When people hear the word “Gili,” most immediately think about the famous trio: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno. But surprisingly, Lombok has many more hidden islands waiting to be explored. Locals call them the “Secret Gilis”, quieter, less crowded, and perfect for travelers looking for a more peaceful tropical escape.
Most of these hidden islands are located around Sekotong in West Lombok, about 1.5 to 2 hours from Lombok International Airport. Unlike the busy northern Gilis, these islands offer calm beaches, crystal-clear water, untouched coral reefs, and a slower island lifestyle.
1. Gili Kedis
Gili Kedis is probably the cutest island on the list. It’s so tiny that you can walk around it in just a few minutes. People often call it the “honeymoon island” because of its romantic atmosphere, soft white sand, and calm turquoise water. Perfect for snorkeling or simply relaxing under the sun.
2. Gili Nanggu
Gili Nanggu is famous for snorkeling. The coral reefs here are colorful and beginner-friendly, making it ideal for families and first-time snorkelers. Many travelers call this island a hidden paradise because it feels peaceful compared to the crowded Gilis in the north.
3. Gili Sudak
Gili Sudak offers calm shallow water and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s also known for fresh seafood restaurants by the beach. If you want a quiet lunch with ocean views, this island is a great stop during island hopping.
4. Gili Tangkong
Gili Tangkong is all about solitude. Long empty beaches, almost no crowds, and beautiful views toward Mount Rinjani make this island feel incredibly peaceful.
5. Gili Poh
Gili Poh is mostly uninhabited and still very natural. Travelers usually come here for snorkeling and short island-hopping trips.
6. Gili Genting
Gili Genting is perfect for adventurous travelers who love untouched reefs and clear water. The island remains quiet and undeveloped, which makes it even more special.
7. Gili Lontar
Gili Lontar is rarely visited, making it ideal for travelers who truly want to disconnect from busy modern life.
8. Gili Gede
Gili Gede is one of the larger islands in the southwest area. Here you’ll find eco-resorts, fishing villages, and beautiful ocean scenery mixed together. It feels luxurious without losing its local charm.
9. Gili Asahan
Gili Asahan is becoming popular among travelers searching for quiet luxury. The water is incredibly clear, the coral reefs are healthy, and the atmosphere feels exclusive yet relaxed.
10. Gili Layar
Gili Layar is heaven for divers and snorkelers. The underwater life here is colorful and vibrant, making it one of the best diving spots around Sekotong.
11. Gili Goleng
Gili Goleng remains mostly untouched by tourism. The beaches are clean, quiet, and perfect for peaceful day trips.
12. Gili Rengit
Gili Rengit is perhaps one of the most hidden islands on the list. Few tourists visit it, which means you can truly enjoy silence, nature, and simple island living.
What makes these Secret Gilis special is not luxury beach clubs or loud nightlife. It’s the opposite. These islands offer peace, nature, snorkeling, white sand beaches, and the feeling of discovering a hidden side of Lombok that many travelers still don’t know about.