Tucked away on the northern coast of Bali, far from the bustling crowds of the island’s southern hotspots, lies Lovina - a serene coastal town offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Known for its calm black-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunrises, Lovina is an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and an authentic Balinese experience. Whether you're here to catch a glimpse of the famous dolphins at dawn, explore vibrant coral reefs, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Lovina provides a quiet yet captivating alternative to Bali’s more tourist-heavy areas.
Chapters
When To Go To Lovina
Dry Season (April to October): Ideal for dolphin watching, snorkelling, and outdoor activities, with sunny weather and calm seas. This is the busiest time, especially from July to August.
Wet Season (November to March): Expect occasional rain, but fewer crowds and lower prices. While water activities might be affected, the scenery is lush and vibrant.
Shoulder Months (March & November): A good balance between fewer crowds, mild weather, and decent prices, with only occasional rain.
How To Get To Lovina
Lovina is located on Bali's northern coast, about 90 km (56 miles) from Denpasar and the island’s main airport, Ngurah Rai International (DPS). Here are the main options for getting there:
1. By Private Car or Taxi
The most convenient and comfortable option, especially for those carrying luggage. You can book a taxi at the airport or arrange a private driver through your hotel.
Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Cost: Approx. £25 to £40 (500,000 to 800,000 IDR)
2. By Shuttle Bus
Shuttle services like Perama offer budget-friendly transport from popular areas like Kuta, Ubud, and Sanur. Though affordable, these can be slower with multiple stops along the way.
Time: 3 to 4 hours
Cost: Approx. £6 to £10 (120,000 to 200,000 IDR)
3. By Motorbike
For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike is an exciting way to reach Lovina, offering scenic views along the way. Make sure you're comfortable with the traffic and winding mountain roads.
Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Cost: Approx. £3 to £6 per day for rentals (60,000 to 120,000 IDR)
4. By Tour Transfer
Many tours offer transfers to Lovina as part of their itinerary, including stops at attractions like waterfalls or temples along the way. This option provides a mix of sightseeing and convenience.
Cost: Varies depending on the package
Accommodation in Lovina
Lovina Central Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dormitories with comfortable bunk beds, air conditioning, and secure lockers; private rooms are also available.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, cozy lounge, and a small garden.
Atmosphere: Quiet and welcoming, ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful and social environment.
Extras: Scooter rentals, dolphin-watching tours, snorkelling trips, and assistance with local sightseeing.
Common Areas: Relaxing garden area and communal dining space for socialising.
Location: Centrally located in Lovina, within walking distance to Lovina Beach, restaurants, and shops.
Cost: £8–£25/night.
To view the hostel click here
Summer Guesthouse
Rooms: Simple, comfortable private rooms with tropical decor, air conditioning, and outdoor patios. Some rooms have access to shared or private bathrooms.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, a tranquil garden, a communal kitchen, and a small library for relaxing.
Vibe: Low-key and intimate, perfect for those seeking a quiet atmosphere for unwinding.
Extras: Scooter rentals, organised dolphin-watching tours, and local excursions to nearby waterfalls or temples.
Common Areas: Cozy garden corners and an outdoor seating area for guests to socialise or relax in the sun.
Location: Nestled in a peaceful area of Lovina, just a short ride to Lovina Beach and nearby cafes.
Cost: £10–£30/night.
To view the guesthouse click here
Lovina Loca Hostel
Rooms: Mixed dorms with spacious bunk beds, air conditioning, secure lockers, and shared bathrooms; private rooms available for added comfort.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, outdoor seating areas, and a small pool.
Vibe: Laid-back and friendly, ideal for solo travellers or small groups looking for a chill, social environment.
Extras: Scooter rentals, dolphin tours, and organised trips to nearby attractions like waterfalls and temples.
Common Areas: Relaxed garden area and a common lounge where guests can meet and share travel tips.
Location: Centrally located in Lovina, a short walk to the beach and close to local shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Cost: £8–£25/night.
To view the hostel click here
Funky Place
Rooms: Colourful, unique private rooms and dorms with vibrant decor, air conditioning, and cozy beds. Shared or private bathrooms are available.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, shared kitchen, and a chill bar area for socialising.
Vibe: Fun and eclectic, perfect for travellers who enjoy a lively and creative atmosphere.
Extras: Scooter rentals, dolphin-watching tours, local sightseeing, and themed events for guests.
Common Areas: Playful lounge area with funky furniture, poolside seating, and a communal dining space.
Location: Centrally located, just a short ride from Lovina Beach and close to cafes, shops, and local attractions.
Cost: £12–£30/night.
To view the hostel click here
Odika Lovina Villas
Rooms: Private villas with spacious bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and outdoor terraces.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, private pools, fully equipped kitchens, and lush tropical gardens.
Vibe: Quiet and private, offering a peaceful retreat with the comforts of home.
Extras: Scooter rentals, guided tours to nearby attractions, and dolphin-watching excursions.
Common Areas: Private gardens and pools for each villa, with sun loungers and outdoor dining areas.
Location: Located a short drive from Lovina Beach, providing easy access to local restaurants and shops while maintaining a secluded atmosphere.
Cost: £40–£100/night.
To view the villa click here
Food and Drink
Cafes
1. Lovina Life Café
Known for its excellent coffee and cozy setting, it’s a great place to enjoy a quiet morning or get some work done.
2. Warung Apple
Simple but excellent coffee, and a great place to experience local flavors.
3. The Global Village Kafé
This café supports local charities, making it a great spot to enjoy coffee with a cause.
