Tour or independent?
Independent travel is possible with a driver, but negotiating boats and finding the islands takes time. A tour bundles transport, boat, snorkel gear and lunch, and is usually the efficient choice for a single day.
What to bring
Sunscreen, hat, plenty of water, snacks, cash in small notes, snorkel gear (if not included) and something to cover up for the villages.
Food
Fishing villages have simple warungs serving grilled fish and rice. Many tours provide a picnic lunch on a beach.
Respect and conservation
Don’t collect coral, shells or pink sand, and avoid standing on reefs. In Tanjung Luar you may see shark and ray products at the fish market; you can choose not to buy them.
Sample plans
Pink Beach day
Leave Kuta at about 7 am, boat from Tanjung Luar to two small islands for snorkelling, lunch and swimming at Pink Beach, back by late afternoon.
North-east islands day
From Sembalun or Tetebatu, drive to the east coast, take a boat to Gili Kondo, Gili Kapal and the mangroves of Gili Petagan.
Two days
Combine both, sleeping at a homestay or lodge in the east, or as part of a loop through Sembalun.
