Lovina may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a Bali itinerary, but after spending time exploring North Bali, we quickly realized it’s one of the island’s most underrated regions.
Known for its peaceful atmosphere, volcanic black sand beaches, waterfalls, temples, hot springs, and famous sunrise dolphin tours, Lovina offers a completely different side of Bali than popular destinations like Canggu, Ubud, or Seminyak.
Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, scenic waterfalls, ethical wildlife encounters, or simply a slower pace of travel, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Lovina.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Lovina and the surrounding North Bali region, including our honest opinions, practical travel tips, entrance fees, opening hours, and personal recommendations to help you plan your visit.
Table of Contents
- Go Dolphin Watching at Sunrise (The Ethical Way)
- Relax at Banjar Hot Springs (Air Panas Banjar)
- Visit Brahmavihara-Arama, Bali’s Largest Buddhist Monastery
- Chase North Bali’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls
- Enjoy a Meal with One of the Most Incredible Views in North Bali at Hanging Restaurant & Bar
- Explore Lovina Beach & Its Famous Black Sand Coastline
- Visit Pura Ulun Danu Beratan: Bali’s Iconic Floating Temple
1
Go Dolphin Watching at Sunrise (The Ethical Way)
Without a doubt, dolphin watching is the most famous activity in Lovina, Bali. Every morning before sunrise, dozens of traditional wooden boats head out into the calm waters of the Bali Sea in search of wild dolphins, making it one of the most iconic experiences in North Bali.
Our Honest Opinion
We debated whether or not to include a dolphin tour in our itinerary because we had read mixed reviews about the experience.
While the dolphins are completely wild and are not fed or kept in captivity, the way many tours operate raises ethical concerns.
Dozens of boats search for the same pods of dolphins. As soon as dolphins surfaced, many of them accelerate toward them, creating a large circle of boats around the animals in an attempt to give passengers the closest possible view.
Although seeing wild dolphins is incredible, we can’t help but wonder how stressful that constant pursuit must be for them.
It’s important to know that not every captain behaves this way. Some operators make a clear effort to keep their distance, avoid chasing the dolphins, and observe them respectfully. Unfortunately, once you’re out on the water, you have very little control over what the other boats decide to do.
We personally chose not to do this tour to not participate in the dilemma.
How to Choose a More Ethical Dolphin Tour
If dolphin watching is on your bucket list, we encourage choosing an operator that puts wildlife first.
Look for tours that:
- Keep a respectful distance from the dolphins
- Avoid speeding directly toward the pods
- Never attempt to surround or block the animals
- Prioritize observation over getting as close as possible
- Clearly promote responsible wildlife tourism
By supporting operators who follow these practices, you’re helping encourage a more sustainable future for dolphin tourism in Lovina.
What About Swimming with the Dolphins?
In recent years, some tours have begun offering the opportunity to hold onto a floating bar behind the boat while wearing a snorkel mask, allowing you to watch the dolphins underwater as they swim nearby.
Although this experience has become extremely popular on social media, it’s also one of the most controversial activities in Lovina.
Because the boats often follow the dolphins while guests are being pulled through the water, we question whether this practice places unnecessary pressure on the animals.
Tour Price Information
Most dolphin tours follow a very similar schedule.
Departure time: Between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM
Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours
Average price:
- Shared boat: 100,000-200,000 IDR ($9-17 CAD) per person
- Private boat: 300,000-600,000 IDR ($26-52 CAD) depending on the number of passengers
Our Tip: If you’re primarily interested in photographing dolphins, consider choosing a private boat. With fewer people onboard, you’ll have more flexibility and your captain may be able to keep a respectful distance while still giving you great viewing opportunities.
Is It Worth It?
This is one of those activities where the answer really depends on your expectations.
If your dream is to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat, Lovina offers one of the best opportunities in Bali.
However, we also think it’s important to be aware of the ethical concerns surrounding the tours. Knowing what to expect beforehand allows you to make an informed decision and support operators who treat wildlife with greater respect.
Stay connected! Follow us on social media for exclusive content & updates on our travels.
On our website, you’ll find all the essential information and tips, while on our social media, you’ll get even more – including personal experiences, funny moments, stunning videos, and much more!
2
Relax at Banjar Hot Springs (Air Panas Banjar)
Hidden among lush tropical gardens just outside Lovina, these natural hot springs have been welcoming visitors for decades.
