Are you looking for a peaceful and scenic destination in Bali that is away from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist spots? If yes, then you need to discover Lovina, a hidden gem on the north coast of the island that offers a unique and authentic Balinese experience. Lovina is a charming and laid-back area that consists of several villages along a stretch of black sand beach. It is famous for its dolphin watching tours, but there is so much more to see and do in Lovina.
From snorkelling and diving in the coral reefs, to relaxing and rejuvenating at a spa, to visiting the ancient temples and stunning waterfalls, to experiencing the local culture and cuisine, Lovina has something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you through the best things to do in Lovina, Bali, and provide you with useful tips and information to plan your trip. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, with family, or with friends, you will find Lovina to be a perfect destination for a memorable and enjoyable vacation.
Things to Do in Lovina
One of the main reasons why people visit Lovina is to enjoy the various attractions and activities that the area has to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Lovina that you should not miss:
Watch Dolphins at Sunrise
One of the most popular and exciting things to do in Lovina is to watch the dolphins at sunrise. Lovina is famous for its dolphin watching tours that depart from the beach at dawn. You can join a local boatman who will take you to the spots where hundreds of dolphins can be seen in their natural habitat. You will be amazed by the sight of these graceful and playful creatures jumping and swimming in the water. You will also get to witness the beautiful sunrise over the ocean and the mountains. It is a truly magical and unforgettable experience that you will cherish for a long time.
Some tips and information for watching dolphins at sunrise in Lovina are:
- The best time to see the dolphins is between 6 am and 8 am, when they are most active and visible.
- The dolphin watching tours usually last for about two hours and cost around 100,000 IDR ($7) per person.
- You can book a tour from your hotel or from one of the many boatmen on the beach. Make sure to negotiate the price and the duration of the tour before you board the boat.
- You should bring a camera, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a jacket or a sweater, as it can be cold and windy in the morning.
- You should also bring some snacks and water, as there are no facilities or vendors on the boat or on the water.
- You should be respectful and responsible when watching the dolphins. Do not touch, feed, or chase them. Do not litter or make loud noises. Follow the instructions of your boatman and keep a safe distance from the dolphins and other boats.
Snorkel or Dive in the Coral Reefs
Another amazing thing to do in Lovina is to snorkel or dive in the coral reefs. Lovina has some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in Bali, with clear water and diverse marine life. You can explore the underwater world and see colorful corals, fish, turtles, rays, sharks, and more. You can also visit some of the nearby islands and bays that have spectacular snorkelling and diving sites. Some of the best places to snorkel or dive in Lovina are:
Menjangan Island: This is a small island in the northwest of Bali that is part of the West Bali National Park. It is one of the most pristine and beautiful snorkelling and diving destinations in Indonesia, with crystal clear water and rich coral reefs. You can see a variety of marine life, such as angelfish, butterflyfish, clownfish, lionfish, moray eels, and more. You can also see some rare and endangered species, such as the hawksbill turtle and the whale shark. You can also visit the Pura Gili Kencana, a Hindu temple on the island that has a large statue of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god.
Pemuteran Bay: This is a bay in the northwest of Bali that is known for its calm and shallow water and its artificial reef project. It is a great place for beginners and families to snorkel or dive, as the water is clear and safe, and the coral reefs are easily accessible from the shore. You can see a variety of fish, such as parrotfish, triggerfish, pufferfish, and more. You can also see some unique and interesting structures, such as the Biorock, a metal frame that is powered by electricity and promotes coral growth, and the Underwater Temple Garden, a collection of statues and sculptures that resemble a temple.
Lovina Reef: This is a reef that is located right in front of the Lovina beach. It is a convenient and affordable place to snorkel or dive, as you can rent equipment and join a guide from one of the many shops on the beach. You can see a variety of fish, such as snapper, grouper, barracuda, and more. You can also see some wrecks, such as the Liberty, a US cargo ship that was sunk by a Japanese torpedo in 1942.
