Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan (often called Gili T) is the largest, most developed, and most famous of the three islands. If Gili Meno is for “romance” and Gili Air is for “balance,” Gili T is the undisputed “Party Island.”

However, as of 2026, Gili T has evolved. While the nightlife is still legendary, the island now offers high-end luxury resorts and quiet corners that make it suitable for more than just backpackers.

1. The Vibe: High Energy & Social

Gili Trawangan is the hub of the Gilis. It has a vibrant, youthful energy that you won’t find on the other two islands.

  • The East Side (The Strip): This is where the action happens. It’s lined with beach clubs, international restaurants, dive shops, and bars. It stays lively well into the night.

  • The West Side (Sunset Side): Much quieter and more upscale. This is where you’ll find luxury villas and the famous sunset beach bars. It’s a completely different, peaceful world compared to the main strip.

  • No Engines: Just like its neighbors, there are no cars or motorbikes. You’ll get around by bicycle or on foot.

2. Best Things to Do

  • Nightlife & Pub Crawls: Gili T is famous for its “party nights” (each night a different bar hosts the main party). Popular spots include Sama-Sama Reggae Bar, Jiggy Bar, and the Irish Pub (Tir na nÓg).

  • Turtle Point: On the northeast side, you can literally swim ten meters off the beach and encounter sea turtles grazing on the sea grass.

  • Sunset at the Swings: The western coast is home to the famous ocean swings (like at Hotel Ombak Sunset). Watching the sun drop behind Bali’s Mount Agung while sitting on a swing is a Gili T “must.”

  • Trawangan Hill: A short hike to the highest point on the island gives you a panoramic view of all three Gilis, Lombok’s Mount Rinjani, and Bali’s Mount Agung.

  • Night Market: Every evening near the pier, a local food market opens. It’s the best place for affordable, delicious seafood, Nasi Campur, and local snacks.

Gili Trawangan (often called Gili T) is the largest, most developed, and most famous of the three islands. If Gili Meno is for “romance” and Gili Air is for “balance,” Gili T is the undisputed “Party Island.”

However, as of 2026, Gili T has evolved. While the nightlife is still legendary, the island now offers high-end luxury resorts and quiet corners that make it suitable for more than just backpackers.

1. The Vibe: High Energy & Social

Gili Trawangan is the hub of the Gilis. It has a vibrant, youthful energy that you won’t find on the other two islands.

  • The East Side (The Strip): This is where the action happens. It’s lined with beach clubs, international restaurants, dive shops, and bars. It stays lively well into the night.

  • The West Side (Sunset Side): Much quieter and more upscale. This is where you’ll find luxury villas and the famous sunset beach bars. It’s a completely different, peaceful world compared to the main strip.

  • No Engines: Just like its neighbors, there are no cars or motorbikes. You’ll get around by bicycle or on foot.

2. Best Things to Do

  • Nightlife & Pub Crawls: Gili T is famous for its “party nights” (each night a different bar hosts the main party). Popular spots include Sama-Sama Reggae Bar, Jiggy Bar, and the Irish Pub (Tir na nÓg).

  • Turtle Point: On the northeast side, you can literally swim ten meters off the beach and encounter sea turtles grazing on the sea grass.

  • Sunset at the Swings: The western coast is home to the famous ocean swings (like at Hotel Ombak Sunset). Watching the sun drop behind Bali’s Mount Agung while sitting on a swing is a Gili T “must.”

  • Trawangan Hill: A short hike to the highest point on the island gives you a panoramic view of all three Gilis, Lombok’s Mount Rinjani, and Bali’s Mount Agung.

  • Night Market: Every evening near the pier, a local food market opens. It’s the best place for affordable, delicious seafood, Nasi Campur, and local snacks.