Nusa Islands Vs Gili Islands: What’s the Best Island Escape for You?

Last Updated on October 28, 2025

Are you planning your island escape from Bali but stuck in the classic debate: Nusa Islands vs Gili Islands?

I’ve been there. Both island groups look and feel like paradise, and both promise beaches, snorkeling, and unforgettable sunsets. So… which one should you choose?

After visiting both and going through the same dilemma, here’s what I can tell you: there isn’t a “better” choice — only the best fit for the kind of holiday you want. It all comes down to your travel style, how much time you have, and the vibe you’re after.

In this guide, I break down the real differences and similarities between the Nusa Islands and the Gili Islands — so you can confidently pick the perfect island for you.

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Nusa Islands Vs Gili Islands: What’s The Difference?

The Nusa Islands are a group of three islands located just 30–45 minutes by fast boat from Bali.

Nusa Lembongan (around 8 km²) is where tourism first developed — you’ll find everything you need from budget bungalows to stylish beachfront resorts. Such a great variety for a smaller island!

Nusa Ceningan, the smallest (about 3 km²), feels like an extension of Lembongan as the two are connected by the famous Yellow Bridge.

Nusa Penida is much larger (around 200 km²) and still very rugged and wild (even though the North-East area is quickly developing into a tourism hub), with dramatic coastal cliffs, hidden beaches, and those iconic rock formations you’ve likely seen all over Instagram.

The Gili Islands, instead, don’t belong to Bali — they are part of Lombok. They’re located about a 2-hour ferry ride from Padang Bai in Bali, or just 15 minutes by fast boat from Lombok.

One of the cultural differences you’ll immediately notice: the Gilis are Muslim, not Balinese Hindu — so you won’t find temples here, but you may hear prayer calls throughout the day.

Gili Trawangan is the largest (yet still tiny at 2 km² — smaller than Ceningan!) and is known as the “party island,” though the vibe definitely depends on the season.

Gili Air is the second most popular for overnight stays, quieter but with a great mix of cafés and beach bars. On the contrary, Gili Meno is the most peaceful — a saltwater lake, mangroves, and untouched beaches with brilliant blue water.

Both island groups are well known for their turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and extraordinary marine life — tropical fish, coral reefs, manta rays, turtles, and even underwater statues. But there are some key differences worth considering when planning your Bali itinerary.

After the Nusa Islands Vs Gili Islands debate comes the Lembongan vs Penida debate, but don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. I’ve also written a complete guide comparing the two central Nusa Islands, breaking down their key differences and similarities so you can choose the right one for your trip.

How To Get To The Nusa Islands or Gili Islands From Bali

When deciding between the Nusa Islands Vs the Gili Islands, distance from Bali is one of the first things to consider.

The Nusa Islands are just a 30–45-minute fast boat ride from Sanur, which is easy to reach from most popular areas of Bali.

Boats run frequently throughout the day, giving you more flexibility with your schedule. Since the journey is shorter, there’s generally less risk of significant delays — though weather can still impact your journey.

Getting to the Gili Islands takes more time. It’s about a 2-hour fast boat ride from Padang Bai in East Bali — and simply reaching the port can already feel like a trip of its own.

Boats depart fewer times per day, and choosing a morning departure is the best decision, as the sea in that area often gets rougher in the afternoon, especially during the rainy season.

So when planning, consider how much time you have available. Traveling to the Gilis can easily take up most of a day each way — and with Bali’s traffic, that often means dedicating two full days just for transportation.

In comparison, the Nusa Islands are quicker and easier to reach, making them a better fit if you have less time available.

How To Get Around The Nusa Islands & Gili Islands

When it comes to getting around, the Gili Islands definitely win for ease.

Since they’re much smaller than the Nusa Islands, there are no cars or standard motorbikes — and honestly, you don’t need them. The islands are flat and the beaches are always close by.

You’ll only find bicycles and a few electric scooters available for rent.

Most of island life happens along the coastline, which makes the Gilis very walkable. You can explore the main areas on foot without any effort.

The Nusa Islands are a different story. Both Nusa Lembongan (and Ceningan) and especially Nusa Penida are best explored by scooter.

