Gili Trawangan

About this spot

Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three Gili islands off Lombok's northwest coast, car-free and ringed by a fringing reef that creates the postcard turquoise water the islands are known for. The east-facing side, between the harbor jetty and the south end at Pantai Pasir Putih, has the cleanest foiling water — reef-sheltered, 2 to 5 meters deep over sand, with a mild easterly trade most mornings. The west side is more exposed and routinely sees swell wrap around the south end. The critical hazard is the tidal current in the channels between Trawangan, Meno, and Air. Spring tides push 2-3 knots through the gaps and have caught out drift-snorkelers and paddleboarders for years; do not attempt an inter-island foil crossing without a chase boat. Stay inside your home island's reef. The dry season (May-October) gives the most consistent water; January-February brings squally NW monsoon weather. There is one resident eFoil operator on Trawangan running guided sessions from the south beach.