The best-known budget option on Gili Trawangan, Gili Hostel offers clean dormitory and private rooms with a social pool area and lively common spaces just a short walk from the beach. The property regularly organises snorkeling trips, beach cleanups, and social events for backpacker guests.
Gili Hostel is one of the best-known budget accommodation options on Gili Trawangan, the most popular of the three Gili Islands situated off the northwest coast of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara. The hostel is positioned a short walk from the main beach and the island's central strip of bars and restaurants, offering backpackers a social and convenient base at accessible prices.
Accommodation ranges from mixed and female-only dormitories with bunk beds, individual reading lights, and power points, to private double and twin rooms for guests preferring more privacy. Dorm beds include access to secure lockers, shared bathrooms with hot water, and the hostel's communal spaces. Linens and towels are provided with all bookings.
The hostel's central social feature is a pool surrounded by sunbeds and a small outdoor lounge area where guests gather throughout the day. A shared kitchen allows guests to self-cater, and the common room hosts regular activities including movie nights, quiz evenings, and organised snorkelling trips to the nearby house reef where sea turtles are frequently encountered.
Gili Trawangan is a car-free island and all movement is by foot, bicycle, or horse cart. The hostel's location makes the main beach, dive operators, and the island's famous evening market accessible within a few minutes on foot. The island's well-known beach bar scene is also within easy walking distance, making the hostel a natural base for those participating in the social circuit.
Staff are knowledgeable about the island and can assist guests with booking snorkelling excursions, diving courses, fast boat tickets to Bali or Lombok, and bicycle rentals. The atmosphere is friendly and international, with a predominantly young traveller demographic drawn to the Gili Islands' reputation for diving, nightlife, and beach relaxation.
Amenities
- dorm rooms
- pool
- shared kitchen
- wifi
- lockers
- social events
Location
Gili Trawangan, North Lombok
-8.3538, 116.0291 View on map
Highlights
- Social pool area with sunbeds and communal lounge ideal for meeting fellow travellers on Gili Trawangan
- Well-located on car-free Gili Trawangan near the main beach, dive operators, and evening market
- Organised snorkelling trips to the house reef where sea turtles can be regularly spotted
- Secure dormitory lockers and both mixed and female-only dorm options available
- Staff assistance with fast boat bookings, dive courses, and island-hopping excursions
Tips for visiting
- Book dorm beds well in advance for July and August — Gili Trawangan fills rapidly during peak season.
- Female-only dorm rooms should be requested at the time of booking as availability varies.
- The hostel's pool area becomes the main social hub in the late afternoon; arrive early for a sunbed.
- Bring flip-flops and reef shoes — the beach paths and water entry points can be rocky in places.
- Fast boat bookings to Bali or Lombok are best arranged a day in advance through the hostel reception.
Accessibility
The hostel has a generally flat layout on sandy and paved ground, but dormitory bunk beds, shared bathrooms, and pool areas may not be suitable for guests with mobility impairments. The car-free island environment means walking or cycling are the primary means of transport. Guests with accessibility needs should contact the hostel directly to discuss available options.
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Frequently asked questions
What room types does Gili Hostel offer?
The hostel offers mixed dormitories, female-only dormitories, and private double or twin rooms. All guests have access to shared bathrooms, communal kitchen, pool, and lounge areas.
Is Gili Hostel close to the beach?
Yes, the hostel is a short walk from Gili Trawangan's main beach. The island is small and the beach is accessible on foot from almost anywhere on Gili T.
Are there lockers for securing valuables?
Yes, secure lockers are provided in all dormitory rooms. Guests should bring their own padlock or ask at reception about lock hire options.
What social activities does the hostel organise?
Regular activities include snorkelling trips to the house reef, beach cleanups, movie nights, and social gatherings. The hostel also coordinates group bookings for island-hopping trips to Gili Air and Gili Meno.