Lovina, Bali, offers a unique mix of peaceful atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and fun activities, perfect for exploring northern Bali.
From dolphin watching at sunrise to soaking in the famous Banjar hot springs, Lovina’s laid-back vibe and beautiful black sand beaches create a colourful and mesmerising experience.
Whether you want to dive into local cuisine, visit a local market, explore the Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist monastery, or enjoy water sports on Lovina Beach, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.
22 Exciting Things To Do In Lovina:
The Town
The town itself is heaving with things to do, whether you’re just after a casual stroll around town to see where the wind takes you, or you have something specific you want to see:
Explore Lovina Town
There’s no better way to get a real feel for the place than by wandering its central Lovina on foot. Stroll around and soak up the relaxed vibe, where Balinese culture blends effortlessly with local life.
As you explore, you’ll discover colourful markets buzzing with fresh produce, handcrafted souvenirs, and friendly locals happy to share stories. Don’t miss out on tasting traditional Balinese cuisine at small warungs, think rich spices, fresh seafood, and flavours that tell the story of the island.
Whether you’re people-watching at a café, visiting a local temple, or simply enjoying the warm smiles, walking around the town is an immersive experience that connects you to its chilled atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.
Former Royal Palace
The Former Royal Palace of Singaraja, located just a short drive from Lovina, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s aristocratic history.
Though smaller and less ornate than some of the more famous palaces in Bali, this site showcases beautiful colonial architecture and historical artifacts that tell the story of the region’s royal past.
Exploring the palace grounds provides a quiet, reflective experience for anyone interested in the island’s cultural heritage and traditional governance.
Lovina Market
Every morning, the local market comes alive with fresh fruit, veggies, spices, and seafood straight off the boats. It’s a sensory overload, in the best way.
Grab some ripe mangosteen or dragon fruit, chat to the stallholders, or pick up handmade souvenirs and batik textiles. The market is a great spot for early risers and anyone keen to see the daily rhythms of a Balinese fishing village.
Community Art and Crafts
Lovina has a small but growing arts scene, with several galleries and workshops where you can see traditional crafts like wood carving and silver jewellery making.
Pop into a workshop to watch artisans at work or pick up a unique handmade gift that supports local families
The Beach
Of course, you can’t go to Lovina and not visit Lovina Beach! Whether you’re just after a gentle stroll down the beach, catching some rays, or taking part in some exciting activities, there’s something for everyone here:
Relax At Lovina Beach
Lovina Beach is perfect for those who want to unwind and enjoy the peaceful side of Bali. Stretch out on the soft black sand, listen to the gentle waves, and soak up the calm atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for meditation or yoga, especially early in the morning or late afternoon when the beach is quiet and the temperatures are cooler.
If you prefer something low-key, there are plenty of shady spots under the trees where you can relax with a book or have a picnic. Local families often come here to chill out, and kids play football or volleyball, adding a lively but friendly vibe.
Sunset at Lovina Beach is a beautiful sight with hues of orange and pink reflecting on the water — a great time for a peaceful walk or to capture stunning photos. There are also small cafés nearby where you can grab fresh coconut water or a light snack while enjoying sea views.
For those who just want to kick back and watch the world go by, this beach has the perfect laid-back vibe, encouraging you to slow down and enjoy island time.
Watersports
- Jet Skiing – If you’re after a rush of adrenaline, hiring a jet ski on Lovina Beach is a must. The water here is relatively calm, which makes it great for both beginners and seasoned riders. Rentals are usually available right on the beach, and instructors are happy to guide you through the basics.
- Banana Boat – Banana boat rides are a great way to share some laughs with friends or family while enjoying the water. These inflatable boats, pulled by speedboats, bounce over gentle waves along the coast. It’s a thrilling ride that’s both safe and suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice for groups looking for a fun, shared experience.
- Stand Up Paddleboard – For a more relaxed water activity, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is perfect. Paddle along the calm coastline of Lovina Beach at your own pace while enjoying stunning views of the sea and nearby hills. SUP is easy to learn, making it a peaceful yet engaging way to connect with nature on the water.
