When most people think of the Gili Islands, they picture Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno. But few realize that Lombok is surrounded by another group of islands—quieter, less developed, and still largely undiscovered.
These are often called the Secret Gilis— a quiet group of islands off Lombok’s southwest coast.
If you’re searching for hidden islands near Lombok, quiet Gili Islands, or off-the-beaten-path snorkeling in Indonesia, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Are the Secret Gilis?
The Secret Gilis are a small group of islands located off the southwest coast of Lombok, near Sekotong.
Unlike the famous northern Gilis, these islands are:
- Calm and undeveloped
- Lightly populated or uninhabited
- Focused on nature, not nightlife
They’re ideal for travelers looking for peace, snorkeling, slow travel, and a more local island experience.
Where Are the Secret Gilis Located?
The Secret Gilis sit off Southwest Lombok, about:
- 1.5–2 hours from Kuta Lombok
- 1–1.5 hours from Mataram
- 30–45 minutes by boat from Sekotong
This distance is part of their charm—it naturally limits crowds.
Which Are the Main Secret Gilis?
Gili Asahan
Gili Asahan is the most well-known of the Hidden Gilis. It’s small, calm, and ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There are a handful of low-key eco stays and one or two beach restaurants. Nights are quiet, with little light pollution.
Gili Gede
Gili Gede is the largest island in the group and has a small local community. It offers a mix of village life and laid-back accommodation. It’s a good base for exploring nearby islands by boat.
Gili Layar
Gili Layar is known for excellent snorkeling. Coral reefs are close to shore, and the water is often clear and calm. Development is minimal, making it ideal for day trips or quiet overnight stays.
Gili Rengit
Gili Rengit is tiny and mostly uninhabited. It’s often visited as part of snorkeling or island-hopping tours. The appeal here is simplicity: sand, sea, and silence.
Why Visit the Hidden Gilis? (Quick Answer)
The Hidden Gilis are worth visiting if you want quiet beaches, clear water, and a slower pace—without crowds or commercial tourism.
They offer some of Lombok’s best snorkeling and a rare sense of isolation that’s increasingly hard to find.
What to Do in the Hidden Gilis
Snorkeling and Swimming
The main activity in the hidden gilis is snorkeling. Coral reefs are healthy, fish life is abundant, and conditions are generally calm. In many spots, you can snorkel straight from the beach.
Island Hopping
Short boat rides connect the islands, making it easy to visit two or three in a single day.
Slow Living
This is not a place for packed itineraries. People come here to:
- Swim
- Read
- Walk on the beach
- Watch sunsets
- Disconnect from schedules
How Are the Secret Gilis Different from the Famous Gilis?
| Famous Gilis (North) | Secret Gilis (Southwest) |
|---|---|
| Busy, social | Quiet, low-key |
| Nightlife & bars | Early nights |
| Many hotels | Limited accommodation |
| Developed | Mostly natural |
| Easy access | Intentionally remote |
Best Time to Visit the Secret Gilis in Lombok
- Dry season (May–October): Best weather and visibility
- Wet season (November–April): Fewer visitors, still swimmable, occasional rain
Sea conditions are generally calmer than on the south coast.
How Long Should You Stay?
- Day trip: Snorkeling and island hopping
- 1–2 nights: Ideal for rest and swimming
- Longer stays: For complete disconnection
Most visitors find 2–3 nights to be the sweet spot.
Where to Stay in the Secret Gilis
Accommodation is intentionally limited and simple:
- Eco-lodges
- Small beach bungalows
- Family-run guesthouses
Expect charm over luxury and quiet over convenience.
FAQ: The Secret Gilis Lombok
Are the Secret Gilis worth visiting?
Yes—especially if you value peace, nature, and clear water over nightlife.
Are the Secret Gilis good for snorkeling?
Yes. They’re considered some of the best snorkeling spots around Lombok.
Can you visit the Secret Gilis as a day trip?
Yes, but staying overnight offers a better experience.
Do the Secret Gilis have electricity and Wi-Fi?
Limited. Some islands have solar power and basic Wi-Fi, but expect slow connections.
Are the Secret Gilis suitable for families?
Yes, for families who enjoy nature and quiet environments.
Why the Hidden Gilis Still Feel Special
What makes the Secret Gilis special isn’t luxury or convenience—it’s absence.
No crowds. No noise. No rush.
Just islands that still feel like islands.
Final Thought
The Secret Gilis are not for everyone. But for those who want space, quiet, simplicity, and water that feels untouched, it’s one of Lombok’s most rewarding experiences.
And that’s exactly why they’re still called secret.
