After the chaos of last night’s delay, we finally stumbled into our hotel at 4 AM. Because we’d already booked it, the seven-hour flight delay didn’t actually impact us one small win after a long, brutal day. The staff kindly pushed checkout to midday, so we scurried to the room, drew the curtains, and collapsed. Everyone was out cold until 11:15 AM.

It wasn’t glamorous, but it was survival.

By lunchtime we were back at the airport, patched together with caffeine and snacks. Another flight, another round of shuffling bags, and at 7 PM we touched down in Lombok tired, yes, but relieved. A long couple of days that ended with the promise of proper rest and some island R&R.

Why Buffer Days Are Worth It

This trip has already proved the value of building in extra days between flights. Twice now, those buffers have saved us from complete chaos, back at the start…

Peru rerouting via Chile. Peru Nightmare

Iberia’s cancellation meant we spent seven hours waiting for a broken plane they never managed to fix, before finally giving up. Alis determination got us on a flight rerouting through Chile but chewed up around 75% of our three-day buffer in Spain, others had to wait 5day!

The buffer meant we still made our onward flight to Japan. Without it, we’d have been stuck booking new flights.

Borneo tyre blowout – when the wheel literally came off on landing.

The airline spent seven hours trying (and failing) to fix the plane before a replacement wheel was flown in. Many people had tight two-hour connections and missed them all and were very angry! While we were calm as we had 24 hours to spare and carried onwards without a hitch.

The lesson? Expect the unexpected. Airlines won’t always save you but your own buffers will.

The Reset Plan

Day 1: Do as little as possible. Pool, beach, and naps — nothing more. Day 2: Ease in with short outings around Senggigi instead of rushing off. Day 3: Then, and only then, start exploring the island properly.

Sometimes the best travel strategy isn’t about how much you see, but how much you allow yourself to stop.

Travel Tip & CTA

Travel with kids isn’t just about destinations — it’s about pacing. Build recovery days (buffer days) into your plans, because even paradise won’t feel like paradise if you’re shattered.

Want more tips for surviving long-haul family travel? Check out my Travel Tips page for parent-tested advice. And if you’ve ever been saved by a buffer day, I’d love to hear your story — drop it in the comments!

FAQs & Tips for Tired Travellers

Q: Should you book a hotel when you land in the middle of the night?

A: Yes — even if it feels like a waste of money. That 4 AM bed is worth ten times the cost.

Q: How do you keep kids from melting down after back-to-back flights?

A: Routine comforts help — familiar snacks, bedtime stories, and quiet time on tablets. Sleep will follow.

Q: Is it better to push on or pause after a rough travel day?

A: Pause. You’ll enjoy the trip more if you let everyone recharge.

Q: What’s the one thing you’d do differently next time?

A: Always keep an “arrival survival kit” in carry-on: snacks, wipes, chargers, change of clothes — and most importantly, plan buffer days for when things go wrong.

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Some days on the road just hit that sweet spot great food, happy kids, and a story you’ll be telling for years. Our day at Verve Beach Club was exactly that.

Lunch With a View

We kicked things off with a feast. Ali dived into a curry that had just the right kick, I wrestled with a massive chicken wrap (and won), Georgia and Dotty tucked into pasta, and we all shared pizza slices in between. Coffee followed, because what’s a beach club afternoon without a caffeine top-up?

Pools, Waves, and Endless Energy

The girls bounced between the pool and the sea, somehow finding energy reserves that grown-ups can only dream of. Watching them swim with big grins plastered across their faces is what these travel days are all about.

The Beach Seller Saga

No beach story is complete without an encounter with a persistent seller. Ours turned legendary. A bloke wandered over, loaded with T-shirts, and just wouldn’t leave me be. Finally, I said I’d buy onebut only if he gave me the shirt off his back and wore the new one himself.

He looked utterly baffled. First, he said no. So I shrugged and said, “No worries, then I won’t buy it.” Next thing you know, he’s peeling off his worn, torn shirt, he then stops and asks if I’m serious, when I said yes he whipped it off and handed it over. Deal done. I’ve now got one of the most unique “souvenirs” of our trip the actual torn shirt he was wearing.

