Gili Putih, a remote sandbar located near the village of Sumberkima in Northwest Bali, is emerging as a new destination for tourism in the region. According to reports from The Bali Sun, the uninhabited sandbar is accessible only at low tide and is currently being managed through partnerships between local operators and the community to facilitate exclusive visitor experiences.
What is Gili Putih?
Geographically described as a sandbar, Gili Putih—which translates to “White Island”—is located in the waters off North Bali’s Sumberkima region. Because the sandbar is subject to changing tides, its physical shape shifts daily, and it disappears almost entirely during high tide. The site has been known to local fishermen and residents for generations, but it is now being integrated into the tourism circuit through organized excursions.
How are visitors accessing the island?
Access to Gili Putih is coordinated by local accommodations, including Sumberkima Hill Retreat and Mangroove Bay Hostel, in collaboration with the local community that protects the area. According to The Bali Sun, Sumberkima Hill Retreat offers luxury dinner experiences on the sandbar, including beach barbecues and seafood, as well as active options such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Visitors can also combine these trips with snorkeling and exploration of the surrounding mangrove forests.
Why is the region gaining attention?
While destinations like Nusa Penida and Amed traditionally draw the majority of underwater tourism in Bali, North and Northwest Bali are increasingly noted for their coral ecosystems. The Bali Sun reports that intensive conservation and restoration efforts over the past decade have made this area the fastest-growing coral ecosystem in Bali Province. In addition to the sandbar, the region is known for its proximity to West Bali National Park and resident pods of dolphins, which remain a primary draw for early-morning boat tours.
What may happen next for the region?
As Gili Putih continues to appear on more tourist itineraries, the area may see an increase in demand for low-impact, guided tourism. Because the site is physically limited by tidal cycles and remains uninhabitable, stakeholders are likely to keep visitor numbers controlled through the current partnership model with the local community. If the current growth in North Bali’s coral restoration continues, the region could solidify its position as a primary destination for conservation-focused travelers looking for alternatives to the island’s more crowded southern and eastern hubs.