Some tips and information for snorkelling or diving in Lovina are:
- The best time to snorkel or dive in Lovina is between April and November, when the water is calm and clear, and the visibility is good.
- The snorkelling and diving tours usually last for about four to six hours and cost around 300,000 IDR ($21) to 600,000 IDR ($42) per person, depending on the location and the duration of the tour.
- You can book a tour from your hotel or from one of the many shops on the beach. Make sure to check the quality and the safety of the equipment and the guide before you book the tour.
- You should bring a camera, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a towel, as well as some snacks and water, as there are no facilities or vendors on the boat or on the water.
- You should be respectful and responsible when snorkelling or diving. Do not touch, feed, or harm the corals or the marine life. Do not litter or make loud noises. Follow the instructions of your guide and keep a safe distance from the corals and the marine life.
Relax and Rejuvenate at a Spa
One of the most relaxing and rejuvenating things to do in Lovina is to visit a spa. Lovina offers a variety of spa treatments and massages that can help you unwind and heal your body and mind. You can choose from traditional Balinese massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, hot stone massage, and more. You can also enjoy some spa facilities and services, such as hot springs, saunas, jacuzzis, and yoga. You can find many spas in Lovina, from budget to luxury, that cater to different needs and preferences. Some of the best spas in Lovina are:
Zen Resort Bali:
This is a luxury resort and spa that is located in a tranquil and scenic setting, surrounded by rice fields and gardens. It offers a holistic and integrated approach to wellness, combining spa treatments, yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda. You can enjoy a range of spa treatments, such as Balinese massage, herbal bath, body scrub, facial, and more. You can also enjoy some spa facilities, such as a saltwater pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna, and a yoga pavilion. You can also join some wellness programs, such as detox, stress management, weight loss, and more.
Banjar Hot Springs:
This is a natural hot spring complex that is located in the village of Banjar, about 10 km from Lovina. It consists of three pools that are filled with warm and sulfurous water that comes from a volcanic source. The water is believed to have healing and therapeutic properties, especially for skin and muscle problems. You can soak in the pools and enjoy the relaxing and soothing effect of the water. You can also visit the nearby Brahma Vihara Arama, the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, that has a beautiful and serene atmosphere.
Lovina Beach Spa:
This is a budget-friendly and convenient spa that is located on the Lovina beach. It offers a range of spa treatments and massages, such as Balinese massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, foot massage, and more. You can enjoy the spa treatments and massages in a simple and cozy setting, with a view of the ocean and the sound of the waves. You can also enjoy some spa services, such as manicure, pedicure, hair braiding, and more.
Some tips and information for visiting a spa in Lovina are:
- The best time to visit a spa in Lovina is anytime, as the spa treatments and massages are available throughout the year and can suit any mood and occasion.
- The spa treatments and massages usually last for about one to two hours and cost around 50,000 IDR ($3.5) to 500,000 IDR ($35) per person, depending on the type and the quality of the spa treatment and massage.
- You can book a spa treatment or massage from your hotel or from one of the many spas on the beach or in the town. Make sure to check the reputation and the hygiene of the spa before you book the spa treatment or massage.
- You should bring a change of clothes, a towel, and some toiletries, as well as some cash or a credit card, as there may not be any facilities or vendors on the spa or on the water.
- You should be respectful and responsible when visiting a spa. Do not make loud noises, disturb other guests, or waste water or resources. Follow the instructions of your therapist and communicate your preferences and feedback. Tip your therapist if you are satisfied with the service.
Places to See in Lovina
Another reason why people visit Lovina is to see the various places that showcase the beauty and culture of the area. Here are some of the best places to see in Lovina that you should not miss:
Visit the Ancient Temples
One of the most fascinating and spiritual things to see in Lovina is the ancient temples. Lovina has some of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bali, dating back to the 10th century. These temples reflect the history and traditions of Bali, as well as the influence of Hinduism and Buddhism. You can admire the architecture and the art of the temples, as well as witness the ceremonies and rituals that take place there. Some of the best temples to visit in Lovina are:
Brahma Vihara Arama: This is the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, located in the village of Banjar, about 10 km from Lovina. It is also known as the Little Borobudur, as it resembles the famous Borobudur temple in Java. It consists of several terraces that have stupas, statues, and gardens. You can see the Buddha images, the Bodhisattva images, and the Tara images, as well as the murals that depict the life of Buddha. You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the hills and the ocean from the top terrace.
