Ferry from Gili Air to Nusa Lembongan (Mushroom Beach)

Gili Air Guide

Gili Air Ferry Port

Just off the western coast of the Indonesian island of Lombok are a line of three almost perfectly spherical islands known as the Gili Islands. Gili Air is the island found closest to the mainland. It is an area of tranquil tropical beauty, featuring swathes of lush palm-tree woodland and golden beaches that hem the ultramarine shallows of the Bali Sea. Those visiting the west-facing beach are treated to a spectacular view of the Mount Rinjani volcano that soars from the centre of Lombok. Gili Air is a popular honeymoon retreat due to its laid-back atmosphere and collection of stunning secluded spots. The coral-reefs that bedeck the coast are also superb spots for diving and snorkelling. Some local instructors even teaching free-diving, a form of the sport where people learn to dive on one breath without the aid of any breathing apparatus. The port of Gili Air is found on the shore of a small bay to the south of the island. It consists of little more than a narrow jetty topped by a sheltered waiting area from which passengers can board the incoming fast ferries. A small café and shop selling food and drink can also be found by the port entrance. There is no motorised transport on Gili Air meaning that travelling` to the port can only be achieved on foot or by riding one of the horse carts known locally as Cidomos. However due to the island’s small size no point is further than an hour’s walk away from the harbour, with most of the villages and resorts connected by a labyrinth of picturesque lanes. A number of ferry routes operate from the port throughout the week. Scoot Fast Cruises offers a number of services to the Balinese village of Sanur to the west, the village of Senggigi on the mainland of Lombok and the islands of Nusa Lembongan and nearby Gili Trawangan. Other services include a Freebird Express line to Amed in Bali and two Bluewater Express lines that sail to Padang Bai and Sarangan; a destination also serviced by a Marina Srikandi line.

Nusa Lembongan Guide

What is there to do in Nusa Lembongan?

As the hotel and extravagant restaurants grow, so does Nusa Lembongan’s popularity. Whilst some have accused the island of forgetting its heritage, there is still a laid back feel that embodies the atmosphere and culture. The main pastimes are found in the great outdoors; scuba diving and snorkelling are a rite of passage when visiting, and the naturally beautiful Mangrove Forest offers tranquillity whilst basking in stunning surroundings. For those who like to spend their time having a bit more of an adventure, the beaches offer water-skiing, jet-skiing, kayaking and canoeing under the guidance of qualified instructors. Conversely, more serene activities are readily available; Yoga and Pilates classes are often held early on under the morning sun, and boat tours provide breathtaking views of the idyllic scenery. After a day exploring the array of activities, there are some affordable restaurants that serve delicious seafood fresh from the water.

How do visitors get around Nusa Lembongan?

Picturesque views, pleasant weather and spacious paths make the island the perfect place to indulge in a leisurely stroll. Bicycles and motorbikes are also available for rental, so transport is usually fairly environmentally friendly.