Gili Islands
The Gili Islands are a world-renowned diving hub, celebrated for their incredible turtle population and suitability for all experience levels. Nestled off the coast of Lombok, this trio of idyllic islands offers over 17 distinct dive sites, ranging from gentle slopes perfect for beginners to more challenging deep dives and drift points. The area's focus on marine conservation, particularly for sea turtles, means encounters with these gentle creatures are almost guaranteed. The Gilis are particularly famous as one of the best places in Southeast Asia to get your diving certification.
Diving conditions are generally excellent year-round, with warm waters averaging 28°C and visibility often exceeding 20 meters. Mild to moderate currents provide opportunities for exciting drift dives along vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. With a fantastic array of marine biodiversity, from tiny macro critters to reef sharks, and an unbeatable relaxed island vibe, the Gili Islands offer an accessible and unforgettable diving experience. It's the perfect destination for divers seeking a blend of thrilling underwater adventures and laid-back beach life.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
Shark Point is one of the most famous and popular dive sites in Gili Islands, Indonesia. It's known for its diverse topography, including canyons and ridges, which attracts a variety of marine life. As the name suggests, it's a great spot to see whitetip and blacktip reef sharks resting on the sandy bottom. You can also expect to find an abundance of turtles, moray eels, and schools of reef fish.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
Well-known sites in Gili Islands, Indonesia, include Turtle Heaven, Shark Point, and Manta Point for their reliable marine life. For divers seeking less crowded or more advanced options, Deep Turbo is a fantastic choice. This seamount features strong currents and a greater depth, attracting larger pelagics like trevally and barracuda. Simon's Reef is another excellent deep dive, boasting impressive coral formations and a different array of marine species.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
The water temperature in Gili Islands, Indonesia, is consistently warm and tropical throughout the year. It typically ranges from 27°C to 29°C (81°F to 84°F). There can be a slight dip between July and September due to seasonal upwelling, where temperatures on deeper dives might drop to around 25°C (77°F), but it generally remains very comfortable for diving.
When is the best time to visit Gili Islands, Indonesia?
The best time for diving in Gili Islands, Indonesia, is during the dry season, from May to September. This period offers the sunniest weather, flattest seas, and generally the best visibility. The shoulder months of April and October are also excellent with fewer crowds. While diving is possible year-round, the wet season (November to March) can bring rain and slightly reduced visibility.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
During the peak dive season (May-September), visibility in Gili Islands, Indonesia, is typically very good, often ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50-100 feet). Conditions are generally clear and bright. Visibility can be slightly reduced during the rainy season (November-March) due to plankton blooms or freshwater runoff from Lombok, but it rarely drops below 10-15 meters.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
Gili Islands, Indonesia, is not known for major seasonal migrations of large animals like whale sharks. While reef manta rays are occasionally sighted at sites like Manta Point, these encounters are rare and not guaranteed. The main year-round attraction is the incredibly high density of resident green and hawksbill turtles, making virtually every dive a special event for turtle lovers.
What marine life can I expect to see in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
You are almost guaranteed to see green and hawksbill turtles on every dive in Gili Islands, Indonesia. Other common sightings include whitetip and blacktip reef sharks, moray eels, lionfish, cuttlefish, octopus, and large schools of fusiliers and snapper. Macro enthusiasts can spot nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and frogfish. Eagle rays and bumphead parrotfish are also frequently seen.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
For the warm waters of Gili Islands, Indonesia, a 3mm shorty or full wetsuit is generally sufficient. Many divers are comfortable in just a rash guard and board shorts. If you tend to get cold easily or are planning multiple dives a day, a 3mm full suit is a safe bet. During the slightly cooler months (July-September), a full suit provides extra comfort.
How do I get to Gili Islands, Indonesia?
The most common route is to fly into Lombok International Airport (LOP), then take a 90-minute taxi to Bangsal Harbour for a short public or private boat ride. Alternatively, numerous fast boat operators run directly from Bali (e.g., Padang Bai, Serangan) to the Gili Islands, a journey of about 2-3 hours. All transport on the islands themselves is by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn cart.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Gili Islands, Indonesia?
Staying on shore is the only practical option for diving in Gili Islands, Indonesia. All 17 dive sites are located within a 10-20 minute boat ride from the islands, making them easily accessible for day trips. There are no liveaboards that operate exclusively in this area due to its compact size. Shore-based diving allows you to enjoy the islands' wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and relaxed atmosphere.