I’ve travelled long enough to know that getting anywhere truly worthwhile usually takes a bit of effort. The Gili Islands are no exception.
They’re quiet, picturesque, and slow-paced, but reaching them isn’t as simple as stepping on a short ferry. There are choices to make, some patience required, and a little unpredictability from the weather and tide.
Here’s exactly how I got there, and what I’d suggest if you’re planning your own trip.
This post contains affiliate links. Using the links supports the blog (at no extra cost to you).
Flying In – Bali or Lombok?
To reach the Gilis, you’ll need to start from either Bali or Lombok. Both options work, but they offer very different experiences.
I flew into Denpasar, Bali (Ngurah Rai International Airport) because I got a great deal on a direct flight from Australia, which was arriving at 10.30pm. I looked at a connecting flight to Lombok, but decided that I wanted to allow plenty of to get through customs and baggage claim, and did not want to miss a connecting flight.
I think flying to Lombok would work betting if you were already in Bali. If I were doing it again and wanted the easiest transfer to the islands, I’d probably arrive in Lombok. The airport there is closer to the Gilis, and the sea crossing is calmer and quicker.
Either way works; it depends on whether you’d rather include Bali in your trip or want to get straight to the islands.
Choosing a Port in Bali
There are three Bali ports offering fast boats to the Gilis: Padangbai, Serangan, and Sanur. I used one, but spoke with plenty of other travellers who used the others, so here’s how they compare.
Option One -Padangbai Port
Padangbai is the most popular choice if you are already in Bali. It’s about 1.5 hours from Ubud and roughly 2 hours from Canggu by road.
- Travel time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours by boat
- Fare: IDR 350,000–600,000 (around AUD $35–60)
This port is efficient and well run, but it can get busy.
Option Two – Serangan Port
I chose this option because I was coming from the airport and I would rather sit on a boat for a little longer than in a car! (The distance between the airport and Serangan Port is only 30-45 minutes)
The facilities are clean and organised, which makes boarding simple.
- Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Fare: IDR 500,000–700,000 (around AUD $50–70)
It takes longer because it’s further from the Gilis, but if you value comfort (and don’t mind paying a bit more), this is the more relaxing option.
Option Three – Sanur Port
If you’re based in Sanur or Nusa Dua, you can also leave from Sanur Harbour. Many of these boats make a short stop at Nusa Lembongan before continuing.
- Travel time: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Fare: IDR 450,000–650,000 (around AUD $45–65)
This isn’t the fastest route, but it’s straightforward and avoids the long drive across Bali to other ports.
My Thoughts on the Bali Routes To the Gilis?
f I were choosing again:
- Serangan Port was the perfect choice for me coming from the airport. I went with Bluewater Express. The airport transfer made it seamless.
- I would choose Padangbai or Sanur if I were was already staying nearby and wanted convenience over speed.
All boats usually stop at Gili Trawangan first, then Gili Air, and finally Gili Meno. When they call your island’s name—grab your bag and step off.