4. Kantin 21 Bar & Café
Ideal for a quick coffee break, with a friendly local vibe.
Restaurants
1. The Damai Restaurant
Located in The Damai resort, this restaurant offers gourmet dishes made with organic, locally sourced ingredients. The hilltop views over Lovina make for a stunning dining experience
Cuisine: Fine dining, Balinese and international fusion
Price Range: £10 to £30 per meal
2. Spice Beach Club
A beachfront setting with a lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood and cocktails while watching the sunset.
Cuisine: Indonesian, seafood, and Western dishes
Price Range: £6 to £15 per meal
3. Warung Ayu
A local favourite, Warung Ayu offers authentic Balinese dishes in a simple, no-frills setting, with generous portions and friendly service.
Cuisine: Traditional Balinese
Price Range: £2 to £6 per meal
4. Jasmine Kitchen
Known for its excellent Thai dishes, including curries and noodles, in a cozy and tropical garden setting.
Cuisine: Thai
Price Range: £4 to £10 per meal
5. Secret Garden Restaurant
Tucked away in a lush garden, this hidden gem is great for both local dishes and Western comfort food, with a tranquil, romantic vibe.
Cuisine: Indonesian and Western fusion
Price Range: £4 to £12 per meal
Bars
1. Spice Beach Club
With its beachfront location and live music, this is the go-to spot for enjoying drinks while watching the sunset or dancing by the ocean.
Vibe: Beachfront, lively
Price Range: £3 to £8 for drinks
2. Buda Bakery & Resto
Known for its relaxed atmosphere and good selection of craft beers and wines, it’s a great place for an evening drink in a casual setting.
Vibe: Cozy and laid-back
Price Range: £3 to £7
3. Zigiz Bar
A low-key bar popular with locals and expats, Zigiz Bar has a warm, welcoming vibe and occasionally features live music.
Vibe: Friendly, local
Price Range: £2 to £5
4. Kantin 21 Bar & Café
A casual spot to enjoy a drink in a laid-back environment with friendly staff and affordable prices.
Vibe: Rustic, casual
Price Range: £1.50 to £4
5. Akasa Kintamani Coffee and Bar
This modern bar offers a unique selection of coffee-based cocktails in a stylish setting, perfect for a chill night out
Vibe: Modern, chic
Price Range: £3 to £8
Things To Do In Lovina
1. Dolphin Watching at Sunrise
Lovina is famous for its dolphin tours. Early in the morning, just before sunrise, boats take you out to sea to witness pods of dolphins swimming and jumping in the calm waters. Most tours depart around 5:30 AM and last for about 2 hours. Boats are small and typically hold around 5-10 people. Prices range around £5 to £10 per person (100,000 to 200,000 IDR)
Try to book with eco-conscious operators to minimise disruption to the dolphins.
2. Snorkelling and Diving
Lovina offers access to beautiful coral reefs, with calm waters ideal for snorkeling and diving. You can spot vibrant tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Best spots include around Lovina Beach, Menjangan Island (1-hour drive), and the nearby reefs.
Price Range:
Snorkelling: £10 to £20
Diving: £40 to £60 for guided tours
3. Visit Banjar Hot Springs
These natural hot springs, located in a lush jungle setting, are perfect for relaxation. The waters are rich in sulphur, believed to have healing properties. The hot springs consist of a series of pools, with the water temperature averaging around 37°C (98°F). There are fountains where water flows directly from the spring, creating a soothing massage effect.
Entry fee is approx. £1 (10,000 IDR)
Travel Tip
Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
4. Explore Gitgit Waterfall
One of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls, Gitgit is nestled in a lush jungle, making it a scenic and refreshing place to visit. The waterfall is about 35 meters (115 feet) high, with cool, clear water cascading into a pool below. It’s an easy 10-15 minute walk from the parking area.
Entry fee is approx. £1 (10,000 IDR)
Travel Tip
Wear sturdy shoes for the walk, as the path can get slippery, and bring a swimsuit if you want to take a dip.
5. Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Monastery
This is the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The monastery is a serene place with beautiful gardens, intricate statues, and meditation rooms. It features a miniature version of Borobudur, the famous Buddhist temple in Java.
6. Lovina Beach
Unlike Bali’s crowded southern beaches, Lovina Beach is a tranquil spot known for its black volcanic sand and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing. The beach is much quieter than other parts of Bali, offering a peaceful atmosphere where you can take in the sunset or enjoy a stroll along the shore.
7. Explore Local Temples
Northern Bali has several unique temples worth visiting for their spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
Key Temples:
Pura Beji: A beautiful temple with intricate stone carvings, dedicated to the goddess of rice and fertility.
Pura Dalem Jagaraga: Known for its historic significance and detailed relief carvings depicting colonial battles and mythology.
8. Day Trip to Menjangan Island
Part of the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities. The island is uninhabited and offers some of the best underwater experiences in Bali, with colourful coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Day trips cost around £35 to £50, including transport, snorkelling or diving equipment, and lunch.
9. Visit the Local Markets
Lovina has local markets where you can explore traditional Balinese life, sample local food, and pick up souvenirs. The morning market in Singaraja (about 15 minutes from Lovina) is the largest and offers a wide range of fresh produce, clothing, and local goods.
10. Take a Cooking Class
Immerse yourself in Balinese culture by learning how to cook traditional dishes using local ingredients. Most classes start with a visit to a local market to buy fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on instruction on how to prepare dishes like sate lilit (Balinese fish skewers) and lawar (spiced vegetables and meat).
Price Range: Approx. £20 to £30 per class
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