Where to Stay In Gili Islands: Best Areas & Hotels

How Many Days to Stay in the Gili Islands?

If you’re making a trip over to the Gili Islands, you’ll want to stay at least 2 nights. My original plan was to stay for 2 nights, but I ended up extending it to 3 because I loved it that much!

I think 3 nights is the perfect amount of time to get to explore the island, do some water activities, and then of course relax and unwind.

Gili T, Gili Air, and Gili Meno offer many similar activities, so this short itinerary can be applied to wherever you choose to stay!

Gili Islands 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

On the first day, after you check into your accommodation, explore the island! The best way to do this is by bike, which is available to hire all over the island and offered at most hotels.

You can bike all around Gili T, which is the biggest island, in about 1-1.5 hours.

There are no cars or scooters allowed so you’ll find walking, biking, or horse carriages are the only means of transportation. It’s part of what adds to Gili’s charm, you’re far away from the hum of any motorbikes or traffic on Bali!

Day 2

Then, spend the next day participating in the island’s most popular activity– snorkelling! It’s known as the best thing to do in the Gilis for a reason.

Most of the snorkel tours on the islands follow a similar itinerary, and it’s easiest to book one through your accommodation once you arrive. Usually, you’ll get to stop at beautiful coral reefs with sea turtles and see underwater statues!

It’s unlike anywhere I’ve ever snorkelled and is a must-do on your trip. End the day taking in one of Gili’s famous sunsets at a restaurant, on a swing, or by horse.

Day 3

The last day is excellent to spend relaxing.

At this point, you’ll feel at home on the island and have seen enough of the area to kick back and relax at your favourite spot. I really enjoyed renting one of the stand-up paddle boards and cruising around the calm waters!