Gili Islands with Kids: Family-Friendly Travel Guide for 2025

We wrote a full guide on 👉 how to get from Bali to Lombok – a good place to start if you’re figuring out your route. But here’s a quick breakdown focused just on the Gilis.

We’ve traveled to the Gilis from both Bali and Lombok. The best route really depends on where you’re coming from and what kind of travel experience you’re after. Here’s what to expect.

If you’re starting on Bali, fastboats are the easiest option. We recommend Eka Jaya Fast Boat, the largest and most stable boat on this route. That matters when you’re traveling with young kids who get seasick easily, like ours. We’ve had some rough crossings before, so we always bring motion sickness tablets just in case…. and, let’s just say, a plastic bag came in handy once too 😉.

The trip usually takes between 90 minutes and 2.5 hours, depending on the sea and the stops. Boats leave from various harbours along the east coast, including Padang Bai and Serangan.

Coming from Lombok, you’ve got two main options. The public boat from Bangsal Harbour is the cheapest, but not the most comfortable with kids. Boats only leave when full, there’s no fixed schedule, and it can be chaotic with lots of luggage. Travel time is about 30 to 45 minutes.

A more relaxed alternative is a private speedboat. It’s more expensive, but much easier when you’re traveling with little ones. You can leave when you want, the ride takes just 10 to 20 minutes, and the process is much smoother overall. We arranged this with Ozzy Snorkeling and had a great experience. Very friendly and easy to communicate with.

💡 Crew Tip: Morning departures usually mean calmer seas and fewer delays.

The Gili Islands aren’t theme parks, and that’s exactly the charm. Life here is simple: sea, sand and sunshine. Still, there’s more than enough to keep kids happy between naps, snacks and swimming sessions.

For adults and confident swimmers (including older kids), there’s a good chance of spotting turtles right off the beach on any of the three islands. The current can be strong, so the best way is to swim out to the drop-off and let the current gently carry you along the reef. Just make sure to head back in time before you end up halfway to Lombok.

For younger kids, the easiest and safest way to see turtles is by joining a snorkeling tour by boat. They’ll take you straight to the best spots, often where turtles are resting or swimming close to the surface. (More on snorkeling tours below)

💡 Crew Tip: Check which side of the island the current is heading. Usually, you can tell just by watching the water, but if not, ask a local or a dive shop.

A private snorkeling trip is a highlight for most families visiting the Gilis. You’ll explore several reefs around the three islands in just a couple of hours, and you can customise the route to fit your family. We booked with 👉 Ozzy Snorkeling and loved how relaxed and kind they were, especially with our kids.

We brought our own snorkel gear and floaties, which helped a lot. Our four-year-old even spotted multiple turtles while floating near us in the water. For our youngest, who doesn’t snorkel yet, it was still exciting to watch the turtles from the boat… for the first ten minutes. After that, snacks came in handy.

Most tours include a stop at the baby turtle sanctuary on Gili Meno, which is a sweet little place where rescued hatchlings are raised before being released into the sea. We also arranged a lunch stop at Play Café on Gili Air (more on that later), and it was the perfect mid-trip break.

You really don’t need much. A sarong, some buckets, and sandy toes are more than enough.
All islands have calm stretches of beach, perfect for little ones to splash and play (Gili Meno’s southeast coast might just steal the show).

At many beach cafés you’ll find beanbags or loungers under shady trees or umbrellas. Order a juice (or an ice cold Bintang 🤩), grab some snacks, and settle in while your little ones get busy building sandcastles.

Need a little break from the beach? There are a few playgrounds scattered across the islands, perfect for a short stop or a longer play session.

Gili Trawangan has a small but fun playground at Aston Sunset Beach Resort, and another local spot called Jambuluwuk up north. Both are great for a quick energy burn.

On Gili Air, head to Play Cafe, a cozy place where your kids can play safely while you enjoy lunch or a cold drink. It’s a real favorite with traveling families.

The Gili Islands are a great place to go diving, with almost guaranteed turtle sightings and vibrant underwater life. Everything is well organised and easy. Many dive schools offer single fun dives, like a morning dive from 9 to 10. It’s also one of the best and most affordable spots to get certified.

