How to Plan a Multi-Island Trip from Bali

Exploring the Nusa Islands, Lombok, the Gilis, and Beyond

Bali may be Indonesia’s shining star, but it’s only one of more than 17,000 islands that make up the country’s vast archipelago. Just a short boat ride away lie worlds of coral reefs, volcanic peaks, and quiet fishing villages — each with its own rhythm, culture, and magic.

If you’re ready to venture beyond Bali, here’s how to plan a multi-island adventure — from the Nusa Islands and Lombok to the Gilis and even Komodo — complete with routes, transport tips, and what makes each stop special.

Why Island-Hop from Bali?

Bali sits at the heart of Indonesia’s island network, perfectly positioned for exploration. The neighboring islands are close enough for quick transfers yet different enough to feel like brand-new worlds. Whether you’re drawn to surf breaks, volcano treks, coral reefs, or quiet beaches, each island has its own signature experience waiting.

  1. The Nusa Islands – Bali’s Close Neighbors

Just 30–45 minutes by boat from Sanur, the Nusa trio — Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida — offer a taste of island life without straying far.

Nusa Lembongan

Vibe: Laid-back and beachy.
Highlights: Dream Beach, Devil’s Tear, mangrove kayaking.
Stay: Beachfront bungalows or boutique resorts near Jungut Batu.

Nusa Ceningan

Vibe: Tiny, tranquil, and perfect for sunset drinks.
Highlights: Blue Lagoon, cliff bars, and the iconic yellow bridge linking it to Lembongan.
Stay: Family-run guesthouses with ocean views.

Nusa Penida

Vibe: Wild, rugged, and dramatic.
Highlights: Kelingking Beach’s “T-Rex” cliffs, Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay diving.
Tip: Roads are rough — hire a driver or ride carefully if on a scooter.

Getting there:
Fast boats depart daily from Sanur. You can cross between the three islands via local boats or the bridge between Lembongan and Ceningan.

  1. Lombok – Bali’s Quieter Cousin

Just east of Bali, Lombok offers an entirely different pace — with raw natural beauty, surf towns, and the looming presence of Mount Rinjani. It’s less developed but rich in Sasak culture and warm hospitality.

Why go: Trade Bali’s buzz for tranquility, and temples for mountains.
Highlights:

  • Mount Rinjani: Indonesia’s second-highest volcano — a challenging but breathtaking trek.
  • Kuta Lombok: A chilled surf town with beaches like Tanjung Aan and Mawun.
  • Senggigi: A scenic base for exploring the Gilis.

Getting there:

  • By fast boat: 1.5–2.5 hours from Padangbai (East Bali).
  • By flight: 30 minutes from Denpasar to Lombok International Airport.

Stay: Boutique eco-resorts around Kuta or local homestays near Rinjani.

  1. The Gili Islands – Small, Sunny, and Car-Free

Just off Lombok’s northwest coast, the Gili Islands — Trawangan, Air, and Meno — are car-free oases of white sand and turquoise water.

Gili Trawangan (Gili T)

Vibe: Lively and social.
Highlights: Sunset swings, beach bars, diving with turtles.

Gili Air

Vibe: Balanced — relaxed but with enough buzz.
Highlights: Coral gardens, yoga classes, beach cafés.

Gili Meno

Vibe: Quiet and romantic.
Highlights: Peaceful beaches and clear-water snorkeling.

Getting there:
Fast boats run from Bali (Padangbai or Serangan) or from Lombok’s Bangsal Harbor — just 15–30 minutes away.

  1. Going Further: Flores and Komodo

For travelers craving wilder horizons, head east to Flores — gateway to Komodo National Park, where dragons roam and pink-sand beaches shimmer.

Getting there:

  • By flight: Bali to Labuan Bajo (1 hour).
  • By sea: Multi-day liveaboard trips from Lombok for true adventurers.

Highlights:

  • See Komodo dragons on Komodo and Rinca Islands.
  • Hike to Padar Island for one of Indonesia’s most iconic viewpoints.
  • Snorkel the coral triangle, teeming with manta rays and reef fish.

Tips for Planning a Multi-Island Trip from Bali

  •  Pack light: You’ll often wade to shore during boat transfers.
  •  Book fast boats early: Especially during July–September.
  •  Plan buffer days: Weather can delay crossings.
  •  Bring cash: Many smaller islands have limited ATMs.
  •  Stay flexible: Some of the best spots aren’t on any itinerary.

Sample Itinerary (10–14 Days)

Days 1–3: Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan – beaches and snorkeling.
Days 4–6: Nusa Penida – cliffs and diving.
Days 7–10: Lombok – surf, waterfalls, and Rinjani hikes.
Days 11–13: Gili Islands – snorkeling and relaxation.
Day 14: Return to Bali via fast boat or short flight.

Final Thoughts

Island-hopping from Bali is one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding adventures. The Nusas offer drama and cliffs, Lombok brings serenity and surf, the Gilis shimmer with coral reefs, and Komodo feels like another world entirely.

With a bit of planning and a spirit of exploration, your Bali trip can become a journey across islands, cultures, and unforgettable horizons.