Crystal-clear waters surrounding Indonesia’s Gili Islands make them perfect for paddle exploration. The three islands – Trawangan, Air, and Meno – offer kayaking and paddleboarding tours lasting 75 minutes to 5.5 hours.
Sea turtle sightings are common, especially during morning paddles. Tours accommodate both solo travelers and groups, with rates beginning at $15 per person.
I especially love the sunrise stand-up paddleboarding tours – they provide peaceful moments before the day’s heat sets in, plus amazing photo opportunities. Early morning paddles also increase your chances of spotting marine life.
Check out these outstanding water adventures that showcase the best of Gili’s aqua playground:
Key Points
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Sunrise paddle boarding and kayaking tours on Gili Islands’ calm waters offer a tranquil experience with potential sea turtle sightings and high customer satisfaction.
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Gili Trawangan Adventure provides stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking tours with turtle hunting, snorkeling, and drone photography at affordable package prices.
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Sunrise turtle spotting tours on stand-up paddle boards are suitable for beginners and include free lessons, with 5/5 ratings from travelers.
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Explore & Snorkel Tours offer various group and private snorkeling excursions around the three Gili Islands at different price points.
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Gili Sunrise Stand-Up Paddle Boarding provides a 75-minute tour with an English-speaking instructor, breathtaking sunrise views, and high-value ratings.
Sunrise Stand-Up Paddle Boarding or Kayaking
Visitors to the Gili Islands can start their day with a tranquil sunrise stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking experience. These peaceful water activities allow travelers to glide across the calm, crystal-clear waters, taking in the breathtaking views as the sun rises over the horizon.
Paddle boarding and kayaking tours typically last around 2-3 hours, with options for private or shared group experiences. Participants can explore the shorelines of the three Gili Islands – Trawangan, Air, and Meno – and potentially spot marine life like sea turtles along the way.
The early morning timing ensures cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, creating an intimate and serene atmosphere.
Prices for these sunrise activities range from approximately 392 to 542 Czech Koruna per person, depending on the duration and whether it’s a private or shared tour. Reviews indicate high customer satisfaction, with ratings of 4.6 to 4.8 out of 5 stars.
This makes the stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking excursions a popular and picturesque way to start the day in the Gili Islands.
Read our full review: Sunrise Stand-Up Paddle Boarding or Kayaking Review
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Gili Trawangan Stand up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking
On Gili Trawangan, visitors can embark on a stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking adventure that promises an immersive encounter with the island’s natural wonders.
The activity lasts 75 minutes to 2 hours and includes turtle hunting and snorkeling around Gili Meno, with the opportunity to view underwater statues. Participants can save up to 10% on the package, which is priced from $19.63 to $17.67 per person.
The experience includes a drone photoshoot, a young coconut after the tour, and a short lesson for beginners. A local guide is provided, and snorkel gear is included.
Lunch at a beachfront restaurant is also part of the package. The meeting point is next to Trawangan Dive or beside Moana Bar on Gili Trawangan.
Guests are advised to bring a camera, breathable clothing, and cash. The activity isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 70 years, and jeans, pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.
Read our full review: Gili Trawangan Stand up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking Review
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Sunrise Stand up Paddle Board and See Turtles
Adventurous travelers can embark on a sunrise stand-up paddle board tour on Gili Trawangan, exploring the island’s serene waters and spotting turtles in their natural habitat. Priced at just $22.90 per person, this activity offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as a reserve now and pay later option.
Designed for both beginners and experienced paddlers, the stand-up paddle boards feature a wide, stable deck and lightweight construction for easy maneuverability. Participants will receive a free lesson, a waterproof bag, and a life jacket, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
However, the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, those with altitude sickness, babies under 1 year, or people over 95 or 70 years.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 5 reviews, this sunrise stand-up paddle board tour is highly recommended by travelers from Australia, the UK, and Malaysia. Participants are advised to bring their camera and waterproof gear to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
Read our full review: Sunrise Stand up Paddle Board and See Turtles Review
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Stand-Up Paddle Boarding or Kayaking
Alternatively, travelers can opt for stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking around the Gili Islands. A popular option is the “Explore & Snorkel Tour 3 Islands with GOPRO”, which lasts 2.5 to 5.5 hours and costs from $14.07 per person. This small-group tour allows visitors to paddle around the three main Gili Islands while taking in the scenic views and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
For a more personalized experience, the “Private Snorkeling Tour 3 Gili Island + GOPRO” offers a 4-hour private tour starting at $45.80 per person. Guests can customize their itinerary and enjoy the convenience of a private group.
Plus, the “Gili Islands Snorkeling Trip with Lunch” is a 9-hour tour that includes a stop for a local lunch, priced at $88.33 per person.
Whether seeking a group adventure or a private excursion, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking provide a unique and immersive way to explore the beautiful Gili Islands.
Read our full review: Stand-Up Paddle Boarding or Kayaking Review
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Gili Sunrise Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (Drone Photoshoot)
The Gili sunrise stand-up paddle boarding experience offers travelers a tranquil and visually captivating way to start their day on the Gili Islands. Priced from $22.90 per person, this 75-minute tour takes paddlers on a journey around the three Gili islands, with a live English-speaking guide leading the way.
The activity is designed to avoid crowds, providing a unique experience without sharing the beach with many travelers. Before setting off, the guide offers a lesson for beginners, ensuring everyone feels comfortable on the water.
Highlights of the tour include breathtaking sunrise views and drone photography, capturing the serene beauty of the surroundings.
With a 4.7/5 overall rating based on 39 reviews, this activity has been praised for its value, transportation, and unforgettable experience. Suitable for all traveler types, the Gili sunrise stand-up paddle boarding is a must-try for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque start to their day in the Gili Islands.
Read our full review: Gili Sunrise Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (Drone Photoshoot) Review
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The Sum Up
The Gili Islands offer a variety of memorable canoe and kayak experiences. Visitors can enjoy serene sunrise stand-up paddle boarding, spot turtles, and capture the islands’ beauty from a unique perspective. Whether you prefer a guided tour or self-guided exploration, the Gili Islands provide ample opportunities to experience the tranquility of the water and witness the stunning natural landscapes.