And let’s be honest… if you’re in the mood for 45 peaceful minutes without anyone asking “why?” five times in a row, this might just be the perfect little break 😉.

Need a little change of scenery? These day trips are quite the journey from the Gilis – especially with little ones – but if you’re up for an adventure, they’re worth considering.

Looking for quiet beaches, turquoise water and hardly any tourists? The Secret Gilis are absolutely stunning. Most tours include snorkeling stops, lunch on a remote beach and hotel pickup near the Gilis.

Read our full experience here: 👉 Secret Gilis with kids or book a 👉 relaxed private tour.

Sendang Gile is an easy walk with kids. Tiu Kelep takes more effort: expect to wade through water and climb over rocks. You’ll get wet, but the thrill is part of the fun.

More tips in our blog: 👉 Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile with kids or check out this 👉 guided day trip.

Visiting the Gilis with children is fun and totally doable. The islands are car-free and pretty basic, so a bit of preparation goes a long way. Here are our best tips to make your family trip smooth and stress-free.

Food options on the Gilis are simple but varied. You’ll find everything from nasi goreng and grilled fish to pancakes, smoothies and pasta. Most cafés are relaxed, beachside spots where kids can roam a little while waiting for their food.

Many places offer fresh juices, coconut water and fruit bowls – great for a quick, healthy snack. And while not every restaurant has a kids’ menu, most are happy to adapt portions or spice levels.

💡 Crew Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for a custom meal for your child. Most restaurants are happy to whip up something basic like plain chicken or veggies with rice.

Diapers and wipes are usually available in minimarts on Gili T and Gili Air, but the supply is limited and prices can be high. We recommend bringing everything you really need.

What you probably won’t find:

• Baby formula or toddler milk
• Swim diapers
• Baby food jars or pouches
• Sensitive baby sunscreen

🧳 What we packed:

• Lightweight mosquito net (for naps or sleep)
• Baby carrier (strollers don’t work well on sandy paths)
• Diapers and wipes for the whole stay
• Formula or toddler milk
• Familiar snacks
• Reusable swim diaper
• Mosquito repellent for kids

💡 Crew Tip: Stock up in Bali or Mataram (Lombok) before heading to the Gilis, because island shops are small and not always restocked.

The Gilis are peaceful and generally feel very safe, but medical facilities are basic. Each island has at least one clinic for small issues like cuts, fevers or stomach issues. Staff are helpful, though English is sometimes limited.

For anything more serious, you’ll need to go to Lombok or Bali. That means a boat ride – not ideal with a sick child – so good travel insurance is important.

Everything on the Gilis is car-free, which is great for families. You’ve got several options:

Bikes are popular and easy to rent. Some shops offer child seats – but not many, so ask in advance to reserve one if you need it. Cycling is a fun way to explore, but watch out for bumpy paths and soft sand.

These colorful horse carts are still used for luggage transport or short rides. We personally don’t use them, as they don’t seem very animal-friendly, especially in the heat.

You’ll also see quiet electric scooters around. They’re increasingly popular with tourists and can move surprisingly fast, so keep a close eye on your kids when walking near narrow paths or busy areas.

💡 Crew Tip: If you’re planning to cycle with a baby or toddler, arrange a bike with a child seat ahead of time – they’re not always easy to find, especially during high season.

• Choose a family-friendly stay. A pool is great for grown-up downtime while kids nap. If you’re traveling with a baby, check in advance if a baby bed is available.
• Keep it simple. One small activity a day is usually enough.
• Early mornings are best. It’s cooler, quieter and kids are usually in the best mood then.
• Accept the mess. Beach days get sandy, routines go out the window, and it’s better to just accept it 😉.
• Bring a few beach toys. Keeps them entertained while you relax.
• Pack water shoes. Some beaches have sharp coral near the shoreline.

The Gilis are hot year-round, with temps often above 30°C. The dry season (April to October) is the best time to visit, especially for boat crossings and snorkeling.

The rainy season (November to March) brings heavier seas, more clouds and occasional afternoon downpours. Boats may be rougher and snorkeling visibility can drop.

