Gili Trawangan Island is the largest and most popular of the three small islands (gili) off the northwest coast of Lombok. It is a paradise for beach lovers, snorkelers, divers, and party-goers. But did you know that it is also a great destination for families with babies? Here are some tips and recommendations on how to enjoy Gili Trawangan with your little ones.
Things to do in Gili Trawangan
Fun diving in Gili Trawangan
Trawangan Dive is a PADI 5 Star Career Development Center that offers high-quality diving services and equipment. They offer three fun dives per day, with night dives available on request. You will be guided by one of their experienced and professional divemasters.
Trawangan Dive is also eco-friendly and supports local and worldwide conservation projects.
Fun dive options:
- Guided boat fun dive: IDR 590,000 per dive
- Enriched air dive: IDR 720,000 per dive
- Night dive: IDR 730,000 per dive
- Professional photographer: IDR 400,000 per person per dive
I hope this helps you decide which fun dive option suits you best!
Have a Romantic Dinner on the Beach
You can find many restaurants and cafes on the island that offer candlelit dinners on the sand, with the sound of the waves and the stars as your backdrop. You can enjoy a variety of cuisines, from local Indonesian dishes to international favorites. Some of the best places to have a romantic dinner on the beach are Wilson’s Retreat, Pearl Beach Lounge, and Scallywags Organic Beach Club.
Watch a Movie Under the Stars
Check out the Aston Movie Night at the Aston Sunset Beach Resort if you’re searching for a calming and romantic way to take in the sunset on Gili Trawangan. Every night between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., this free outdoor movie theater near the beach presents well-known films on a big screen. You may have a drink or some restaurant-provided appetizers while watching the film from the comfort of bean bags or lounge chairs. There is something for everyone in the variety of movies, which range from comedies to dramas to action. The nicest thing is that you may enjoy the movie while listening to the waves and watching the sunset.
Get a Couple’s Massage
You can treat yourself and your partner to a relaxing and rejuvenating massage at one of the many spas on the island. You can choose from different types of massages, such as Balinese, Swedish, or Thai. Some spas also offer aromatherapy, reflexology, and body scrubs. Some of the best spas for couples are Azure Spa at Pesona Resort, Gili Flower Bath Spa, and Wagwan Spa.
Hiking
Hiking up to the Gili Trawangan Hilltop and Hiking Viewpoint is another way to enjoy the sunset on Gili Trawangan. The ocean, other Gili islands, and the mountains of Lombok 2 can all be seen from here, the island’s highest point. The climb from the main road takes approximately 20 minutes and is not too challenging, although if you intend to remain after dark, you might want to carry some water and a torch. You may relax on the wooden platform and seats at the overlook to take in the vista. Along the walk, you can spot several birds and monkeys. The vantage point is an excellent location for taking pictures and appreciating the beauty of nature.
Take a cooking class
You can learn how to make delicious and authentic Indonesian dishes at Sweet & Spicy Gili Cooking School. You can join a group class or book a private session for you and your partner. You will learn how to use local ingredients and spices, and cook dishes such as nasi goreng, gado-gado, and sate ayam. You will also get to enjoy your creations at the end of the class.
Go On a Sunset Cruise
You can witness the stunning sunset over the ocean on a traditional wooden boat called a jukung. You can book a sunset cruise with Gili Islands Boat Tours or Gili Getaway. You will sail around the island and enjoy the views of the beach, the palm trees, and the mountains. You will also get to see the other two gilis, Gili Meno and Gili Air, from a distance. You can also sip on cocktails and snacks provided by the crew.
What to do in Gili Trawangan with Babies
One of the main attractions of Gili Trawangan is its beautiful underwater world. You can see colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. Snorkeling is a fun and easy way to explore marine life. You can rent snorkeling gear from many shops on the island, or join a snorkeling tour that will take you to the best spots. Some tours also include a visit to the other two gilis, Gili Meno and Gili Air, which are quieter and more laid-back.
Baby Snorkel
If you want to snorkel with your baby, you can use a baby float or a baby carrier that is suitable for water. Make sure your baby wears a sun hat, sunscreen, and a rash guard to protect them from the sun and salt water. You can also buy or bring a baby snorkel mask that fits their face. Always keep an eye on your baby and stay close to them while snorkeling.
Turtle Hatchery
Another activity that you and your baby can enjoy in Gili Trawangan is visiting the turtle hatchery. This is a conservation project that aims to protect the endangered green sea turtles.
The Turtle Sanctuary is a rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned turtles. Visitors can learn about sea turtles and their conservation, and even release baby turtles back into the wild.
You can see baby turtles in different stages of development, from eggs to hatchlings. You can also learn more about their life cycle and the threats they face. If you are lucky, you may even witness the release of baby turtles into the sea.
