A Day Trip to Secret Gilis – Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis

If you are looking for a peaceful island escape in Lombok, a day trip to Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis is an excellent way to discover the quieter side of the island.

Located off the southwest coast of Lombok, these three small islands offer clear tropical water, snorkeling, white-sand beaches, swimming and a relaxed island atmosphere. They are ideal for travelers who want to experience a different side of Lombok away from the busier tourist destinations.

The trip is accessible from several popular areas of Lombok, including Senggigi, Kuta Lombok and Selong Belanak. Wherever you begin, the journey eventually reaches Lembar Harbor, where you board a boat for the island-hopping part of the adventure.

The route is simple:

Lembar Harbor → Gili Nanggu → Gili Sudak → Gili Kedis → Lembar Harbor

With short boat transfers between the islands, most of your day can be spent swimming, snorkeling, relaxing and exploring rather than sitting on the boat.

What Are the Secret Gilis?

The Secret Gilis are a collection of smaller islands located off the southwest coast of Lombok.

While Lombok is internationally known for Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, the islands around southwest Lombok offer a quieter and more laid-back experience.

For this day trip, the focus is on three islands:

Gili Nanggu Known for its beautiful beach, clear water and snorkeling opportunities, Gili Nanggu is the first island on the itinerary.

Gili Sudak A peaceful island that is well suited for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing and enjoying a local lunch.

Gili Kedis A tiny tropical island surrounded by clear water and a sandy beach. Its small size makes it a memorable final stop for swimming, snorkeling and photographs.

Together, these islands provide a balanced combination of snorkeling, swimming, beach time, local food and island exploration.

Getting to the Secret Gilis

There are several convenient starting points depending on where you are staying in Lombok.

The boat journey

Lembar Harbor → Gili Nanggu: approximately 20–30 minutes

Gili Nanggu → Gili Sudak: approximately 10 minutes

Gili Sudak → Gili Kedis: approximately 5 minutes

Travel times are approximate and can vary depending on traffic, weather, sea conditions and the exact departure point.

From Senggigi to the Secret Gilis

Approximately 50 minutes to Lembar Harbor

If you are staying in Senggigi, Lembar Harbor is approximately a 50-minute drive away.

The journey takes you south along the West Lombok coastline before reaching the harbor, where you change from car to boat.

This makes the Secret Gilis a practical full-day excursion for travelers based in Senggigi who want to explore the southwest coast of Lombok.

From Kuta Lombok to the Secret Gilis

Approximately 1 hour to Lembar Harbor

Travelers staying in Kuta Lombok can also visit the Secret Gilis as a day trip.

The drive to Lembar Harbor takes approximately 1 hour.

After reaching the harbor, the same island-hopping route begins with Gili Nanggu, followed by Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis.

For visitors spending several days in South Lombok, this is an opportunity to combine the beaches and landscapes of the south with a day exploring the islands of the southwest.

From Selong Belanak to the Secret Gilis

Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to Lembar Harbor

From Selong Belanak, the journey to Lembar Harbor takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.

Although this is the longest of the three road journeys, the Secret Gilis can still be visited comfortably as a full-day excursion.

After reaching Lembar Harbor, you continue by boat to Gili Nanggu and then explore Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis.

Lembar Harbor to Gili Nanggu

Approximately 20–30 minutes by boat

Lembar Harbor is the starting point for the sea journey.

From the harbor, the boat heads toward Gili Nanggu. The crossing takes approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the exact departure point.

As you leave mainland Lombok behind, the scenery changes from the coastline to open tropical water and small islands.

Gili Nanggu is the first major stop and provides the perfect introduction to the Secret Gilis.

Gili Nanggu: Snorkeling and Beach Time

Gili Nanggu is a beautiful small island surrounded by clear tropical water.

It is a popular stop for snorkeling, swimming and relaxing on the beach.

The waters around the island can provide opportunities to see tropical fish and coral formations. Snorkeling conditions and visibility naturally vary according to weather, tides and sea conditions.

