Gili Air is one of the most charming small islands in Lombok. The local name is Gili Indah Village, which means “beautiful island village.” This island is located in North Lombok. Out of the three famous Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air), Gili Air is the closest to the Lombok mainland. So, here is 10 things to do in Gili Air.

10 things to do in Gili Air

Gili Air is special because it combines the lively vibe of Gili Trawangan with the quiet charm of Gili Meno. You can enjoy beach bars and sunset parties, but also find peaceful spots to relax. On the eastern side of the island, you’ll find rows of beach bars that are lively during sunset. On the western side, you can walk on soft white sand and enjoy calm waters. Gili Air is also one of the best places in Lombok for snorkeling and diving. The water is clean, the reefs are colorful, and sometimes you can even see turtles.

If you’re planning a trip to Gili island, make sure you put Gili Air in it, because here are 10 amazing things to do while you’re there:

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1. Relax and Sunbathe on the Beach

Gili Air has a warm and sunny almost all year. That’s why many people come here just to relax and enjoy the sun. You can lie on the sand, read a book, listen to music, or just close your eyes and feel the sunshine.

Many hotels and cafes have sun loungers on the beach for guests. Even if you’re not staying at a hotel, you can often use these spots if you buy a drink or food.

Sunbathing is simple, but it’s one of the best ways to enjoy island life.

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2. Swim in the Clear Blue Sea

Of course, one of the best things to do in Gili Air is simply go for a swim. The water is clean, clear, and warm. There are many beaches where you can safely enjoy a swim.

Whether you swim in the morning or after sunset, it’s always refreshing. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit!

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3. Snorkel in Clear, Shallow Waters

Gili Air is famous for snorkeling. The best place to snorkel is on the east side of the island, where the water is shallow and calm. You’ll see many types of colorful fish swimming around coral reefs. The water depth starts at about 1.5 meters, so it’s great for beginners.

There are signs placed in the water to keep snorkelers safe. You can rent snorkel gear or join a snorkeling tour to explore more of the underwater world. This is one of the most fun and affordable activities on the island.

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4. Try Surfing When the Waves Are Right

Surfing in Gili Air is not as popular as in other places in Lombok, but it’s still possible. The island usually has calm waters, but sometimes the waves are good enough for surfing. You’ll need to wait for the right time and check with local surfers for tips.

Some surf spots have sharp coral underneath, so it’s important to be careful and get advice from someone who knows the area. If the waves are up, it can be an exciting experience away from the crowds.

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5. Cycle Around the Island

One of the best things about Gili Air is that there are no cars or motorbikes. You can easily explore the island by bicycle. It only takes 2–3 hours to cycle around the entire island, even at a slow pace.

There are many places to rent bikes, and the cost is affordable—around IDR 30,000 to 50,000 per day. The paths are flat, and you’ll enjoy beautiful views of beaches, local villages, and coconut trees as you ride.

Cycling is a peaceful way to see all the sights on Gili Air.

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6. Jog Along the Beachside

There is a jogging path near the beach, surrounded by tropical trees and plants. You can go for a morning or evening jog while enjoying the view of the sea. The cool ocean breeze and sound of the waves make the experience even better. It’s a peaceful way to start or end your day on the island.

Even if you don’t usually jog, you can take a gentle walk along the path and enjoy the natural beauty of Gili Air. The white sand and blue ocean make every step relaxing.

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7. Shop for Local Handicrafts and Souvenirs

Even though Gili Air is small, you can still do some shopping. There are small shops and beach stalls selling clothes, jewelry, bags, and handmade crafts. Many of the souvenirs are made from natural materials like wood, shell, or coconut.

You can also buy coconut oil, natural soaps, or handmade home decor. These make great gifts or keepsakes. If you want more variety, you can take a short boat ride to Gili Trawangan for more shopping.

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8. Taste Delicious Food and Island Flavors

Food in Gili Air is something to look forward to. The island offers a wide range of options—from local warung (small restaurants) to international cafes. Whether you eat meat, are vegetarian, or vegan, you’ll find something tasty.

Here are 3 recommended places to eat:

• Le Sate Bar – They serve tasty meat or veggie skewers with spicy peanut sauce or sambal. The menu is simple, affordable, and full of flavor.
• Classico Italiano Pizzeria – Known for some of the best pizza in Indonesia. Made with love and quality ingredients, this place also has a heavenly tiramisu.
• Musa Cookery – A relaxed vegetarian cafe offering healthy bowls, fresh juices, and vegan meals. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or lunch.

With more than 50 restaurants on the island, you’ll never run out of new dishes to try.

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9. Go Diving and Explore the Deep Sea

If you want to go deeper, diving is the way to go. Gili Air is a great place for both beginners and experienced divers. There are five popular diving spots around the island: Air Wall, Air Slope, Frogfish Point, Segaluh, and Malang Reef.

These spots offer beautiful coral reefs, lots of colorful fish, and clear visibility. If you’re lucky, you might see sea turtles swimming gracefully. You can find several dive shops on the island that offer courses and guided dives.

Gili Air is considered one of the top diving locations in Indonesia, and it’s easy to see why.

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10. Watch the Sunset at a Beach Bar

The sunsets in Gili Air are amazing. Every evening, people gather at beach bars on the east side to watch the sun go down. Grab a drink, find a bean bag, and enjoy live music or a DJ while the sky changes color.

It’s a great way to meet other travelers and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the island.

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Final Thoughts

Gili Air may be small, but it has so much to offer. From exciting underwater adventures to relaxing beach time, this island is the perfect place for a quiet holiday or a romantic escape. With no traffic, friendly locals, and beautiful nature, Gili Air is a tropical paradise you’ll never forget.

Read also about Places for Breakfast and Brunch in Gili Trawangan Lombok