If he was running a scam I’ve guaranteed he can’t resell that one. And if not? Well, I still scored a story better than any T-shirt.

Sweet Ending, Small Bill

We rounded things off with desserts and a couple more drinks, the kind of relaxed end you dream about on a family beach day. When the bill landed, it came to around £30 for everything. Pool, sea, lunch, desserts, laughs, and a souvenir shirt you can’t argue with that.

Takeaway for fellow travellers:

Beach clubs like Verve offer more than a poolside seat; they give families space to relax while kids burn off energy. And sometimes, if you play your cards right, you’ll come away with a story worth far more than the bill.

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Looking for a family day in Lombok that mixes wildlife, culture, jungle trekking, and waterfalls? We found the perfect one. From feeding cheeky monkeys to exploring the island’s oldest mosque, then wading through rivers to reach epic waterfalls — this was a day that tested us, thrilled us, and left us grinning like mad.

Our Day Trip

We set off from Senggigi in the morning and drove north, weaving through rice paddies and villages until we found our first surprise: a troop of playful monkeys. These weren’t the usual grabby types you sometimes meet — they were gentle and curious. Georgia and Dotty were wide-eyed as one hopped up and gently took food straight from Ali’s hand, clinging onto her shorts while Dotty giggled from the carrier. It felt like something out of The Jungle Book and set the tone for the day perfectly.

Next stop was the Bayan Beleq Mosque — the oldest mosque in Lombok, built centuries ago from bamboo, stone, and thatch. It’s not just a building; it’s a living piece of Sasak history. We wandered through the sacred grounds, peeking into small bamboo shrines that protect the graves (makam) of early religious leaders. The mix of tradition, spirituality, and simplicity was humbling.

By the time we got to Pondok Senaru for lunch, we were hot, sweaty, and ready to eat. The food was simple but tasty, and the view from the café was unreal — a sweeping jungle valley with waterfalls in the distance.

The Waterfall Adventure

Bellies full, we set off on the waterfall trail.

Sendang Gile came first. Just a short walk down stone steps brought us to a roaring sheet of water crashing into rocks below. We posed on the big boulders for family photos while the spray cooled us off — a nice warm-up for what was coming next.

Then it was on to Tiu Kelep, the big one. The trek deeper into the forest meant scrambling over stones, ducking under branches, and finally wading knee-deep through a cold, fast-flowing stream. Ali carried Dotty on her back like a hero, while Georgia powered through, shoes soaked but grinning. I brought up the rear, laughing at how the spray was already soaking us before we even reached the falls.

And then — there it was. Tiu Kelep Waterfall in full force, a towering cascade surrounded by lush green walls. The sound was deafening, the mist refreshing, and the view unforgettable. We stood there drenched and buzzing, snapping photos to try and capture the magic.

The walk back was quieter — tired legs, wet clothes, and big smiles. A proper adventure.

Why We Loved It

Wild start: Feeding monkeys set the day off with laughter. Cultural kick: Visiting the oldest mosque in Lombok grounded the trip in history. Natural drama: Two waterfalls in one trek — one easy, one epic. Family teamwork: From river crossings to posed photos, it was an adventure we all shared. Weather win: The sun stayed out just enough without cooking us.

Tips for Families

Wear shoes you’re happy to get wet and muddy. Bring spare clothes — the spray from Tiu Kelep will soak you. For little ones: a carrier or wrap is a lifesaver (Ali swears by it after carrying Dotty across the river). Keep snacks and water handy — it’s a sweaty hike. Best lunch stop? Pondok Senaru for views and good food.

FAQ

How hard is the hike?

Sendang Gile is easy. Tiu Kelep involves scrambling and a river crossing — fine if you’re reasonably fit, but expect to get wet.

Can kids manage it?

Yes, with help. Georgia (8) handled most of it, while Dotty (5) needed carrying for the river section and some of the steps.

How long does it take?

From Senggigi, allow a full day. The monkeys + mosque + lunch + both waterfalls = around 7–8 hours total.

Do we need a guide?

Not strictly, but local guides know the safest river crossings we don’t bother though and it was obvious where to go.

Cost?

Entry is just a few pounds. Guides usually charge extra but it supports the community so up to you if you take one.

