to its popularity among tourists.
• Present day: Gili Trawangan continues to be a popular tourist destination, and has become more developed with the opening of new hotels, restaurants, and businesses. However, efforts are being made to preserve the island’s natural beauty and local culture.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at the Gili Islands, including:

1. Snorkeling and diving: The Gili Islands are surrounded by coral reefs and offer some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in Indonesia. You can spot a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, and even reef sharks.
2. Relaxing on the beaches: All three Gili Islands have stunning beaches, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. You can swim, sunbathe, and take in the beautiful views.
3. Cycling around the islands: The islands are small enough to be explored by bike. You can rent a bicycle and cycle around the islands, taking in the scenery and visiting local villages.
4. Island hopping: You can take a boat trip to visit the other two Gili Islands (Gili Air and Gili Meno) and explore their beaches and attractions.
5. Nightlife: Gili Trawangan is known for its lively nightlife, with bars and clubs staying open late into the night. You can enjoy live music, DJs, and dancing.
6. Horseback riding: You can take a horseback ride along the beaches and through the villages of Gili Trawangan.
7. Yoga and wellness: Many hotels and resorts on the Gili Islands offer yoga classes, spa treatments, and other wellness activities to help you unwind and relax.
8. Surfing: Gili Trawangan has some surf spots that are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers.
9. Water sports: You can try other water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.

Here are some hotels on Gili Trawangan:

1. Ombak Sunset – a luxury beachfront resort with a pool, spa, and ocean view rooms.
2. The Chandi Boutique Resort – a stylish boutique hotel with a pool, restaurant, and spacious rooms.
3. Kelapa Luxury Villas – a secluded resort with private villas, a pool, and spa.
4. Karma Reef – a beachfront resort with a pool, restaurant, and eco-friendly bungalows.
5. Scallywags Resort – a modern beachfront resort with a pool, restaurant, and comfortable rooms.
6. Les Villas Ottalia – a collection of private villas with pools, gardens, and a restaurant.
7. Gili T Resort – a budget-friendly hotel with a pool, garden, and restaurant.
8. Trawangan Nirvana – a beachfront resort with a pool, spa, and ocean view bungalows.
9. La Cocoteraie Ecolodge – a sustainable resort with a pool, garden, and eco-friendly bungalows.
10. PinkCoco Gili Trawangan – a trendy, beachfront hotel with a pool, restaurant, and stylish rooms.
11. Aston Sunset Beach Resort – a luxurious resort with a private beach, spa, and outdoor pool.
12. Pearl of Trawangan – a boutique resort with a beachfront location, private pool villas, and a wellness spa.
13. Vila Ombak – a beachfront resort with a pool, spa, and a variety of room options.
14. Good Heart Resort – a peaceful retreat with a pool, garden, and traditional-style bungalows.
15. Gili Eco Villas – a sustainable resort with private villas, a pool, and garden.
16. Marygio Resort – a modern beachfront resort with a pool, restaurant, and stylish rooms.
17. Gili Teak Resort – a boutique hotel with a pool, garden, and comfortable rooms.
18. Kokomo Resort – a beachfront resort with a pool, restaurant, and private villas.
19. Villa Almarik – a beachfront resort with a pool, restaurant, and spacious rooms.
20. Black & White Bungalows – a budget-friendly hotel with a pool, garden, and cozy bungalows.

List of restaurants at Gili Island- 

1. Pearl Beach Lounge – beachfront lounge serving Indonesian and Western cuisine.
2. Kayu Cafe – casual cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with vegetarian and vegan options.
3. Casa Vintage Beach Restaurant – beachfront restaurant with Indonesian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
4. Regina Pizzeria – Italian restaurant serving wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and salads.
5. Night Market – open-air street food market serving grilled seafood, local Indonesian dishes, and more.
6. Scallywags Beach Club – beachfront bar and restaurant with live music and happy hour specials.
7. The Beach House – beachfront restaurant with a selection of Western and Asian dishes.
8. Tir Na Nog Irish Pub – Irish pub with a menu of pub fare and international beers.
9. The Banyan Tree – casual cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with vegetarian and vegan options.
10. Gili Bliss – beachfront restaurant with Indonesian and Western cuisine, as well as healthy juices and smoothies.