Sukasada is located in the very north of Bali, in the Buleleng Regency. It covers a fairly large area, stretching from just behind Lovina, right down past Lake Buyan, stopping just short of Mount Bratan itself.
There’s a variety of things to do in this area, from jungle walks and waterfalls to cultural monuments, the lake and its surrounding wonders, and the foothills of one of Bali’s iconic volcanoes.
For this guide of things to do, we’ll concentrate mainly on places inside Sukasada itself, then brush briefly on things to do in the surrounding area, as there are a few things just outside which we think shouldn’t be missed.
Summary: Top 3 Best Things to Do in Sukasada (Editor’s Choice)
In North Bali, Sukasada might not offer nightlife or beach bars, but it gives you experiences you won’t find in South Bali.
- Bali Bike Park is a great choice if you love adventure.
- Want to unwind at a waterfall? Head to Gitgit, Aling-Aling, and Banyumala Twin Waterfalls.
- You can immerse yourself in nature at the scenic Lake Buyan.
If you’re looking to explore beyond Sukasada, visit Lovina, Baturiti, or the Royal Palace in Singaraja.
Things To Do In Sukasada:
Lake Buyan
Lake Buyan is a calm mountain lake surrounded by green hills and forest, with plenty of ways to enjoy the area. Walking paths wind along the shore, while small warungs serve snacks and coffee with views over the water.
It’s common to see locals fishing or tending the nearby gardens, giving visitors a glimpse of daily Balinese life. The cool mountain air makes it pleasant for a picnic, a short trek through the surrounding forest, or even a bit of camping if you’re prepared.
For those who want to get on the water, boats can be hired to paddle out and take in the scenery from the middle of the lake. Add in the nearby attractions, and Lake Buyan becomes more than just a scenic stop; it’s a place where you can spend hours or even days exploring, relaxing and appreciating the stunning natural beauty.
Bali Bike Park
Bali Bike Park is a fun spot for adventure lovers, with trails that wind through forested areas near Lake Buyan. Visitors can rent bikes on-site and ride paths suited for all skill levels. Along the trails, you’ll enjoy the fresh mountain air and lush scenery, with chances to stop for photos or take in the views. It’s a great way to be active while exploring the natural beauty of Sukasada.
Where Is It? Jl Dasong Banjar Yeh Mas, Banyuning, Pancasari, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81111, Indonesia
Online: MTB Trans Bali
Ulun Danu Buyan Temple
Ulun Danu Buyan Temple sits on the edge of Lake Buyan, offering a peaceful spot to soak in Bali’s mountain scenery.
This small temple is less visited than the famous Ulun Danu Beratan, making it a quiet place to observe daily Balinese rituals and local offerings. Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore, take photos of the traditional architecture framed by the water, and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
It’s an easy stop while exploring Lake Buyan, and the surrounding paths and nearby viewpoints make it ideal for a gentle walk and a taste of Balinese life in a serene setting.
Where Is It? Q45V+J62, Danau Buyan, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Wanagiri Hidden Hills
Wanagiri Hidden Hills is one of the most scenic spots in North Bali, perched above Lake Buyan with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors come here to snap photos on swings, nests, and viewpoints that seem to float over the hills.
Beyond the photo ops, it’s a peaceful place to soak in the cooler mountain air, watch the clouds drift over the lakes, and feel a sense of calm away from Bali’s busier south. There are small cafes and warungs where you can grab a coffee or snack while taking in the scenery.
It’s also a chance to see a slice of Balinese life, as locals tend the nearby gardens and paths. Whether you’re after adventure, photography, or just a serene escape, Wanagiri Hidden Hills offers a unique experience that’s hard to beat.
Where Is It? Wanagiri, Jalan Raya Munduk, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia
Online: Wanagiri Hidden Hill Bali
Monumen Perjuangan Bhuwana Kertha
This 17-meter-tall monument in Sukasada commemorates Bali’s struggle for independence. Its design includes a Padmasana (lotus throne) and flame at the top, symbolising divine blessing and freedom. The monument’s base features 45 lotus petals, representing Indonesia’s year of independence.
Set in a peaceful area, it’s a reflective spot to learn about Bali’s history and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Where Is It? Jl. Ki Barak Panji, Panji, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Gatep Lawas Ambengan
Gatep Lawas Ambengan is a peaceful little spot in Sambangan Village, perfect if you want to escape the crowds.
The river here is clear and calm, ideal for a swim or just paddling around, and the shady trees make it a nice place to relax. You can wander along the banks, listen to the birds, or just enjoy the fresh mountain air.
