Discover Gili Meno - Bali's Best-Kept Secret
Off the northwest coast of Lombok lies a group of three idyllic islands, known as the Gili’s. With tropical turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees, these tiny islands are a traveler’s paradise. If you’re familiar with Bali or planning a trip there, you’ve probably heard of the popular Gili T, where partygoers soak up the sun and indulge in the many beach clubs pumping music until late. For a more relaxed atmosphere, vacationers flock to Gili Air, where boutique resorts, seaside cafes, and beach clubs make for a dreamy escape. But for those seeking a quieter oasis, the lesser-known Gili Meno offers all the charm of its siblings without the overwhelming crowds. Nicknamed “the honeymoon isle,” there are no cars (only horse-drawn carriages) and almost no people, making it the perfect place to lay back, relax, and do nothing. Gili Meno is a hidden gem that very few travelers have discovered but most will never forget.
How to get there:
Though a popular stop on travelers’ Bali itineraries, the Gili Islands are technically a part of Bali’s neighboring island Lombok. All 3 can easily be reached by fast boat or ferry.
From Bali head to Sanur or Padang Bai harbor.
Padang Bai → Gili Meno 2.5 Hours ($30)
Only one fast boat, EkaJaya, goes directly to and from Gili Meno- this option is easier but a bit more expensive, at around 450.00 IDR ($30).
Sanur/Padang Bai → Gili Air/T → Gili Meno 4 Hours ($20)
If you are headed to one of the other Gili’s first, or looking to save a little money, you can opt to take a fast boat or ferry to either Gili T or Gili Air first, then take another boat to Gili Meno. Local fast boats leave every hour and cost about 100.000 IDR ($6.5) while the ferry leaves at 8:30 and 3 each day and are 40.000 IDR ($2.80).
Other options include: going from Nusa Penida & going from Lombok
Need a ride to the harbor? Contact my drivers
Wayan: WA +62 857-6922-3401
Edi: WA +62 88219254785
Book a fastboat to the Gili Islands
If you're planning a trip to the Gili Islands, be aware that an earthquake struck the area in 2018. As a result, many buildings were damaged or destroyed, leaving limited options for accommodation. Despite this, the northeast side of Gili Meno boasts a handful of chic boutique hotels and restaurants that make for the perfect tropical getaway.
$ Le Pirate Beach Club - Book Here
I cannot recommend this place enough. The newly built Le Pirate Beach Club exceeded our expectations. It offers 3 pools, a boutique, 2 bars, and a restaurant- all situated on a pristine white beach. The rooms are small little beach bungalows, but offer everything you need. The location is only 10 minutes by horse-cart from the harbor and walking distance to the island’s most sought-after dive spots. Not to mention the resort itself is stunning, offering either a bonfire or a movie on the beach every night. It was the perfect place for Keanu & me to sit back with an espresso martini and watch the sunset each night. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or simply some peace and quiet- look no further.
$$$ BASK - Coming in August 2023
I stumbled upon Bask by chance, while on a stroll around the island. While the Gili’s are typically known for their laid-back bohemian beach vibes- BASK is all luxury. Boasting 83 luxury villas (many of which are beachfront), a restaurant, cocktail lounge, spa, beach club, and an underwater art installation - this world-class resort offers the most lavish facilities the Gili Islands have yet to see.
While the resort itself is not opening until later in 2023, you can tan on a daybed at their 35-meter infinity pool, situated on one of Indonesia’s best beaches. Their frozen mango daiquiri is irresistible- I stopped here almost every day for their 2-for-1 happy hour.
Snorkel at the the BASK Sculptures
Artist Jason deCaires Taylor installed these beautiful underwater sculptures to help encourage coral regrowth. You can find them 5 minutes off the coast of northwest Gili Meno- swim directly from the shores of BASK beach club, or take a boat out for the day to visit all of Gili Meno’s dive sites.