- Kayaking – Kayaking allows you to explore Lovina’s coastline quietly and closely. Paddle through calm waters, discovering hidden coves and observing sea life beneath you. It’s an ideal activity for those who love adventure but prefer a slower, more intimate pace on the water.
Fishing Trips
Lovina is a great place to try your hand at fishing, thanks to its rich coastal waters. You can join local fishermen on traditional boats for half-day or full-day trips. These outings often start early in the morning when the sea is calm and the fish are most active. It’s a chance to learn traditional fishing techniques and maybe catch a variety of fish like snapper, mackerel, or even tuna.
Fishing trips are relaxing and provide a unique way to experience the sea, away from the busy tourist spots. Many tours also include stops for swimming or snorkelling, and if you’re lucky, you might even see some dolphins!
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a curious beginner, fishing around Lovina offers a peaceful and rewarding adventure.
Snorkelling
Lovina has great snorkelling opportunities, especially for those looking for calm waters and easy access. The beach’s gentle waves and clear conditions make it easy for beginners and families wanting to explore marine life close to shore.
While it may not have the vibrant coral reefs found in other parts of Bali, you can still spot a variety of tropical fish and sometimes sea turtles. Local operators also offer snorkelling tours that take you to nearby reefs and other good snorkelling spots a short boat ride away.
If you enjoy snorkelling but prefer a relaxed, less crowded environment, Lovina provides a pleasant experience with plenty of natural beauty both above and below the water.
Lovina Festival
The Lovina Beach Festival is a highlight of the year for locals and visitors alike. Usually held in July or August, it’s a lively mix of culture, music, food, and fun right on the black sand beach.
Expect traditional Balinese dance performances, live bands playing everything from reggae to rock, and stalls selling delicious local street food, from fresh seafood skewers to sweet treats like pisang goreng (fried bananas).
There’s also a surf competition for the locals, beach volleyball tournaments, and kids’ games to keep the whole family entertained.
As the sun sets, the festival lights up with bonfires, DJ sets, and often a fire-dancing show that adds some serious wow-factor to the night.
It’s a brilliant way to soak up local vibes, meet new people, and enjoy Lovina’s friendly, laid-back party atmosphere.
Find The Dolphin Statue
This is a bit of a funny one, and not one you’d really think of, but whenever we hit Lovina Beach, we always take a walk to the dolphin statue. It’s an iconic landmark at the northern end of the beach, standing tall as a tribute to Lovina’s famous dolphin tours. The statue features a large dolphin perched on a pillar, surrounded by smaller dolphins, making it a great photo spot and a fun little pilgrimage for visitors.
Located close to the main road and surrounded by cafes and souvenir shops, it’s a lively place to soak up some local vibes. Whether you’re heading out early for a dolphin tour or just taking a relaxed stroll along the beach, stopping by the dolphin statue is a small but memorable part of the Lovina experience.
Dolphin Watching
As forementioned, Lovina is famous for its early morning dolphin watching, and for good reason. The calm, shallow waters just offshore are home to pods of wild dolphins that swim and play as the sun rises over the Sea. This unique experience draws visitors from all over the world who want to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
Tours usually start before dawn, with local boat operators guiding you out to the best spots. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with the magical sight of dolphins jumping and gliding alongside the boats, makes for an unforgettable start to your day. It’s one of the top things to do in Lovina and a must for nature lovers and photographers alike.
The dolphin trips also support the local community, helping maintain sustainable tourism in the area. Just remember to choose responsible operators who respect wildlife and follow guidelines to protect the dolphins.
The best time to go is between 6 and 8 am, when the waters are calmest and the dolphins are most active. Don’t forget your camera and maybe a light jacket for the boat ride. This is the town’s signature activity, and it’s a must when visiting Lovina!
Eat And Drink
In the town and along the beach, there are plenty of places to eat, from cozy warungs to international cuisine, and there are culinary delights to suit everyone. These are a few that we enjoyed eating in:
- The Global Village Foundation Kafe – This is a restaurant that not only focuses on serving great food, but also helping out those in need. Here, they make an effort to employ people with disabilities who might find employment difficult. They also sell souvenirs here. Try the fish tikka masala, we loved it!
