How to get from Bali to Gili Islands

From surf breaks and rice terraces in Bali to white-sand beaches on the Gilis, here’s exactly how to get from Bali to the Gili Islands without stress.

At A Glance (Bali to Gili Islands)

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & most convenient overall: 🚤 Option #1 – Fast Boat from Bali to the Gilis from Padangbai, Serangan or Sanur. Ideal if you want to go straight from your Bali hotel to the beach on Gili T, Gili Air or Gili Meno the same morning.
• Best when seas are rough or you’re nervous about boats: ✈️ Option #2 – Flight via Lombok + local boat. Slightly longer and more steps, but the main crossing is by plane instead of a long open-sea fast boat.
• Cheapest & most local: ⛴️ Option #3 – Public ferry Padangbai→Lembar + overland + local boat. Good for backpackers with time, less ideal if you get seasick or are on a tight schedule.
• Most hassle-free / with kids & big luggage: 🚐 Option #4 – Door-to-door hotel pickup + fast boat package. Someone meets you at your hotel, handles the port logistics and luggage, and delivers you to the Gili jetty.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Compare fast boats in one place: Use platforms like 12Go Asia for Bali–Gili Islands or dedicated fast boat listings on Klook, GetYourGuide transfers, or curated options on Trip.com Bali–Gili fast boats.
• Book at least a few days ahead in high season: July–August, Christmas–New Year and major holidays sell out quickly. Morning departures are least likely to be delayed by afternoon winds.
• Choose your Bali departure port based on where you stay: Padangbai is best from Ubud/East Bali, Serangan and Sanur work well from south Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Nusa Dua).
• Plan how you’ll reach the port: Pre-book a car or minivan via Welcome Pickups Bali airport transfers or a private ride with GetTransfer in Bali, or use ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek, which operate widely across Bali.
• Driving yourself: Confident riders sometimes rent a scooter or car to reach Padangbai or Serangan. If you’re experienced, compare offers on BikesBooking Bali scooter rentals. Always wear a helmet and ensure you have the correct license and insurance.
• Travel light if you can: Many boats have limited storage. If you’re checking out in Bali but not heading to the Gilis until later, consider dropping luggage at a secure location using Radical Storage’s Bali network.
• Check sea conditions: In rainy season (roughly November–March), swells can be big and fast boats are sometimes cancelled. Have at least one buffer day before any long-haul flight.
• Book accommodation early on the Gilis: For popular periods, reserve your stay via Booking.com hotels on Gili Trawangan or other Gili islands so you aren’t searching on arrival with luggage.

🚤 Option #1 — Fast Boat from Bali to the Gilis (Most Popular)

Fastest Direct route Weather-dependent

• Overview: Board a high-speed boat from Padangbai, Serangan or Sanur and travel directly to Gili Trawangan (often with stops at Gili Air and Gili Meno). Typical sea time is around 1.5–2.5 hours depending on the route and operator.
• How to book (with price): Expect around IDR 350k–800k one-way per adult, including basic luggage. You can compare multiple companies and departure ports on 12Go Bali–Gili listings, browse premium options like BlueWater Express on Klook, or look for all-inclusive fast boat packages on GetYourGuide and Trip.com.
• Pros: Fastest and simplest way from Bali directly to the Gilis; frequent departures; often includes hotel pickup from popular areas.
• Cons: Can be bumpy in big swells; occasional delays or cancellations in bad weather; limited space and no-frills comfort compared to flying.
• Good to know: Sit near the back if you get seasick, keep valuables in a daypack you bring aboard, and have a dry bag for electronics.

Step-by-step: Fast Boat from Bali to the Gilis

1. Choose your departure port: If you’re staying in Ubud or East Bali, Padangbai is usually shortest by road. From Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran or Nusa Dua, Serangan or Sanur departures may be more convenient.
2. Check times and book: Use a comparison site like Padangbai→Gili fast boat schedules or all-in-one boat tickets via Klook’s Bali–Gili boats. Choose a morning departure where possible.
3. Add transfers: Many operators include hotel pickup; if not, arrange a taxi, ride-hail (Grab/Gojek), or private transfer with GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups.
4. Arrive early at the port: Plan to be at the check-in office 45–60 minutes before departure for ticket validation, baggage tagging and safety briefing.
5. Board and stow luggage: Large bags go in the hold or stacked on deck; keep passports, cash, electronics and snacks with you in a small bag.
6. Stops at other islands: Many boats call at Gili Air and Gili Meno before or after Gili Trawangan. Listen for announcements so you disembark at the correct stop.

