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The Ultimate Guide: How to See Turtles on Gili Air

Writer's picture: Gili Air Gili Air

If you're visiting Gili Air, you will get views from this beautiful island in the Gili Islands. Gili Islands is home to an incredible marine ecosystem, including the famous Gili Air turtles. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Gili Air is one of the best places to have a magic experience swimming with turtles. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to spot Gili Air turtles and make the most of your underwater adventure.


Turtle Gili Air
Sea Turtle

How to Finding Turtles on Gili Air 

Many visitors come to Gili Air specifically to see these incredible creatures, especially its most beloved inhabitants sea turtles. There are various ways to find turtles on Gili Air. Here’s everything you need to know for the best turtle-spotting experience.


  1. Swimming For Turtles on Gili Air 

    For those on a budget, finding turtles on Gili Air can be as simple as a swim. Head to the north-east side of the island, where the waters are calm and turtles are often seen swimming near the shore. By swimming around 10 meters from the beach, you may be lucky enough to encounter a turtle. This option is perfect if you enjoy a casual swim and want to spot turtles without need for any tours or equipment.


  2. Snorkeling Tours: The Best Way to See Turtles on Gili Air

    If you're looking for a more reliable way to see turtles on Gili Air, joining a snorkeling tour is highly recommended. These tours usually take you to the best turtle spots around the Gili Islands, including Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. The captain of the boat will drop you off at prime snorkeling locations, where you’ll be able to see turtles up close in their natural habitat and bring you to Turtles Sanitary at Gili Meno. Snorkeling tours are a great choice for those who want an easy and guided way to find turtles.

    turtle gili air
    Snorkeling With Turtle on Gili Air

  3. Diving to See More Turtles on Gili Air

    For diving enthusiasts, Gili Air offers some of the best diving spots where you can see sea turtles in their natural underwater environment. Diving provides a unique opportunity to get a closer look at turtles of all sizes and witness the rich underwater ecosystems surrounding Gili Air. If you love exploring the depths, diving on Gili Air will surely offer unforgettable encounters with these majestic creatures.

    Turtle Gili Air
    Diving With Turtle on Gili Air

Where The Best Spot to See Turtles on Gili Air

Gili Air is home to several prime turtle-spotting locations. Here are the top spots where you’re most likely to see turtles:


  1. Turtles Point (North-East of Gili Air):

    This is one of the best spots for turtle sightings, especially if you prefer staying close to the beach. The area around Sandy Beach Turtles Point on the northeast side of the island is known for frequent turtle activity. You can often spot turtles swimming close to the shore.

    TURTLES GILI AIR

  2. Turtles Reef on Gili Islands

    Located a bit further from the shore, Turtle Reef is one of the best spots to visit on a snorkeling tour. You don’t need to swim too deep to spot turtles here, as they often come close to the surface. This location is popular among snorkelers due to its high turtle population and the vibrant coral reefs.


  3. Turtle Sanctuary Gili Meno

    Located on Gili Meno the best place to see baby turtles! When you take a snorkeling tour you're not only stop on turtles reef on the sea but the captain would be take you to Gili Meno to see Turtle Sanctuary.

    Turtle Gili Air
    Baby Turtle on Gili Meno
  4. Marlin Hills Diving Spot around Gili Islands

    Known as Turtle Heaven, Marlin Hills is one of the best diving spots on Gili Air. It's famous for its diverse marine life, and sea turtles are a regular sight here. Diving enthusiasts will also enjoy the stunning underwater landscapes, with colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish.


Best Time to See Turtles on Gili Air

To increase your chances of spotting turtles on Gili Air, it’s important to consider the best times of day to go out. The best time to see turtles on Gili Air is generally during the morning or late afternoon. Here’s why:


  • Morning Time:

    The waters tend to be calmer in the morning, which leads to better visibility for spotting turtles. The water is often clearer, and turtles are more likely to be swimming near the surface. Plus, early mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful and serene experience.

  • Late Afternoon:

    As the sun begins to set, the water may quiet down, with fewer boats and tourists in the area. Turtles can often be more active at this time, as they venture closer to the surface in search of food. It’s an excellent time to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.


Whether you're swimming close to the shore, joining a snorkeling tour, or diving into the depths of the sea, Gili Air offers multiple ways to encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat. The island’s calm waters, stunning coral reefs, and rich marine ecosystems make it an ideal destination for turtle enthusiasts. To maximize your chances of seeing turtles, visit during the morning or late afternoon when the waters are calm and the turtles are more active.

By following the tips and exploring the best spots on Gili Air, you’ll be able to create unforgettable memories of swimming alongside these majestic creatures. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of turtles on Gili Air!







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