The hype
Travelers universally adore the staff and the private pool breakfast, calling it a 'dream' stay.
Anahata - Tropical Private Villas
$120-200/ night
Book this if You want a private pool sanctuary that feels like a secret garden, far from the party crowd but close enough to bike to sunset.
Why People Love It
- Private plunge pools in every villa that are actually clean
- Breakfast served on your private terrace is consistently rated 'best on the island'
- Baba and the staff treat you like family, not just room numbers
Quick Take: A serene, eco-chic hideaway that nails the 'tropical romance' vibe, provided you can sleep through the 4 AM mosque prayers.
Reviewed by @dalestravelguides: I found this hidden gem on Gili Air and it was exactly the escape I needed. Waking up to a floating breakfast in my private pool and ending the day in a silk kimono felt so luxurious. It’s the perfect mix of jungle vibes and beach life.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'free bikes' are a nice perk but often have dodgy brakes or flat tires—check them before you ride.
- You crave privacy and want to skinny dip in your own plunge pool
- You are a vegetarian or love fresh, healthy breakfasts (vegan options are excellent)
- You want a boutique, personal experience rather than a faceless resort
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Daily cleaning is thorough; guests consistently mention the pool is kept free of leaves and debris.
- Bathroom hygiene: Outdoor bathrooms are kept surprisingly spotless, though nature (ants/geckos) is always nearby.
- Maintenance: Villas are relatively new and well-maintained; AC works well, though 'paper thin walls' are a structural reality.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and clean, though one review noted 'yellow pillowcases' in the past. Generally high quality.
- Odors & scents: Fresh tropical air; no complaints of mustiness, just the occasional whiff of burning leaves from neighbors.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Mosque call to prayer (very early morning)
- Roosters
- Thin walls between villas
Before you book
Good to know
- There are no cars on Gili Air; you arrive by horse cart (cidomo) or walking.
- The pool is a plunge pool—great for cooling off, too small for laps.
- Power cuts happen on the island; bring a power bank just in case.
What to pack
- Headlamp or flashlight (crucial for the walk back from dinner)
- High-quality earplugs (better than the foam ones provided)
- Mosque-appropriate cover-up if you plan to walk near the village center
Room Genie
Best picks
- 1-Bedroom Villa: Perfect for couples, offers the most privacy and romance.
Rooms to avoid
- Family Villa (2-Bedroom): Avoid if you value bathroom privacy, as the single bathroom is shared between both bedrooms.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi Baba, we are so excited to stay! If possible, could we please request a villa furthest from the road for maximum quiet? We also love the vegetarian breakfast options.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool actually private?
Yes, it's a private plunge pool within your walled garden, though noise travels over the walls.
How far is the beach?
About a 7-8 minute walk or a 3-minute bike ride to the nearest beach.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes, the bedrooms have AC, which is essential for the tropical heat.
Do they serve alcohol?
They have a minibar, but this is more of a 'breakfast and chill' place; plenty of bars are a short walk away.
Can I pay with a credit card?
Yes, but expect an extra fee (usually 3%). Cash (IDR) is preferred.
Is it suitable for digital nomads?
Wifi is generally good, but the lack of a proper desk and potential power cuts might make it tricky for serious work.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask Baba to organize a snorkeling trip; his local connections often get you better rates and guides.
- ✨
The 'Family Villa' and one of the 1-bedroom villas can be connected via a garden door for larger groups.
- ✨
Don't rely on the in-room safe for super high-value items; it's a standard small hotel safe.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'wardrobe' space is very limited; you might be living out of your suitcase.
💡The outdoor bathrooms are beautiful but mean you might meet a gecko while brushing your teeth.
💡The path to the hotel turns into a mud pit after heavy rain.
💡There are no TVs in the rooms—bring a tablet if you need Netflix.
💡The 'kitchen' in the villa is more of a coffee/tea station than a place to cook meals.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Anahata - Tropical Private Villas is located and what's nearby.