Gili Asahan Eco Lodge & Restaurant

Gili Asahan is one of the least populated of the secret Gilis, and this eco lodge has been the main reason visitors make the trip for more than 15 years. It is a barefoot, back-to-nature place, run on solar power, where days revolve around the sea and evenings end around a bonfire on the beach.

Accommodation ranges from simple thatched bales and jungle huts to sea-view bungalows, a two-storey lumbung and a family cottage sleeping five. The Nautilus restaurant serves fresh seafood with an Italian touch. Activities include snorkelling on the house reef, diving with partner operators, yoga in a dedicated yoga house, massages, kayaking and even horse walks along the shore. The lodge rates 4.7 on Google from over 400 reviews.

Reach it by fast boat from Bali or by road to the Tembowong area followed by a short boat crossing; the lodge explains both routes on its website. Bring cash, expect limited connectivity and book ahead in July and August.