Want a little glimpse into what it’s like to spend the day on Gili T? You’re in luck, because here it is. Of course, we know that every day is different and there are way more activities to do than those listed below. HOWEVER, whether you’ve already been to Gili Trawangan and feel like reminiscing or if you’re thinking of coming and want an idea of what your day may be like, read on friends.
Good Morning Gili Trawangan
Wake up whenever. You’re on holiday, no need to set an alarm. Chances are you’ve had a late one the night before if you arrived yesterday. OR you’re tired from travelling. OR you just deserve to sleep in because treat yo’ self, we all deserve to sleep in.
Grab breakfast
Whether it’s the complimentary breakfast at our hostel (we make a mean pancake) or something more extravagant – don’t forget to fuel up for your amazing day on the island. Although you’re likely to have complimentary breakfast with your accommodation, there are a TON of amazing cafes around the island. Plus – no breakfast is complete without a steaming cup of Lombok coffee.
Morning Activities.
Now comes the difficult task of deciding what to do with your day. Walk around the island and decide where you want to hang out/what you want to do! Maybe a yoga class? (We offer yoga classes on the rooftop at Compass Divers, just sayin’….) Paddle boarding? Kayaking? Snorkelling?
If you decide on going for a dive, try to make this decision earlier in the day. Walk up to any dive shop (we’d love it if you walked up to Compass Divers) and have a chat. Lots of options for all levels out here!
There are SO many activities to choose from. This will probably be the most difficult decision if you have a time constraint (pro tip: to avoid stressing out about fitting it all in, extend your stay. It’s simple!)
Afternoon/Evening Vibes.
Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging on the beach, sipping those fresh coconuts, ice cold bintangs or whatever tropical beverage you’re feeling today.
If you’re feeling hungry, lunch by the beach is always a great idea. As with everywhere in the world, the restaurants near the beach are a little pricier. If you’re on a budget, try one of the many warungs on the side streets. Amazing local food at crazy cheap prices. Or you can always come to Broken Compass and take your pick from our extensive menu. We serve everything from local, Tex- mex, Thai and those home comforts you might be craving! Yes we have chips and gravy, a Sunday Roast almost as good as your mums and a fresh BBQ!
If the beach is not your cup of tea, then you can always rent bikes and ride around the island! Or explore the middle of the island. There is so much to see in the middle of the island. It’s a completely different vibe from the hustle and bustle of the main streets near the harbour. If you’re feeling up for it you can walk up the Gili T ‘mountain’ to the viewpoint (don’t worry it’s only a small hill – just a local nickname!). You’ll get a stunning view of the whole island, the other two Gili’s, Lombok and the turquoise blue waters surrounding them. Try doing these things later in the afternoon (think 3pm or later) to avoid the midday heat.
Sunset Time
By the time 5pm rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about sunset. The sunset is such a staple in Gili Trawangan life that it deserves a category of its own. Chances are you will have spent most of the day on the sunrise/East side of the island, as this is where most of the activity is. You can walk to sunset, but we highly recommend renting bikes as you DO NOT want to miss the famous Gili Trawangan sunset. (yes it really is as good as all of those Instagram posts you’ve been stalking!)
It takes about 25 minutes walking or 10 minutes biking to sunset from the main area of the beach. Try leaving around 5:15pm from the harbour area to make the most of it! Grab a beanbag, a drink and enjoy the show.
Happy Hour and Dinner
After watching one of the most amazing sunsets you’ll ever see make your way back to the main side of the island for dinner and happy hour (preferably at our place but we’re happy wherever you go). If you have time, you should also check out the night market for some amazing grilled seafood and local delights.
After dinner and a few drinks, continue the night with more drinks. (Maybe a vodka joss or two to really get the night going…)
Gili Trawangan Nightlife
When you’re ready to party, head down to the main street and take your pick of any of the beach bars. With all the bars located within 5-10 minutes of each other, very little planning is needed. All of the bars will be open until 1 am, with a different one each night staying open until 3 am. Just ask around to find out where the party is that night!
There’s something for everyone down there. Whether you prefer sipping a beer on a beanbag, rocking out to some live music or dancing barefoot on the beach until dawn, you will find what you’re looking for on Gili T!
If you’ve got the munchies after a long night of dancing on the beach, don’t fret, there’s still lots of options open! Try the sweet corn or crepes that are sold everywhere along the main strip. Or grab a pizza, kebab or an ice cream. You will not go to bed hungry!
Enjoy Each and Every Day on the Paradise that is Gili Trawangan
We’re not telling you what to do. We’re just sharing how to make the most of your days here on Gili T. If you have more time, you won’t need to make the difficult decisions mentioned above… you can do it ALL. Maybe you’ll do your Open Water ?! Or Divemaster ?! Maybe you’ll stay forever?! It’s all possible here. Of course, if you have any questions about anything, our lovely staff will be more than happy to help you make the most of your time.
All this being said, there’s nothing wrong with ignoring every single suggestion in this post and chilling by the pool with a Bintang in hand….all day. 😉