If you prefer to stay out of the water, you can relax on the beach, explore the shoreline or simply enjoy the scenery.

Things to do at Gili Nanggu

• Snorkel
• Swim
• Relax on the beach
• Explore the coastline
• Take photographs
• Enjoy the tropical surroundings

After enjoying Gili Nanggu, the boat continues to Gili Sudak.

Gili Nanggu to Gili Sudak

Approximately 10 minutes by boat

The crossing between Gili Nanggu and Gili Sudak takes only around 10 minutes.

The short distance means you can move easily between the islands without losing a large amount of time to transportation.

Gili Sudak: Lunch, Swimming and Relaxation

Gili Sudak provides a more relaxed middle section of the trip.

After snorkeling at Gili Nanggu, this is a good place to slow down, enjoy a local lunch and spend some time on the beach.

Depending on your preference and the day’s conditions, you can swim, snorkel or simply relax beside the sea.

A local lunch at Gili Sudak can be a memorable part of the experience, particularly after a morning spent in the water.

Things to do at Gili Sudak

• Enjoy a local lunch
• Swim
• Snorkel
• Relax on the beach
• Take photographs
• Enjoy the quiet island atmosphere

Once you have finished lunch and your time on Gili Sudak, the next island is only a few minutes away.

Gili Sudak to Gili Kedis

Approximately 5 minutes by boat

The boat ride from Gili Sudak to Gili Kedis takes approximately 5 minutes.

It is the shortest crossing of the itinerary and makes it easy to include Gili Kedis as the final island stop.

Gili Kedis: The Tiny Island

Gili Kedis is one of the smallest islands in the area and is perhaps the most distinctive stop of the day.

The island consists largely of a small sandy beach surrounded by clear tropical water.

Because of its tiny size, you can explore much of Gili Kedis in a short time.

It is an ideal place to swim, snorkel, walk around the island and take photographs.

Things to do at Gili Kedis

• Walk around the island
• Swim
• Snorkel
• Relax on the sand
• Take photographs
• Enjoy the surrounding ocean

After spending time at Gili Kedis, the boat returns toward Lembar Harbor before you continue by road to your accommodation.

The Complete Secret Gilis Day Trip

The itinerary can be summarized simply:

Your hotel

↓

Lembar Harbor

↓

Gili Nanggu

Snorkeling • Swimming • Beach

↓

Gili Sudak

Lunch • Swimming • Relaxation

↓

Gili Kedis

Swimming • Snorkeling • Island exploration

↓

Lembar Harbor

↓

Your hotel

The road travel time depends on your starting location, while the island-hopping section remains the same.

Approximate Travel Times

These are approximate travel times. Actual journey times can change because of road traffic, weather, tides and sea conditions.

What Makes This Route Special?

Three islands with different experiences

The attraction of this itinerary is the variety.

Gili Nanggu is your snorkeling and beach stop. Gili Sudak gives you time for lunch and relaxation. Gili Kedis offers the experience of visiting a tiny tropical island. Instead of spending an entire day at one destination, you experience three different islands within the same trip.

A quieter alternative to the famous Gilis

The Secret Gilis are a good option for travelers who prefer a more peaceful island experience. The focus is on nature, beaches, snorkeling, swimming and local island life rather than nightlife and large tourist developments. This makes the route particularly appealing to couples, families, friends and travelers looking for a relaxing day on the water.

Private Secret Gilis Experience

A private boat is a convenient option for travelers who want greater flexibility. With a private trip, you can enjoy the islands with your own group rather than joining a large tour. Depending on the conditions and your preferred itinerary, you can spend more time snorkeling, relax longer on the beach or enjoy a slower lunch stop. The itinerary should always remain flexible enough to account for weather, tides and sea conditions.

What Can You See While Snorkeling?

The waters around the Secret Gilis can offer opportunities to see a variety of tropical marine life.

Depending on the location and conditions, you may encounter:

• Tropical reef fish
• Coral formations
• Small marine animals
• Shallow reef areas
• Clear sandy seabeds
• Different underwater habitats

Visibility and marine life are naturally variable, so specific sightings cannot be guaranteed.

