Lombok: Gili Kedis-Nanggu Underwater Mini-Island Tour

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience the tranquil side of Lombok, the Gili Kedis-Nanggu Underwater Mini-Island Tour offers a perfect slice of paradise. This 10-hour journey takes you through three secluded Gilis in Sekotong, where the emphasis is on authentic coastal life, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful beaches.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the opportunity to snorkel in waters teeming with colorful coral and fish, away from busy tourist spots. Second, the chance to enjoy a fresh seafood lunch on Gili Sudak feels like a genuine local treat. Lastly, the opportunity to observe traditional fishing scenes gives a meaningful cultural touch.

However, a potential consideration is the early pickup times and a full day of activity—so it’s not ideal if you prefer leisurely mornings. This tour suits travelers eager for authentic experiences, nature lovers, and those wanting a break from the crowded islands to enjoy Lombok’s quieter coastlines.

Key Points

• Authentic Coastal Experience: You’ll get a genuine glimpse into local fishing life and tradition.
• Ideal for Snorkeling: Clear, calm waters with vibrant coral reefs make for a memorable underwater adventure.
• Peaceful Islands: Quiet beaches on Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis offer serene spots away from travelers.
• Includes Fresh Seafood: Gili Sudak provides a delicious, freshly prepared seafood lunch.
• Private Group Experience: Small, private groups ensure personalized attention and flexibility.
• Beautiful Scenic Journey: The boat ride through quiet villages and coconut groves adds to the adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Land to Sea

The day begins with a pickup from one of seven convenient locations such as Kuta, Senggigi, or Bangsal Port—making it flexible regardless of where you’re staying. The journey through Lombok’s lush rural landscapes, coconut groves, and traditional villages sets the tone for a peaceful escape. You’ll notice that the tour is well-organized, with a focus on comfort and authenticity.

Once at Sekotong harbor, you’ll board a private wooden boat—an ideal setup for a small group or private adventure. The boat itself is sturdy and traditional, adding charm and a sense of connection to the local way of life. The ride through turquoise waters offers stunning views of small fishing villages, quiet coastline, and distant hills—an underrated part of the experience that showcases Lombok’s quiet beauty.

Gili Nanggu: The First Stop

Gili Nanggu is renowned for its peaceful vibe and picturesque scenery. The calm waters and soft sandy beaches make it a perfect spot to start your snorkeling adventure. The reef here is vibrant, filled with colorful coral and small tropical fish, which many reviewers mention as a highlight. One user noted, “We loved the way the coral and fish teemed in such clear waters—truly a picture-perfect snorkeling spot.”

Here, snorkeling lasts around two hours, giving you ample time to explore at your own pace. The shallow waters make it ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, and the tranquil environment encourages relaxation. During reviews, some travelers appreciated the guidance from tour guides, who pointed out interesting fish and coral formations.

Gili Sudak: A Culinary and Cultural Highlight

Next on the itinerary is Gili Sudak, a quiet island with a true local feel. The highlight here is the seafood lunch served directly on the beach—fresh, simple, and satisfying. One reviewer described the meal as “a delicious, authentic seafood experience with the sound of waves in the background,” which definitely adds to the laid-back island vibe.

Along With eating, you’ll have free time to walk along the soft white sands, take photos, or relax under the shade of palm trees. The surrounding fishing boats and occasional local activities give an authentic glimpse into the everyday lives of Lombok’s coastal communities. Some visitors noted the charm of observing local fishermen casting their nets, which adds a cultural layer to the day.

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Gili Kedis: The Heart-Shaped Island

The final stop is Gili Kedis, a tiny, heart-shaped island often called a private paradise. Here, the shallow turquoise waters and natural light create perfect conditions for relaxing or capturing memorable photos. Reviewers love this island for its postcard-perfect scenery and the feeling of being in a secluded haven. Expect to spend roughly two hours here, with optional activities like walking, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.

Many describe Gili Kedis as the “highlight” of the trip because of its serene atmosphere and panoramic ocean views. The shallow waters make swimming and snorkeling easy for all skill levels. The island’s intimate size makes it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or snapping that perfect Instagram shot.

Return Journey and Cultural Moments

On the way back, you might catch sight of local fishermen casting their nets along the shoreline—an authentic and peaceful scene reinforcing the true local essence of this experience. The boat ride back offers a relaxed end to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural insights.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Timing

The tour begins with pickups from seven different locations, offering flexibility. The full day lasts around 10 hours, making it a comprehensive escape but also requiring some energy. The early start (usually around 7 am) ensures you make the most of daylight hours for snorkeling and exploration.

Group Size and Guides

Operated as a private group, the tour promises a more personalized experience. The guides speak both English and Indonesian, and their knowledge enhances the journey—pointing out interesting sights and explaining local fishing practices, which reviewers found engaging and authentic.

Cost and Value

At a full-day price, this tour offers solid value by combining sightseeing, cultural exposure, snorkeling, and a delicious seafood lunch—all without feeling rushed. The small group or private setup means you’ll get tailored attention, which many travelers appreciate. Compare this to similar experiences that often focus solely on snorkeling, this one merges nature with local culture, giving it extra depth.

What to Bring and Considerations

Be sure to pack essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s also wise to carry some cash for personal expenses or souvenirs. The tour explicitly advises against alcohol, drugs, and littering, emphasizing respect for the environment and local community.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who seek more than just island-hopping—they want an authentic taste of Lombok’s coastal culture, combined with beautiful snorkeling spots and peaceful beaches. It’s ideal for nature lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a quieter, more local side of Indonesia away from popular tourist traps.

It’s less suited for pregnant women or those over 95, mainly due to the physical nature of boat rides and walking on islands. The early start and full-day schedule also mean it’s better suited for travelers comfortable with a busy, active day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners in snorkeling?
Yes, the shallow waters around Gili Nanggu are perfect for beginners, and guides are available to assist. The tour emphasizes calm, clear waters, making it accessible for all levels.

What is included in the seafood lunch on Gili Sudak?
The tour includes a fresh seafood lunch served on the beach, giving you a taste of authentic local flavors with dishes possibly featuring grilled fish and other seafood.

How long is each snorkeling session?
Snorkeling at each site generally lasts about two hours, providing enough time to explore the reefs and enjoy the underwater scenery.

Are there opportunities for photography?
Absolutely, especially at Gili Kedis and Gili Nanggu. The islands’ stunning scenery and shallow waters offer great photo opportunities, so bring your camera or phone.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a private wooden boat, which adds to the authentic experience. The boat ride offers scenic views of Lombok’s coastline and fishing villages.

Is the tour customizable?
Being a private group, guides are flexible and can accommodate your pace and interests, whether that’s more snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, or taking photos.

Final Thoughts

The Gili Kedis-Nanggu Underwater Mini-Island Tour offers an authentic slice of Lombok’s quieter, coastal lifestyle. It combines snorkeling, cultural observation, and peaceful beaches into an accessible, well-organized day trip. Perfect for those who want to explore beyond the busy tourist spots, this tour delivers both natural beauty and cultural insight in a compact package.

Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to see vibrant coral reefs, a foodie looking for fresh seafood, or a traveler craving genuine local experiences, this tour hits all those marks. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable, enriching adventure—one that leaves you with beautiful memories and perhaps a little more understanding of Lombok’s coastal life.

In summary, if you value quiet beaches, authentic cultural scenes, and underwater beauty—all in a manageable day—this tour is a fantastic choice. Just prepare for an early start and pack your essentials to make the most of this peaceful, scenic journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: