Sanur to Gili Trawangan Island tickets

About the ride from Sanur to Gili Trawangan

It's hard to leave Sanur. It's chill, it's beautiful, it's spiritual. 

But when you're ready for a change of pace and looking for some nightlife, the island of Gili Trawangan is the answer. 

Gili T (as the locals call it) is quite remote, so you will need to take a ferry. Luckily, the trip isn't too long, and it's very straightforward. 

The travel time should take you anywhere from three and a half to five hours, depending on the speed of the ship and if it makes any stops. We'll get into all the details below. 

But first…

Six unique things to do in Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan might be the biggest of the Gili Islands, but don't let that fool you—it's tiny, laid-back, and packed with cool things to keep you entertained (if you can manage to pull yourself off the beach). Here's what you shouldn't miss:

1. Get PADI certified. If learning to scuba dive is on your bucket list, this is the place to do it. Dive schools here are budget-friendly, and the crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful marine life—think turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant coral gardens. Plan to stay for at least four days to get your certification, but trust me, it's worth it.

2. Snorkel with turtles and spot underwater art. Not into diving? No problem. Grab a snorkel and swim with sea turtles, manta rays, and maybe even a white-tip shark. Don't miss the famous underwater Gili Meno statues — a circle of human sculptures covered in coral and sea life.

3. Try freediving. The island's calm, warm waters and clear visibility make it perfect for freediving. Whether you're brand new or leveling up, plenty of schools will guide you through the techniques.

4. Cycle the whole island. Rent a bike and ride the loop around the island. It'll take under an hour unless you stop (which you should) at beach bars, sunset viewpoints, or hidden corners. Bonus: no cars here, just bikes and horse carts.

5. Party island-style. Gili T's nightlife has a reputation. Join a bar crawl, sip cocktails at a beach bonfire, dance barefoot to reggae beats, or follow the crowd to wherever the music's playing till sunrise.

6. Glide over coral in a transparent kayak. For something more chill, rent a glass-bottom kayak and paddle over the reefs. You'll get front-row views of fish and coral without even getting wet.

How to get from Sanur to Gili Trawangan

There are three ways to get from the coastal paradise of Sanur to the island retreat of Gili Trawangan:

1. Ferry

2. Van + Ferry

3. Bus + Ferry

No matter which one you choose, you'll be watching the sunset in Gili T.

Option one: Ferry

Duration: 3-4.5 hours

Starting price: $18

A ferry is the simplest way to travel between these two beachy hotspots. However, most ships aren't direct. They stop at Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan before they reach Gili T, so expect delays. 

But who cares? You're on island time now, and the views are mind-blowing; make the most of it.   

There are a lot of different ferry companies that travel this route, and they all have their own set of amenities and rules. Some allow surfboards for a fee, others allow two bags, a few have bathrooms onboard, and some let children under two years old ride for free. Even the pick-up and drop-off points vary. The list goes on. So be sure to read all the details before you book. 

Option two: Van + Ferry

Duration: 3.5-5.5 hours

Starting price: $23

This journey is a two-tier operation. 

First, you'll get picked up in a minivan from a specific departure point in Sanur. Depending on the operator, it could be your hotel or a particular spot in town. 

Then, you'll drive to Padang Bai to get on the ferry. The ferry will stop at various islands along the way. You'll be dropped off at a designated point on Gili T. 

The duration of the journey depends on how many stops the van makes, as well as traffic and how many stops the ferry makes. 

The journey starts in the morning, so you'll be in Gili T in plenty of time for that sunset beer.

Option three: Shuttle Bus + Ferry

Duration: 3.5-5.5 hours

Starting price: $26

The shuttle bus and minivan (plus ferry) modes of transportation are basically the same. Depending on the company, the shuttle bus may be a bit larger than a minivan. They, too, have their own departure and arrival points in each town — read the details before you book. 

The ride is broken down into a couple of steps:

1. Get picked up in Sanur by a shuttle bus.

2. Drive to the port in Padang Bai.

3. Hop on the ferry, making stops along the way.

4. Arrive in Gili T. 

5. Start the next portion of your adventure!

When's the best time to visit Gili Trawangan?

Good news — Gili Trawangan has warm, tropical weather all year long.

The dry season (May to October) is prime time: think sunny skies, temps around 80–90°F (27–32°C), low humidity, and crystal-clear water perfect for diving, snorkeling, and smooth boat rides. But July and August bring the biggest crowds and highest prices — so book early.

Rainy season (November to April) means fewer tourists and better deals. Expect quick tropical downpours, more humidity, and choppier seas. It's definitely not ideal for underwater adventures or partying, but it's perfect if you're after peace and quiet.

For the sweet spot? June and September offer sunshine, fewer crowds, and decent prices. The best of both worlds.

How many days should you spend in Gili Trawangan?

If you are heading there just for the party scene, three days are enough. But if you can stay a while longer, do it. Why seek another paradise when you are already in one? 

Where should you go after Gili Trawangan?

You're on Lombok's doorstep. How about traveling to Kuta and Sengigi? 

Otherwise, ferry on over to Gili Air or Gili Meno. It'll only take you 15 minutes to reach Gili T's sister islands.