It’s also a peek into everyday Balinese life; locals tend the nearby gardens and farms, and it’s easy to watch life go by at a gentler pace.
Waterfalls
There’s no shortage of beautiful waterfalls in Sukasada, each one unique from the last. We’ve checked out and listed several waterfalls here, but we didn’t get around to them all.
- Aling-Aling Waterfall – A short jungle trek leads to Aling-Aling, where the water flows over smooth rocks perfect for natural slides. Brave visitors can try small cliff jumps into the refreshing pools below. Location: Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
- Banyumala Twin Waterfalls – Two streams plunge side by side into a serene pool. The area is quiet, shaded by trees, and ideal for swimming or snapping photos of the cascading water. It takes a bit of effort to get to the secluded Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, but well worth it if you can. Location: Wanagiri, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia
- Tembok Barak Waterfall – Tucked among red cliffs and lush greenery, Tembok Barak offers a peaceful spot to relax and cool off. The surrounding forest paths make it a pleasant short walk to reach. Location: Gg. Cengkeh, Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
- Padangbulia Waterfall – More commonly known by its Indonesian name Air Terjun Padangbulia, this secluded waterfall is framed by dense foliage, with clear, cool water that’s perfect for a refreshing dip after trekking through the forest. Location: R4V8+PPH, Padangbulia, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia
- Gitgit Waterfall – One of Bali’s more famous waterfalls, Gitgit Waterfall drops around 35 meters into a pool below. The walk along the scenic path makes reaching it part of the experience. Location: Jl. Raya Bedugul – Singaraja, Gitgit, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Taman Bung Karno
Taman Bung Karno is a quiet park dedicated to Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno. The grounds are easy to explore, with monuments, statues, and shaded paths.
It’s a calm spot for a stroll, a picnic, or a few photos, and you get a little history alongside your break.
It’s not flashy, but that’s exactly why it’s a nice, relaxed place to slow down and take in some Balinese culture without the crowds.
Where Is It? V482+626, Jl. Jelantik Gingsir, Sukasada, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81119, Indonesia
Handara Golf & Resort Bali
Handara Golf & Resort Bali is a scenic golf course set against the backdrop of mountains and lush greenery.
You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy the area; the views, fresh mountain air, and iconic entrance gate make it a popular photo stop, and many come just for that. It’s easy to wander the grounds, take in the scenery, and appreciate the peaceful highland setting.
It is also, of course, a resort, and a pretty flashy one at that, so if you are into golf, maybe you could spend a day or two here.
Where Is It? Q535+6P, Desa Singaraja-Denpasar Pancasari Sukasada, Desa Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Buleleng, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Online: Handara Golf Resort
Handara Gate
The gate to the aforementioned golf resort is such an iconic landmark that it gets its own mention!
This towering split gateway, framed by the surrounding mountains, has become one of Bali’s most photographed spots. Even if you don’t step into the resort itself, most travellers stop here for a quick photo and to take in the highland scenery.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
Things To Do Just Outside Of Sukasada:
Visit Lovina
On the coastline just north of Sukasada is the seaside town of Lovina. There are a lot of things to do in Lovina, far too many to mention here, but we’ll get through a few.
There’s the beach, of course, with stunning views north out into the Indian Ocean, great for chilling, swimming, and with the beach restaurants, it’s a great place to eat also, plus there are some watersports options available.
Talking of the sea, one of the things that Lovina is most famed for is the dolphins, and dolphin spotting tours are easy to book in the town. Many visitors to the beach make the pilgrimage to the famous dolphin statue.
It’s a great place to stay after a few days of exploring Sukasada. There is no shortage of hotels and guesthouses, and there’s even a bar street!
Lake Bratan
Lake Bratan is a calm and scenic spot, perfect for taking a break from driving or exploring the north. The water is clear, and paths along the shore make it easy to wander at your own pace.
You can sit on the banks and watch the reflections in the water, or take a small boat out for a peaceful paddle across the lake. It’s also a nice place for a few photos, especially if you catch the light hitting the water just right.
The atmosphere here is relaxed, and there’s a sense of quiet that makes it easy to just breathe and enjoy the scenery for a while.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Sitting on the edge of Lake Bratan, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic temples.
The tiered shrines appear to float on the water, framed by the lake and distant hills. It’s a great place to take photos, stroll around the grounds, and watch locals making daily offerings.
The temple has a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere, and spending some time here feels like stepping into another side of Bali; one that’s calm, spiritual, and timeless. Even a short visit leaves a lasting impression.
Where Is It? Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
Hidden Strawberry Garden
This one’s just outside of Sukasada, so close it almost ended up in the main section.
