Imagine an island so small, you can walk across it in less than a minute. An island with pristine white sand, incredibly clear turquoise waters, and a peaceful ambiance that feels miles away from the everyday hustle. Welcome to Gili Kendis, one of Lombok’s charming “Secret Gilis” located off the southwest coast. If you’re seeking a genuinely tranquil escape, a fantastic snorkeling spot, and a place to truly unwind, then Gili Kendis is an absolute must-visit.
Why Gili Kendis is a Unique Gem
Unlike the more bustling Gili Trawangan, Meno, and Air, Gili Kendis (often visited as part of an island-hopping tour with Gili Nanggu and Gili Sudak) offers a wonderfully different experience. It’s often called the “Honeymoon Island” or the “Romantic Island” due to its tiny, heart-like shape and uninhabited nature. There are no resorts, no noisy bars, and no permanent residents – just pure, unspoiled natural beauty.
Here’s what makes Gili Kendis so special:
- Miniature Paradise: It’s incredibly small, about the size of a tennis court, which adds to its unique charm. You truly feel like you’ve discovered a private piece of heaven.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: The surrounding waters are exceptionally clear, offering incredible visibility for snorkeling and swimming.
- Vibrant Marine Life: Dive into an underwater world teeming with colorful coral reefs and diverse tropical fish.
- Perfect for Tranquility: With no crowds, it’s the ideal spot for quiet relaxation, sunbathing, or just enjoying the gentle lapping of the waves.
- Stunning Photography: The white sands against the turquoise sea make for postcard-perfect photos.
Getting to Gili Kendis: Your Island Hopping Adventure
Gili Kendis is part of the “Secret Gilis” in the Sekotong area of West Lombok. There’s no public boat service directly to Gili Kendis. The best way to visit is by hiring a private boat or joining an island-hopping tour from Tawun Harbor or Lembar Harbor in Sekotong.
Information
- Address (Departure Point): Tawun Harbor (Pelabuhan Tawun), Sekotong, West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. You can easily find it on Google Maps.
- How to Get There:
- From Mataram/Senggigi: A drive to Tawun Harbor typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car or motorbike. Car rentals with a driver are widely available, or you can rent a motorbike.
- From Lombok International Airport (BIL): The drive to Tawun Harbor is also about 1.5 hours.
- Boat Rental: Once at Tawun Harbor, you can easily find local boat operators offering trips to Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kendis. The cost for a private boat to visit these three islands typically ranges from IDR 300,000 to IDR 500,000 (prices can vary based on bargaining and season, and can accommodate up to 8 people, making it cost-effective if shared). Many tours will include boat rental in their package.
What to Expect on Gili Kendis: Activities and Facilities
Gili Kendis is largely undeveloped, which is part of its charm. Don’t expect fancy facilities, but embrace the raw natural beauty!
- Opening Hours: The island is open daily, usually visited during daylight hours as part of an island-hopping trip (typically between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM as part of a tour itinerary).
- Entrance Ticket: There isn’t a direct “entrance ticket” booth on Gili Kendis itself. Usually, any nominal fee (around IDR 5,000 to IDR 10,000 if charged) is often included in your boat rental or tour package price, especially when visiting multiple Gilis.
- Facilities:
- You’ll find a tiny hut in the center and some trees providing minimal shade.
- There might be a basic outdoor toilet provided by local boat operators or tour groups, but don’t count on elaborate facilities.
- No shops or restaurants: Remember to bring your own water, snacks, and lunch if you plan to spend significant time here, or arrange for lunch at nearby Gili Sudak, which has local eateries.
- Activities:
- Snorkeling: This is the main highlight! The clear waters and abundant marine life make for an excellent snorkeling experience right off the beach.
- Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the calm, inviting waters.
- Sunbathing & Relaxation: Lay back on the soft white sands and soak up the sun in blissful solitude.
- Photography: Capture the stunning natural landscape and the unique tiny island.
- Walking Across the Island: It’s a fun novelty to say you’ve walked across an entire island in mere seconds!
- Rules:
- Leave No Trace: Please be a responsible traveler and take all your trash with you. There are no waste facilities on the island.
- Respect Marine Life: Do not touch or step on corals. Avoid feeding fish as it can harm the ecosystem.
- Be Mindful of the Sun: The equatorial sun can be intense. Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade when possible.
Best Time to Visit Gili Kendis
The dry season (April to September) is generally the best time to visit Lombok and its Gilis, including Gili Kendis. During these months, you’ll experience sunny days, minimal rainfall, and excellent visibility for snorkeling and swimming. The shoulder seasons (April-June and October-November) can also be good for avoiding peak crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.
A trip to Gili Kendis is an ideal addition to any Lombok itinerary, especially for those seeking a tranquil and intimate encounter with nature. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and truly appreciate the serene beauty of Indonesia’s hidden islands.
Amazing Things to Do at Gili Kendis
Tucked away near Lombok’s coast, Gili Kendis is a tiny, untouched paradise perfect for travelers seeking tranquility away from crowded tourist spots. Whether you’re into snorkeling, beach picnics, or simply soaking up the sun, this hidden gem offers unforgettable experiences. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do at Gili Kendis!
Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Waters
Gili Kendis boasts vibrant coral reefs just a few meters from the shore. Rent snorkeling gear from local vendors and explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and stunning coral formations. The best spots are near the eastern side of the island, where the water is calm and visibility is excellent.
Pro Tip: Bring your own reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life!
Relax on the Secluded White-Sand Beach
Unlike the busier Gili Islands, Gili Kendis offers a peaceful, uncrowded beach with powdery white sand. Unroll your towel, read a book, or take a nap under the shade of palm trees. The lack of large resorts keeps the island blissfully quiet—perfect for a digital detox.
Kayaking Around the Island
Paddle around Gili Kendis in a transparent kayak for a unique perspective of the marine life below. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for beginners. You can rent kayaks from beach operators for IDR 100,000–150,000 per hour.
Ready for Your Next Grand Adventure? Conquer Mount Rinjani!
After soaking up the serene charm of Gili Kendis and the “Secret Gilis,” perhaps you’re yearning for a different kind of adventure – one that challenges you and rewards you with truly spectacular views? If the call of the mountains stirs your soul, then look no further than an expedition to the magnificent Mount Rinjani!
Hiking Mount Rinjani (hikingmountrinjani.com) is the premier service provider dedicated to making your Mount Rinjani dreams a reality. Based right here in Lombok, they understand the mountain inside out and are committed to offering you a safe, unforgettable, and deeply enriching trekking experience.