Lunch at Pondok Senaru was very affordable £14 for 5 drinks and 4 meals!.

Final Thoughts

This day trip gave us a taste of everything Lombok does best: cheeky wildlife, deep culture, lush jungle, and waterfalls straight out of a movie. If you’re travelling with kids, it’s a challenge in all the right ways and one you’ll be talking about long after the backpacks are dry.

Planning a trip to Lombok? Check out our Travel Tips for family-friendly hacks, packing advice, and more adventures from the trail.

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Morning call: locals know best

Ali and Georgia turned up for their lesson, but the first beach was choppy and punchy. The instructors did not sugar-coat it. Not beginner friendly today. Their tip was simple. Head up the coast to a calmer bay.

Boards went on a bike, they scooted a few miles, and I followed on later with Dotty in a Grab. When we arrived, the bay looked a perfect Blue, tidy waist high waves, not a soul in sight.

Georgia’s first surf, zero spills

This was amazing to watch. From her very first pop up she held a low centre of gravity, eyes up, knees soft, weight over the front foot. She read the wave without overthinking it. Three hours in the water, not a single fall. First day. No drama. Just an amazing set of new skills on show!.

What stood out:

Calm head. No flapping, no stiff arms. She looked where she wanted to go and the board followed. Georgia popped clean as the wave stood up. Energy. Every ride finished with that “did I just do that” grin. It was unbelievable.

Parent note: sometimes kids click with a movement pattern that suits them. Surfing rewards balance and soft reactions more than raw strength. Today was that day.

Ali’s wins

Ali met the ocean a lot with plenty of splashdowns, plenty of laughs, and a few cracking runs she owned like trophies. Progress over perfection.

Sand, sea, and slow afternoon

After the session we stayed for sandcastles and paddles, then trundled back around three. Dotty napped, we rinsed the salt, and lined up dinner at sunset beach Vibe. Great food, better sunset, easy bedtime.

What we learned today

Trust the instructors. If they say shift bays, shift bays. Sheltered beats showy for first timers. Celebrate the little wins. They stack fast. Keep the plan light. Surf, splash, simple dinner, sleep.

Beginner surfing on pandanan beach quick tips

Scout the bay: ask the school which spot softens with today’s wind and tide. Gear list: rash vest, reef-safe sunscreen, water, dry bag, small first-aid kit.

Mornings are often cleaner. Tide still matters.

Drone note: fly clear of people and watch your battery in the wind.

FAQ

Is Pandanan beach good for beginners?

Yes, with the right bay. Exposed beaches can be punchy. Ask a local school which spot is mellow today.

Do kids need a full lesson?

For a first session, a short private lesson pays for itself in confidence and safety.

What should we wear?

Rash vest or shorty suit. Long sleeves help if you burn easily.

Best time to surf?

Often mornings for lighter wind. Always pair with a favourable tide.

Can I fly a drone at the beach?

Usually fine if you keep wide of people and follow local rules.

Start here: Family Travel Tips Get our weekly update: one email with kid-friendly itineraries, gear we actually use, and budget savers. Planning a drive day soon: try Make My Drive Fun to find cool stops between A and B.

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We came for slow days and sea air. Gili Air delivered from the moment we stepped off the boat.

Day 1: Boat In, Cool Down, Shell Hunt

The crossing to Gili Air set the tone blue water, breeze in the hair, and island time kicking in instantly. We checked in, jumped straight in the hotel pool, then wandered the beach for a shell hunt before the light faded. Day one done. Easy and perfect.

Day 2: Beach Day

We kept it simple. Buy a drink use deckchairs all day with, swims, a few lazy laps, and a lot of snorkelling off shore. No turtles today, but we saw plenty of colourful fish cruising over the reef. It was one of those quietly brilliant days that leaves everyone wiped out.

We did get slightly sunburnt, which is the island’s polite reminder to reapply more often than you think. Consider it filed under lessons learned.

What We Learned

Reapply sunscreen more often than planned, especially after swims. A long-sleeve rash vest for the kids buys you peace of mind. Start early or go late for softer light and fewer crowds. Float above coral and enter from sandy patches to protect the reef. Keep an eye on currents and stick close to shore with little ones.

Quick Tips for First Snorkels on Gili Air

Mask and fins: hire or bring your own, we bought ours on the island.

