Gili Asahan

Gili Asahan is one of the small “Secret Gili” islands located off the southwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. It is part of the Sekotong area and remains one of the most peaceful and authentic islands in the region. Unlike the more popular northern Gili Islands, Gili Asahan offers a quiet and natural atmosphere where travelers can enjoy untouched landscapes and a slower pace of life.

The island is small, with a circumference of around five kilometers, and can easily be explored on foot. There are no cars or motorbikes, only sandy paths that connect a few local houses, eco-lodges, and beachside restaurants. A small community of fishermen and their families live here, maintaining traditional island life surrounded by beautiful nature and clear waters.

Gili Asahan is known for its pristine beaches, calm turquoise sea, and excellent snorkeling conditions. The coral reefs around the island are home to many colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine species, making it one of the best snorkeling spots among the Secret Gilis. The water is usually calm and clear, which also makes it perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Diving is available through local operators, and the underwater visibility is often excellent throughout the dry season.

Surfing is not common on Gili Asahan because the island is located in a sheltered bay with gentle waves. Instead, visitors come here to relax, swim, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Those looking for surf spots can visit nearby Lombok’s mainland, where beaches such as Desert Point are known for world-class waves.

Reaching Gili Asahan is simple and scenic. Most visitors travel from Lombok’s southwest coast, taking a short boat ride from Sekotong or the nearby harbor of Tembowong. The journey usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes by local boat. From Lombok International Airport, it takes about one and a half hours by car to reach the harbor. Some accommodations on Gili Asahan offer private transfers that include both land and boat transport for convenience.

There is no entrance fee to visit Gili Asahan. You only pay for transportation and accommodation. Most travelers choose to stay for at least one or two nights to enjoy the relaxed island rhythm, swim in the calm bays, and watch the sunset over Bali’s Mount Agung in the distance. For those who wish to explore more, Gili Asahan is a great base for island-hopping to nearby Secret Gilis such as Gili Gede, Gili Layar, and Gili Rengit.

The best time to visit Gili Asahan is during the dry season from April to October, when the sea is calm and ideal for snorkeling and outdoor activities. The rainy season from November to March brings some showers but also keeps the island green and peaceful, with fewer tourists around.

Gili Asahan is a true hidden gem of Lombok — a place where you can disconnect from the world, enjoy simple island life, and experience the natural beauty of Indonesia at its most authentic.