Fast Boat to Gili Air: Island Paradise Awaits
We took a fast boat from Padang Bai to Gili Air, traveling via Gili Trawangan. The journey revealed Indonesia's island magic - peaceful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the best beef rendang burrito we've ever tasted.
Journey to Paradise
We departed from Ubud by shuttle bus, heading to Padang Bai on Bali's east coast. The fast boat journey takes you first to Gili Trawangan, the "party island" of the Gili trio. We waited about 30 minutes while passengers disembarked and new ones boarded - most travelers were staying on Gili T, leaving our boat nearly empty for the final leg to Gili Air.
Peaceful Island Paradise
When we arrived at Gili Air a few minutes later, we immediately felt the tranquility. The island was blissfully peaceful - the low season combined with the recent eruption of Bali's Mount Agung volcano had kept most visitors away. While this was challenging for local businesses, we savored the serenity of having the white sand beaches almost entirely to ourselves.
Snorkeling and Island Life
After settling in, we explored the crystal-clear waters through snorkeling, then cooled off in our guesthouse pool. The underwater visibility was spectacular - the calm waters and lack of crowds made for perfect conditions to see colorful fish and coral.
Warung Sunny - A Culinary Discovery
That evening, we dressed up and walked to a local Indonesian restaurant called Warung Sunny ↗. This unassuming spot served what would become one of our favorite meals in Indonesia: the Beef Rendang Burrito. The fusion of traditional Indonesian rendang spices wrapped in a burrito format was absolutely divine - a perfect blend of authentic local flavors with Western convenience. No better way to end the day than with a full belly and happy heart.
Did you visit the Gili Islands? Which island did you prefer - Air, Trawangan, or Meno? How was your fast boat experience? Any restaurant recommendations on Gili Air? Share your island paradise stories below!
Fast Boat to Gili Air
- Fast boat from Padang Bai (Bali) to Gili Air: 1.5-2 hours total including Gili Trawangan stop. Multiple operators available - book in advance during high season.
- Shuttle bus from Ubud to Padang Bai port: Usually included with fast boat tickets. Allow 1.5-2 hours for the journey. Pick-up from your accommodation is typically arranged.
- Route: Most fast boats stop at Gili Trawangan first (30 min stop), then continue to Gili Air or Gili Meno. The final leg is quick - only 10-15 minutes between islands.
- Sea conditions: Can be rough! Take motion sickness medication if needed. Boats sometimes cancel in bad weather or during monsoon season (December-March).
- Low season (January-March, October-November): Much quieter with better accommodation deals. High season (July-August): Book everything in advance.
- Snorkeling: Equipment available to rent from guesthouses and dive shops. The waters around Gili Air offer excellent visibility and abundant marine life.
- Warung Sunny: Local Indonesian restaurant with fusion dishes. The Beef Rendang Burrito is highly recommended! Located on the east side of the island.
- No motorized vehicles on Gili Air! Transport is by bicycle (cidomo) cart, or walking. The island can be walked around in about 90 minutes.
Note:
Gili Air struck the perfect balance - quieter than party-focused Gili Trawangan, but livelier than tiny Gili Meno. With pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling, and delicious food at places like Warung Sunny, it was an ideal island escape.