Reef-safe sunscreen: good for the ocean and your skin.

Water shoes: handy for shallow, stony entries.

Hydration and snacks: shade breaks keep the tantrums away.

Respect the reef: look, don’t touch. Fish are friendlier when you are calm and quiet.

FAQ

Can you snorkel straight off the beach on Gili Air

Yes. Pick calm conditions, enter from sandy patches, and stay clear of coral heads.

Are turtles guaranteed

No. They are around, but it depends on timing, luck, and where you swim.

What should kids wear for a full beach day

Rash vests, hats, and lots of sunscreen. Pack extra water and fruit for breaks.

Ride Along With Us

If slow, simple island days are your thing, jump on our weekly update for kid-friendly itineraries, gear we actually use, and budget-friendly tips that keep the fun high and the stress low.

Start here: Family Travel Tips Subscribe: One email a week with real-world advice and no fluff. Road day coming up Try our Make My Drive Fun tool to find brilliant stops between A and B.

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There are islands where you chase bucket-list adventures, and then there are islands where time itself slows down. Gili Air somehow manages to be both. One day you’re drifting over coral gardens with turtles gliding past; the next you’re ankle-deep in a lagoon that feels like it was built for families to wade, play, and just… be.

Yesterday, Ali signed up for a diving lesson. She was flying through the basics mask clear, fins on, breathing steady. But after a couple of hours she decided she’d had her fill. The optional 15-metre sea dive didn’t tempt her; sometimes knowing your limits is part of the adventure. And honestly? That’s the beauty of Gili Air. You don’t need to push the depth limits to soak up its magic.

Today, we tried something different. Instead of chasing reefs and turtles, we wandered over to the opposite side of the island. This is where Gili Air reveals another face quiet stretches of white sand, calm shallows, and a reef you can wade to without ever being more than two feet deep in the water. It felt like stepping into a natural paddling pool, perfect for the girls to splash and play without the pressure of “big adventures.”

Did you know? Gili Air means “Water Island” in Indonesian, and it’s the closest of the Gili trio to Lombok. It blends the reef life of Gili Trawangan with the laid-back vibe of Gili Meno, making it a sweet spot for families.

And that’s the balance of life here: one day you’re floating above coral gardens, spotting flashes of parrotfish and maybe a curious turtle; the next, you’re stretched out on a beach where time moves at the same slow pace as the tide.

Family Tip: If the deeper snorkelling feels like too much, head for the shallows on the eastern beaches. The water is calm, kid-friendly, and perfect for lazy afternoons.

In a couple of days, we’ll swap the shallows for something bigger the 3 island snorkelling tour. It’s a chance to jump off the boats, look for turtles, drift over reefs buzzing with tropical fish, and even stop at a neighbouring island with a waterslide into the sea. Georgia is already excited to see Turtles, and so are we.

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We were due a breather on Gili Air, so we wandered over to Play Island Cafe late morning. The vibe is easy. The play area has swings, a slide and a pile of toys that pull the kids in straight away. There are staff on hand who play with the kids taking the pressure off the adults too!

We ordered food, sat back and exhaled while Georgia and Dotty rotated between building, climbing and role play. It felt like one of those rare travel pauses where everyone gets a bit what they need, even if you have one eye on the kids still!

At 3 pm we packed up for Georgia’s maths lesson at 4 which was a quic reset, lesson done(after technical issues) and then by 5 pm we were walking back down the sandy lane for Play Island’s movie night. The screen went up, beanbags appeared and families drifted in. Georgia took one look at the film, Lilo and stitch 2 then made a beeline for new friends instead. Classic. She spent the evening playing and chatting while the movie rolled in the background.

Dotty had run herself ragged earlier. After a full shift of building and zooming around she was done for the day and went straight to bed, happy and shattered.

My takeaway

If you’re on Gili Air with kids, Play Island Cafe is an easy yes. The play space keeps little ones engaged, the food is solid, and the whole setup gives parents a genuine pause. Movie night is a nice touch, even if your kids are more likely to socialise than sit still. Worth a stop.

Why it works: Safe play area, friendly crowd, simple good food, relaxed pace

When we went: late morning and Afternoon play, back again for the 5 pm movie night Good for: Toddlers through to primary school age, and parents who need a breather!