Nusa Lembongan can be walkable if you’re staying in one area the whole time. But if you plan to move between places like Mushroom Bay in the south and Jungut Batu or the Mangrove Forest in the north, you’ll want transportation.

Renting a scooter or arranging pick-ups through your hotel is the easiest solution.

On Nusa Penida, everything is more spread out, from east to west. The distances are long and the roads can be pretty rough, so a scooter or a private driver is essential to visit the main attractions.

Want all the details about Nusa Lembongan? Here’s my complete guide on transportation and getting around Nusa Lembongan.

Can You Visit All The Nusa Islands or Gili Islands in One Day?

Since the Gili Islands are much smaller and closer to each other, you can definitely enjoy an island-hopping day trip between them. Many snorkeling tours already cover the best underwater spots around all three islands in just one day.

If you prefer exploring on your own, you can hop on a ferry from Gili Trawangan to enjoy the calmer vibe of Gili Meno — with its saltwater lake, mangroves, and baby-turtle sanctuary — or head over to Gili Air for sunbathing and a swim in its crystal-clear waters.

If you’re looking for some itinerary inspiration around the Gili Islands, make sure to check out my 3-day trip guide. You’ll find the best activities you can fit into that amount of time.

On the other hand, while you can easily combine Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan in one day, adding Nusa Penida to the mix isn’t realistic.

Nusa Penida is the largest of the three, and even a whole day isn’t enough to explore it properly, let alone pairing it with its smaller sisters.

For a less rushed itinerary, plan on:

• 2+ days for Nusa Penida
• At least 1 day (ideally 2) for Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Ceningan

Road Conditions & Distances

Gili Islands

Since the Gili Islands are so small, you don’t really have to worry about road conditions or long distances. As mentioned earlier, bicycles and electric scooters are the main means of transport.

While some inland roads on Gili Trawangan can be a bit muddy or less paved, they’re still very manageable.

The main coastal ring road is smooth, flat, and easy to cycle on. The only exception is when it rains heavily — I spent New Year’s Eve on Gili Trawangan carrying my bike barefoot through flooded streets. But hey, that’s island life!

Nusa Islands

On the Nusa Islands, the story is quite different.

Nusa Lembongan is very easy to explore on a scooter. You can go from the southern point at Dream Beach to the northern Mangrove Forest in about 20 minutes.

Most roads are well-paved — you may encounter the occasional pothole or uneven stretch, but nothing major. Just keep in mind that some middle-area roads between Jungut Batu and Mushroom Bay aren’t well-lit at night, so take it slow if you’re riding in that area after sunset.

Nusa Penida is where things get challenging — honestly, some of the worst road conditions in Bali. The harbor area is fine, with smooth roads, but once you start heading east, get ready for long, bumpy sections, deep potholes, and narrow lanes.

On top of that, distances are much larger. You can easily explore the northwestern area — Kelingking Beach, Crystal Bay, Broken Beach — within a day. But reaching places like Diamond Beach or Atuh Beach is a real (long) adventure, often taking around 2 hours by scooter.

Where to Stay & Accommodations: Nusa Islands Vs Gili Islands

When it comes to accommodation, there really isn’t a “better” choice — it depends on what kind of stay you’re after.

The Gili Islands, even though they’re tiny, offer a great mix of options. From simple bungalow-style homestays with a pool to private villas and a couple of resorts, especially on Gili Air.

Gili Meno has fewer places to choose from, but you can still find cute bungalows, cottages, and even a couple of beachfront resorts like Meno House.

The Nusa Islands give you even more variety.

Nusa Lembongan has been welcoming travelers the longest, so there’s a wide range: budget-friendly spots, boutique hotels, and beachfront resorts.

If you want something even quieter, Nusa Ceningan has lovely stays overlooking the channel between the islands.

Nusa Penida is still developing. Most places are on the northeast coast, near the harbor, where services and restaurants are available.

Once you go further away — especially toward the east — the options become fewer. There are some incredible bungalows with views near Diamond Beach, but you might feel a bit isolated (which can be a pro or a con depending on your vibe).

The Vibe: Energy & Atmosphere

If you’re picturing a laid-back beach escape where the decision of the day is whether to snorkel before or after your smoothie bowl, the Gili Islands are usually the best option.