Mineral-rich water flows continuously from the mountains through intricately carved stone dragon mouths into a series of warm pools.
Banjar Hot Springs is well developed while still maintaining its peaceful atmosphere.
Location & Distance from Lovina
Banjar Hot Springs is located approximately 10 km (6 miles) southwest of Lovina Beach.
Driving time from central Lovina: 15-20 minutes
The roads are fully paved and easy to navigate.
What to Expect at Banjar Hot Springs
The complex features three main thermal pools, each with slightly different depths and temperatures.
The first pool is shallow and perfect for sitting beneath the decorative stone fountains, where warm mineral water pours continuously over your shoulders like a natural massage.
The second pool is larger and ideal for swimming or simply floating while enjoying the surrounding tropical gardens.
The upper pool is usually the quietest, making it a great place to relax if you’re looking for a more peaceful atmosphere.
Entrance Fee & Opening Hours
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, daily
Entrance fee:
- Adults: approximately 45,000 IDR (≈ $4 CAD)
- Children: approximately 20,000 IDR (≈ $1.75 CAD)
Locker rentals are available for a small additional fee, and you’ll also find changing rooms, showers, and toilets on-site.
Facilities
Banjar Hot Springs is one of the more visitor-friendly attractions in North Bali and offers several convenient amenities, including:
- Parking
- Changing rooms, showers & toilets
- Lockers
- Small cafés and local food stalls
- Souvenir shops
3
Visit Brahmavihara-Arama, Bali’s Largest Buddhist Monastery
One of the most surprising places we visited in North Bali wasn’t a beach or a waterfall, it was Brahmavihara-Arama, the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali.
This peaceful temple complex sits on a hillside overlooking the surrounding jungle and coastline.
Compared to some of Bali’s more famous temples, Brahmavihara-Arama receives relatively few visitors. During our visit, there were only two other travelers.
If you’re looking for a quieter cultural experience away from the island’s busiest tourist attractions, this is one place you shouldn’t miss.
Entrance Fee & Opening Hours
Opening hours: 8:00 AM 6:00 PM, daily
Entrance fee: approximately 35,000 IDR ($3 CAD)
Dress Code
Since Brahmavihara-Arama is an active place of worship, visitors are expected to dress respectfully.
We recommend wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
If needed, sarongs are sometimes available to borrow at the entrance, but it’s always easier to arrive appropriately dressed.
4
Chase North Bali’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls
If there’s one thing North Bali does exceptionally well, it’s waterfalls.
The best part? Many of them are within an hour’s drive of Lovina, making them perfect for a day of exploring.
Below are the three waterfalls we think deserve a spot on every North Bali itinerary.
Sekumpul Waterfall: Bali’s Most Spectacular Waterfall
If you only have time to visit one waterfall during your stay in Lovina, make it Sekumpul Waterfall.
Often considered the most beautiful waterfall in Bali, Sekumpul isn’t just a single cascade, it’s a collection of towering waterfalls hidden deep within a lush jungle valley.
Unlike some of Bali’s more accessible waterfalls, visiting Sekumpul requires a bit of effort. You’ll descend hundreds of steps, cross shallow rivers, and hike through the jungle before reaching the base. While the hike is moderately challenging, it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences in North Bali.
Distance from Lovina
- Approximately 30 km
- 50-60 minutes by scooter or car
Entrance Fee & Guide
Sekumpul has different entrance options depending on how you wish to visit.
The most common packages include:
- Viewpoint access only
- Guided hike to the waterfall base
Prices change occasionally, but expect to pay approximately:
- 125,000-150,000 IDR ($11-13 CAD) for the guided waterfall trek.
A local guide is generally required if you want to reach the bottom of the waterfalls.
Opening Hours
Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Our Tip: See it by going to the famous Hanging Restaurant & Bar (next activity in this article)
Aling-Aling Waterfall: Perfect for Adventure Lovers
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, head to Aling-Aling Waterfall.
Unlike many waterfalls where you’re simply there to admire the view, Aling-Aling is known for its natural pools, cliff jumps, rock slides, and canyoning experiences.
Adventure tours allow visitors to slide down smooth volcanic rock formations into natural pools and jump from several different heights under the supervision of local guides.
Even if you decide not to participate in the adventure activities, the main waterfall itself is beautiful and well worth visiting.
