5 Secret Gili Boat Trip & Snorkeling in Southwest Of Lombok

Discover the Hidden Gili Islands with Bale Laut: A Detailed Review

Taking a boat trip around the Gili Islands offers an inviting escape into some of Indonesia’s most tranquil waters. While many tour options stick to the popular, over-crowded Gilis, this 5 Secret Gili Boat Trip & Snorkeling tour from Lombok promises a more intimate and less touristy experience. We’ve analyzed what makes this adventure stand out—and the few considerations to keep in mind—so you can decide if it’s right for you.

What drew us in? The chance to explore lesser-known islands, snorkel among sea turtles and clownfish, and enjoy a peaceful lunch on deserted beaches. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group experience with hotel pick-up makes it feel personalized and hassle-free. On the flip side, the early start and the potential for strong currents are things to consider if you’re not a confident swimmer or prone to seasickness.

This trip is best suited to travelers who love marine life, enjoy serene beaches, and want a flexible, authentic day out rather than a crowded tour. It’s especially appealing if you value knowledgeable guides and stunning boat views—both of which many reviews highlight as standout elements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Island-Hopping: Visit lesser-known Gili islands away from the crowds, with a focus on natural beauty.
• Snorkeling Highlights: Swim with sea turtles, clownfish, and vibrant coral reefs, guided by attentive locals.
• Relaxing Beaches: Enjoy quiet beaches perfect for photos and peaceful downtime, especially at Gili Kedis.
• Hassle-Free Experience: Includes hotel pickup/drop-off and a private group setting that fosters a personalized feel.
• Scenic Views: The boat rides deliver memorable panoramas of Lombok’s coast and the islands.
• Value for Money: The tour balances inclusions like lunch and gear against a fair price point, making it a worthwhile splurge.

Introduction: An Authentic Gili Adventure

This boat trip offers a chance to see the Gili Islands in a way that avoids the usual crowds and commercial feel. From what we’ve read, travelers especially appreciate the knowledgeable guides—like Junaidi, who made the day extra special with local insights—and the flexible itinerary that caters to marine life lovers.

Three things we love about this experience include the chance to snorkel in pristine waters, enjoy scenic boat rides with top-notch views, and visit quiet beaches perfect for photography. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious, catered lunch—prepared with dietary needs in mind—adds value to the day.

A potential drawback is the early start, which might be tough for late risers, and the strong currents that some guides carefully monitor. For those prone to seasickness or seeking a very relaxed pace, this is worth considering.

This tour suits active travelers, snorkelers, and nature lovers who want a more genuine, intimate experience of the Gili Islands while avoiding overly commercialized trips.

Exploring the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Pickup and Departure

Starting early from your hotel (with options in Senggigi, Mataram City, Selong Belanak, or Kuta), the day kicks off with a comfortable pickup—a perk that sets the tone for a stress-free adventure. The ride to Tawun Harbor in Sekotong Barat is smooth, giving you ample time to get excited for what’s ahead.

More Great Tours Nearby

First Stop: Gili Layar

The first island, Gili Layar, is renowned for its stunning underwater biodiversity. Expect guided snorkeling tours that highlight the vibrant coral reefs and the chance to see sea turtles in the wild—something many reviews mention as a highlight, with guides like Dwi and Amari ensuring safety and fun. The currents can be strong, but the guides’ cautious approach makes it feel secure.

Next: Gili Rengit

Continuing the island hop, Gili Rengit offers more underwater exploration and marine life spotting. Some travelers have raved about the variety of fish, including Nemo and other tropical species, swimming among lively corals.

Lunch Break at Gili Tangkong

The trip then takes you to Gili Tangkong for a well-earned, delicious lunch on a peaceful beach. The reviews highlight that the food is fresh and catered for vegetarians when requested, with some mentioning the menu featured warm, freshly prepared dishes. This stop is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery—expect clear waters and soft sands perfect for photos.

Final Stops: Gili Bedis & Gili Kedis

After refueling, the boat heads to Gili Bedis, renowned for its beautiful beaches and photo opportunities. Travelers appreciate the chance to stretch, take pictures, and enjoy a bit of quiet time before heading to Gili Kedis, a tiny island with pristine beaches ideal for unwinding or capturing late-afternoon photos.

Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to Tawun Harbor, and you’re transported back to your hotel. The trip’s 9-hour duration ensures a relaxed pace—enough time for snorkeling, sightseeing, and enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed.

What Does Snorkeling and Marine Life Look Like?

From reviews, snorkeling is the star of this trip. Expect to see sea turtles and schools of Nemo swimming among healthy coral reefs. Guides like Junaidi emphasize safety, especially when currents are strong, which adds an extra layer of reassurance. One reviewer described swimming with a turtle so close they could see its eyes—an unforgettable moment.

Some travelers expressed disappointment about rubbish in the water, highlighting an environmental concern that’s good to keep in mind. Still, many mention the abundance of colorful fish and vibrant coral, making it a worthwhile experience for snorkelers.

Expert Tips for Snorkeling

• Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro (at an extra cost some mention, but worth considering).
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
• Follow guides’ instructions for safety around currents.
• Respect marine life by avoiding touching coral or animals.

Beaches and Photos: Quiet, Picturesque, and Peaceful

The beaches on Gili Kedis and Gili Bedis are described as serene and less crowded than some of the more popular Gilis. These spots are perfect for relaxing after a busy morning of snorkeling. The shallow waters and soft sands create fantastic opportunities for photos—many visitors mention they returned home with stunning shots of the clear waters and beaches.

The Value of a Private, Guided Experience

One of the most praised aspects is that this trip is private and guided in English. This means a tailored experience—your guide, like Mawe, might even take you to a local weaving village or share local stories, adding depth to the trip. The reviews highlight the attentiveness and friendliness of guides, which makes the day feel special and personalized.

The price point, considering lunch, guide, boat, and snorkel gear, seems reasonable for the level of customization. Many reviewers felt the experience was fair and worth the cost, especially compared to larger, more crowded tours.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Pack a hat, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and swimwear. The tour recommends bringing water and staying hydrated.
• Wear comfortable clothes; snorkeling gear is provided.
• It’s not suitable for those prone to seasickness or over 95 years old.
• Be mindful of environmental impact—avoid littering and touching marine life.
• Confirm your pickup location and time in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to discover less touristy islands and enjoy snorkeling in pristine waters with knowledgeable guides, this adventure is a perfect fit. It’s ideal for active travelers, families, or groups who want a personalized, scenic experience with plenty of marine encounters.

Travelers who value quiet beaches, colorful reefs, and authentic local interactions will find this trip especially rewarding. However, if you prefer very relaxed, slow mornings or are sensitive to currents, it’s worth considering these factors.

The Sum Up: The Last Word

This 5 Secret Gili Boat Trip & Snorkeling stands out as a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic, intimate experience away from the crowds. It offers an excellent balance of marine exploration, scenic boat rides, and peaceful beaches—all guided by attentive, knowledgeable locals. The inclusion of lunch and hotel transfers makes it convenient and adds value to the overall experience.

For travelers craving a personalized adventure with stunning views and vibrant underwater life, this trip delivers. It’s especially good for those who want to skip the busy tourist spots and enjoy a more relaxed, nature-focused day.

While early mornings and strong currents may be considerations, the overall quality, friendly guides, and scenic beauty make this tour a worthwhile addition to any Lombok itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations, making the experience seamless and stress-free.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water. The tour recommends comfortable clothes and staying hydrated throughout the day.

Can I snorkel with sea turtles?
Yes, many reviews mention swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitats, guided by cautious and attentive guides.

Is there a lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch is served on Gili Tangkong, with vegetarian options available and the menu often features freshly prepared dishes.

How long is the whole trip?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, providing plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, and enjoying scenic boat rides.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for active travelers and families, but those prone to seasickness or over 95 years old may want to consider other options. The trip is guided and private, which adds comfort and flexibility.

This detailed review highlights the authentic, scenic, and personalized nature of the Secret Gili Islands boat trip, making it a memorable choice for travelers seeking genuine island adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby