Luxury holidays in Gili Air

Indonesian isle Gili Air is the picture of serene paradise, with crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches. The perfect middle ground between Gili Meno’s hippies and Gili Trawangan’s hedonists, there’s enough to both pick up your heart rate and bring it back down. Days, naturally, revolve around the turquoise waters, from carving up the coast kitesurfing to diving to the colourful coral reefs. Instagram’s influence is less apparent here than other parts of Indonesia (though you’ll still spy the odd ocean swing or smoothie-bowl-selling café); there’s an air of authenticity, with traditional huts and local craft markets decorating the landscape.

When to go

Visit Gili Air during the dry season, from June to September, for the best diving conditions.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Fly into Lombok International Airport; from here Bangsal Port is a 90-minute drive away, where you can catch the 15-minute ferry to Gili Air.
  • Automobiles

    There are no cars on any of the Gili Islands; instead, swap four wheels for two and hire bikes to cycle explore the island. Or, you can travel like a local in a cidomo, a traditional horse and cart.