Distance from Lovina
- Approximately 15 km
- 25-30 minutes from central Lovina
Entrance Fee
Viewpoint & swimming only:
- Around 20,000 IDR ($1.75 CAD)
Adventure packages with guided cliff jumps and natural slides:
- Approximately 125,000-250,000 IDR ($11-22 CAD) depending on the package.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Good to Know: Swimming and jumping are only permitted with local guides for safety reasons.
If you’re uncomfortable jumping from heights, don’t worry, many visitors simply enjoy the scenery and watch others take on the challenge.
Gitgit Waterfall: The Most Accessible Waterfall Near Lovina
If you’re short on time or prefer an easier walk, Gitgit Waterfall is an excellent choice.
Located just off the main road between Bedugul and Lovina, Gitgit is one of Bali’s oldest and most visited waterfalls.
A short, well-maintained pathway leads through small shops and lush forest before reaching the impressive 35 meters (115-foot) cascade.
Because it’s so accessible, Gitgit tends to attract more visitors than some of the other waterfalls in North Bali, but it’s still a worthwhile stop if you’re driving between central and northern Bali.
Distance from Lovina
- Approximately 20 km
- 30-35 minutes by scooter or car
Entrance Fee: Approximately 45,000 IDR ($4 CAD)
Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
5
Enjoy a Meal with One of the Most Incredible Views in North Bali at Hanging Restaurant & Bar
Some restaurants are worth visiting for the food, while others are worth visiting for the experience.
Hanging Restaurant & Bar easily falls into the second category, and after eating there ourselves, we can honestly say it offered one of the most spectacular restaurant views we saw anywhere in Bali.
Perched high above the lush valleys near Sekumpul Waterfall, this open-air restaurant overlooks layers of tropical jungle, rolling hills, rice fields, and distant mountains.
Getting There & Parking
Although Hanging Restaurant & Bar is only about 50 minutes to 1 hour from Lovina, the final stretch of the drive is much more challenging than the distance might suggest.
The road leading down to the restaurant is very steep, narrow, and quite bumpy, so we recommend driving carefully, especially if you’re visiting by scooter.
You have a few different options:
Option 1: Park at Waterfall Scooter Parking (Our Recommendation)
The easiest and safest option is to park your scooter at Waterfall Scooter Parking (marked on Google Maps).
Parking costs approximately 20,000 IDR ($1.75 CAD).
From there, it’s about a 10-minute downhill walk to the restaurant.
The walk down is steep but manageable for most visitors. We personally chose this option and found it to be the least stressful.
Option 2: Drive All the Way to the Restaurant
It is possible to ride or drive directly to the restaurant’s parking area.
But, we only recommend this if you’re a confident rider.
The road becomes extremely narrow, uneven, and steep in several sections, making it one of the more difficult roads we encountered in Bali.
Option 3: Hire a Local Driver for the Steep Section
If you’ve parked at the upper parking lot, local drivers are often available to take visitors down, or back up, the hill by scooter.
They charge around 20,000 IDR ($1.75 CAD) per person.
Availability can vary depending on the day, but it’s a convenient option if you don’t feel comfortable tackling the road yourself.
We decided to walk down to the restaurant, which allowed us to enjoy the scenery along the way. However, after our meal, we chose to hire a local driver for the ride back up. The uphill walk is quite steep, and after a relaxing lunch, we were happy to skip the climb. It was inexpensive, convenient, and definitely worth it.
Our Tip: If you’re already planning to visit Sekumpul Waterfall on the same day, combining it with lunch at Hanging Restaurant & Bar makes for a perfect itinerary. Just be prepared for the steep terrain, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t hesitate to use the local scooter shuttle service if needed, it makes the experience much more enjoyable.
What Makes Hanging Restaurant & Bar Special?
The biggest reason to visit isn’t necessarily what’s on the menu, it’s what’s in front of you.
The restaurant was designed to make the most of its incredible location, with a spacious terrace that opens directly onto the surrounding valley. Nearly every seat offers an unobstructed view, creating the perfect setting to relax while taking in the scenery.
Unlike many of Bali’s more famous Instagram cafés, Hanging Restaurant & Bar still feels peaceful and authentic. During our visit, it wasn’t overcrowded, allowing us to truly appreciate the calm atmosphere without feeling rushed.
