Bali to the Gili Islands — Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, the three tiny car-free islands off northwest Lombok — is one of Indonesia\’s most popular island-hopping routes. Fast boats from Padang Bai or Serangan cover the crossing in 1.5–2.5 hours. This guide covers operators, prices, and what to expect.
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Fast Boat Bali to Gili Islands
Scoot Fast Cruises, Gili Getaway, Eka Jaya, Blue Water Express, and several others run daily fast boats from Padang Bai (east Bali) or Serangan Harbour (south Bali, near Sanur) to Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air — approximately 1.5–2.5 hours depending on departure point and number of stops, fares from ~$25–45 USD. Most boats stop at all three Gili islands; tell the operator which island is your final destination and confirm drop-off. Departures from around 07:00–09:00 daily.
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Which Departure Port — Padang Bai or Serangan?
Padang Bai (east Bali) is the traditional departure point — about 1.5 hours from Kuta/Seminyak by car. Serangan Harbour (near Sanur, south Bali) is more convenient if you\’re staying in south Bali — about 30–40 minutes from Kuta. Scoot and Blue Water Express typically depart from Serangan; Gili Getaway and Eka Jaya from Padang Bai. Most operators offer hotel pickup from south Bali included in the fare — confirm when booking.
ℹ️ The Gili Islands have no motorized vehicles — no cars, no motorbikes. Transport on the islands is by cidomo (horse cart) or bicycle. Boats arrive at a beach jetty and you wade ashore or are carried by porters. Pack your valuables in a dry bag if your luggage could get wet during transfer.
Which Gili Island?
Gili Trawangan (Gili T) is the largest — best nightlife, most restaurants, most snorkeling tours. Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest — honeymoon couples and those seeking peace. Gili Air is the middle ground — some nightlife, good snorkeling, laid-back pace. All three have excellent turtle snorkeling.
Where to Stay on the Gili Islands
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