All three Gili Islands have white sand beaches fringed by coconut palms, but they are not equal. The east-facing beaches on all three islands catch the morning light and are the most photographed; the west-facing beaches have better sunsets.
On Trawangan, the main beach runs along the east side facing Lombok and the sunrise — this is where the boats land and the bars are set up. The northwest shore is different: quieter, rougher sand, and a reef you can snorkel directly from the beach with no need for a boat or guide.
Meno's western beaches are the finest on the islands: soft, pale sand, shallow turquoise water, and very few people. The beach behind the small forest of coconut palms in the island's interior is good for shade in the middle of the day.
Air's beaches are a mix — the north shore facing Trawangan is wide and busy near the boat landing, while the east and south sides are quieter and have better snorkelling directly off the beach.