- Buda Bakery & Resto – A fantastic bakery, restaurant and coffee shop right in the town. We had a great cappuccino and croissant here for lunch, then went back the next morning for the Eggs Benedict, which was pretty good, we must say.
- Mentari Lovina Bar & Kitchen– A cool spot right on the seafront. They do some great tuna steaks here, but it’s also a chilled spot just to sink a beer and watch the sunset.
- Warung Ayu Lovina Beach – Located just off of Lovina Beach, this cozy warung serves great Indonesian food like nasi campur and mie goreng. They also have a happy hour on drinks from 6 pm to 8 pm, which is a nice touch; everyone loves a happy hour.
- Barcelona Lovina Bar & Restaurant – A nice family-run restaurant which serves some great mahi mahi and suckling pig.
- Warung 3D Lovina – This restaurant is right on the beach, so much so that you can almost touch the sea! They do some great grilled mahi mahi here and ikan bakar.
There is no shortage of bars in Lovina; it even has its own bar street, Jalan Binaria, which runs up to and along the beachfront, lined with open-fronted bars, most of which open late. Naturally, we took no pain in checking some of them out!
- Zigiz Bar – This cool and funky bar has live music every night, with some pretty good bands. It can get quite busy here, and often the crowd spills out onto the street. They specialise in cocktails here, and the prices are right. Be warned, it’s easy to lose track of time here, and the bar stays open until the early hours of the morning!
- Poco Lounge Bar – Another fun and cozy bar, which has live music most nights. The staff here are very friendly and great fun to hang out with. The crowd is a mix of tourists, expats and locals, which is a testament to its friendly atmosphere. We had some great pizza here, too!
- Warung Music – This place serves mostly as a restaurant during the day, but at night it comes alive with locals and tourists drinking together. They have a few guitars sitting around here, and anyone is welcome to pick one up and play some music. Sometimes it turns into a full-on jam session.
Around Lovina
There’s more to Lovina than the beach and the town, the surrounding area is bursting with natural beauty, hidden gems, and peaceful escapes. Some spots are just a drive away, while others are perfect for a half-day trip:
Banjar Hot Springs
Just a 20-minute drive from Lovina, these holy hot springs are a great place to unwind. Set among tropical greenery, the springs feature four main pools filled with sulphur-rich water that flows from carved naga (serpent) heads and has a pleasant, warm temperature.
The largest pool is big enough that it even has a small restaurant beside it. The mineral-rich water has a yellow-orange tint from the sulphur and iron, and it’s perfect for soaking tired muscles after a long day.
You’ll also find lockers, changing rooms, and a spa and massage centre on site, so you can really relax. It’s close to Brahma Vihara Arama too, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
Try going early or late in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful setting.
(More on Hot Springs In Bali)
Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery
This peaceful hilltop monastery offers a quiet place to take a break from the beach and soak up a different side of Balinese culture. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with detailed carvings, meditation spaces, and a small replica of Borobudur.
Visitors are welcome to explore at their own pace. Just dress modestly and borrow a sarong at the entrance if needed. It’s a calm and respectful place that invites you to slow down and take it all in.
Sing Sing Waterfall
Only around 10 minutes from central Lovina, Sing Sing Waterfall is one of the most accessible waterfalls in North Bali. The path is short and easy, making it a great option for families or casual explorers. During the wet season, the falls are strong and dramatic, while in the dry season, they offer a peaceful spot for a quick cool-down in nature.
Gitgit Waterfall
Around a 40-minute drive from Lovina, Gitgit Waterfall is a classic North Bali experience. The walk to the waterfall is scenic, passing through rice paddies, jungle, and small local shops. The falls themselves drop around 35 metres, making for a refreshing dip or a great photo opportunity. While Gitgit is popular with tourists, it doesn’t feel too crowded if you visit earlier in the day.
Don’t forget sturdy shoes – the path can be slippery, especially during or after rain.
Aling-Aling Waterfall
Wow, there are a lot of waterfalls in this part of the island, but Aling-Aling Waterfall stands out for good reason.
Tucked into the jungle about 30 minutes from Lovina, this is not just another pretty cascade. It is a natural waterpark, complete with cliff jumps and slippery rock slides that shoot you into turquoise plunge pools.
