Tucked away on Bali’s peaceful northern coastline, Lovina offers a completely different experience from the island’s bustling southern hotspots.
Instead of beach clubs, heavy traffic, and crowded tourist attractions, you’ll find black sand beaches, calm seas, lush mountain landscapes, hidden waterfalls, et a slower pace of life that encourages you to truly unwind.
Although many visitors only pass through Lovina for its famous sunrise dolphin tours, this charming coastal region deserves much more than a quick overnight stop.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from Ubud or adding North Bali to a longer Indonesia itinerary, this guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Lovina.
Table des matières
- Why Visit Lovina?
- Where is Lovina? With Approximate Driving Times from Bali’s Main Destinations
- How to Get to Lovina
- Best Time to Visit Lovina
- How Many Days Should You Spend in Lovina?
- Getting Around Lovina
- Where to Eat in Lovina : Our Restaurants Recommandations
- Best Things to Do in Lovina: A Quick Overview
- Final Thoughts: Is Lovina Worth Visiting?
1
Why Visit Lovina?
If you’re wondering whether Lovina is worth adding to your Bali itinerary, our answer is a definite yes.
It’s an excellent base for discovering some of North Bali’s most spectacular attractions. Within an hour’s drive, you can visit towering waterfalls, natural hot springs, scenic mountain roads, traditional temples, and some of the island’s best snorkeling and diving spots.
Another reason we loved Lovina is that it feels noticeably less commercial than many other parts of Bali. Prices are generally lower, crowds are smaller, and the atmosphere is much more relaxed. If you’re looking to experience a quieter side of the island while still having plenty to see and do, Lovina is hard to beat.
In our opinion, 2 to 3 days is a good amount of time to enjoy Lovina and explore the surrounding region at a comfortable pace.
2
Where is Lovina?
With Approximate Driving Times from Bali’s Main Destinations
Located on the north coast of Bali, Lovina is a collection of small seaside villages stretching along the Bali Sea.
One thing many first-time visitors underestimate is just how large Bali is.
While the island may look small on a map, traveling between the south and the north takes considerably longer than expected due to winding mountain roads, traffic, and changes in elevation.
Fortunately, the journey is incredibly scenic.
If you’re planning to visit Lovina, here are the approximate driving times from some of Bali’s most popular destinations:
- Ubud: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Canggu: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Seminyak: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Kuta: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Uluwatu: 4 to 4.5 hours
- Denpasar International Airport (DPS): approximately 3 hours
- Munduk: 1 hour
- Amed: 2.5 to 3 hours
Although these distances may not seem far, we recommend avoiding travel after dark whenever possible. Many of the roads leading to North Bali are narrow, winding, and poorly lit, making daytime travel much more enjoyable and significantly safer.
3
How to Get to Lovina
There are several ways to reach Lovina depending on your travel style, budget, and comfort level.
1. Rent a Scooter
For confident riders, renting a scooter offers the most flexibility.
It allows you to stop at viewpoints, waterfalls, temples, and local cafés along the way while exploring at your own pace.
Daily scooter rentals typically cost between 80,000 and 150,000 IDR ($7-13 CAD), depending on the model and rental duration.
If you’re planning to continue exploring North Bali after arriving in Lovina, a scooter remains the most convenient option.
However, there is one very important thing we wish we had known before making the trip.
Our Biggest Tip: Rent a Powerful Scooter for North Bali
If you’re planning to visit Lovina by scooter, this is probably the most valuable piece of advice we can give you.
The roads leading to North Bali are very different from the relatively flat roads around Canggu, Seminyak, or Ubud.
To reach Lovina, you’ll cross mountain passes with long, steep climbs that can be surprisingly demanding for smaller scooters.
We made the mistake of renting a Honda Scoopy, thinking it would be perfectly adequate for the trip. While it handled most of the route without any issues, everything changed once we reached one of the steepest climbs.
Our scooter simply didn’t have enough power to carry both of us uphill.
It gradually lost speed until it stopped completely. Before we had time to react, it began rolling backwards, and we ended up gently tipping over onto the side of the road.
Thankfully, neither of us was badly injured (couple of scratches), and several incredibly kind locals immediately stopped to help us.
One local even drove one of us to the top of the hill in his car while the other rode the scooter alone. Without the extra passenger, the Scoopy finally had enough power to make it up the climb.
