Dreaming of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back island vibes? The Gili Islands — Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno — are among Indonesia’s most sought-after escapes. Getting there from Bali is easier than you think, with several options to suit every traveler’s budget and style.

Here’s a complete breakdown of all the ways you can reach the Gilis, plus how to hop between the islands once you arrive.

Public Fast Boat – Bali ↔ Gili Islands

The public fast boat is by far the most popular way to travel between Bali and the Gilis. It’s affordable, direct, and runs multiple times per day.

• Departure Ports in Bali: Padang Bai
• Arrival Ports in Gilis: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and sometimes Gili Meno (depends on operator)
• Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the departure point and sea conditions
• Price Range: Rp 300,000–600,000 per person one way (varies by company, season, and boat type) we recommend EKAJAYA.
• Frequency: Several departures daily across all routes
• The easiest way to check departure times and secure your seat is to book directly online. You can book from the company’s website here or, if you’d like to compare multiple operators and prices, take a look at Gili Ferries which lists daily schedules from different ports and companies.

Tips for travelers:

• Book tickets in advance during peak season (July–September).
• Sea conditions can be choppy — if you’re prone to seasickness, sit near the back of the boat.
• Bring some cash for small fees at the pier and snacks for the ride.
• It’s always a good idea to keep the sea conditions in mind before booking. Most of the time, the journey is straightforward, but when the weather turns rough, boats may be delayed or canceled. In those cases, operators sometimes reroute passengers onto slower ferries via Lombok with bus transfers back to Bali. While it can add time to your trip, it’s just part of the reality of island travel. This is why many seasoned travelers suggest booking with larger, well-established companies, whose bigger boats handle rough waters more reliably. If the seas are calm, though, there’s absolutely nothing to worry about — the fast boat is a safe, easy, and often scenic ride across the Bali Sea.

Private Speedboat Charter – Bali ↔ Gili Air

For those who prefer comfort and exclusivity, a private speedboat is the ultimate choice. You’ll have the boat all to yourself, with direct routes and flexible schedules.

• Capacity: Up to 8 passengers per boat
• Routes & Prices:
• Serangan – 21,750,000 IDR
• Padang Bai – 18,000,000 IDR
• Penida – 18,000,000 IDR
• Lembongan – 18,000,000 IDR
• Amed – 13,500,000 IDR

Private charters are perfect for families, friends, or small groups who value privacy, flexibility, and a seamless transfer from Bali to Gili Air.

Luxury Helicopter Transfer – Bali ↔ Gili Islands

The fastest and most scenic way to reach the Gilis is by air. A Balicopter helicopter ride cuts travel time down to less than an hour and gives you breathtaking views of Bali’s coastline and Lombok’s turquoise waters.

• Departures: Nusa Dua or Nuanu heliports in Bali
• Price: 44,500,000 IDR one way (up to 4 passengers)
• Current Landing Point: Gili Trawangan (note: Gili Air helipad is temporarily unavailable)

This private and efficient option is ideal for VIPs, honeymooners, or families who want to arrive in style and comfort.

Lombok Airport Pick-Up + Private Boat

Another convenient option is to fly directly into Lombok International Airport and transfer straight to Gili Air. This service combines private car pick-up from the airport with a private boat across to the island.

• Up to 4 passengers – IDR 1,200,000
• Up to 6 passengers – IDR 1,500,000

It’s hassle-free, direct, and perfect if you’re coming from Jakarta, Bali, or abroad and prefer to cut travel time down by skipping the Bali–Gili sea crossing entirely.

How to Travel Between the Gili Islands

Once you’ve arrived, island hopping between Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan is simple. Here are the options:

Public Wooden Boat (“Island Hopping”)

• Price: Rp 45,000 per person to Gili T | Rp 40,000 per person to Gili Meno
• Schedule: First boat at 08:30 AM | Last boat at 03:00 PM
• Duration: ~15 min to Gili Meno | ~30 min to Gili Trawangan
• A traditional and authentic local experience

Shared Fast Boat

• Price: Rp 85,000 per person
• Frequency: About every hour
• Duration: ~5–8 min to Gili Meno | ~15 min to Gili Trawangan
• Quick and convenient, with frequent departures throughout the day

Private Speedboat

• Price: Rp 350,000–400,000 per boat
• Schedule: Flexible, arranged at your convenience
• Perfect for those who value comfort, speed, and privacy

Choosing the Right Option for You

If you’re traveling on a budget and just want a simple, direct way to reach the Gilis, the fast boat is the most practical choice. Families or groups looking for more comfort and privacy often prefer a private speedboat, which allows for flexibility and a more seamless journey. For those who want to arrive in true style, nothing beats a helicopter transfer — it’s the most luxurious option, dramatically reducing travel time while offering unforgettable views of Bali and Lombok from above. And once you’re on the islands, local transfers like the wooden boats and shared fast boats are a charming way to hop between Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan while experiencing a bit of local culture along the way.