Yes, totally doable with a bit of prep. The Gili Islands are car-free and don’t have big supermarkets, so bring your own baby essentials like diapers, wipes, baby food and sunscreen. We used a carrier instead of a stroller, since most paths are sandy and uneven. Accommodation ranges from simple to boutique-level. With a baby, it’s worth choosing a bit more comfort instead of a budget stay. Locals are super welcoming to little ones.

Here’s a rough family budget per day:

• 🚤 Boat tickets: 500–800k IDR per adult (depends on route and boat type)
• 🛏️ Accommodation: from 600k for basic family rooms to several million for private villas
• 🍽️ Meals: 50–100k IDR per dish in most cafés and restaurants
• 🐠 Snorkeling trips: around 800k IDR for a private boat (kids often go free)
• 🚲 Bike rental: 70–100k IDR per bike per day (some have child seats)

👉 For a family of four, expect to spend around 1.5 to 3 million IDR per day, depending on comfort level and activities.

Trying to pick the right island for your family trip, or wondering where to stay in the Gili Islands with kids? Here’s a quick comparison of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, including our personal experiences as a family with young kids.
Each island has its own vibe, and the best choice really depends on your travel style.

Gili T is the busiest of the three islands. It has a bit of a party reputation, especially around the southern harbour area, but once you head north or inland, you’ll find quieter spots and even a few small playgrounds.

We’ve been here twice in the past two years and always had a fun time. It’s lively, easy to reach and there’s plenty to do for all ages – just expect more people.

Family-friendly options we recommend:

• Villa La Vida – Stylish, family-friendly boutique villa with a pool and spacious rooms. Far enough from the center to be quiet, but still walkable to beach cafés.
• Cinta Cottages – Lush garden setting, beachfront hammocks, and comfy rooms with space for families.

Gili Meno is perfect if you want to slow down completely. It’s the smallest and quietest island, with empty beaches (some of the most beautiful too), fewer restaurants and hardly any nightlife.

Family-friendly options we recommend:

• Les Villas Ottalia – Hidden gem with a relaxed vibe, ideal for families. Spacious villas, a nice pool, and quiet surroundings.
• Villa Pulau Cinta – Boutique suites just steps from the beach. Small-scale, peaceful, and perfect for a relaxed stay with kids.

Gili Air is a lovely mix of the other two. It’s more peaceful than Gili T, but with way more cafés, beach bars and things to do than Gili Meno.
You’ll find snorkelling spots right off the beach, a relaxed family vibe, and enough energy to keep things interesting.

We visited Gili Air most recently and honestly… it might be our top pick next time. It just felt easier with kids, without being dull.

Family-friendly options we recommend:

• Lasai Villas – Modern design and a peaceful garden setting, great for families who want comfort and calm.
• Kalyana Villa – Private pool villa with two bedrooms, ideal for families. Located in a quiet part of the island but still close to cafés and the beach.

💡 Crew Tip: All fast boats stop at Gili Trawangan, but not all go to Gili Air or Gili Meno. Double-check your route before booking, especially if you’re traveling with kids and luggage.

The Gili Islands may be car-free, but that doesn’t mean carefree. Still, with the right prep and a relaxed mindset, they’re a magical stop for families. Safe swimming spots, turtles, beach cafés and that slow island rhythm… it’s the kind of place your kids will talk about long after the trip.

Our own kids? They loved the Gilis and have already asked when we’re going back. Between the bike rides, the tiny playgrounds and hours of beach time, it had everything they wanted. And for us? Snorkeling, short dives and a chance to really slow down.

👉 Planning your trip? These blogs might help:
• Lombok with Kids
• Bali with Kids
• 3-Week Bali & Lombok Itinerary
• Secret Gilis with Kids
• Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfalls

📥 Want more? Download our free 👉 3-week Bali & Lombok itinerary or visit our 👉 Family Travel Shop for printables and journals.

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📸 Say hi on Instagram where we love sharing real tips and behind-the-scenes from our adventures.

Happy island hopping! 🏝️
– The Little Passport Crew