If you dream of jump in through crystal clear of blue waters, surrounded by colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and the graceful sea turtles, then snorkeling in Gili Trawangan should be right at the top of your island to-do list.

Gili Trawangan offers some of the best underwater experiences in Indonesia, thanks to its crystal-clear water, thriving marine life, and easy access to vibrant coral reefs just off the shore.

Where to Snorkel in Gili Trawangan?

You can pretty much grab a mask and snorkel anywhere along the coastline, but not every beach delivers the same underwater magic.

The eastern side of Gili Trawangan is where most of the snorkeling action happens. Here, you’ll find shallow coral reefs teeming with marine life—perfect for beginners and casual snorkelers. Popular spots like Turtle Point are famous for—you guessed it—sea turtles! You might also spot clownfish, parrotfish, and even the occasional reef shark.

If you’re after something more dramatic, book a snorkeling trip that includes stops at nearby Gili Meno and Gili Air. These boat tours usually visit the famous Underwater Statues off Gili Meno and deeper reef drop-offs where manta rays and eagle rays sometimes glide by.

When’s the Best Time to Snorkel in Gili Trawangan?

You can snorkel around the Gilis almost all year round, but the best time is during the dry season from May to October. During these months, the sea is calm, visibility is great, and the weather is perfect for long swims in the ocean.

That said, even in the wet season, rain usually comes in short bursts, and the sun often peeks through. Just make sure to check the conditions with local operators before heading out—if the weather turns bad, trips might be rescheduled.

Top 5 Snorkeling Spots in Gili Trawangan

1. Turtle Point (East Coast of Gili Trawangan)
This is the most famous snorkeling spot on the island—and for good reason. Turtle Point is home to green sea turtles that often swim close to the shore. The shallow, calm waters here make it ideal for beginners too.

2. Coral Garden (South of Turtle Point)
Just a short swim from Turtle Point, this vibrant reef area is filled with colorful corals, angelfish, butterflyfish, and more. It’s one of the best places to see a wide range of marine life without going too deep.

3. Meno Wall (near Gili Meno)
Accessible via a short boat ride, this vertical reef wall is popular for drift snorkeling. Along with tropical fish, keep your eyes open for larger creatures like reef sharks and eagle rays.

4. Underwater Statues (Gili Meno)
While not technically in Gili Trawangan, this nearby spot is included in almost every snorkeling tour from Trawangan. The hauntingly beautiful circle of underwater statues attracts schools of fish and offers great photo opportunities.

5. Bounty Wreck (between Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan)
This old sunken pier has become an artificial reef. While it’s a bit deeper and better for experienced snorkelers, it’s worth the trip to see coral-covered structures and hidden marine life.

Where to Stay on Gili Trawangan: 6 Top Picks

Here are top 6 places to stay on Gili Trawangan, offering a great mix of luxury, mid-range, and budget options across different parts of the island.

1. Pearl of Trawangan – Best for Beachfront Luxury (East Coast)
If you’re looking for luxury with easy access to the island’s buzz, Pearl of Trawangan is a standout. Located right on the main strip, this 5-star resort offers elegant beachfront villas, multiple pools, and a stylish restaurant. You will love the top-notch service and ocean views.

2. Cocana Resort – Best for Sunset Views (West Coast)
Facing the west, Cocana Resort offers a peaceful, romantic vibe with private pool villas and stunning sunset backdrops. It’s slightly away from the busy area, perfect for those who want a calm but classy retreat.

3. Scallywags Resort – Best Mid-Range on the Main Strip (East Coast)
This friendly beachfront resort is ideal for travelers who want to be close to restaurants, nightlife, and dive shops without sacrificing comfort. You will be fascinated by the cozy bungalows, sea views, and welcoming staff.

4. Hotel Ombak Sunset – Best for Iconic Sunset Photos (West Coast)
Home to Gili Trawangan’s famous ocean swing, this resort is a favorite among sunset lovers and Instagrammers. It’s a little quieter but still has great amenities including pools and spacious rooms.

5. Gili Teak Beachfront Resort – Best Boutique Stay by the Sea (West Coast)
This charming boutique resort offers direct beach access and peaceful surroundings. Reviewers often mention the cozy rooms, friendly team, and free bicycles for exploring the island.

6. Kuno Villas – Best for Privacy and Nature (North Coast)
Tucked away on the tranquil north side, Kuno Villas delivers eco-luxury in a secluded setting. Think bamboo architecture, tropical gardens, and a relaxing escape from crowds.

How to Get to Gili Trawangan from Lombok

A common question for travelers is: How do you get to Gili Trawangan from Lombok? Let’s break it down.

The main ports in Lombok where you can catch a boat to Gili Trawangan is Bangsal Harbor – This is the most popular and only port offering public boats to Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air regularly from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Public Slow Boat: Rp. 25,000/person | 30–50 mins
• Public Fast Boat: Rp. 85,000/person | 15 mins
• Private Speedboat: Rp. 350,000/charter | 10–15 mins

How to Get to Gili T from Bali

Bali is the another most common gateway to Gili Trawangan, with numerous daily fast boat services departing from various harbors:

• Padang Bai: Located on Bali’s east coast, Padang Bai is a popular departure point, especially for those coming from Ubud or East Bali. The fast boat journey typically takes around 1.5 – 2 hours, depending on sea conditions and the specific operator. Many fast boat companies offer hotel pick-up services from popular tourist areas in Bali for an additional fee.
• Serangan: Situated in South Bali, near Sanur, Serangan harbor also offers fast boat transfers to Gili Trawangan. The journey from Serangan usually takes around 2 – 2.5 hours and may include stops at other islands.
• Sanur: Some fast boats also depart directly from Sanur beach. Check with individual operators for their schedules and routes.
• Amed: For those staying in North Bali, fast boats from Amed offer a more direct route to Gili Trawangan, with a travel time of approximately 1 – 1.5 hours.

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Whether you’re gliding over colorful coral gardens or swimming alongside sea turtles, snorkeling in Gili Trawangan is an experience you won’t forget. The crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and easy access from the shore make it perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. Just grab a mask, dive in, and let the underwater world amaze you.

Read also: Where to Find the Best Japanese Restaurant in Lombok