Banjar Hot Springs: This is a natural hot spring complex that is located next to the Brahma Vihara Arama. It consists of three pools that are filled with warm and sulfurous water that comes from a volcanic source. The water is believed to have healing and therapeutic properties, especially for skin and muscle problems. You can soak in the pools and enjoy the relaxing and soothing effect of the water. You can also visit the nearby Brahma Vihara Arama, the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, that has a beautiful and serene atmosphere.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: This is a water temple that is located on the shore of Lake Bratan, about 50 km from Lovina. It is one of the most iconic and picturesque temples in Bali, as it appears to float on the water. It was built in the 17th century to honor the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, who is believed to control the irrigation and the fertility of the land. You can see the different shrines and pavilions that have intricate carvings and decorations. You can also enjoy the scenic view of the lake and the mountains from the temple.
Explore the Stunning Waterfalls
One of the most adventurous and exhilarating things to see in Lovina is the stunning waterfalls. Lovina has some of the most stunning and secluded waterfalls in Bali, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. You can hike to the waterfalls and enjoy the fresh and cool air, the sound of the water, and the sight of the rainbows. You can also swim in the pools or slide down the rocks at some of the waterfalls. Some of the best waterfalls to explore in Lovina are:
Gitgit Waterfall: This is the highest waterfall in Bali, located about 10 km south of Lovina. It is about 40 meters high and cascades down a steep cliff into a deep pool. You can reach the waterfall by walking along a paved path that passes through a forest and a bridge. You can see the mist and the spray of the water, as well as some monkeys and birds along the way. You can swim in the pool or take photos from the bridge, but be careful of the slippery rocks and the strong current.
Aling-Aling Waterfall: This is a waterfall that has a natural slide and pool, located about 12 km south of Lovina. It is about 35 meters high and splits into two streams that create a V-shape. You can reach the waterfall by walking along a dirt path that passes through a village and a rice field. You can see the green and blue colors of the water, as well as some flowers and butterflies along the way. You can slide down the rocks or jump from the cliffs at the waterfall, but only with the guidance and the equipment of a local guide, who can be hired at the entrance.
Sekumpul Waterfall: This is a group of seven waterfalls in a valley, located about 25 km southeast of Lovina. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful and impressive waterfalls in Bali, as it offers a panoramic view of the waterfalls, the forest, and the mountains. You can reach the waterfall by walking along a steep and rocky path that passes through a village and a plantation. You can see the different heights and shapes of the waterfalls, as well as some fruits and spices along the way. You can swim in the pools or take photos from the viewpoints at the waterfall, but be prepared for a challenging and rewarding hike.
Experience the Local Culture
One of the most enriching and enjoyable things to see in Lovina is the local culture. Lovina has a rich and diverse local culture that reflects the history and traditions of Bali, as well as the influence of Hinduism and Buddhism. You can experience the local culture by visiting a market, joining a cooking class, watching a performance, or attending a festival. You can learn about the art, music, dance, cuisine, and ceremonies of Lovina, as well as interact with the friendly and hospitable people. Some of the best ways to experience the local culture in Lovina are:
Visit a Market: One of the best ways to experience the local culture in Lovina is to visit a market, where you can see the daily life and the commerce of the people. You can find a variety of products, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, flowers, clothes, souvenirs, and more. You can also taste some local delicacies, such as bakso, a meatball soup, or pisang goreng, a fried banana. You can also bargain with the vendors and practice your Indonesian language skills. Some of the best markets to visit in Lovina are:
Singaraja Market: This is the largest and the oldest market in Lovina, located in the town of Singaraja, about 10 km east of Lovina. It is open every day from 5 am to 5 pm, but the best time to visit is in the morning, when the market is most lively and colorful. You can find a variety of products, such as fresh produce, seafood, meat, flowers, textiles, and handicrafts. You can also see some historical buildings and monuments around the market, such as the Gedong Kirtya Library, the Pura Agung Jagatnatha Temple, and the Singaraja Monument.