The local boat crew can help identify suitable snorkeling areas based on the conditions on the day.

What to Bring

For a comfortable day trip, we recommend bringing:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Change of clothes
• Waterproof phone case
• Waterproof bag
• Camera
• Cash for personal expenses
• Comfortable sandals
• Reusable drinking water bottle

A dry bag is particularly useful for keeping phones, wallets and other valuables protected during the boat journey.

Best Time to Visit the Secret Gilis

The Secret Gilis can be visited throughout the year, but weather and sea conditions are important factors for any snorkeling and boat trip.

Calmer seas and good visibility generally provide a more comfortable experience.

Conditions can change during the day, so the itinerary may need to be adjusted according to the weather, tides and sea conditions.

For safety, the local boat crew should always have the final say regarding snorkeling locations and sea travel.

Is This Day Trip Suitable for Families?

Yes. The Secret Gilis can be an enjoyable destination for families who want to spend a day swimming, snorkeling and relaxing by the sea.

Children should always be supervised around the boat and in the water.

A private boat can also be useful for families because the itinerary can be more flexible and adapted to the group’s pace.

Is This Trip Good for Couples?

The peaceful beaches and private island-hopping experience make Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis suitable for couples looking for a relaxed day together.

You can combine snorkeling and swimming with quiet beach time and a local lunch, without having to follow the pace of a large group.

Is This Trip Suitable for Non-Swimmers?

You do not have to spend the entire day snorkeling.

The islands also offer beaches, scenery and opportunities to relax.

However, anyone entering the water should follow the instructions of the boat crew and use appropriate safety equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Secret Gilis from Senggigi?

The drive from Senggigi to Lembar Harbor takes approximately 50 minutes. From there, the boat travels to Gili Nanggu in approximately 20–30 minutes.

How do I get to the Secret Gilis from Kuta Lombok?

The drive from Kuta Lombok to Lembar Harbor takes approximately 1 hour, followed by the boat journey to Gili Nanggu.

How do I get to the Secret Gilis from Selong Belanak?

The drive from Selong Belanak to Lembar Harbor takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. The boat journey then continues to Gili Nanggu.

How long is the boat from Lembar Harbor to Gili Nanggu?

Approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the departure point.

How long is Gili Nanggu to Gili Sudak?

Approximately 10 minutes by boat.

How long is Gili Sudak to Gili Kedis?

Approximately 5 minutes by boat.

Can I visit all three islands in one day?

Yes. Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis are close enough to be combined into one full-day island-hopping itinerary.

Where do we have lunch?

Gili Sudak is a convenient stop for a local lunch, depending on the selected tour package and restaurant availability.

Can I book a private boat?

Yes. A private boat is an option for travelers who want to explore the Secret Gilis with their own group and have more flexibility during the day.

What happens if the sea conditions are not suitable?

The itinerary may be modified according to weather and sea conditions. Safety takes priority, and the boat crew can recommend suitable alternatives when necessary.

Book a Secret Gilis Day Trip from Senggigi, Kuta or Selong Belanak

A day trip to Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis is a convenient way to discover the quieter islands of southwest Lombok.

Whether you are staying in Senggigi, Kuta Lombok or Selong Belanak, you can reach Lembar Harbor by road before beginning the island-hopping adventure.

From there, the journey is straightforward:

Lembar Harbor → Gili Nanggu → Gili Sudak → Gili Kedis

Spend your day snorkeling in clear tropical water, swimming from sandy beaches, enjoying a local lunch and exploring small islands surrounded by the sea.

For travelers who prefer a more personal experience, a private boat provides the flexibility to enjoy the Secret Gilis with your own group and at a comfortable pace.

Gili Nanggu. Gili Sudak. Gili Kedis. Three islands and one unforgettable day in the Secret Gilis of Lombok.

Contact our local team to check availability and arrange your Secret Gilis day trip from Senggigi, Kuta Lombok or Selong Belanak.

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