Gili Trawangan, often dubbed the “party island” of Indonesia, is an island of contrasts. Arriving at the bustling port, you are immediately aware of the chaos. People wait to board ferries, the only form of transport on the island of traditional horse and cart and bicycles. This side of the island is alive with activity—bars, cafes and backpackers, yet, as you venture toward the opposite side of Gili Trawangan, you find a more tranquil yet still lively atmosphere, a world away from the frenzy. Here lies the hidden gem of the island—Cocana Resort, a true haven for those seeking luxury, serenity, and the finest hospitality in paradise.

Location and First Impressions

Cocana Resort is perfectly positioned on the quieter side of Gili Trawangan, offering a blend of peace but with a little buzz. It’s a resort where time seems to slow down, with amazing sunsets over the horizon with Bali in the background, framed by the beach’s golden sands and the calming sound of the waves, it’s an experience to savour. The moment you step into the resort, you are greeted with an air of warmth and a welcome that sets the tone for what promises to be an extraordinary stay. The lush, beautifully manicured gardens, combined with the authentic architecture, create an ambience enhancing the island’s natural beauty.

The 3-Bedroom Villa: A Dream Come True

During our stay, we had the privilege of experiencing the magnificent three-bedroom villa, complete with a private pool. The villa itself is designed with sheer luxury in mind and for guests to experience the utmost comfort. Spacious, immaculately clean, and tastefully decorated, each room delivers an atmosphere of elegance with a laid-back island vibe. The private pool, surrounded by tropical flora, became our oasis—perfect for morning dips or evening relaxation with a cocktail in hand. Every detail has been considered, from the plush bedding to the modern amenities, ensuring a level of comfort that is unrivalled.

Sunsets and Beach Club Bliss

One of the most magical experiences at Cocana Resort is undoubtedly the sunsets. The beach club at the resort is the ideal spot to witness as the sky changes to wonderful shades of orange, pink, and gold. The atmosphere is lively yet serene, with laid-back music in the background, luxurious daybeds and deliciously crafted cocktails. The beach club has an incredible energy that draws in guests from all over the island, creating a vibrant but relaxed social scene. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure or simply to spend a lazy afternoon basking in the sun.

A Culinary Journey Like No Other

The dining experience at Cocana Resort also delivers. The culinary team has perfected a menu that caters to every palate, offering a mix of international dishes and local flavours. From breakfast through to dinner, each meal is a feast for the senses. We were particularly impressed by the variety of fresh seafood, beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. The chefs take great pride in using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring every dish is as fresh and authentic as possible. Whether you’re dining by the beach or in an elegant restaurant, the food at Cocana is simply exceptional. The menu offers everything from burgers, pizzas and club sandwiches, to Indonesian curry, chicken satay and tacos.

Unmatched Hospitality

What truly sets Cocana Resort apart, however, is the outstanding hospitality. From the moment we arrived, the entire Cocana team went above and beyond to ensure our stay was perfect in every way. Friendly, attentive, and always ready with a smile, they are a testament to the resort’s commitment to providing five-star service. Whether arranging a special dinner, organizing activities, or simply ensuring our villa was immaculate, the team at Cocana made us feel like VIPs throughout our stay. It’s this level of personalized care that truly elevates the experience and makes you feel like you’re not just staying at a resort but are part of a family.

Activities for Every Mood

Cocana Resort offers a variety of activities that cater to all types of travellers. For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s spa is an absolute must; it offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and soul. We indulged in a couples’ massage that was nothing short of heavenly, leaving us refreshed and ready to take on the rest of the day. Equally, the hand and foot care was just as impressive.

For the more adventurous, the island’s famed horse riding along the beach is a bucket-list experience that should not be missed. There’s something incredibly freeing about galloping along the shoreline with the wind in your hair, the turquoise waters by your side, and the sun setting in the distance. Cocana Resort made the arrangements seamless, ensuring we had an unforgettable experience.

Cocana Resort’s private snorkelling experience is also an unforgettable adventure. Set in the azure waters of Gili Meno just a quick boat ride away, the sea life and colourful coral reefs create a mesmerizing underwater world to explore. The abundance of turtles was impressive, as was the turtle sanctuary, ensuring that the baby turtles have a better chance of survival when released into their natural habitat.

The attentive staff ensure a first-class and fun experience, providing great snorkels, masks and flippers and guiding you to the best snorkelling spots. After an exhilarating swim with tropical fish and turtles, we were treated to a delicious lunch, featuring fresh local ingredients, at the resort’s beachfront restaurant. This combination of adventure and relaxation makes Cocana’s private snorkelling tour a perfect addition to your stay, offering both excitement and tranquillity in a luxurious setting.

The Perfect Balance of Peace and Vibrancy

What makes Gili Trawangan so special is the balance it strikes between relaxation and excitement, and Cocana Resort captures this perfectly. While the island may be known for its nightlife, the resort offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the best of both worlds. You can spend your day lounging by the pool or beach, then venture out to explore the island’s buzzing bars and restaurants in the evening, knowing you have the sanctuary of Cocana to return to.

A Luxuria Lifestyle Favourite

Having had the privilege of visiting countless luxurious resorts around the world, I can confidently say that Cocana Resort stands out as one of the best we’ve ever experienced. It combines the perfect location, impeccable design, outstanding service, and a huge selection of activities to create a truly unforgettable stay.

In conclusion, Cocana Resort on Gili Trawangan is a five-star haven that embodies the essence of luxury and relaxation. With its stunning sunsets, world-class beach club, exquisite dining, and warm hospitality, it’s a destination that will leave you dreaming of your next visit long after you’ve left. If you’re seeking the ultimate island escape, look no further than Cocana—it’s paradise perfected.

W: Cocana Resort
A: Villas Resort Gili Trawangan, Jl. Pantai Gili Trawangan, Indonesia 83352
T: 62 813 2277 7702
E: Information

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Written by Luxuria Lifestyle’s Global Editor Debbie Stone