Diving and snorkelling the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are one of Southeast Asia's most popular places to learn to dive, and for good reason: warm, clear water, gentle conditions, an easy pace of life, and a ring of dive sites within a short boat ride of all three islands.

The marine-life headline is turtles. Green and hawksbill turtles are common on the reefs around the Gilis, and a snorkel or dive where you share the water with several of them is an ordinary day here, not a lucky one. Beyond turtles you will see reef fish in abundance, rays, the occasional reef shark, healthy coral in the better-protected areas, and some artificial reef and underwater sculpture installations.

For divers, the Gilis are a major training hub. The islands operate a shared standard among dive centres, with consistent pricing and a rotation of the main sites so the reefs are not overcrowded. It is a good place to take an Open Water course, as conditions are forgiving, or to log relaxed fun dives if you are already certified. Popular sites include shallow reefs ideal for beginners and a few deeper walls and drift dives for the more experienced.

Snorkellers are well served too. You can snorkel straight off the beach in several spots, particularly on the calmer west and north coasts, and most shops and many hotels run snorkelling boat trips that loop the three islands and stop at the best turtle spots and the underwater statues.

A few responsible-travel notes. Do not touch or stand on the coral, keep a respectful distance from turtles, and never chase them for a photo. Reef-safe sunscreen helps protect the same reefs you came to see. Currents between the islands can be stronger than they look, so snorkel within your limits and ask locally about conditions before swimming out far.

Whether you are nervously breathing underwater for the first time or quietly clocking your hundredth dive, the Gilis make it easy, which is exactly why so many people come for two days and leave a week later.