To get to the action, you will need to hire a local guide, as it is required if you want to swim or jump, but it is worth it. After a short hike through lush greenery, you will reach a series of waterfalls: Kroya, Kembar, Pucuk, and finally Aling-Aling itself, the biggest and most dramatic of the bunch.
If you are up for it, you can hurl yourself off platforms ranging from 5 to 15 metres high or watch others take the plunge. There are also calmer pools where you can float and soak it all in. The water is refreshingly cold, a welcome break from Bali’s tropical heat.
It is adventurous, beautiful, and surprisingly well managed by the local community. Just do not forget proper footwear and a dry bag, as things get wet fast.
Explore Traditional Villages Near Lovina
Just a short trip from Lovina, the traditional Balinese villages give you a proper look at everyday island life.
Spots like Kalibukbuk and Temukus are quiet and peaceful, where you’ll see locals making offerings, tending rice paddies, or going about their daily routines.
Take a stroll through these villages for a laid-back way to experience real Balinese culture away from the usual tourist crowds.
You might even get invited to a ceremony or offered some homemade snacks from a friendly local. These villages show the heart and soul of north Bali’s community life, definitely worth a visit.
Trekking and Nature Walks Around Lovina
Lovina’s surrounding hills and forests offer plenty of opportunities for trekking and nature walks, perfect for those who want to get off the beaten track and enjoy Bali’s lush landscapes.
One popular route takes you through shaded jungle trails, past rice terraces, and along rivers where you might spot local wildlife like monkeys or colourful birds. The cool mountain air makes walking here refreshing, especially in the early morning.
If you’re after something a bit more challenging, there are hikes up to viewpoints overlooking the Bali Sea and the surrounding coastline. These spots are stunning for sunrise or sunset and give you a new perspective on Lovina’s natural beauty.
Guided tours are available if you want to learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as Balinese traditions connected to the land. Walking with a guide also supports the local community and adds an educational side to your adventure.
FAQs
What Is Lovina Famous For?
Lovina is best known for its early morning dolphin tours, where you can see wild dolphins in their natural habitat against the stunning backdrop of northern Bali’s calm seas. It’s also famous for its black sand beaches, chilled atmosphere, and nearby natural hot springs.
Can You Swim In Lovina Beach?
Yes, as noted above, swimming at Lovina Beach is highly recommended! The waters are calm and warm, making it perfect for a swim or just splashing around.
If you’re worried about sharks, don’t be; the only thing you might get bitten by is a playful little fish or maybe a stubborn crab trying to steal your sunscreen.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Lovina?
Any time of year is a good time to visit Lovina, and there are hours of daily sunshine even during the wet season! It does, of course, rain sporadically and heavily during the rainy season, and when it’s not raining, it’s very humid.
The dry season is less humid, and there’s a cool breeze from the sea. But actually, as mentioned before, all times of year are great to visit.
Are The Dolphin Tours In Lovina Eco-Friendly?
Many dolphin tour operators in Lovina are making strong efforts to be eco-friendly by following responsible wildlife guidelines. This means keeping a respectful distance from the dolphins, avoiding chasing or feeding them, and limiting the number of boats on the water at any time.
Choosing tours with small, quiet boats and guides who prioritise dolphin safety helps protect these amazing animals and their habitat. Always ask your operator about their eco-friendly practices to ensure you enjoy a tour that supports sustainable tourism in Lovina.
Can I See Dolphins In South Bali?
Yes, dolphins can be seen in South Bali, particularly in places like Benoa. Again, it’s best to take a wild dolphin sunrise tour in the early morning. Dolphins aside, the sun rising above the beautiful Indian Ocean is a colourful and memorable experience in its own right!
Final Thoughts On Things To Do In Lovina, North Bali
Lovina offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure for travellers who want to experience northern Bali beyond the usual tourist spots.
Whether you’re soaking in the soothing hot springs, exploring vibrant local markets, or cruising alongside dolphins at sunrise, Lovina leaves you with unforgettable memories.
Its laid-back vibe, coupled with rich cultural sites and exciting activities, ensures a diverse and colourful trip every time.
