Just off the coast of Lombok, diving in the Gili Islands is known for warm waters, gentle conditions, and vibrant coral reefs. Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno offer easy access to sloping reefs, coral gardens, and drift dives suitable for all experience levels. Green and hawksbill turtles are seen year-round, along with reef sharks, rays, cuttlefish, and schools of tropical fish. With healthy hard corals, colorful sponges, and excellent visibility, scuba diving in the Gili Islands is a top choice for beginners, photographers, and relaxed tropical dive holidays.
Weather patterns make diving the Gili Islands possible year-round, but the best conditions are typically from April to November during the dry season. Calm seas, strong sunlight, and visibility often exceeding 25 meters define this period. Water temperatures stay between 27–30°C, creating comfortable diving conditions. The wet season from December to March still offers good diving, though occasional rain and reduced visibility may occur. Turtle encounters are constant, while reef sharks and rays appear throughout the year, making Gili Islands scuba diving consistently rewarding.
Reaching the Gili Islands diving destinations is straightforward via Lombok or Bali. Most travelers arrive through Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali) or Lombok International Airport, followed by a fast boat transfer. High-speed boats run daily from Bali ports such as Padang Bai and Serangan directly to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno. From Lombok, short boat rides depart from Bangsal Harbor. Once on the islands, transport is limited to bicycles and horse-drawn carts, keeping the atmosphere relaxed and ideal for scuba diving holidays in the Gili Islands.
This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Oceans 5, Trawangan Dive. Disclaimer