FAQ for Families

A relaxed, family-friendly café on Gili Air with a small play area. Expect swings, a slide and toys that keep little ones busy while parents grab food and a breather.

Is it good for toddlers and primary-age kids?

Yes. Our two loved it. The play kit suits toddlers through to early primary, and the space feels friendly and relaxed.

Do you pay to use the play area?

When we visited there was a 50,000 separate play fee. We ordered food and let the kids play. Policies can change, so check with staff on arrival.

When is movie night?

We went back for a 5 pm movie night. Times and days can vary, so check the current schedule when you’re on the island.

Is the food decent for adults?

Yes. It is a proper café menu, so parents are not just nursing drinks while the kids play. We ate, relaxed and recharged.

How long should we plan to stay?

Plan for 1–2 hours. It is easy to stretch longer if the kids make friends or you come back for the evening screening.

What should we bring?

Water, hats, and sunscreen for the walk there, plus hand wipes. If your child is a keen climber, pop socks or closed shoes in your bag.

Is it worth a stop if you have kids?

Yes. It is an easy win on Gili Air. The play area keeps children happy and the café setup gives parents a real pause.

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We booked the classic three-island snorkelling trip from Gili Air, the one that promises turtles, a drift over coral, and the famous underwater statues off Gili Meno. The morning began with that mix of excitement and mild faff that comes with family adventures. Masks sorted, reef-safe sunscreen on, a last check for snacks and water.

Stop 1: Turtle point, beautiful and busy

The first site delivered what it is known for and everything that comes with it. Boats converged. Skippers called instructions. People slid into the water in clusters and drifted over each other like slow traffic. It felt manic at first. We gathered the kids close, took a minute to float, and let it settle. Then the moment arrived. A turtle appeared out of the blue, unbothered by the commotion, just gliding. Another followed. The chaos did not vanish but the turtles took the edge off it.

Stop 2: Quieter water, softer colours

The second stop was calmer above the surface but the visibility was not on our side. The shapes were there, patches of coral and flickers of fish, but the water had a milky cast. We kept expectations low, pointed out what we could, and saved some energy for the finale. Sometimes it is fine to treat a snorkel like a gentle swim rather than a wildlife show.

Stop 3: The Gili Meno statues, worth a look

The statues were as striking as promised, a ring of figures turning ghostly and then clear as you move. There were loads of fish and even more people. This is where the flippers in your face happen. It is part of the deal. We chose a quick look, took turns so one adult always had eyes on the kids, and moved around the crowd rather than through it. The art is impressive, the swirl of bubbles and fins is real, and both can exist at once.

Lunch on Gili Meno

We beached on Gili Meno for lunch and let the day reset. Shoes back on, sandy toes, cold drinks, something simple to eat. The stop was exactly what the children needed, a break from masks and mouthpieces and a chance to sit on a chair that did not move. By the time we headed back towards Gili Air everyone had a second wind.

A gentle finish outside Alibaba

Back near where we are staying, just outside Alibaba, we finished the day with a last dip. I hung back with Dotty who had run out of steam. I have swum that patch a few times this week and knew what to expect. Ali and Georgia went in and soon spotted a few more turtles and a burst of colour from reef fish. The water felt calmer, the pace was slower, and the day ended the way family days should, with easy smiles and no rush to be anywhere.

What started out noisy and crowded found its rhythm. It was a half-decent trip that landed well in the end, and that is often how these things go with kids. You ride the busy bits, lean into the quiet bits, and keep the day moving.

What we learnt and what we would do next time

• The first stop can be hectic. Plan for it, set a simple buddy rule, and float a minute before swimming off.
• Visibility changes by tide and wind. If one site is murky, do not force it. Save the energy.
• The statues are a quick-look stop with children. In, wow, round the ring, out.
• A sit-down lunch on Gili Meno resets moods and energy better than snacks on the boat.
• Finishing with a swim near home is gold. Familiar water, fewer people, calm heads.

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We boarded the 11:45 fast boat and it left on time. No tagged bags, just luggage lobbed into a heap by the stern. No briefing. No air con. The cabin was warm and stayed that way. The sea was kind, so the run itself was quick enough; a few bumps, salt on the windows, and Bali coming up ahead.

