Gili Trawangan: Stand-Up Paddle with Drone Shot & Guide

This review explores a popular Gili Trawangan experience that promises serene mornings on the water, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure. While we haven’t personally paddled these turquoise waters, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this is a standout activity for anyone seeking a peaceful, picturesque start to their day on the island.

What we love about this tour is its combination of guided support, beautiful scenery, and memorable photography. The fact that it’s designed for both beginners and experienced paddlers means it’s accessible to many. The inclusion of free drone shots elevates the experience, providing a stunning aerial perspective. Plus, the timing at sunrise ensures calm waters and breathtaking light, perfect for capturing those magical moments. A potential consideration is that the experience may be affected by sea conditions, so flexibility in scheduling is wise if weather is unfavorable.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic activity that’s as much about the views as the paddle. It suits those interested in light adventure, photography, or simply starting their day with a tranquil experience. If you’re after a more adrenaline-fueled activity or don’t enjoy water sports, this might not be your best fit. Nonetheless, for most, it promises a unique slice of Gili Trawangan’s natural beauty.

Good To Know

• Calm morning waters create a peaceful paddling environment.
• Guided instruction and support ensure confidence for beginners.
• Drone photos offer incredible aerial memories of your sunrise adventure.
• Flexible tour duration allows ample time to explore and relax.
• Small group sizes enhance the personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• Ideal for all skill levels, especially those seeking a scenic, tranquil activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The main draw of this tour is the chance to start your day with serenity. Imagine paddling across glassy turquoise waters just as the sun rises behind Mount Rinjani, painting the sky in soft pinks, oranges, and golds. This time of day is perfect for photography, reflection, or simply soaking in the peacefulness of the sea before it gets lively.

The activity lasts around 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the moment. It begins at a designated starting point in Pongkor, where your guide—easily recognizable in a GetYourGuide T-shirt—will give you a brief safety talk. Afterward, you’re treated to a free introductory lesson on how to handle your paddleboard safely and comfortably, ensuring no prior experience is necessary.

What sets this tour apart is the 15-minute guided session with an instructor, during which they’ll paddle alongside you. This helps build confidence, especially if you’re new to stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Once comfortable, you’ll be free to explore at your own pace, drifting along the coastline and taking in views of Gili Trawangan’s shoreline.

The Unbeatable Sunrise Setting

Gili Trawangan at sunrise is an experience in itself. The waters stay calm and glassy, making balance easy and reflections stunning. As you glide past the shoreline, you’ll see the island’s iconic white beaches and lush hills, with Mount Rinjani forming a dramatic backdrop. Several reviewers have highlighted how special this moment is, with one mentioning the “incredible views” and another noting it’s a “beautiful memory.”

Photographers will love the free drone photos included with the tour. These images capture the entire scene from above—the paddler in the foreground, the rising sun in the background, and the island’s coastline. One reviewer shared that despite not asking for drone photos, the crew still captured wonderful shots, making this a highlight for many.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

The itinerary is straightforward but well thought out. Starting in Pongkor, you’ll receive your safety briefing before heading to Gili Trawangan for the paddleboarding. The guided tour portion lasts about 15 minutes, perfect for beginners or those wanting reassurance. After that, you’re encouraged to continue exploring self-guided for approximately 100 minutes.

This setup ensures you have time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. The entire experience is limited to small groups of 9 participants, fostering a friendly and less hectic environment. This is especially important for newcomers who prefer a more personalized experience.

The Experience Provider and Customer Feedback

Operated by Blissful Paradise Indonesia, the tour has earned a stellar 4.9/5 rating from 36 reviews. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, the quality of the instruction, and the stunning scenery. One guest mentioned that the instructor stayed with them for the first 15 minutes, helping ensure they felt confident, while another appreciated the opportunity to paddle solo afterward.

The reviews also highlight the value for money, considering the inclusion of drone photos and guided support. Many consider it a worthwhile activity that offers much more than just paddling—it’s a chance to witness a truly beautiful sunrise and create lasting memories.

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Why You Should Consider This Tour

The blend of effortless paddling, breathtaking scenery, and photo opportunities makes this an excellent choice for a variety of travelers. Whether you’re a beginner wanting a gentle introduction to SUP or an experienced paddler seeking a peaceful morning with gorgeous views, you’ll find something to love here.

The timing at sunrise ensures a quiet, almost meditative experience. Add in the personal instruction and drone photos, and it becomes a memorable activity that’s about more than just the physical challenge—it’s about capturing a moment in time.

Final Thoughts

This Gili Trawangan stand-up paddleboarding tour offers a rare chance to enjoy the island’s serenity and natural beauty from a unique perspective. The small group size, guided support, and drone photography are all major value adds, making it accessible and rewarding for travelers of all levels.

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet visually stunning activity that can serve as a highlight of your trip, this experience is an excellent pick. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature, photography, and a peaceful start to their day in paradise.

For travelers who enjoy gentle adventure and scenic beauty, this tour hits all the right notes. It strikes a great balance between support and independence, ensuring you leave with beautiful photos and a sense of accomplishment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour includes a free introductory lesson and a 15-minute guided paddle, making it accessible for those new to stand-up paddleboarding.

What should I bring? You should come prepared with swimwear and beachwear, so you’re comfortable in the water and the sun.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is not recommended for people over 70 or those with back problems, due to the physical nature of paddling.

What if the sea conditions are unfavorable? Rescheduling or cancellation might occur if sea conditions aren’t ideal, so flexibility is advised.

How long does the experience last? The total activity duration is about 2 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Will I get drone photos? Yes, a free drone shot is included, capturing your sunrise paddle from above—an unforgettable souvenir.

To sum it up, this Gili Trawangan paddleboarding experience offers a peaceful, scenic, and memorable way to start your day. It’s perfect for those craving beautiful views, gentle adventure, and the chance to capture stunning aerial photos. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it provides a relaxed yet engaging activity that showcases the island’s natural splendor.

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