What to do when the sunshine takes a break
Rainy day activities on Gili Air
Even paradise gets the occasional rainy day and on Gili Air, that doesn’t mean your plans have to stop. This laid-back island has plenty to offer beyond beaches and sunsets. Whether you’re looking for fun, food, fitness, or a bit of adventure, here are some of the best ways to make the most of a drizzly day on Gili Air.
Challenge your friends at Happy Gilmore’s Gili Air – Mini Golf & Axe Throwing
Rainy days are perfect for lighthearted competition, and Happy Gilmore’s Gili Air delivers exactly that. With mini golf, axe throwing, and loads of quirky activities, it’s a great spot to keep your spirits high even when the weather isn’t. They’ve also got a café and bar, so you can enjoy a drink or snack between rounds while waiting for the rain to pass. It’s fun, social, and perfect for travellers, couples, and families.
Go on an underwater adventure with Blue Marlin Dive Gili Air
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you can’t dive—you’re getting wet anyway!
Blue Marlin Dive Gili Air is one of Gili Air’s most reputable dive centres, offering everything from beginner discover dives to fun dives for certified divers. Rainy weather rarely affects underwater visibility, so you can still enjoy turtles, reef fish, and vibrant coral gardens. It’s the ideal way to escape the grey skies and explore a colourful world below the surface.
Learn to cook local dishes at Uncle Hero’s Cooking Class
If you’ve been wanting to take a piece of Indonesian culture home with you, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to join Uncle Hero’s Cooking Class. Located at Warung Sunny, you’ll learn how to prepare classic local dishes using fresh ingredients, all in a relaxed and friendly environment. It’s hands-on, delicious, and a great way to spend a few cosy hours out of the rain—plus you get to eat everything you make!
Best beach hangouts on Gili Air
Best beach hangouts on Gili Air
Coffee lovers on Gili Air
Coffee lovers on Gili Air
Whilst some holidaymakers seek to embrace new habits, others prefer the familiar ritual and the caffeine hit of a good morning coffee. But finding truly good coffee on a tropical island can sometimes be a challenge.
Thankfully on Gili Air we are spoiled for choice and following is just 3 of the favourite hangouts for that much sort after brew.
Barefoot Blondie
Conveniently located at the harbour, Barefoot Blondie brings the best coffee and the vibes! Relax upstairs with the ocean breeze and pair your coffee with their famous homemade cinnamon roll.
Gili Coffee Roasters
Coffee enthusiasts love the high quality locally sourced coffee beans and the commitment to sustainability which is evident with their onsite vegetable garden. Visit Gili Coffee Roasters for the lush garden setting and commitment to serving excellent coffee and fresh produce.
PJ’s Bar & Grill
With an incredible beachfront location, sip your coffee mindfully whilst admiring the gorgeous turquoise water. Return later in the day for the incredible sunsets whilst indulging with an espresso martini.
With fresh locally roasted beans, high quality cafés, and beautiful places to enjoy your cup, Gili Air is a hidden gem for coffee lovers. The island’s relaxed pace makes it an ideal spot to truly enjoy and appreciate good coffee.
The what, where and why of Gili Air
The what, where and why of Gili Air
Let’s start with the most important, where is Gili Air?
Gili Air is one of the three Gili Islands, located off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Gili Air is accessible via direct fast boat from Bali & Nusa Pendia/Lembongan or flights into the Lombok International Airport (LOP).
What is there to do on Gili Air?
One of the most recommended activities is snorkeling. You can easily find vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside turtles, colorful fish and other marine life. Snorkel direct from the beach or enjoy a private snorkeling trip around the three Gili islands.
Scuba Diving is very popular with conditions suited to beginners and experienced divers alike. There is a variety of dive sites including shallow pinnacles, coral gardens, wrecks, walls, deep dives and macro.
Gili Air has become a favourite for yoga & wellness lovers. Whether you are seeking guided yoga classes, meditation, sound healing or more.
Some other highly rated activities include cooking classes, massage & spa treatments, horse back riding, stand up paddle boarding, shopping or simply relaxing on the beach.
Whilst the nightlife on Gili Trawangan is more famous, Gili Air also has plenty of evening entertainment to choose from. From live bands to DJ’s. There is something going on every night of the week.
Last but not least, Gili Air has an incredible dining scene. From delicious local warungs to healthy food options to international cuisine and beach clubs. Everyone will be satisfied.
But why choose Gili Air?
Whilst Gili Trawangan is the undisputed party island and Gili Meno is the quietest, Gili Air is the perfect in between.
Escape the crowds of Bali and enjoy the peaceful laid back vibes whilst still having access to modern amenities.
Go back to basics, with no motorised transport on the island you can ride a bicycle, use a horse cart or walk around without the headache of traffic.
Saturate in the clear warm waters and immerse yourself in the simple island way of life.