Getting to the main embarking points (Bali ports)

• Padangbai Harbour: Around 1.5–2 hours by car from Kuta/Seminyak and ~1–1.5 hours from Ubud depending on traffic. Pre-book a car with a driver, use Grab/Gojek, or join a shared shuttle included in many fast boat tickets.
• Serangan Port: South of Denpasar and close to Sanur and Nusa Dua; convenient for south Bali stays. Expect ~30–45 minutes from airport in light traffic.
• Sanur Port: Well-connected by taxi and ride-hailing; also used for Nusa Penida/Lembongan boats. Good choice if you’re staying in Sanur or central/south Bali.
• DIY by scooter or car: Experienced riders sometimes rent a scooter via Kuta scooter rentals on BikesBooking to reach the port, but only do this if you’re very confident in Bali’s traffic and fully insured.
• Luggage solutions: If you’re travelling with big suitcases but only want a small backpack on the Gilis, consider leaving bags at a secure location using Radical Storage in Bali and collecting them when you return.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

✈️ Option #2 — Flight via Lombok + Local Boat

More predictable in rough seas Shorter time at sea More connections

• Overview: Fly from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Lombok International Airport (LOP), transfer by car to Bangsal or Teluk Nare harbor on Lombok’s northwest coast, then take a short local boat to your chosen Gili island.
• How to book (with price): One-way flights Bali→Lombok often range from IDR 400k–1.2m depending on season and airline. Search and compare options on Booking.com Flights. From Lombok to the Gilis, expect roughly IDR 85k–300k for public boats or speedboats; you can check schedules and fares on 12Go ferries Lombok→Gili.
• Pros: Less time on open water; more likely to operate when fast boats from Bali are cancelled due to high waves; offers views of Bali and Lombok from the air.
• Cons: More moving parts (flight + car + boat); can be slower door-to-door than a direct fast boat; you need to coordinate flight arrival with boat departures from Lombok.
• Good to know: This route works best if you’re already planning to visit Lombok or want a buffer against rough sea conditions.

Step-by-step: Flight via Lombok

1. Book your flight: Search Bali (DPS) → Lombok (LOP) on Booking.com Flights, choosing a morning or early-afternoon arrival in Lombok to allow time for transfers and the boat.
2. Arrange an airport–harbor transfer: Pre-book a car with driver to Bangsal or Teluk Nare through your hotel, or arrange a private transfer via GetTransfer’s Indonesia service or local providers. You can also use Grab or local taxis from LOP.
3. Travel to the harbor: The drive from Lombok airport to Bangsal harbor usually takes about 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic.
4. Buy or collect boat tickets: At Bangsal, purchase a public boat ticket to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air or Gili Meno, or board a pre-booked fast boat arranged via platforms like 12Go or through local ticket offices.
5. Board the boat: Journeys from Bangsal to the Gilis usually take 15–30 minutes. Keep cash handy for any small port fees.

Getting to the main embarking points (Lombok side)

• Lombok International Airport (LOP): Served by domestic flights from Bali and other Indonesian cities. It sits in central-south Lombok, ~1.5–2 hours from Bangsal harbour by road.
• Bangsal Harbour: The main public boat harbour for the Gilis on Lombok’s northwest coast, with frequent boats to Gili T, Gili Air and Gili Meno.
• Alternative harbors: Some speedboat operators use Teluk Nare or Teluk Kodek for private transfers and resort boats; check your booking details.
• Transfers: Ask your Lombok hotel to arrange a pickup, or negotiate a taxi at the airport. Ride-hailing services may be limited around LOP, so pre-booking a driver is often easier.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

⛴️ Option #3 — Public Ferry Padangbai→Lembar + Overland + Local Boat (Budget Route)

Lowest cost Local experience Slowest

• Overview: Take a large roll-on/roll-off public ferry from Padangbai in East Bali to Lembar harbour in southwest Lombok, then continue overland to Bangsal and finally by local boat to the Gilis. Expect roughly 6–10 hours door-to-door.
• How to book (with price): Public ferry tickets are usually bought at the Padangbai or Lembar port counters and cost around IDR 50k–70k per person. For planning times, you can check route information via Lombok and Rinjani tourism sites or look at approximate schedules on platforms that summarise the Padangbai–Lembar crossing.
• Pros: Cheapest way to cross; big ship feels more stable than many small fast boats; good if you want to spend time on Lombok as well.
• Cons: Very slow; ferries can be crowded and basic; no direct service to the Gilis (you still need overland and boat connections); departures may be delayed.
• Good to know: Bring snacks, water and a sweater for the air-conditioned cabin. Keep valuables close, and expect loading/unloading to take extra time.

Step-by-step: Public Ferry + Overland + Local Boat

1. Reach Padangbai: Travel from your Bali accommodation to Padangbai harbour by taxi, ride-hail (Grab/Gojek) or pre-arranged car/van.
2. Buy your ferry ticket: At Padangbai, head to the official ferry ticket counter for the Padangbai→Lembar crossing. Ferries generally run 24 hours a day, with crossings taking around 4–5 hours depending on conditions.
3. Board and cross to Lembar: Follow staff instructions for foot passengers; find a seat either inside or on deck and keep important belongings on you.
4. Travel from Lembar to Bangsal: On arrival at Lembar, arrange a car or shared minivan to Bangsal harbour (around 2–2.5 hours by road). Hotels in Lombok can often set this up in advance.
5. Take a local boat to the Gilis: From Bangsal, buy a public boat ticket to your chosen Gili or hop on a small speedboat if you prefer a quicker ride.

