Traveling to Gili Islands is like stepping into a dreamy world. Arrive to Gili Islands with an open mind, carry some patience, a friendly heart, a spirit of adventure, and sense of humor — Gili Islands will definitely do the rest for your perfect vacation.
Clouds on Mount Rinjani Lombok
Gili Islands is about 900 km to the South from the Equator and you can tell that the climate is tropical. The local people wear colorful basics and breathable fabrics year-round. Safety for the Sun is a big issue at Gili Islands, so you’ll need to pack accordingly due to the proximity of the Equator. There are outdoor activities and beaches galore, so you will have no shortage of culture and entertainment to experience.
Dressing manners of the locals.
No fines for speeding.
Weather and temperatures are quite stable year-round here, though rainfall and humidity fluctuate a bit. There are basically 4 seasons here, but the real significant differences are between the dry and wet seasons. You need to keep your clothing comfortable and breathable and your luggage very light as no one wants to carry a heavy load, and you will want to dry fast if you get wet or sweat.
Seasons in Gili Islands are quite straightforward, but it can be a little confusing sometimes to plan for it. Here is a brief guide to the climate, weather, and temperatures (seasonal) in the surrounding area so you will have a better idea of what to pack and how to dress for your next Gili Islands trip.
Quite beach on Gili Islands
Dry Season: May To September
This is high-season for the tourists and May through July are the peak months for travelers. Moreover, surfers who look for nice waves can find them in the end of the dry season and even in September and October. Humidity and heat reign this time of the year at Gili Islands, and the sun is very close to the equator so the rays are extremely strong. You may pack light clothing if you book your trip at this time of the year so that they dry fast, and clothing that can be matched and mixed easily.
Bring a swimsuit, a sunhat, good sunglasses, and a cover-up. Shirts and linen pants are a safe bet and sandals are perfect as they provide security and support but still can dry quickly when you are doing tiring activities. You’ll need to bring eco-friendly high-quality sunscreen as well! Temperatures average between 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F).
Turtle is done with sightseeing of human females.
Wet Or Monsoon Season: October To April
The monsoon season is wet most of the time. During December through February, occasional tropical storms are common, and rain dominates the whole monsoon season. It is still a great time to see Gili Islands, but you need to be prepared for the humidity and the rain.
A raincoat or jacket is useful to keep you dry in Gili Islands weather. You will be wearing the jacket a lot, but if it cannot breathe, you will get sweatier and feel uncomfortable from the moisture. It’s a good idea to carry a windproof travel umbrella too during this season. Temperatures average between 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F), just as they do in the Dry Season.
What to bring and what to wear
Beach clothes do not have to be only boardshorts and bikinis. It is also about making packing convenient and feeling comfortable for you.
Bring your own toiletries
Gili islands are relatively less developed than the neighboring Bali island, and it is almost impossible to find all types of toiletries in stores.
Things like tampons, skincare, medicine, and sunscreen must be purchased ahead of time because it can be difficult to find while you reach there. Some hotels and resorts don’t provide conditioner and shampoo, so it will be useful to check and carry before you leave.
Sandals
Sandals are a must for these islands. Keep in mind, comfort is the key. Even if you are visiting the party island, Gili Trawangan, it’s still unlikely you’ll prefer to go to the party in heels.
Swimsuites on court
Swimsuites in restaurant
Swimsuites on the beach
Clothing
Clothing and dresses to keep you comfortable and cool is recommended. You shouldn’t consider just muscle tanks, crop tops, tank tops, and tees. Remember, it’s also essential to consider the color they come in. You may take white clothing as black clothing absorbs heat radiating from the body and sunlight.
Sunblock
The largest organ of the body is the skin and this is something no one should travel without. You should carry a reliable and effective sunblock as you may not get your preferred brand here.
What NOT to take to Gili Islands
Don’t bring expensive jewelry
You do not need it in Gili Islands anyway as wearing expensive jewelry can make you a easy target for thieves.
Don’t pack too many books
Gili Islands are a great place to read and reflect, but heavy books are somewhat impractical for tourists. You may choose a Kindle instead.
Don’t take excessive clothes
Gili Islands have predictable and pleasant weather, so you actually do not need much clothing for this beautiful paradise.
Don’t bring lots of cash
There are some theft incidents in Gili Islands and you may end up forgetting and partying to take necessary care of your belongings. There are some banks, ATMs, and money changers so you do not need to carry lots of cash.
No excessive baggage
No excessive jewelry
No excessive clothes
Gili Islands are serene and beautiful and a great place for the tourists. It’s popular among all types of travelers for its pristine beauty. In some ways, Gili Islands are the best place to travel because of its calm and divine atmosphere. So, you can consider the beautiful Gili Islands on your next trip.
Time to swim in the blush of dawn.
Sunset behind the Mount Agung
Once you’re already in Bali, getting to the Gilis is really easy. You simply need to book a fast boat that will take you there in around 2 hours from the ports of Amed, Serangan Harbor, Padang Bai, Benoa Marina, and Sanur. The pick up service from your resort or villa is included in the ticket price so you don’t need to worry about organizing your transfer or missing your boat.
You can find the best fast boat deals with free pickup on our top rated booking site with free pickup services.