How to get from Padang Bai to Gili Islands

Heading from Bali’s east-coast port of Padang Bai to the Gili Islands? This guide walks you through every realistic option—fast boats, public ferries via Lombok, flights, and bundled transfers—so you can pick the route that best matches your budget, sea-legs, and schedule.

At A Glance (Padang Bai to Gili Islands)

Mode	Duration	Best For
⛴️ Fast Boat (Padang Bai / Serangan / Sanur → Gili)	~1.5–2.5h on water (+ hotel pickup if included)	Most travelers, direct & simple
🏷️ Cost: ~IDR 350k–800k one-way depending on season, operator, and whether transfers are included. Check current departures on » compare boats | browse fast boat tickets on alt. listings.
✈️ Flight via Lombok (DPS → LOP) + Short Boat	~30–40m flight + ~1.5–2h road + ~15–30m boat	Reliable timing in rough seas
🏷️ Cost: Flight ~IDR 400k–1.2m + transfers/boat. Compare domestic fares on » search flights | view Lombok → Gili boat options on LOP → Gili boats.
🚢 Public Ferry (Padang Bai → Lembar) + Overland + Local Boat	~6–10h total (connection-dependent)	Lowest cost, flexible travelers
🏷️ Cost: Public ferry from ~IDR 40k–75k per adult plus road/boat add-ons. You can preview Padang Bai → Lombok crossings on » ferry times, then buy tickets at the port.
🚐 Hotel Pickup + Boat (Bundled)	~2.5–4h door-to-door (area-dependent)	Hassle-free, families, big luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~IDR 500k–1.1m per person for shared transfers and fast boat. Look for transfer+boat packages on Klook or GetYourGuide.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most convenient: For most travelers, a direct fast boat from Padang Bai to the Gilis is the sweet spot between time and cost—especially if your Bali base is in Ubud, Candidasa, or Sidemen.
• Cheapest / Most economical: If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a longer, multi-stage journey, the public ferry to Lombok plus overland transfer and a local boat is usually the lowest-cost way to reach the Gilis.
• Most reliable in bad weather: During very rough seas or if you’re prone to seasickness, break the trip into shorter segments with a flight via Lombok followed by a shorter crossing to the islands.
• Most hassle-free: If you prefer to be picked up at your hotel and looked after all the way to your Gili accommodation, book a bundled hotel pickup + fast boat package so you don’t have to worry about taxis or port fees.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book fast boats at least a few days ahead in high season: Boats can sell out around July–August, Christmas/New Year, and Indonesian holidays. Use 12Go to compare multiple operators on one screen, or secure a ticket in advance via GetYourGuide or Klook.
• Watch sea conditions if you get seasick: Swell between Bali and the Gilis can be choppy. Morning departures are usually calmer than afternoon. If you’re very sensitive, consider the flight via Lombok route or pick a bigger, more stable fast boat on 12Go rather than the smallest speedboat.
• Use Bali ride-hailing apps to reach Padang Bai: For port transfers, locals commonly use Gojek and Grab for cars and scooters, or conventional taxis. For pre-booked private cars with English-speaking drivers, request quotes through Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer.
• Store luggage if you have awkward gaps: Heading to the Gilis after checking out of your Bali hotel? Drop larger bags at one of the many city and airport storage partners using Radical Storage in Bali so you can travel to Padang Bai with just a small daypack.
• Consider scooters only if you’re experienced: Bali’s roads can be hectic. If you’re confident on two wheels, you can rent a scooter in tourist hubs and ride to Padang Bai (with carry-on sized luggage) using services like BikesBooking. Always wear a helmet and ensure your travel insurance covers motorbikes.
• Book Gili stays and onward travel early in peak months: Accommodation on Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno ranges from simple bungalows to resorts. Filter by “near harbour” or “beachfront” on Booking.com or Trip.com if you don’t want to walk far with bags.
• Plan activities ahead of time: Once you arrive, popular snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping tours can be reserved through beach kiosks or pre-booked on GetYourGuide so you already have a plan for your first full day.

⛴️ Option #1 — Fast Boat from Padang Bai (Most Popular & Direct)

Good value Direct crossing Weather-dependent

• Overview: Fast boats run directly from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and sometimes Gili Meno, taking around 1.5–2.5 hours on the water. Many tickets include hotel pickup from south Bali or Ubud, so you simply meet your driver, ride to Padang Bai, check in, and sail.
• How to book (with price): One-way tickets generally run from about IDR 350k–800k per person depending on operator, season, and whether pickup is included. Compare Padang Bai → Gili Trawangan departures and boat sizes on 12Go, or book specific fast boat services from Padang Bai via GetYourGuide or Klook.
• Pros: Quickest direct route; multiple departures daily; relatively straightforward logistics; plenty of operators to choose from. Cons: Can be bouncy in rough seas; departures may be delayed or cancelled in very bad weather; less comfortable for people with back issues or severe seasickness.

Step-by-step: Fast Boat from Padang Bai

1. Choose your Gili destination: Most fast boats call at Gili Trawangan first, then Gili Air, and sometimes Gili Meno. Decide whether you want nightlife and buzz (Gili T), chilled but sociable (Gili Air), or quieter and more romantic (Gili Meno) before you book.
2. Compare boat operators and times: On 12Go, you can see different companies, boat sizes, reviews, and departure slots (often around 9:00–13:00). If you prefer an operator that includes hotel transfers, check the inclusions carefully or use curated tickets on GetYourGuide.
3. Arrange your transfer to Padang Bai: If your ticket doesn’t include pickup, use Gojek/Grab, a local driver, or a private transfer booked through GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups. From south Bali or Ubud, allow 1.5–2.5 hours to reach the port depending on traffic.
4. Check in at Padang Bai harbor: Boat offices around the harbor area will swap your online voucher or email for a paper boarding pass and luggage tags. You may pay a small local retribution/harbor fee in cash, so keep some small bills handy.
5. Board the fast boat: Staff will load big bags into the hold or the back of the boat; keep valuables, medication, and a light jacket in a small daypack. Choose a seat according to your comfort—inside with air-con or outside for fresh air (and spray).
6. Sail to the Gilis: Crossing time is typically 1.5–2.5 hours depending on boat and stops. In choppy conditions, sit toward the rear or center of the boat and consider motion-sickness tablets if needed.
7. Disembark on your Gili island: You’ll usually land at a simple jetty or directly onto the beach. There are no cars on the Gilis; walk, rent a bicycle, or take a horse cart (cidomo) to your accommodation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Padang Bai Harbor)

• From South Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran): Expect 1.5–2.5 hours by car depending on traffic. Arrange a car via Gojek/Grab, a local driver, or a private transfer service. Leaving early in the morning helps avoid heavy traffic.
• From Ubud or Sidemen: The journey is usually 1–1.5 hours. Many fast boat companies include pickup from central Ubud; otherwise, ask your guesthouse to arrange a driver.
• From Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS): If you land in the morning and want to go straight to the Gilis, pre-book a private driver so you’re met at arrivals and driven directly to Padang Bai in roughly 1.5–2 hours.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

✈️ Option #2 — Flight via Lombok + Short Boat (Best in Rough Seas)

More predictable Shorter time at sea More steps

• Overview: Instead of a long sea crossing, you fly Denpasar (DPS) → Lombok (LOP) in about 30–40 minutes, transfer by road to Bangsal or Teluk Nare harbor, then take a short public boat or fast boat to the Gilis. This is a good backup plan if fast boats are cancelled or seas are very rough.
• How to book (with price): One-way flights commonly cost around IDR 400k–1.2m depending on airline and how early you book—compare options on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com. Boats from Lombok to the Gilis typically run IDR 85k–300k depending on whether you use a public boat or a speedboat, and you can preview LOP-area → Gili routes on 12Go.
• Pros: Shorter time on open sea; often more reliable in stormy periods; you can combine with time in Lombok. Cons: More stages (flight, car, boat); extra cost; slightly more planning.