Getting to the main embarking points (Public ferry & Lombok harbours)

• Padangbai Harbour (Bali): Main ferry port for Bali–Lombok public ferries and many fast boats. Allow plenty of time in case of queues.
• Lembar Harbour (Lombok): Public ferry arrival port in southwest Lombok; onward transport to Senggigi, Mataram, Kuta Lombok or Bangsal can be arranged on arrival.
• Bangsal Harbour: Primary departure point for public boats and many private boats to the Gilis; simple but busy pier environment.
• Transfers: Use taxis, pre-booked private cars or hotel-arranged drivers between Lembar, Senggigi and Bangsal; allow extra time for traffic and road works.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #4 — Door-to-Door Hotel Pickup + Fast Boat Package

Hassle-free Great with kids Higher cost

• Overview: A shuttle or private car picks you up at your Bali hotel or villa, drives you to the fast boat port, and includes your boat ticket to the Gilis (and sometimes a drop-off service on the island).
• How to book (with price): Expect around IDR 500k–1.1m per person depending on your pickup area, season and type of boat. Browse bundled transfer products on Klook hotel+boat transfers, or look for combination shuttle/boat deals on 12Go, GetYourGuide and Trip.com.
• Pros: No need to negotiate taxis or navigate port procedures; convenient with surfboards or lots of luggage; door-to-door timing is straightforward.
• Cons: Slightly more expensive than arranging your own taxi plus separate boat ticket; pickup windows can be broad; shared shuttles may mean waiting while others are collected.
• Good to know: Confirm whether your accommodation is inside the included pickup zone (some areas like Canggu or Uluwatu may require a surcharge or separate transfer).

Step-by-step: Door-to-Door Package

1. Choose a package: On Klook, GetYourGuide, Trip.com or 12Go, filter for products labelled “hotel transfers included” or “door-to-door.” Check which Bali areas are covered and which Gili island the service reaches.
2. Enter your hotel details: Provide the exact name and address of your accommodation, plus a working phone/WhatsApp number for pickup confirmation.
3. Receive your pickup time: The operator will usually send a pickup window the day before (for example 07:00–07:30). Be packed, checked out and ready in the lobby at the start of the window.
4. Ride to the port: The shuttle collects other passengers and drops everyone at the check-in office, where staff issue boarding passes, tag luggage and escort you to the correct boat.
5. Boat to the Gilis and onward: After landing at your Gili island, some services include a short cidomo (horse-cart) or handcart transfer to your accommodation, while others drop you at the main jetty to walk or use a local service.

Getting to the main embarking points (from your hotel)

• Hotel pickup zones: Most bundled transfers include Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, central Ubud and Sanur. Canggu, Uluwatu and north Bali often incur surcharges or require an extra local transfer.
• Airport pickups: If you land in Bali and want to go straight to the Gilis, some providers offer airport pickup; alternatively, arrange an airport transfer with Welcome Pickups or a standard taxi/Grab/Gojek to your hotel and travel to the Gilis the next day.
• Private vs shared: Families or groups with lots of luggage might prefer a private vehicle booked through GetTransfer or hotel concierge instead of a shared minivan.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Bali to Gili Islands)

How long does it take to get from Bali to the Gili Islands?
Most travellers using a direct fast boat from Padangbai, Serangan or Sanur reach the Gilis in about 1.5–2.5 hours of sea time, plus any hotel pickup and check-in time. Public ferry routes with overland connections via Lombok can take 6–10 hours door-to-door.

Is there a direct flight from Bali to the Gili Islands?
No. The Gilis do not have an airport. The closest is Lombok International Airport (LOP). You can fly from Bali (DPS) to Lombok, then transfer by car to Bangsal or nearby harbours and continue by boat to the Gilis.

Which Gili island should I choose?
Gili Trawangan is the largest and liveliest, with plenty of bars and dive shops; Gili Air is more relaxed with a mix of cafés, snorkelling and chill nightlife; Gili Meno is the quietest, with a honeymoon feel. You can move between islands by local boats if you decide to try more than one.

Is the boat ride safe?
Fast boats and public ferries are widely used by locals and tourists, but sailings can be affected by rough seas, especially in rainy season. Always use reputable companies, wear the provided life jacket when requested, listen to crew instructions and avoid travelling in extreme weather. Consider sea conditions and government travel advisories when planning your dates.

Can I bring surfboards or large luggage?
Most fast boats accept surfboards and large suitcases, sometimes for a small extra fee. Check your operator’s policy when you book and arrive early so staff can load bulky items safely. On the Gilis, there are no motor vehicles, so be prepared to carry bags yourself or hire a handcart or cidomo.

Can I visit the Gilis as a day trip from Bali?
It is technically possible but not recommended. Between check-in, sea time and potential delays, you’d have very little time on the islands. Staying at least one or two nights on the Gilis makes for a far more relaxed experience.

This guide was researched and written by Jacob, and it was last updated on July 24, 2026. 0 people found this post useful.

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