No cars, sandy roads, cycling to restaurants, and slow island living.

The vibe on Gili Air and Gili Meno is calmer and romantic — ideal for couples or anyone who wants to slow down. Gili Trawangan is well-known for its nightlife — and yes, you can find parties along the eastern coast — but beyond that area, nights are calm and quiet.

The Gili Islands are perfect if you don’t fear FOMO and you’re simply looking to relax, between one casual snorkeling session and a morning yoga class.

The Nusa Islands, on the other hand, feel a bit more adventurous and wild.

Nusa Lembongan has a relaxed atmosphere — surfers heading out, scooters zipping by, sunset bars filling up. It offers a very similar holiday vibe to the Gilis but with more opportunity for exploration if sunbathing becomes boring.

Nusa Penida is the island for nature explorers. Days are filled with sightseeing and scooter rides, and once the sun goes down, things get very quiet very quickly — there’s not much nightlife here after sunset.

So if your ideal holiday includes a bit of partying, beachfront cocktails, and easygoing evenings… the Gilis or Nusa Lembongan will feel more “you.” If you’re visiting for epic views and early starts, Nusa Penida is the way to go.

Crowds

I’d say the crowd situation between Nusa Lembongan and the Gili Islands really depends on the season.

Nusa Penida, however, is a different story. According to local guides, Penida is always busy. The island is flooded with day-trippers from Bali between 9 AM and 4 PM (see pictures below), which is why staying overnight is the best way to experience it.

Starting early and finishing late allows you to enjoy the main spots with fewer people — and once the boats leave in the evening, the island becomes surprisingly calm.

When it comes to the Gili Islands, crowds vary. Gili Trawangan is the liveliest and busiest, especially in peak season (July–August and Christmas–New Year).

That said, even during New Year’s, I noticed that while the nights were absolutely packed, the island didn’t feel overwhelming during the day. If you prefer a more low-key vibe, Gili Air and Gili Meno are much quieter options.

I visited Nusa Lembongan in early September and, although the boats were fully booked, it never felt overcrowded.

I think visitors naturally spread out between Mushroom Bay and Jungut Batu, and even at sunset in popular spots like Mushroom Bay, the atmosphere was still relaxed and peaceful.

If you want to avoid crowds during the day, your best bets are Nusa Lembongan, Gili Meno, or Gili Air.

Activities: What To Do & See Around The Nusa & Gili Islands

1. Beaches & Swimming

If your goal is to spend a lot of time sunbathing by the beach, swimming in the ocean, and catching sunsets, then the Gili Islands are probably the better choice.

The beaches here take the spotlight: soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and, above all, super-easy access. The ocean is generally calm, perfect for swimming and snorkeling (even on your own without booking a tour).

No matter which Gili you choose (although the atmosphere feels a bit calmer and cleaner on Gili Air and Gili Meno), the beaches look like pure paradise — and you’ll find endless beachfront spots for brunch or a dreamy sunset cocktail.

If you want to combine a bit of beach time with exploring, Nusa Lembongan is a great option. There are a couple of beaches with easy access and calm waters, like Jungut Batu and Mushroom Bay.

But you’ll also find beaches where the waves are strong and swimming isn’t always ideal — beautiful to look at from above, just not where you’ll float peacefully all day. Overall, the beaches here feel wilder and less “resort-style” than the Gilis.

If you’re curious, you can check out my favorite beaches on Nusa Lembongan. You’ll discover the best locations to swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or surf.

Finally, Nusa Penida isn’t the island to choose if long, lazy beach days are the priority. Yes, Crystal Bay is great for a break from sightseeing, but most beaches involve steep stairways, strong currents, and big waves that make swimming unsafe.

They’re stunning — but definitely more about the views than the swims.

2. Landmarks & Attractions

If you’re the kind of person who gets easily bored after a day on the beach, then Nusa Penida is probably the best option for you.

There is so much to see here that even two days can feel rushed. On the popular west side, you’ll find the iconic spots you’ve seen all over Instagram: Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong.

To the east, the scenery becomes even more dramatic with Diamond Beach and the Thousand Islands Viewpoint — both absolutely jaw-dropping.