What to Expect on the Menu
The restaurant serves a mix of traditional Indonesian cuisine and Western favorites, making it suitable for almost every traveler.
You’ll find dishes such as:
- Nasi Goreng
- Mie Goreng
- Grilled chicken
- Satay
- Fried rice and noodle dishes
There is also a good selection of tropical fruit juices, smoothies, Balinese coffee, fresh coconuts, soft drinks, and cocktails.
Whether you’re looking for a full meal or just a refreshing drink after your waterfall hike, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Average Prices
Considering the incredible location, we found the prices to be very reasonable.
Expect to pay approximately:
- Main dishes: 50,000-150,000 IDR ($4.50-13 CAD)
- Fresh juices and smoothies: 25,000-45,000 IDR ($2-4 CAD)
- Coffee: 20,000-40,000 IDR ($1.75-3.50 CAD)
- Fresh coconut: around 30,000-40,000 IDR ($2.50-3.50 CAD)
The portions are generous, making it a great value considering the quality of the setting.
Opening Hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
The restaurant is open throughout the day, making it suitable for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or simply a coffee break while exploring the area.
6
Explore Lovina Beach & Its Famous Black Sand Coastline
While Lovina is not known for the white sandy beaches found in places like Nusa Penida or the Bukit Peninsula, its coastline has a completely different charm.
The beaches around Lovina are famous for their volcanic black sand, calm waters, traditional fishing boats, and peaceful atmosphere.
Where Is Lovina Beach?
The name “Lovina” actually refers to a coastal area made up of several small villages.
When travelers talk about “Lovina Beach,” they are usually referring to the coastline around Kalibukbuk, where most restaurants, accommodations, and dolphin tour departures are located.
What Makes Lovina Beach Special?
The first thing you’ll notice is the sand.
Unlike the bright white beaches found in southern Bali, Lovina’s coastline is covered in dark volcanic sand created by the island’s volcanic activity.
The calm waters and protected coastline also make this area much quieter than beaches in places like Canggu, Seminyak, or Uluwatu.
You won’t find large beach clubs or waves packed with surfers here. Instead, you’ll find:
- Quiet seaside walks
- Traditional fishing boats
- Local families enjoying the water
- Small beachfront cafés
- Peaceful sunsets
Can You Swim at Lovina Beach?
Yes, but with realistic expectations.
The water around Lovina is generally calm, making it suitable for swimming and relaxing in the sea. However, the beach is not known for crystal-clear turquoise water or postcard-style swimming conditions.
For enjoying the atmosphere, walking along the shore, and watching local life, Lovina Beach is wonderful.
Watch the Sunset at Lovina Beach
One of our favorite things to do in Lovina is simply ending the day by the ocean.
Because the beach faces northwest, Lovina offers beautiful sunset views over the Bali Sea.
Lovina Beach itself is free to access and open 24 hours.
However, some parking areas may charge a small fee: approximately 2,000-5,000 IDR ($0.20 to 0.45 CAD)
7
Visit Pura Ulun Danu Beratan: Bali’s Iconic Floating Temple
One of the most famous landmarks in Bali, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a picturesque Hindu temple located on the shores of Lake Beratan in the Bedugul highlands.
Surrounded by cool mountain air and often framed by mist rolling over the lake, the temple is one of the island’s most photographed attractions and frequently appears on postcards, travel guides, and social media.
Originally built in the 17th century, the temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the Balinese goddess of lakes and water, who is believed to provide irrigation and prosperity to the surrounding agricultural region.
Its unique lakeside setting creates the illusion that the temple is floating on the water when lake levels are high, making it one of Bali’s most recognizable cultural sites.
Entrance Fee & Opening Hours
Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entrance Fee:
- International visitors: approximately 75,000 IDR ($6.50 CAD)
Additional activities such as boat rides, bicycle rentals, or the botanical gardens may have separate fees.
What to Expect at Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
The temple grounds are beautifully maintained and easy to explore. Beyond the main temple complex, you’ll find landscaped gardens, walking paths, lakeside viewpoints, small cafés, and several photo spots scattered throughout the property.
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the area.
Because of its popularity, arriving early in the morning is the best way to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and softer lighting for photography.
Our Experience Exploring Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Although Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is undeniably beautiful and worth knowing about, it wasn’t one of the highlights of our Bali trip.
We personally found the experience to be very tourist-oriented, with much of the site feeling designed around photo opportunities rather than cultural immersion.