Seririt Market: This is a smaller and more local market in Lovina, located in the town of Seririt, about 15 km west of Lovina. It is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm, but the best time to visit is on Wednesday and Saturday, when the market is more crowded and festive. You can find a variety of products, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, flowers, clothes, souvenirs, and more. You can also taste some local specialties, such as lawar, a spicy salad of meat and vegetables, or jaja, a sweet snack made of rice flour and coconut.
Join a Cooking Class:
Another great way to experience the local culture in Lovina is to join a cooking class, where you can learn how to prepare and cook some delicious and authentic Balinese dishes. You can join a local chef or a family who will teach you the secrets and the techniques of Balinese cuisine, such as the use of spices, herbs, and sauces. You can also visit a local market or a farm to buy or pick the fresh ingredients that you will use for your dishes. You can then enjoy the fruits of your labor and share a meal with your hosts and fellow learners. Some of the best cooking classes in Lovina are:
Lovina Cooking Class: This is a cooking class that is run by a local family who live in a traditional Balinese house in the village of Kalibukbuk, about 2 km from Lovina. They offer a half-day or a full-day cooking class that includes a visit to the local market, a tour of their house and garden, and a hands-on cooking session. You can learn how to make some classic Balinese dishes, such as sate lilit, a grilled minced meat on a lemongrass stick, or gado-gado, a mixed vegetable salad with peanut sauce. You can also learn how to make some Balinese desserts, such as dadar gulung, a coconut pancake with palm sugar filling, or bubur injin, a black rice pudding with coconut milk.
Bali Asli: This is a cooking class that is run by a professional chef who has a passion for Balinese cuisine and culture. She offers a full-day cooking class that includes a visit to the local market, a scenic drive through the countryside, and a cooking session in her open-air kitchen that overlooks the rice fields and the mountains. You can learn how to make some traditional Balinese dishes, such as ayam betutu, a roasted chicken with spices and banana leaves, or nasi campur, a mixed rice dish with various toppings. You can also learn how to make some Balinese drinks, such as jamu, a herbal tonic, or tuak, a palm wine.
Watch a Performance:
Another wonderful way to experience the local culture in Lovina is to watch a performance, where you can see the art, music, and dance of Bali. You can watch a performance that showcases the different styles and genres of Balinese performance, such as the gamelan, a percussion ensemble, the wayang, a shadow puppet show, or the kecak, a vocal chorus. You can also watch a performance that tells the stories and the legends of Bali, such as the ramayana, an epic tale of love and war, or the barong, a mythical creature that represents good and evil. Some of the best places to watch a performance in Lovina are:
Aditya Beach Resort: This is a resort that is located on the Lovina beach that offers a weekly performance of Balinese dance and music every Friday night. You can watch the performance in their open-air stage that faces the ocean and the sunset. You can see some of the most famous and beautiful Balinese dances, such as the legong, a graceful and elegant dance of two girls, or the baris, a dynamic and powerful dance of a warrior. You can also enjoy a buffet dinner that includes some Balinese dishes, such as babi guling, a roasted suckling pig, or lawar, a spicy salad of meat and vegetables.
Gedong Kirtya Library: This is a library that is located in the town of Singaraja, about 10 km east of Lovina, that houses a collection of ancient manuscripts and books on Balinese culture and history. It also offers a monthly performance of wayang kulit, a shadow puppet show that uses leather puppets and a screen to tell the stories of the Hindu epics, such as the ramayana or the mahabharata. You can watch the performance in their auditorium that has a traditional and cozy atmosphere. You can see the skill and the artistry of the puppeteer, who manipulates the puppets, narrates the story, and sings the songs, accompanied by a gamelan orchestra.