Step-by-step: Flight via Lombok

1. Book your DPS → LOP flight: Search for Bali–Lombok flights on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com. Choose a morning or midday flight that gives you enough time to reach the harbor and catch an onward boat.
2. Fly from Bali to Lombok: Check in at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) at least 1.5 hours early for domestic flights. The flight itself is usually around 30–40 minutes.
3. Transfer from Lombok Airport to the harbor: At Lombok International Airport (LOP), you can take a taxi, ride-hailing car (Grab may be available), or pre-book a car through GetTransfer to harbors like Bangsal or Teluk Nare (roughly 1.5–2 hours by road).
4. Board the boat to the Gilis: From the north Lombok harbors, choose either a public boat (cheapest, fixed departure when full) or a small speedboat (faster and pricier). Check schedules or book in advance on 12Go if you prefer a guaranteed seat.
5. Arrive on your Gili island: Once you land at Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno, walk or take a cidomo (horse cart) to your accommodation—there are no cars or motorbikes for hire on the islands.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airports & North Lombok Harbors)

• To Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS): Use Gojek/Grab from most Bali tourist areas, or organize a private car if you’re traveling with lots of luggage. Always allow extra time for traffic.
• From LOP to Bangsal/Teluk Nare: Airport taxis and private drivers can take you directly to the harbor; ride-hailing may be available in some areas of Lombok, but coverage can be patchy, so pre-book if you’re on a schedule.
• Lombok → Gili boats: Small ticket offices and kiosks at the harbors sell both public boat seats and speedboat transfers. Buy on the spot or check combined car+boat options online before you travel.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚢 Option #3 — Public Ferry via Lombok + Overland + Local Boat (Cheapest)

Lowest cost Runs 24/7 Slow & basic

• Overview: The public car ferry runs between Padang Bai (Bali) and Lembar (southwest Lombok) roughly every hour, 24 hours a day. From Lembar, you travel by road to a north-coast harbor such as Bangsal, then continue by local boat or speedboat to the Gilis. It’s the classic backpacker-on-a-budget route.
• How to book (with price): You usually buy tickets at the port ticket office, not online. Current published fares are around IDR 40k–75k per adult foot passenger (vehicles extra), with a crossing time of roughly 4–5 hours. For indicative information on the Padang Bai ↔ Lembar route and official tariffs, you can refer to public ferry info linked via the Indonesian ferry operator ASDP (see, for example, the public ferry overview from Rinjani Geopark and ASDP tariff references).
• Pros: Very cheap; can take scooters/cars on board; operates day and night; less affected by daily fast-boat capacity. Cons: Slow and sometimes delayed; basic facilities; multiple transfers needed to finally reach the Gilis.

Step-by-step: Public Ferry via Lombok

1. Get to Padang Bai ferry terminal: Travel from your Bali base using Gojek/Grab, a private driver, or a shuttle service. Aim to arrive at least an hour before your preferred sailing, especially in daylight hours.
2. Buy your ferry ticket: At the official ticket window, purchase a passenger ticket to Lembar (and a vehicle ticket if you’re taking a scooter or car). Keep the ticket handy for boarding checks.
3. Board the ferry: Follow staff instructions for foot passenger or vehicle boarding. Find a seat inside or outside, and expect simple facilities (plastic chairs, basic toilets, small kiosks).
4. Cross to Lembar (Lombok): The crossing usually takes 4–5 hours, but can be longer in bad weather or at busy times. Bring snacks, water, a power bank, and a light layer.
5. Travel overland to the north coast: On arrival in Lembar, negotiate a taxi or shared car to Bangsal or another north Lombok harbor. This leg typically takes 2–3 hours depending on traffic.
6. Take a local boat or fast boat to the Gilis: From the north-coast harbor, hop on a public boat (cheapest, leaves when full) or speedboat to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno.

Getting to the main embarking points (Padang Bai & Lembar Harbors)

• Padang Bai ferry terminal: Separate from the fast boat counters but in the same general harbor area. Follow signs for the car ferry, and ignore touts offering “special tickets” at inflated prices.
• Lembar Harbor: Located in southwest Lombok; upon disembarking, walk past the main gate to find taxis or negotiate a car with official drivers. Agree on a price before setting off toward Bangsal.
• Official ferry information: Schedules and fares are set by ASDP (Indonesia Ferry). For background on the route and tariffs, check public ferry information referencing ASDP via trusted sources such as Rinjani Geopark or the ASDP corporate site.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #4 — Hotel Pickup + Boat (Door-to-Door Packages)