Beyond the famous stops, Penida is full of hidden gems too: Goa Giri Putri Temple, Teletubbies Hills, Tembeling Beach… the list goes on.

Meanwhile, Nusa Lembongan and the Gili Islands offer a more relaxed holiday experience.

On Nusa Lembongan, you can explore beaches like Dream Beach, cross the Yellow Bridge over to Nusa Ceningan, and check out sunset viewpoints like Blue Lagoon and Mahana Point.

On the Gili Islands, besides endless beach time, you can wander through the mangrove forest and visit the baby turtle sanctuary on Gili Meno, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife and beach clubs on Gili T.

3. Snorkeling

When it comes to snorkeling and diving, both the Gili Islands and the Nusa Islands offer rich marine life, coral reefs, and unbelievable turquoise waters. But the real difference lies in the type of experience and how comfortable you are in the water.

On the Gili Islands, you’ll find ideal conditions for casual snorkeling—rent a mask, grab some fins, and you’re good to go.

The currents tend to be light, and many of the snorkeling spots are close to shore. One of my favourite things here: swimming with turtles.

For example, on Gili Trawangan, Turtle Point is just a short snorkel from the beach, and you’ll often see green and hawksbill turtles grazing on seagrass.

I didn’t get to snorkel around the Nusa Islands because of the very low tide. However, swimming with turtles was definitely the highlight of my time on the Gili Islands. You can discover all about the best snorkeling spots and experiences here.

By contrast, snorkeling around the Nusa Islands—especially Nusa Penida—is less casual and maybe more thrilling. Many sites are further from shore, the sea is deeper, and the currents can be intense.

You’ll often join a tour to feel safer. One of the highlights here: swimming with majestic manta rays at spots like Manta Bay and Manta Point.

4. Watersports: Surfing, Paddle Boarding & Kayaking

If you’re looking to surf, then there’s only one place you should consider: Nusa Lembongan.

Off Jungut Batu Beach, you’ll find the main surf spots: Playgrounds (for beginners), Razors, Shipwrecks, and Lacerations for intermediate to advanced surfers.

Nusa Penida isn’t really suitable for surfing since there are very few breaks.

It’s technically possible to surf around the Gili Islands, but they’re not considered a major surfing destination like Nusa Lembongan or Uluwatu.

The islands block the southern swells that hit Bali, and wave conditions are very inconsistent — you could find beginner-friendly waves one day and a completely flat sea the next.

When it comes to paddleboarding and kayaking, both Nusa Lembongan and the Gili Islands are great options thanks to their calm waters.

On Nusa Lembongan, paddleboarding is very popular around Jungut Batu Beach, and you can also kayak through the mangrove forest — such a fun way to explore a completely different ecosystem.

On Gili Trawangan (especially on the west coast), you’ll find plenty of SUP and kayak rental options, including SUP Gili and clear-bottom kayak providers. The flat, shallow waters make it ideal for a relaxed paddleboarding or kayaking session.

Nusa Penida, on the other hand, isn’t the best choice for paddleboarding or kayaking. The strong currents and uneven sea floor make these activities unsafe and not really enjoyable.

5. Pool & Beach Clubs

When it comes to pools and beach clubs, you really can’t go wrong on the Gili Islands or Nusa Lembongan. Both deliver island-holiday vibes and lounging with ocean views.

On the Gili Islands — especially Gili Trawangan — beach clubs are everywhere along the coastline.

A couple of my favorites on Gili T are Malibu Beach Club — beachfront loungers with a cute pool just across the road — and Pearl Beach Lounge, which doesn’t have a pool but has one of the best brunches and sunset vibes on the island. You can also check out Pine Tree Beach Hotel for the most outstanding pool.

Nusa Lembongan and nearby Ceningan also have great options.

Around Mushroom Bay, I loved Sandy Bay Beach Club (incredible views, though no direct ocean access due to rocks) and Dream Beach Huts Resort, which has two beautiful pools overlooking Dream Beach and easy access to the sand.

On Nusa Ceningan, Suku Beach Club and Le Pirate Beach Club are perfect spots for a relaxing afternoon.

Nusa Penida, on the other hand, is more about adventure and exploration. However, you can still enjoy some downtime by the pool, especially in the northern area, close to the harbor.