Pro-tip: try and get there as early as possible to avoid crowds. This is one of the benefits of staying on Gili Meno rather than one of the other islands.
Visit the Turtle Sanctuary
If you take a short stroll around Gili Meno you will likely stumble across 4 little pools with dozens of baby sea turtles in them. These turtles are not yet mature enough to be released into the sea. They are adorable to look at, but please do not touch them.
@denizyy
Take a Stroll Around the Island
Gili Meno is a mere 2 km long and 1 km wide, ensuring that you can explore the entire island at a leisurely pace in less than an hour on foot. Take a peaceful stroll along the dreamy white sand beaches and discover the secrets this little piece of heaven has to offer. Be sure to visit the saltwater lake in the center of the island.
Relax at the Beach Clubs
A perfect day on Gili Meno is best spent lounging at one of the beach clubs, soaking up the sun and sipping on frozen cocktails. If you're planning a stay or just dropping by for a snorkel trip, you must visit Le Pirate Beach Club or BASK for an unforgettable experience. Unwind, destress, and soak up the island life at its finest.
Enjoy a Bonfire or Movie on the Beach
Looking for a romantic evening on the beach? Le Pirate Beach Club has got you covered! Every night, you can cozy up next to a bonfire or enjoy a movie on the beach while listening to the soothing sound of waves. Experience the ultimate beach getaway with your loved one.
Do absolutely nothing
With minimal wifi, no vehicles, and hardly any crowds, this is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Allow yourself to disconnect from the outside world and indulge in the simple pleasures of doing absolutely nothing. Treat yourself to a few days of complete relaxation in this tranquil tropical haven.
The ULTIMATE travel hack to make your trips run smooth.
Le Pirate
As you soak up the sun by the poolside, indulge in a mouth-watering seared ahi and sip on a delightful cocktail from Le Pirates' menu. Simplicity meets deliciousness at this little paradise.
BASK
Looking for the perfect spot to savor a frozen daiquiri while lounging IN the pool? Or perhaps you're dreaming of digging into a delicious woodfired pizza on the beach at sunset. Look no further than BASK. This luxurious destination offers everything luxe, from a chic beach club to intimate dinner settings. The exceptional staff here will take good care of you (Edi the bartender & Rizal are just the sweetest).
MAHAMAYA
Nestled near the waterfront, MAHAMAYA is a hidden gem. The intimate setting is perfect to catch a stunning view of the sunset.
Diana’a Warung
Treat yourself to a delicious mie goreng and fresh coconut to recharge after a long day of diving. Come for a bintang, stay for the good vibes.
Miss your boat to the Gili’s? Catch a case of Bali belly? World Nomad’s covers emergency medical costs, theft & damage, unexpected cancellation or trip delay, and so much more. Already traveling? No problem. You can buy or extend your coverage whenever you want.
The only vehicle with a motor you’ll find on the Gili Islands is the boat that drops you off. If your accommodation is near the harbor, I recommend walking. If it is farther away or you are traveling with heavy luggage, you can take a small horse-cart (try to avoid this if possible as the horses are very small and look quite worn down).
Save this post for later
Book Your Gili Meno Stay
Gili Meno’s best resorts, ecostays, homestays, and hostels.
Take the Hassle Out of Travel Planning
Planning your trip to Bali should be a breeze, but with so many amazing attractions and hidden spots on this beautiful island, it can get overwhelming. That's why I created the ultimate Bali Google Map! Take the stress out of travel planning- this map has been curated for travelers and includes over 500+ pre-pinned locations.
-
This map contains 500+ Google pins, including:
Where to stay: everything from hostels & local homestays to eco-luxe Airbnb’s and luxurious 5-star resorts- all in prime locations.
Secret waterfalls, beaches, ricefields, temples, and viewpoints.
Attractions in hotspots like Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Ceningan.
Attractions in lesser-known areas such as Munduk, Sidemen, Lovina, Kintamani, Amed, Tabanan, Keramas, & West Bali.