Hassle-free Great with luggage Higher cost

• Overview: Many operators bundle hotel pickup in Bali, private/shared car transfer to Padang Bai, the fast boat crossing, and sometimes even drop-off on the Gilis. This is perfect if you don’t want to juggle separate taxis and tickets, or if you’re traveling with family and multiple bags.
• How to book (with price): Expect packages to start around IDR 500k–1.1m per person, depending on pickup area, boat company, and season. Look for “Bali hotel transfer + Gili fast boat” packages on Klook or curated transfer+boat options on GetYourGuide.
• Pros: One booking covers everything; door-to-door convenience; easier for first-time visitors and groups. Cons: More expensive than DIY; pickup windows can be broad; you have less control over exact departure time and operator.

Step-by-step: Hotel Pickup + Boat

1. Choose your package: On Klook or GetYourGuide, filter for packages that include hotel pickup from your area (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, etc.) and check which Gili island(s) they serve.
2. Confirm pickup window and location: After booking, you’ll receive a pickup time range (for example 6:30–7:00). Confirm your hotel’s exact address and meet the driver in reception a little before the earliest time.
3. Ride to Padang Bai: Shared vans may collect multiple travelers en route, so the drive can take 2–3 hours. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and prepare seasickness tablets if needed.
4. Check in as a group: Your driver or guide usually escorts you to the correct fast boat counter where your voucher is exchanged for boarding passes and luggage tags.
5. Board and sail to the Gilis: You’ll travel on a scheduled fast boat alongside other passengers. Journey time is typically 1.5–2.5 hours depending on stops.
6. Walk to your accommodation: On arrival at your Gili island, porters may offer to carry bags for a fee. Check your hotel’s walking distance from the harbor on a map before you accept.

Getting to the main embarking points (Your Hotel & Padang Bai)

• Hotel pickup zones: Most packages include pickup from central tourist zones (Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Sanur, Ubud). Pickups from more remote areas might cost extra.
• If you’re staying outside pickup areas: Use Gojek/Grab or a local driver to reach a central hotel or meeting point included in the package, and join the shuttle from there.
• Return transfers: Many providers also offer Gili → Bali + hotel transfer in one booking, useful if you want your journey back to be equally stress-free.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Padang Bai to Gili Islands)

How long does the fast boat from Padang Bai to the Gili Islands take?
For most operators, the crossing from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan is about 1.5–2.5 hours, often with a short additional hop to Gili Air or Gili Meno. Total door-to-door time from your Bali hotel is usually 3–5 hours depending on where you’re staying and traffic.

Is the crossing from Padang Bai to the Gilis safe?
Fast boats are commonly used by both locals and tourists. Safety standards vary by operator, so choose companies with solid reviews and modern boats (which you can see on 12Go, GetYourGuide, or Klook). In very rough seas, authorities may delay or cancel sailings for safety—have a backup plan via Lombok flights if your dates are inflexible.

What is the best time of day to travel?
Morning departures generally offer calmer seas and fewer weather-related delays than late afternoon trips. They also get you to the islands early, so you can check in and enjoy the beach by midday.

Can I bring big luggage or surfboards on the fast boat?
Most operators allow a standard suitcase or backpack plus hand luggage; some also accept surfboards or dive gear for a small fee. Check the luggage policy when booking and let the operator know if you’re carrying oversized items so they can plan space on board.

Do I need to book my fast boat in advance?
Outside peak season, you can sometimes buy tickets a day ahead, but in busy periods (July–August, Christmas/New Year, major holidays) boats often fill up. It’s wise to book at least a few days in advance, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or traveling with a group.

Which Gili island should I go to first?
Gili Trawangan is the liveliest and has the most nightlife, Gili Air is relaxed but still social, and Gili Meno is the quietest and most romantic. You can island-hop between them using local boats once you’re there, so starting at Gili T or Gili Air is often most convenient.

Are there ATMs on the Gili Islands?
There are ATMs on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air, but they can run out of cash in very busy periods or be temporarily offline. Bring some Indonesian rupiah with you from Bali or Lombok and don’t rely entirely on a single card or machine.