The Hidden Strawberry Garden is a small farm where you can pick fresh strawberries straight from the plants and wander the terraced fields. The surrounding hills make for nice photos, and there’s a relaxed vibe with small cafés where you can grab a snack or drink.
Even if you’re not picking strawberries, it’s a nice spot to slow down and enjoy a quieter side of Bali.
Where Is It? Jl. Gatotkaca, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
Mount Bratan
Mount Bratan rises above the surrounding hills and is a great spot for a bit of hiking or just exploring the trails.
The paths aren’t too tough, so visitors can take a leisurely trek while enjoying the views over the forests and lakes nearby. It’s a peaceful place to spend some time outdoors, spot local flora, and get a sense of the area’s natural beauty.
A visit here is a nice way to add a little adventure to your trip while staying close to Sukasada.
Munduk Waterfalls
The Munduk Waterfall Trek is a scenic adventure through Bali’s northern jungle, where multiple waterfalls await along shaded paths and lush greenery.
It’s a great way to get some walking in, enjoy the cool air, and immerse yourself in the island’s stunning natural beauty. Along the trek, you’ll see waterfalls of all shapes and sizes, with clear pools perfect for a quick dip or just soaking in the scenery.
This is more than a beginner’s trek, and can take anywhere between 4 – 8 hours, not for the faint-hearted. If medium to challenging jungle treks are your thing, then we’d recommend this one.
Lake Temblingan
Lake Tamblingan, situated near Munduk, is a serene lake, twinned with Lake Buyan, and surrounded by dense jungle.
You can embark on canoeing adventures across the lake, exploring its calm waters and the rich biodiversity of the surrounding forest.
The area offers a peaceful retreat, ideal for those looking to connect with nature.
Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali, a cluster of falls plunging dramatically into the jungle below. Reaching it requires a trek down some stairs and paths along streams, which makes the view at the bottom even more rewarding.
The area is peaceful, with far fewer visitors than the more famous south, and the sound of water cascading through the dense foliage is incredibly calming. Swimming is possible in certain pools if you’re brave, or you can just soak up the scenery and enjoy the sense of being somewhere truly hidden and spectacular.
Where Is It? Bebetin, Sawan, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Royal Palace Singaraja (Puri Agung Buleleng)
The palace complex has a unique network of courtyards, shrines, and temples that are still in use today.
If you’re lucky, you might even meet the royal family’s elder, Anak Agung Ngurah Brawida, who sometimes shows visitors around and shares the palace’s history in English.
It’s a great way to connect the natural beauty of the area with Bali’s royal heritage.
Address: V3GW+6WP, Kampung Singaraja, Buleleng, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
FAQs
What Is The Best Time To Visit Sukasada?
The best time to visit Sukasada is between April and October, during Bali’s dry season. The warm but pleasant weather makes it ideal for trekking, swimming at waterfalls, and exploring the mountains.
The rainy season can still be beautiful, but access to some hidden gems may be harder.
How Do You Get Around Sukasada?
Most visitors choose to rent a private driver for the day. Like many places in the Buleleng Regency, attractions can be spread out, and public transport is limited.
Using Grab or Gojek can work for shorter trips, especially around the Lovina area, but a driver gives you easier access to waterfalls and mountain areas.
Are There Snakes In The Rice Terraces?
Yes, snakes do live in Bali’s rice terraces, as they are part of the natural ecosystem.
Most are non-venomous and avoid people, so the chances of an encounter are low. Farmers and locals work in the fields every day, and it’s generally safe for visitors to walk along the terraces.
If you’re trekking through less-trodden paths, wear good shoes and stay on marked trails to make your experience both safe and enjoyable.
Is There An Entrance Fee For Wanagiri Hidden Hills?
Yes, there’s a small entrance fee of around 100k IDR per person (at the time of writing).
This small fee grants you access to the official Hidden Hill area, with the platforms and viewpoints, where you can witness the full stunning natural beauty of the area.
Some of it can be seen from the road, but to get the full experience, it’s worth forking out the small sum of money. Bring cash, preferably the correct change.
Final Thoughts On Things To Do Sukasada, Bali
Sukasada might not be packed with nightlife or beach bars, but it offers something just as rewarding, a window into Bali’s stunning natural beauty and mountain culture.
Between hidden waterfalls, peaceful lakes, and nearby temples, this area is ideal for anyone wanting to slow down and connect with a more authentic side of the island.
Exploring the hills, spending time with locals, or simply enjoying the cool mountain air by Lake Bratan all make Sukasada feel worth the trip. It’s the kind of place where you discover the charm of Balinese life at a gentler pace, making it a memorable stop on any journey through Indonesia.