Attend a Festival:
Another amazing way to experience the local culture in Lovina is to attend a festival, where you can see the celebrations and the rituals of the Balinese people. You can attend a festival that marks the different seasons and occasions of the Balinese calendar, such as the nyepi, the day of silence, the galungan, the day of victory, or the kuningan, the day of ancestors. You can also attend a festival that honors the different gods and goddesses of the Balinese religion, such as the saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, the pagerwesi, the god of protection, or the odalan, the temple anniversary. Some of the best festivals to attend in Lovina are:
Lovina Festival: This is a festival that is held every year in September or October, to promote the tourism and the culture of Lovina. It is a four-day festival that features various events and activities, such as a parade, a carnival, a concert, a competition, a exhibition, and a ceremony. You can see the creativity and the diversity of the Lovina community, as well as the beauty and the charm of the Lovina area. You can also enjoy some local food, drinks, and souvenirs, as well as some fun and entertainment.
Banyu Pinaruh: This is a festival that is held every six months, on the day after the saraswati day, to celebrate the blessing of the water and the knowledge. It is a festival that involves a ritual of cleansing and purifying oneself with holy water, as well as a ritual of learning and studying the sacred scriptures. You can join the locals who go to the beach, the river, or the spring, to wash their face, their mouth, and their hair, with the holy water. You can also join the locals who go to the temple, the school, or the library, to read, to write, and to pray, with the sacred scriptures.
Where to Stay in Lovina
One of the important things to consider when visiting Lovina is where to stay. Lovina has a range of accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences, from backpacker hostels to luxury villas. You can choose an accommodation that matches your needs and expectations, such as location, amenities, price, and reviews. Some of the best accommodation options in Lovina are:
Choose from a Range of Accommodation Options
Rambutan Boutique Hotel: This is a boutique hotel that is located in the heart of Lovina, within walking distance from the beach, the market, and the restaurants. It offers a cozy and comfortable stay, with a Balinese style and a tropical garden. It has 30 rooms and villas that have air conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, and a balcony or a terrace. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a spa, and a library. It also offers some services and activities, such as airport transfer, bike rental, cooking class, and dolphin tour. The price for a room or a villa ranges from 300,000 IDR ($21) to 900,000 IDR ($63) per night, depending on the type and the season.
Funky Place: This is a hostel that is located on the west end of Lovina, about 2 km from the beach, the market, and the restaurants. It offers a fun and friendly stay, with a funky and colorful design and a lively atmosphere. It has 12 rooms and dorms that have fan, Wi-Fi, and a shared bathroom. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a lounge, and a garden. It also offers some services and activities, such as airport transfer, scooter rental, yoga class, and live music. The price for a room or a dorm ranges from 50,000 IDR ($3.5) to 150,000 IDR ($10.5) per night, depending on the type and the season.
The Damai: This is a luxury resort and spa that is located on the hilltop of Lovina, about 10 km from the beach, the market, and the restaurants. It offers a lavish and serene stay, with a modern and elegant design and a panoramic view. It has 14 rooms and villas that have air conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, and a private pool or a jacuzzi. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a spa, and a gym. It also offers some services and activities, such as airport transfer, car rental, golf course, and cooking class. The price for a room or a villa ranges from 2,000,000 IDR ($140) to 6,000,000 IDR ($420) per night, depending on the type and the season.
