The Best Hotels in the Gili Islands, Indonesia
Just over two-hours by boat from Bali brings you to the three Gili Islands, an Indonesian archipelago known for their unparalleled marine life, thumping parties, and relaxed way of living. You won’t find buzzing motorbikes or traffic here – only bicycles and bare feet on the Gili Trawangan, Meno and Air islands. Here are the best hotels across the Gili Islands.
Pearl of Trawangan
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
Centrally located on Gili Trawangan, the largest of all three islands, the Pearl of Trawangan features uniquely shaped Lumbung roofs that foster a quintessential tropical getaway atmosphere. Fine white sand beaches are viewable from some rooms, backed by Lombok’s Rinjani mountain range in the distance. The organic-shaped beachside pool is the ideal spot to sip on a mixed berry mojito in the late afternoon sun.
PinkCoco Gili Air
Hotel
Dazzlingly decadent is a fitting way to describe PinkCoco Gili Air. As the name suggests, this stylish space is doused in shades of pink. Their self-proclaimed sexy and relaxed atmosphere is unlike anywhere else on Gili Air, the middle child of the Gili Islands. Hues of fuschia and flamingo cover the grounds from the roof to the sun chairs. The view of Bali’s Mount Agung volcano off in the distance is icing on an already well-decorated cake.
Gili Eco Villas
Hotel, Villa
All of the bungalows and villas at Gili Eco Villas are decorated in soft shades of off-white and taupe, complementing the airy, open feel of the property. Flowy bed canopies and low-hanging hammocks on each room’s terrace build upon that. The onsite Pasir Putih Restaurant & Bar is right on the beach, illuminated by Edison light bulbs, which add an antique charm.
Pondok Windy Bungalows
Hotel, Villa
Even though Pondok Santi Estate is only a few minutes from the center of Gili Trawangan, it feels like it’s on its own private island. The artfully decorated bungalows are full of special design elements, including authentic Alang Alang thatched roofs and manicured gardens within each private space. Here, your mornings will start with a quality breakfast, such as fresh dragon fruit juice and crêpes smothered in berry compote.
Kuno Villas
Hotel, Villa
A lazy river-like pool surrounded by rock boulders and lush plants makes Kuno Villas an aesthetically pleasing place to stay. The Joglo rooms (Javanese style house) are fully restored antiques replete with bespoke furnishings and modern updates. The in-water sunbeds and cast-iron bathtubs, along with other thoughtful touches, make this a formidable spot for those who appreciate all the extra bells and whistles.
Scallywags Mango Motel
Hotel
Known for their 5-star hospitality, Scallywags Mango Motel is well-suited for families as well as solo travelers. Owners Jacky and Nigel originally opened a small clothing store in a bamboo shack and it slowly evolved into a full motel. They offer PADI diving courses, horseback riding, golf and yoga — to name just a few. The spa is a stellar alternative if you’re feeling a little less active.
Coconut Garden Resort
Hotel
The aptly named Coconut Garden Resort is built right into the coconut groves of Gili Trawangan. These cozy bungalows are surrounded by magenta hibiscus flowers and verdant greenery, cultivating a lovely outdoor space with plenty of places to hang out. The rooms are fairly simple but have all of the necessities — and there’s happy hour every single day from 3 to 5 pm.
l'Archipel
Hotel
Even though l’Archipel is near the center of Gili Air, it’s still only a 5-minute walk from the beach. Each thatched roof room is decorated with natural elements and local stone, each with their own terrace facing the pool. With only nine luxury rooms, it’s a secluded place to stay, despite sharing the property with a handful of others. Come prepared to either snorkel and scuba dive.