Where to eat: cafes, coffeeshops, local warungs, and full-blown dining experiences.
Travel essentials: where to find Western-grade medical care, pharmacies, grocery stores, laundry, my visa agents, reliable ATM’s, etc.
The best beaches & prime surf breaks.
My favorite spas, wellness centers, and yoga studios.
The most Insta-worthy spots on the island.
Where to play: beachclubs, sunset-spots, speakeasys (you can even get a free tattoo when you buy a taco at one Canggu hotspot!).
Harbors, airports, and other transport points.
Insider tips for the smoothest travel, happy hour deals, and more!
Temples, markets, water-palaces, local trekking, and scenic viewpoints.
-
No WIFI, no problem. Simply download Google Maps offline on your phone to secure access no matter your signal.
-
This Google map will automatically update to your phone whenever I add a new location, tip, or region of Bali
-
Once purchased, I will grant your email access to the Google map. You then have unlimited access to 500+ locations in Bali at your fingertips.
-
I did the work so you don’t have to! I read countless blogs, scrolled endlessly on Instagram, and even bought a few guidebooks to plan my 3-month Bali trip. After all this, I pinned everything on this Google map and planned my itinerary by grouping things from my maps together. I ended up finding the best spots & making my travel days as smooth as possible!
Explore Destinations in Bali, Indonesia
-
![]()
Gili Meno, Lombok
Picture a tiny island surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters. There are no cars or motorbikes (only horse-drawn carriages) and scarcely any people. Gili Meno may be Bali’s best kept secret.
-
![With crystal clear turquoise waters, beach front day clubs, and laid-back island life, Nusa Lembongan is an idyllic piece of paradise off the coast of Bali.]()
Nusa Lembongan
With crystal clear turquoise waters, beach front day clubs, and laid-back island life, Nusa Lembongan is an idyllic piece of paradise off the coast of Bali.
-
![Cooler temperatures, waterfalls at every corner, the famous Ulun Danu Bratan temple & stunning sunsets. Munduk is the most underrated spot in all of Bali.]()
Munduk
Cooler temperatures, waterfalls at every corner, the famous Ulun Danu Bratan temple & stunning sunsets. Munduk is the most underrated spot in all of Bali.
-
![]()
Sidemen
A glimpse of “old Bali,” Sidemen offers an escape from the crowds in Ubud and Seminyak. Spend the days wandering through secluded rice fields and stay in elaborate eco-friendly bamboo homes.
-
![Towering Cliffs, beautiful scenery, and Bali's best beaches.]()
Nusa Penida
Towering Cliffs, beautiful scenery, and Bali's best beaches.
-
![]()
Ubud
Set amidst the quiet jungle, Ubud is filled with healthy cafes, yoga studios, wellness spas…and of course, monkeys.
-
![]()
Keramas
Lying in the foothills of Mount Agung, and frequented by Kelly Slater, Keramas offers a sanctuary for surfers.
-
![]()
Canggu
Streets packed to the brim with hipster cafes, a spa on every corner, and an overflow of beach & night clubs. The hustle & bustle of Canggu has a little of something for everyone.
-
![]()
West Bali
The lesser-known side of Bali. Known for its longest left wave and it’s black sand beaches. Spend a few days in Medewi or Balian for some peace and quiet.
-
![]()
Uluwatu
A sleepy little surf town with laid back vibes, cute cafes, and world class beach clubs all within a 10 minute drive.
-
![Kintamani]()
Kintamani
Nestled among three majestic volcanoes, Mount Abang, Mount Batur, and Mount Agung, this hidden gem offers breathtaking vistas, cloud-kissed cafes, and charming boutique glamping options.
Travel insurance is a non-negotiable in my book. World Nomad’s covers emergency medical costs, theft & damage, unexpected cancellation or trip delay, and so much more. Already traveling? No problem. You can buy or extend your coverage whenever you want.