The port… that hit like a wall of heat and noise. Our pre-booked taxi was nowhere. We checked at the desk and were told to call the Gili Air office to “confirm”. The call would not connect. The desk there said no our problem, despite being the same company we called again, same result no connection. The staff were very dismissive, and over it all came the constant chorus of “Taxi! Taxi!” while the kids clung to the bags. It was infuriating!

We waited some time. Ali asked again saying we paid your company… then out of no where a driver wandered over and called our name, he said he’d been in the loo. Maybe he had been (I don’t think he had). He looked half-asleep. Either way, doors opened, bags in, and at last we rolled out of the port..

In the end Ubud rescued the day. We reached the villa, slid the gate, and the pool did the reset we needed. Kids straight in, shoulders down, and the hot, messy crossing faded to background noise. We arrived a little late, very relieved, and finally felt like we were in Bali.

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We started the day with one goal: monkeys. The road into Ubud was already warm and busy, and by the time we reached the entrance the trees felt like they were swallowing the noise. Everything inside is green on green. Vines hanging low, moss on old stone, roots curling over steps like they have been there forever. We barely made it fifty metres before the first family of macaques appeared, perched along a ledge like regulars at a bar.

The morning set its tone with a tiny baby tucked under mum’s arm. They were working through a mound of corn scattered by the park team. The baby kept looking up with that wide-eyed “is this all for me” face, then back to the corn like a serious little inspector. Georgia whispered that it was the best thing she had seen. Dotty held tight , very still but in time got braver..

From there the forest became a series of small episodes. A teenager monkey legged it across the path carrying a stolen leaf as if it had nabbed a diamond. Two older monkeys sat facing each other on a low wall, picking through fur with the focus of people doing a tricky jigsaw. Every now and then a shout went up somewhere deeper in the trees, a burst of monkey drama that died away as quickly as it started. The place has a rhythm: quiet observation, sudden chaos, back to quiet again.

Then it was my turn to be part of the show. One chancer hopped up the back of my rucksack as if I had been hired for the purpose. Light feet, quick hands, and before I could say anything it had the suncream. It settled on my shoulder like a small, confident commuter eating a snack on the way to work. The stuff must taste awful but the monkey was committed, licking the tube like a lollipop while I tried to look relaxed and not smell of SPF 50 for the rest of the trip. Georgia howled and was in shock Dotty had no idea what the commotion was. I tried to regain custody of the suncream but it was off as quick as it came so we carried on a little lighter and somewhat wiser and now part of the day’s entertainment.

We looped deeper into the forest under the long bridges and past stone guardians, then back out towards the edge where the path widens. The light shifts there. It is less jungle, more town, with scooters humming somewhere beyond the wall and a strip of cafés and stalls just outside.

We left the forest and grabbed a grab(taxi) to art street for a while. Market stalls and small shops sat shoulder to shoulder: painted shutters, woven baskets, carved wood, and rows of batik shirts in every shade of blue. we eyed up a few souvenirs and mostly kept our hands in our pockets.

We ducked in and out of a couple of places, paused to watch someone finishing a mural. After a last look along the stalls, we found lunch.

Lunch was noisy but the chatter of travellers talking and people enjoying the food distracted from the hustle going on outside. We laughed about the monkey stories Georgia laughed as she repeated telling the tale of the suncream heist, which apparently grows funnier every time it’s told. We stepped back into the heat and decided it was a supplies afternoon rather than a big outing. A quick taxi later and we were standing in Indomaret, doing the familiar traveller’s dance of “what will we actually eat” in front of a wall of not much choice. Noodles, fruit, water, biscuits for morale, a cold something for now. Baskets full the kids gave me a shopping headache!

Back at the villa the day clicked into its final shape. The gate slid open, the pool flashed blue, and everything softened. Shoes off, bags down, phones forgotten on a table. dotty was asleep before I could go for a wee. I wanted Georgia to have a nap too but she like always pushed against that in the end she was in the pool practised underwater handstands like a tiny gymnast.

My pro tip… visit monkey forest early to beat the crowds and see the monkeys before they are fed up with people!

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