Throughout the grounds, we noticed numerous paid photo installations and Instagram-style setups that, for us, took away from the authenticity of the visit.
That said, we completely understand why it’s such a popular stop. The temple itself is stunning, especially with the mountains and lake as a backdrop, and first-time visitors to Bali may enjoy seeing one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.
For us, however, the visit felt more like a scenic photo stop than an activity where we learned much about Balinese culture.
Is It Worth Visiting?
If you’re driving between Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, or other southern Bali destinations and Lovina, we actually think Pura Ulun Danu Beratan makes for a great halfway stop.
The drive between South Bali and Lovina is relatively long, and spending an hour here is a nice way to break up the journey while stretching your legs and enjoying the cooler mountain climate.
However, we probably wouldn’t recommend making the trip solely to visit the temple.
If your itinerary is limited, we believe your time is better spent exploring some of North Bali’s waterfalls, viewpoints, and natural attractions, which we found to be more memorable and less crowded.
Our Final Thoughts
Lovina completely surprised us.
While many travelers only pass through North Bali for a dolphin tour before heading back south, we think that would be a mistake. Between the waterfalls, peaceful temples, natural hot springs, scenic mountain roads, and slower pace of life, this region offers a side of Bali that feels far less commercial and much more authentic.
Not every attraction was a favorite of ours, and throughout this guide we’ve tried to share our honest opinions alongside practical information so you can decide which experiences best match your own travel style.
If you’re planning a longer stay, don’t forget to read our Complete Lovina Travel Guide, where we cover everything you need to know about getting there, where to eat, transportation, and more practical things to know before your visit.
FAQ – Best Things to Do in Lovina
Is Lovina worth visiting?
Yes! Lovina is one of the most underrated destinations in Bali. It’s perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds and experience waterfalls, temples, hot springs, black sand beaches, and a slower, more authentic side of the island.
What are the best things to do in Lovina?
Some of the best things to do in Lovina include:
- Go dolphin watching at sunrise
- Visit Sekumpul Waterfall
- Relax at Banjar Hot Springs
- Explore Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Monastery
- Enjoy lunch at Hanging Restaurant & Bar
- Visit Gitgit or Aling-Aling Waterfall
- Walk along Lovina Beach at sunset
- Stop at Pura Ulun Danu Beratan on the drive to or from South Bali
How many days do you need in Lovina?
We recommend spending 2 to 4 days in Lovina.
This gives you enough time to visit the main waterfalls, enjoy the hot springs, explore nearby temples, and experience North Bali without rushing.
Is the Lovina dolphin tour ethical?
The dolphins are completely wild, but not all tour operators follow responsible wildlife practices.
We recommend choosing a captain who keeps a respectful distance, avoids chasing dolphins, and prioritizes observing them naturally rather than getting as close as possible.
What is the most beautiful waterfall near Lovina?
In our opinion, Sekumpul Waterfall is the most spectacular waterfall near Lovina and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Bali.
If you’re looking for adventure, Aling-Aling is another fantastic option thanks to its natural waterslides and cliff jumps.
Can you swim in Lovina Beach?
Yes, the sea is generally calm enough for swimming.
However, Lovina is better known for its peaceful atmosphere than its beaches. Don’t expect the white sand and turquoise water found in South Bali or Nusa Penida.
Is Lovina better than Ubud or Canggu?
Lovina offers a completely different experience.
Choose Lovina if you’re looking for:
- Fewer crowds
- Waterfalls
- Nature
- Relaxation
- Local culture
Choose Ubud for temples, rice terraces, cafés, and wellness.
Choose Canggu for surfing, beach clubs, restaurants, and nightlife.
Can you explore Lovina by scooter?
Yes, but choose your scooter carefully.
North Bali has many steep mountain roads, and we strongly recommend renting a more powerful scooter rather than a Honda Scoopy if you plan on exploring the surrounding region.
Is Lovina good for families?
Absolutely.
Lovina’s calm beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and nature-focused activities make it one of the most family-friendly destinations in Bali.
What is the best time to visit Lovina?
The best time to visit Lovina is during Bali’s dry season, from May to October, when you’ll enjoy the best weather for waterfalls, dolphin tours, and exploring North Bali.
Don’t want to miss out on our latest articles? Be sure to subscribe to our website, and you’ll receive a notification every time we publish something new!