How to Get to Lovina
One of the final things to consider when visiting Lovina is how to get there. Lovina is accessible by air, land, or sea, depending on where you are coming from and how much time and money you have. You can choose from different modes of transportation that have different features and advantages, such as flight, bus, taxi, car, motorbike, or boat. You can find many transportation options in Lovina, from online platforms or from local agents, such as Perama, Kura-Kura, or Bali Brio. Some of the best modes of transportation to get to Lovina are:
Flight:
The fastest and most convenient way to get to Lovina is by flight. You can fly to the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, the capital city of Bali, which is about 100 km south of Lovina. You can find many flights to Denpasar from various domestic and international destinations, such as Jakarta, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Sydney. You can book your flight from online platforms, such as Tripoto, Skyscanner, or Expedia, or from local agents, such as Garuda Indonesia, AirAsia, or Jetstar. The flight time and the fare vary depending on the origin and the season, but generally, it takes about one to three hours and costs around 500,000 IDR ($35) to 2,000,000 IDR ($140) per person, one way.
Bus:
The cheapest and most eco-friendly way to get to Lovina is by bus. You can take a bus from the Ubung Bus Terminal in Denpasar, which is about 15 km from the airport, to the Lovina Bus Terminal in Kalibukbuk, which is the main town of Lovina. You can find many buses that operate daily from 6 am to 6 pm, such as Perama, Kura-Kura, or Bali Brio. The bus journey takes about three to four hours and costs around 50,000 IDR ($3.5) to 100,000 IDR ($7) per person, one way.
Taxi:
The most comfortable and flexible way to get to Lovina is by taxi. You can take a taxi from the airport or from any other location in Bali to your accommodation in Lovina. You can find many taxis that operate 24/7, such as Blue Bird, Grab, or Gojek. You can book your taxi from online platforms, such as Tripoto, Grab, or Gojek, or from local agents, such as Blue Bird, Grab, or Gojek. The taxi journey takes about two to three hours and costs around 500,000 IDR ($35) to 1,000,000 IDR ($70) per car, one way.
Car:
The most adventurous and independent way to get to Lovina is by car. You can rent a car from the airport or from any other location in Bali and drive to Lovina by yourself or with a driver. You can find many car rental companies that offer different types and models of cars, such as Avis, Europcar, or Bali Car Rental. You can book your car from online platforms, such as Tripoto, Rentalcars, or Kayak, or from local agents, such as Avis, Europcar, or Bali Car Rental. The car journey takes about two to three hours and costs around 300,000 IDR ($21) to 600,000 IDR ($42) per day, depending on the type and the model of the car, and whether you have a driver or not.
Motorbike:
The most fun and exciting way to get to Lovina is by motorbike. You can rent a motorbike from the airport or from any other location in Bali and ride to Lovina by yourself or with a passenger. You can find many motorbike rental companies that offer different types and models of motorbikes, such as Bali Bike Rental, Bali Big Bike, or Bali Scooter Rental. The motorbike journey takes about two to three hours and costs around 50,000 IDR ($3.5) to 100,000 IDR ($7) per day, depending on the type and the model of the motorbike.
Boat:
The most scenic and romantic way to get to Lovina is by boat. You can take a boat from the Sanur Beach or the Serangan Harbour in Denpasar, which are about 20 km from the airport, to the Lovina Beach or the Kalibukbuk Harbour in Lovina. You can find many boats that operate daily from 8 am to 4 pm, such as Rocky Fast Cruise, Scoot Fast Cruise, or Gili Cat. You can book your boat ticket from online platforms or from local agents, such as Rocky Fast Cruise, Scoot Fast Cruise, or Gili Cat. The boat journey takes about two to three hours and costs around 300,000 IDR ($21) to 600,000 IDR ($42) per person, one way.
Lovina is a hidden gem in Bali that you need to discover. It is a peaceful and scenic destination that offers a unique and authentic Balinese experience. You can enjoy the various attractions and activities that Lovina has to offer, such as watching dolphins at sunrise, snorkelling or diving in the coral reefs, relaxing and rejuvenating at a spa, visiting the ancient temples and stunning waterfalls, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine.
You can also choose from a range of accommodation options that suit your budget and preferences, and from different modes of transportation that suit your time and money. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, with family, or with friends, you will find Lovina to be a perfect destination for a memorable and enjoyable vacation.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip and book your tickets to Lovina now!