2. Southwest Gilis
In contrast to the more famous, more visited Gili Islands off the northwest of Lombok, the stunning southwest Gilis are known at the “Secret Islands” for very good reason.
With great snorkelling from beautiful beaches (the water is of the azure, crystal-clear variety), the diving here is also excellent, as are opportunities for simply chilling out.
Tawun is the jumping off point for Gilis Nanggu, Tangkong, Sudak and Kedis, (more on that later) which are often visited as part of a single day-trip.
A mere 15-minute boat ride from Tawun, Gili Nanggu is the only isle in this group with accommodation. Tiny and untouched, the beach is sublime, as is the snorkelling.
Further southwest, Gili Gede has the greatest selection of accommodation. In addition to snorkelling, the attraction here is hiking into the hills, divinely deserted beaches, and interactions with villagers who are relatively untouched by tourism.
North of Gili Gede, Gili Rengit (also spelled Ringgit) offers good snorkelling on the pier side of the island, and also on the west side, which is reachable by boat.
Meanwhile, Gili Layar, west of Gili Rengit, offers some of the area’s best diving.
How to get to Tawun in the Gili Islands
To reach Tawun Harbour (the main departure point for the Secret Gili Islands) first travel to Sekotong in southwest Lombok.
From Mataram or Lombok Airport, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive by car or scooter.
Once at Tawun, you can hire a private boat or join a local tour to explore the nearby Gili islands, all within 10–20 minutes by boat.
Want more info on the Gilis? Read up on which Gili Island is the Best, and explore the best Gili island hotels.