Gili Air, one of the three Gili Islands, is a tropical paradise located off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, it’s a perfect getaway from Bali. Located 60 km (37 miles) east of Bali, Gili Air is accessible by speedboat or ferry. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Bali to Gili Air:
- By Speedboat: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Public Ferry: A slower but budget-friendly alternative.
- By Flight + Boat: An alternative for those traveling via Lombok.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Bali to Gili Air.
Timetable
| Ferry Bali - Gili Air $ 18.37 2h | |
|
By Speedboat: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct speedboat from Bali to Gili Air is the most popular and efficient way to reach the island. Boats depart from multiple ports in Bali and arrive at Gili Air’s small harbor.
Key Details:
- Departure Ports in Bali:
- Padang Bai (most popular, frequent departures).
- Serangan (closer to South Bali but takes longer).
- Amed (best for those in North Bali, fastest route).
- Arrival Port: Gili Air Jetty.
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on departure point.
- Price: 350,000–600,000 IDR (~$22–$40 USD), depending on the operator and class.
- Boat Operators:
- Gili Getaway.
- BlueWater Express.
- Eka Jaya Fast Boat.
- Departure Frequency: Multiple daily departures, especially from Padang Bai.
Pros:
- Fastest way to reach Gili Air.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
- Direct drop-off at Gili Air, no transfers needed.
Cons:
- Bumpy ride during rough seas—not ideal for those prone to seasickness.
- Limited luggage space—pack light.
- Longer journey from South Bali ports (Serangan/Sanur).
Booking Tip:
For the smoothest ride, choose morning departures, as the sea is usually calmer. Use our online search form to check schedules and secure your tickets.
By Public Ferry: A Slower but Budget-Friendly Alternative
For budget travelers, taking a public ferry from Bali to Gili Air via Lombok is a cheaper but much slower option.
Step 1: Take the Public Ferry from Bali to Lombok
- Departure Point: Padang Bai Harbor (Bali).
- Arrival Point: Lembar Port (Lombok).
- Duration: 4 to 6 hours.
- Price: 60,000–80,000 IDR (~$4–$6 USD).
- Ferry Operator: Pelni Public Ferry.
Step 2: Travel from Lembar to Bangsal Harbor
- Options:
- Taxi or shuttle bus (1.5 to 2 hours, ~150,000–300,000 IDR).
- Public minivan (cheaper but slower).
Step 3: Take a Local Boat from Bangsal to Gili Air
- Departure Point: Bangsal Harbor.
- Duration: 15–20 minutes.
- Price: 20,000–50,000 IDR (~$2–$4 USD).
Total Duration: 6 to 10 hours.
Total Price: 200,000–400,000 IDR (~$12–$25 USD).
Pros:
- Cheaper than speedboats.
- Allows flexibility with stops in Lombok.
Cons:
- Much longer travel time (6+ hours).
- Multiple transfers required.
- Less comfortable than speedboats.
Booking Tip:
Public ferries don’t operate late at night, so plan accordingly. Use our online search form to check ferry schedules.
By Flight + Boat: An Alternative via Lombok
For travelers who prefer to avoid long boat rides, taking a flight to Lombok and then a boat to Gili Air is an option.
Step 1: Take a Flight from Bali to Lombok
- Departure Airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), Bali.
- Arrival Airport: Lombok International Airport (LOP).
- Duration: 40 minutes.
- Price: 400,000–1,000,000 IDR (~$25–$65 USD).
- Airlines:
- Wings Air.
- Lion Air.
- Garuda Indonesia.
Step 2: Transfer from Lombok Airport to Bangsal Harbor
- Duration: 2 hours by taxi or shuttle bus.
- Price: 250,000–400,000 IDR (~$15–$30 USD).
Step 3: Take a Local Boat from Bangsal to Gili Air
- Duration: 15–20 minutes.
- Price: 20,000–50,000 IDR (~$2–$4 USD).
Total Duration: 4 to 5 hours.
Total Price: 800,000–1,500,000 IDR (~$50–$100 USD).
Pros:
- Avoids long sea crossings.
- Less risk of seasickness.
Cons:
- More expensive than direct boats.
- Requires multiple transfers.
Booking Tip:
Flights fill up quickly, so book at least 1–2 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options.
Final Tips for Traveling from Bali to Gili Air
- Best Option for Speed: Speedboat (1.5–3 hours, 350,000+ IDR).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Public Ferry (~200,000 IDR, 6+ hours).
- Best Option for Comfort: Flight to Lombok + Boat (50+ USD, 4+ hours, avoids rough seas).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Speedboats and flights sell out quickly during July–August and December–January.
- Prepare for Wet Boarding: Many boats require walking through shallow water, so wear flip-flops and quick-dry clothing.
- Bring Cash: ATMs on Gili Air are limited, so withdraw cash in Bali or Lombok before arriving.
