Gili Meno - The quiet side of the Gili Islands

If your Gili Island experience so far is limited to a high season visit to buzzing Gili Trawangan, then be prepared for a (pleasant) shock on Gili Meno. Sandwiched between Gili Air and Trawangan, Gili Meno, the smallest of the trio. All three have been developed at differing paces, and all have their own distinct character – this is especially evident on Gili Meno.

Gili Meno still revels in a sleepy backwater vibe, yet that doesn’t mean just a low budget backpacker scene; Meno is a serious player for luxe beach escapes. It is arguably the Gilis’ top honeymooner choice, thanks to the horizontal pace of life and the refreshing lack of bright lights, loud music and other distractions.

You can still truly immerse in the quintessential castaway experience and find a stretch of sand all to yourself. With significantly fewer visitors, Gili Meno is arguably the best spot to snorkel. You get a flourishing turtle population and pristine reefs but the trick is to take the plunge in the morning before the constant stream of snorkelers arrive by boat from Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and the mainland.

That brings us on to Gili Meno’s top attraction: ‘Nest.’ Situated just offshore from the BASK resort, this is a living, breathing submerged art piece on the seabed. It features 48 life-size human figures in a ‘circle of life’ formation, depicting the connection between the human and underwater worlds.

The statues were designed specifically to attract speedy coral growth which in turn attracts abundant marine life. It is the most unique attraction on the Gili Islands, and a must for all snorkellers.

At the other end of the BASK Resort lies Gili Meno’s other natural asset – a large inland salt water lake and mangroves, which attracts a surprisingly diverse array of birdlife and the occasional inquisitive monitor lizard.

Snorkelling and diving are the main pursuits while the entirety of the island is fringed by pristine sandy beaches, with plenty of small cafes on or close to the sand to stay hydrated through the day. This diminutive island can be circumnavigated on foot in only around one hour. There is also a turtle hatchery here too.

Wellness is a big focus on Gili Mano, especially in the growing number of boutique hotel and villa resorts, due in no small measure because of the island’s attraction as a honeymoon haven and for mature couples. For its size, there an eclectic array of places to stay, from budget bungalows to swanky villas. The general design aesthetic on Gili Meno is more traditional too – expect natural wood and thatched alang alang roofs rather than modern, minimalist hotel structures.

Gili Meno does have a few bars but there is no real bone fide nightlife scene to speak of here. Expect laid back loungey evenings taking in the sunset and relatively early nights.

Still, dining on Gili Meno is full of surprises. Despite its size, the restaurant and café scene is vibrant with eclectic menus. Alongside the usual Indonesia warung fare and beachfront grilled fish, you’ll find plenty of Italian and European options plus a few high-end spots for private dining on the beach. Top picks include MAHAMAYA and the beach club vibe of Bagno Di Gili.

Gili Meno attracts a sizable number of young families as well as older couples who value the slow pace of life. Of course, the quiet vibe is a top choice for romantic getaways too. The perfect spot for a weekend getaway to de-stress.