The turtle hatchery is located on the east side of the island, near the harbor. It is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm. The entrance fee is by donation, which goes to support the project.
Clear Blue Swim
Gili Trawangan is also a great place to relax and unwind with your baby. You can stroll along the white sandy beach, swim in the clear blue water, or lounge on a bean bag under a palm tree.
Explore The Gili Island
You can also rent a bicycle and explore the island at your own pace. There are no cars or motorbikes on the island, so it is safe and peaceful. Just be careful of the horse carts (cidomo) that are used as taxis.
Get a Massage
If you want to pamper yourself and your baby, you can visit one of the many spas on the island. You can get a massage, a facial, a manicure, or a pedicure. Some spas also offer baby massage, which can help your baby relax and sleep better.
If you are planning to visit Gili Trawangan from Jakarta, here are some tips and options on how to get there and how to get around on the island with a baby.
How to Get to Gili Trawangan from Jakarta
There are several ways to get to Gili Trawangan from Jakarta, depending on your budget, time, and preference. The most common options are:
By Plane and Boat
The fastest and easiest way to get to Gili Trawangan from Jakarta is by plane and boat. You can fly from Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) to Lombok’s International Airport (LOP) in about 2 hours. There are many daily domestic flights to choose from, operated by airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, and Citilink Indonesia. You can book your tickets online or through a travel agent
Once you arrive at Lombok’s airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Bangsal Harbor, which is about 1.5 hours away. From there, you can take a public boat or a private speedboat to Gili Trawangan. The public boat costs around Rp 15,000 per person and takes about 30 minutes. The private speedboat costs around Rp 350,000 per boat and takes about 10 minutes. You can also book your boat tickets online or through your hotel.
By Bus and Ferry
Another way to get to Gili Trawangan from Jakarta is by bus and ferry. This is a cheaper but longer option, suitable for those who enjoy road trips and scenic views. You can take a bus from Jakarta’s Pulo Gebang Terminal or Kampung Rambutan Bus Station to Bali’s Mengwi Terminal or Denpasar Terminal in about 24 hours. There are many bus companies that offer this route, such as Pahala Kencana, Kramat Djati, Bali Jaya Trans, Mtrans, Safari Dharma Raya, and others. You can buy your bus tickets at the terminal or online.
Once you arrive in Bali, you can take a ferry from Sanur Harbor or Serangan Harbor to Gili Trawangan in about 2 hours. There are many fast boat companies that offer this route, such as Rocky Fast Cruise, D’camel Fast Ferry, Blue Water Express, Scoot Fast Cruises, and others. Some of them also provide free pick-up and drop-off services from popular areas in Bali such as Kuta or Sanur. You can book your ferry tickets online or through your hotel.
How to Get Around on Gili Trawangan with a Baby
One of the unique features of Gili Trawangan is that there are no motorized vehicles on the island. This means that the main ways to get around on the island are by walking, renting bicycles, or taking horse-drawn carts called cidomos. Here are some tips and recommendations on how to get around on Gili Trawangan with a baby:
Walking
Walking is the easiest and cheapest way to get around on Gili Trawangan with a baby. The island is small enough that you can walk from one end to another in about an hour. Most of the attractions and facilities are located on the east side of the island, near the harbor. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air as you walk along the beach or the main street.
If you decide to walk with your baby, make sure you bring a stroller that is suitable for sandy terrain. You should also bring a sun hat, sunscreen, water, and snacks for yourself and your baby. You should avoid walking during the hottest hours of the day (between 11 am and 3 pm) and seek shade whenever possible.
Renting Bicycles
Renting bicycles is another popular way to get around on Gili Trawangan with a baby. You can find many bike rental shops on the island that offer different types of bikes for different prices. Some hotels also provide free bike rentals for their guests. The average cost of renting a bike on Gili Trawangan is Rp 50,000 per day.
If you want to rent a bike with your baby, make sure you choose a bike that has a baby seat or a basket attached to it. You should also check the condition of the bike before renting it, such as the brakes, tires, chain, and bell. You should wear helmets for yourself and your baby for safety reasons. You should also follow the traffic rules and be careful of the horse carts and pedestrians.
Taking Cidomos
Taking cidomos is the only way to get around on Gili Trawangan with a baby if you have a lot of luggage or if your hotel is far from the harbor. Cidomos are traditional horse-drawn carts that can accommodate up to 3 adult passengers. You can find them at the harbor or along the main street. You can also ask your hotel to arrange one for you.
The cost of taking a cidomo on Gili Trawangan varies depending on the distance and the season. The average cost is Rp 100,000 to Rp 150,000 for a single destination, and Rp 250,000 to Rp 350,000 for a round trip around the island. You should always negotiate the price before getting on the cidomo and pay after you reach your destination.
