Things to do on Gili Air
Scuba diving
There are more than twenty dive sites around the Gili islands and all are within easy reach of Gili Air. Read our handy guide to diving in the Gili Islands, for more information.
Every year, more and more dive operators seem to appear on Gili air. Below some of the more reputable ones on the island.
Gili Air divers
A very professional dive company, which also has a center on Gili Meno. Whether you are a first timer wanting to get your dive certificate or you are a seasoned diver looking for a couple of fun-dives Gili Air Divers is a good choice.
Website
Oceans 5
This relative new dive center is located right on the beach at the harbor on Gili Air. Ocean 5 is owned by a Dutch couple, but instructors speak five languages – Dutch, English, French, Italian and German.
Website
Manta dive Gili Air
Fun and laid back, without slacking on the security, dive shop that also has a popular center on Gili Trawangan. Beginners can start diving in the Manta dive pool before venturing into the deeper and more colorful waters around the Gilis.
Website
Snorkeling
The perfect way to spend a day on Gili Air is with a mask and fin, as you spend the days swimming in the clear waters, with quizzical sea turtles and thousands of colorful fish.
A reef stretches all the way along the east coast and here you can snorkel straight of the beach. There are smaller sections of reef on the North Coast, west of Mirage; and also on the South Coast, just west of where the boats come in.
Numerous places around Gili Air rent out snorkeling equipment.
Kite surfing
The conditions are perfect for kite surfing off Gili Air’s north coast. Spending the day speeding across Gili Air’ waters guarantees a good natural sleep at night.
Gili Air kite surf
Gili Air Kite Surf provides kite surfing lessons for both beginners and more experienced kite surfers. Apart from kite surfing, Gili Air Kite Surf offers wakeboarding, stand-up paddle, hobie cat and sailing lessons, so if you get restless from lying on the beach Gili Air Kite Surf is a good place to go. You find them in the central part of the island.
Website
Walking and Cycling
A classic pastime on Gili Air is a leisurely walk around the island that can be completed in approximately an hour and a half. Another fun option, al thought the soft sand can make it tough, is to explore Gili Air by bicycle. Bikes can usually be acquired at the place you are staying. In case not, try at Wiwin café which rent out bicycles.
A walk inland, down the small streets of the village is also highly recommended, as you observe daily life unfold on Gili Air.
Yoga and meditation
Once you combine Gili Air with yoga and meditation, it seems impossible to discover a more peaceful destination.
H2O yoga and meditation
H2O yoga and meditation offers daily meditation and yoga classes; or you can choose from one of their range of massages. Choose between an Indian head massage, a foot massage, aromatherapy or several other treatments.
Website
Surfing
Directly off Gili Air’s southern tip, there is a right-hand break called Playgili. It is fairly inconsistent, however, so if you come to Gili Air with the sole purpose of surfing, you could end up being disappointed. Your best chance of catching some great waves is in the dry season, from May to October.
Playgili is not for inexperienced surfers as the break run over some sharp coral.
Ozzy’s shop
Surf boards to rent, along with basic conviniences, are available at Ozzy’s shop.
Dining on Gili Air
Dining on Gili Air is just as laid back as everything else on the island. A classic Gili meal consists of freshly caught seafood that is prepared on the barbecue at one of the small restaurants, right on the beach.
Another option is to walk into the village and take your dinner right there under the stars; as the palm trees sway in the gentle breeze at one of the family-run ‘warungs’.
Apart from seafood, there are also restaurants serving other classic Indonesian and Western cuisine. Even more surprising, are a couple of authentic Italian restaurants operated by Italians themselves, on Gili Air. These delightful restaurants are well worth a visit for those wanting the home-cooked comfort of authentic Italian pizza or pasta.