Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are three small islands off the north-west coast of Lombok: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. They are better known for diving, snorkelling and car-free island life than for surfing, but there are a couple of reef breaks that work when the right swell arrives. The main wave is off the south-east corner of Gili Trawangan, a right-hand reef break that can produce fun rides when a solid swell wraps in through the Lombok Strait. It needs bigger swells to break, so it is inconsistent compared with Lombok's south coast, and it is best suited to intermediate surfers comfortable over shallow coral. Gili Air also has a small reef break. Conditions vary with tide and swell direction, and local operators can advise on the day. Board hire and some lessons are available on Gili Trawangan, but many surfers based on the Gilis take day trips to Lombok's south coast. The Gilis are reached by public boat or fast boat from Bangsal or Teluk Nare on Lombok, or by fast boat from Padang Bai or Serangan in Bali. There is no motorised traffic, so getting around is on foot, by bicycle or by horse cart. The islands suit travellers who want to mix a little surf with diving, snorkelling and beach time. For dive centres on the Gilis, see our sister site Dive Go Where. Browse the surf operators listed on the Gili Islands below.