If you decide to take a cidomo with your baby, make sure you bring a baby carrier or a sling that can secure your baby to your body. You should also bring a sun hat, sunscreen, water, and snacks for yourself and your baby. You should avoid taking a cidomo during the busiest hours of the day (between 4 pm and 8 pm) and during the rainy season (between November and April).
Places to Stay in Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan has a wide range of accommodation options for families with babies. You can choose from hotels, villas, bungalows, or guesthouses. Depending on your budget and preference, you can find a place that suits your needs.
Gili Breeze Tropical Bungalows
If you are looking for a cheap and cheerful place to stay, you can check out Gili Breeze Tropical Bungalows. This is a cozy and friendly guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable rooms with air conditioning, hot water, and free wifi. They also have a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar. The staff are helpful and can arrange tours and activities for you. The location is convenient, as it is close to the beach, the harbor, and the night market.
A room at Gili Breeze Tropical Bungalows costs around Rp 300,000 per night (about $21 USD).
Pearl Trawangan Gili
If you are looking for a more luxurious place to stay, you can check out Pearl of Trawangan. This is a stunning resort that offers spacious and elegant rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, and free wifi. They also have villas with private pools and jacuzzis. The resort has a large swimming pool, a spa, a gym, and a restaurant. The staff are professional and attentive. The location is ideal, as it is on the quiet west side of the island, facing the sunset.
A room at Pearl of Trawangan costs around Rp 1,500,000 per night (about $105 USD).
Hotel Aston Sunset Beach Resort Gili Trawangan
Consider booking a room at the Aston Sunset Beach Resort Gili Trawangan if you’re searching for a tranquil and opulent retreat in Indonesia. A lovely island paradise just off the coast of Lombok is home to this four-star resort, where you can take in breathtaking sunsets, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear seas.
The resort provides roomy, opulent villas that are furnished with contemporary conveniences including flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, free WiFi, and private bathrooms. The villas feature their own private pool and patio for your utmost privacy and comfort, while some rooms offer a terrace or balcony with views of the tropical gardens or the outdoor pool.
At the resort, you can indulge in a variety of activities and facilities to make your stay memorable. You can dine at the beachfront restaurant and bar, where you can savor delicious dishes and drinks while watching the sun go down. You can also relax at the spa and wellness center, where you can pamper yourself with massages and treatments. If you are feeling adventurous, you can explore the island by cycling or snorkeling, or join a diving trip to discover the amazing marine life of Gili Trawangan island.
The resort for its located on the quiet and peaceful side of the island, away from the noise and crowds of the main strip. They enjoyed the serene and relaxing atmosphere, as well as the stunning views of the sunset from the beach. Some guests also appreciated the free shuttle service that the resort provided to take them to and from the harbor and other attractions on the island.
The resort also received positive feedback for its food and beverage options. Variety and quality of the dishes served at the beachfront restaurant and bar, especially the seafood and local specialties. They also complimented the staff for their friendly and attentive service and the happy hour deals that offered great value for money. Some guests also mentioned that they liked the live music and entertainment that the resort organized in the evenings.
A room at Hotel Aston Sunset Beach Resort starts from Rp 900,000 per night.
Tips for traveling to Gili Trawangan with Babies
Here are some tips to make your trip to Gili Trawangan with babies easier and more enjoyable:
- Pack light but bring the essentials. You don’t need to bring too many clothes or toys for your baby, as you can buy or rent them on the island. However, you should bring diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, bottles, pacifiers, and any medication your baby may need. You should also bring a mosquito net, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a rash guard for your baby.
- Choose the best way to get to the island. There are several ways to get to Gili Trawangan from Bali or Lombok. The fastest and easiest way is by fast boat or speed boat, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. However, this can be expensive and bumpy, especially if the sea is rough. You can also take a flight to Lombok and then a taxi or a shuttle to the harbor, where you can take a public boat or a private boat to the island. This can be cheaper and smoother, but it takes longer, about 3 to 4 hours.
- Book your accommodation in advance. Gili Trawangan is a popular destination, especially during peak season (July to August and December to January). It can be hard to find a place to stay if you arrive without a reservation. You can use online platforms to compare and book your accommodation.
- Be respectful of the local culture and environment. Gili Trawangan is part of Lombok, which is predominantly Muslim.
- You should dress modestly and avoid drinking alcohol in public places.
- You should also respect the nature and wildlife of the island.
- Do not litter, do not touch or feed the marine animals, and do not step on the coral reefs.
With a little planning, you can have a wonderful trip to Gili Trawangan island with your baby. This beautiful island is the perfect place to relax, create unforgettable memories with your family, and experience the best of Indonesia.