Penida Colada Beach Bar is one of the most popular bars on the beach (great live music too), while you can check out Nomé Beach Club if you’re looking for a pool. Just keep in mind that beach clubs are fewer and more spread out here.

Food & Restaurants

Both the Gili Islands (especially Gili T and Gili Air) and Nusa Lembongan are very popular tourist destinations. So you won’t have any issues finding good restaurants that cater to all types of dietary needs — from vegan to gluten-free.

The culture of “healthy and organic” is very popular across Indonesia and Bali, so you can expect great-quality food — especially seafood, which was incredible on Gili T and Nusa Lembongan.

You’ll also find all kinds of cuisines. I’ve honestly had one of the best pizzas outside of Italy on Gili T, and the food scene will definitely keep you entertained (and well-fed!) across both the Gili Islands and Nusa Lembongan.

Discover the places to eat on Nusa Lembongan that kept me entertained and very well fed — from fresh seafood to cozy warungs and stunning beach-view spots.

Some of my favorite spots on Gili Trawangan were:

• Malibu Beach Club — yes, the famous pizza and best seafood!
• Jali Kitchen — great vibe + healthy Western options (where I had my NYE chicken wrap)
• Pearl Beach Lounge — best hummus ever

When it comes to Nusa Penida, I haven’t really explored the restaurant scene, besides a small warung during a day trip.

Restaurants here tend to be more spread out — mainly around the north-eastern area. The food scene is quickly catching up, and while you’ll find mostly local warungs, you’ll find many places offering Western dishes and more variety around the harbor area.

Shopping

When it comes to shopping, I was actually amazed by the variety of shops you’ll find on Gili Trawangan.

It ranges from the usual souvenirs to surfers’ shops, but also feminine tropical finds like dresses, bags, and home decorations. I’m sure that if you’re looking for souvenirs, Gili Trawangan may have what you need.

Make sure to check out a spot I loved called Another Day in Paradise (picture below), close to the port area on Gili T.

On the other hand, when it comes to the Nusa Islands, while neither island is really a shopping destination, Nusa Lembongan has more options — you’ll find small beach boutiques around Jungut Batu (I recently discovered Buddha Wear and fell in love), local souvenir or hand-made crafts shops around Mushroom Bay.

Nusa Penida, on the other hand, has minimal shopping, mostly convenience stores and a couple of smaller souvenir shops near the harbor area.

Nusa Islands Vs Gili Islands: My Verdict

As I said at the beginning, there isn’t a “right” choice — it really depends on what you’re looking for.

If you want that laid-back island vibe but also know you’d get bored lying on a beach for days, the Nusa Islands offer much more variety in terms of landscapes and activities.

You could, for example, spend two days on Nusa Lembongan (beach time, sunsets, cute cafés) and two days on Nusa Penida (adventure, viewpoints, snorkeling with manta rays). The Nusas are also perfect if you’re short on time but still want to experience island life close to Bali.

But if the idea of sunbathing, snorkeling, island-hopping, scuba diving, and cycling from a beach club to a spa sounds like a dream to you, then the Gili Islands might be your match.

Just keep in mind the journey from Bali takes longer and requires a bit more planning… but it’s absolutely worth it once you arrive.

Whichever you choose, it’s hard to go wrong — I deeply loved both islands, and they have been the highlights of my trips around Bali. It’s just a matter of logistics and travel experience.

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There you go! Hopefully, this Nusa Islands vs Gili Islands debate is now officially settled (at least for you!).

By now, you should have a much clearer idea of which island fits your Bali escape best — but if you still have questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below. I’m always happy to help!

And if you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it on Pinterest or wherever you feel called — let’s make sure no more travelers get stuck in the ultimate paradise-island dilemma.

Other Articles You May Find Helpful in Planning Your Trip to Bali

• Bali Tips for First-Timers: 30 Important Things to Know Before You Land
• Best Places to Stay in Bali: 2025 Guide For First Timers
• Nusa Penida Or Nusa Lembongan: Which Nusa Island Should You Visit?
• Day Trip to Nusa Penida: West vs East — Which Side Of The Island Is Worth Visiting?

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