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Where to See Sea Turtles in the Gili Islands (Complete Guide)
The Gili Islands are one of Indonesia’s most loved beach destinations, and for good reason. These small islands have no cars, clear blue water, soft white sand, coral reefs full of turtles and sunsets that look like something from a postcard. Each island has its own personality, but all three share the same laid-back charm that makes travelers stay longer than planned.
If you’re heading to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air or Gili Meno in 2025, this guide covers the best things to do on all three islands, from underwater adventures to slow mornings on the beach.
Why Turtles Love The Gili Islands?
The waters around the Gili Islands host two main species: Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles. These species are protected in Indonesia, and the Gilis, in particular, have become a safe haven thanks to favorable conditions.
- Warm, shallow tropical water: Turtles prefer steady temperatures and easy access to the surface.
- Sea grass beds: Green Sea Turtles feed mostly on sea grass, which grows abundantly near Gili Air and Gili Meno.
- Coral reefs: Hawksbill Turtles rely on coral ecosystems for food and shelter.
- Limited boat traffic: Motorized vehicles are banned on land, and marine traffic is restricted compared to Bali or Nusa Penida.
- Conservation efforts: Turtle hatcheries on Gili Trawangan help maintain population stability.
Because of this, it’s common to see turtles even while paddle boarding or sitting on a beachfront café.
1. Turtle Point Gili Trawangan
Turtle Point is the most famous snorkeling area on Gili Meno and arguably the easiest place in the entire archipelago to see turtles. It’s located along the northeastern coastline and is popular because the water here is shallow, calm, and extremely clear on most days.
Conditions you can expect:
- Depth ranges from 1 to 4 meters
- Turtles often rest on sandy patches
- Good visibility, especially in the morning
- Gentle currents compared to the west side of the island
- Both beginners and strong swimmers enjoy this spot
While Turtle Point can get busy during peak hours, the turtles don’t seem bothered. They are used to swimmers and often swim close to the surface, giving visitors a close but peaceful encounter.
Tip: Swim farther out, past where the crowds usually stay. You’ll find deeper, quieter areas where turtles feed undisturbed.
2. Turtle Point Gili Meno
If you’re looking for a more dramatic underwater landscape, Turtle Heaven on Gili Meno is the place. Located slightly northeast of the island, this spot offers a combination of sandy bottom, coral slopes, and deeper blue water. It’s known for larger turtles and occasional groups of turtles resting together.
Turtle Heaven is also close to the famous Gili Meno underwater statues, which makes it easy to combine both attractions in one trip.
Why Turtle Heaven stands out:
- Consistent turtle activity
- Clear visibility in various depths
- Quieter and less crowded
- Ideal for underwater photography
- Suitable for beginners with a life jacket or guide
Because Gili Meno is quieter than Gili Trawangan, the overall experience feels more calm and natural.
3. East Coast of Gili Air
Gili Air offers a softer, slower-paced snorkeling experience. The east side of the island is full of sea grass, beds turtle feeding grounds which means turtles often spend more time here compared to Gili T.
Best time to visit Gili Air for turtle sightings:
- Before 10 AM when the sun angle improves visibility
- Just before sunset when turtles sometimes come to feed near shore
- On calm days with minimal wind
Gili Air is also great for kids and beginners because the entry is gentle, and many turtles hang around shallow areas.
Best Time to See Turtle in Gili Islands
Time of day matters more than season. Turtles are active year-round, but your overall experience improves depending on the conditions.
Best time of day:
- 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM for calm water and excellent visibility
- Late afternoon for surface sightings
- Midday can be good if the water remains clear, but sun glare is stronger
Best time of year:
Turtles are present all year. However, visibility peaks during the dry season from April to November.
Even during rainy season, calm mornings still offer great sightings.
Read our blog about What is The Best Time of Year to Snorkel in The Gili Islands
What It Feels Like to Snorkel with Turtles?
The underwater world around the Gilis is peaceful. When you spot a turtle, there’s a sense of stillness that immediately takes over. The turtles move slowly, only flapping their flippers occasionally, almost like they’re floating rather than swimming.
Many travelers describe the experience as:
- Calming
- Meditative
- Surreal
- Something that doesn’t feel “real life”
- A highlight of their entire trip to Indonesia
If you float quietly, turtles often come quite close. They occasionally rise to the surface for air, giving you a chance to admire them up close. These gentle creatures don’t show fear unless swimmers get too close or chase them.
Responsible Turtles Encounters
Turtles are protected species. While the Gilis allow easy access to them, it’s important to interact respectfully.
Essential guidelines:
- Keep a 2–3 meter distance
- Never touch or chase turtles
- Do not block their path as they rise for air
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Do not stand on coral (it’s alive)
- Avoid swimming directly above resting turtles
- Listen to your guide’s instructions
- Keep fins away from coral to avoid accidental damage
Following these rules ensures turtles stay healthy and the ecosystem remains intact for future visitors.
Do You Need a Snorkeling Tour?
You can see turtles without a tour, especially on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. However, joining a guided snorkeling trip increases your chances significantly and helps you access deeper, quieter spots that aren’t reachable from shore.
Advantages of joining a tour:
- Guides know the turtle locations for that specific day
- Safety briefing and assistance for beginners
- Life jackets and buoyancy aids provided
- Visits to multiple spots including statues, reefs, and feeding grounds
- Option for underwater photos
- Chance to avoid strong currents and busy areas
Private tours are excellent for families, couples, and beginners. Shared group tours are affordable, social, and fun.
Which Islands Is Best for Seeing Turtles
Each of the three main Gili Islands offers something different.
- Gili Trawangan: Best for first-timers. Lots of turtles close to the shore.
- Gili Meno: Best for photography and scenic underwater landscapes.
- Gili Air: Best for peaceful, relaxed encounters with fewer crowds.
If your main goal is turtles, consider joining a snorkeling trip that visits all three islands. This ensures you cover feeding grounds, reef zones, and resting areas in one outing.
Can You Guarantee Seeing Turtles
On most days, yes. Turtle sightings in the Gilis are extremely reliable. Many group trips report three to five turtles spotted in a single session. Private trips often see even more because guides can explore additional spots.
Most visitors see turtles on their first snorkeling day.
How to Prepare For a Snorkeling Trips
To make your trip enjoyable, here are simple preparation tips:
- Bring a rash guard instead of using sunscreen
- Bring a dry bag for your belongings
- Wear comfortable swimwear
- Use anti-fog spray on your mask (or toothpaste in a pinch)
- Bring water, the sun can be strong
- Listen to your guide’s safety instructions
- Practice breathing with your mask before getting in the water
If you’re not a strong swimmer, ask for a life jacket or use a float. Most tours provide both.
Summary
Best Places to See Turtle in Gili Islands
- Gili Trawangan: Turtle Point
- Gili Meno: Turtle Heaven and underwater statues
- Gili Air: East coast and sea grass feeding areas
- Best time: 8 AM–11 AM, April–November
- Best method: Guided snorkeling tour
The Gilis are one of the few places in the world where turtles feel almost guaranteed. Whether you snorkel right from the beach or join a boat tour, the experience is unforgettable.
Swimming with sea turtles in the Gili Islands is one of those travel moments that stays with you. The warm ocean, the slow movements of the turtles, and the silence beneath the surface create an experience that’s peaceful, memorable, and deeply human. These islands are more than a travel destination, they’re a natural sanctuary where marine life continues to thrive.
If snorkeling with turtles has been on your bucket list, the Gilis are one of the best places in the world to make it happen.
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