We know that the issue wasn’t our driving, it was simply that our scooter wasn’t designed for long, steep mountain roads with two adults onboard.
Notre recommandation
If you’re traveling as a couple or carrying backpacks, we strongly recommend renting a more powerful scooter.
Some models have significantly more power and are much better suited for the mountain roads of North Bali.
If a smaller scooter like the Scoopy is your only option, we recommend having only one person on the scooter during the steepest climbs whenever possible.
It’s a simple tip, but it could save you from an accident, and from having to push your scooter uphill.
2. Hire a Private Driver
If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter for several hours, hiring a private driver is an excellent alternative.
Private transfers from South Bali generally cost between 600,000 and 900,000 IDR ($52-78 CAD), depending on your pickup location and whether you make sightseeing stops along the way.
Many drivers are happy to customize the journey, allowing you to visit places like :
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
- Munduk Waterfall
before arriving in Lovina.
3. Join an Organized Tour
Some travelers choose to visit Lovina as part of a day tour from Ubud or South Bali, particularly for the famous dolphin tours.
We still think Lovina is worth your time and you should spend a few nights there, but if you are on a tight schedule this could be an option to consider.
Some tours include:
- the transfer from cities like Ubud and Canggu
- the dolphin excursion
- some more time on the boat for activities like snorkelling
We recommend booking on Get Your Guide for the convenience and good service of the app. Here is a good option:
4
Best Time to Visit Lovina
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Lovina is that it’s a year-round destination.
Thanks to its location on Bali’s north coast, the weather is often slightly drier and calmer than in other parts of the island, making it a great place to visit in almost any season.
Dry Season (April to October)
Le dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Lovina.
During these months, you’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
This the best season for:
- Dolphin watching
- Plongée
- Visiting waterfalls with less muddy trails
- Exploring North Bali by scooter
- Watching sunsets along Lovina Beach
Le downside? This is also the busiest time of year. While Lovina never feels as crowded as South Bali, you can expect more visitors, especially during the July and August holiday season.
Rainy Season (November to March)
We actually visited Lovina during the saison des pluies, and honestly, it was much better than we expected.
Although we experienced a few tropical downpours, they were usually short-lived and often happened later in the afternoon or overnight.
Mornings remained sunny enough for sightseeing, and the surrounding landscapes were incredibly lush and vibrant.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting during this time is that there are far fewer tourists. Attractions feel quieter, accommodation prices are often lower, and it’s easier to enjoy popular spots without large crowds.
If you don’t mind adjusting your plans around the occasional rain shower, the rainy season can still be an excellent time to visit.
Restez connecté! Suivez-nous sur les réseaux sociaux pour du contenu exclusif et des mises à jour sur nos voyages.
Sur notre site web, vous trouverez toutes les informations essentielles et conseils, tandis que sur nos réseaux sociaux, vous aurez encore plus – des expériences personnelles, des moments amusants, des vidéos époustouflantes etc!
5
How Many Days Should You Spend in Lovina?
Although many visitors only come for the famous sunrise dolphin tour before heading back to South Bali, we believe Lovina deserves at least a few days on your itinerary.
North Bali has a completely different atmosphere than the island’s southern coast, with waterfalls, temples, mountain viewpoints, and peaceful beaches all within easy driving distance.
Here’s how much time we recommend spending in Lovina.
1 Day in Lovina
If you’re short on time, you can still experience some of the area’s highlights.
A typical one-day itinerary could include:
- Sunrise dolphin watching tour
- Breakfast at one of Lovina’s cafés
- Visit Banjar Hot Springs
- Visiter le monastère bouddhiste Brahmavihara-Arama
- Sunset at Lovina Beach
You’ll get a good introduction to North Bali, but you may feel rushed.
2 Days in Lovina
This is the minimum amount of time we would personally recommend.
Two days gives you enough flexibility to enjoy both Lovina itself and some of the incredible attractions nearby.
You could spend one day exploring the town and another chasing waterfalls like Sekumpul or Aling-Aling before enjoying dinner back in Lovina.
3 to 4 Days in Lovina
This is what we think is the ideal amount of time.
With three or four days, you can slow down and fully appreciate everything North Bali has to offer without spending your entire trip in the car.
You’ll have time to visit waterfalls, temples, scenic cafés, beaches, and hidden viewpoints while still enjoying the relaxed atmosphere that makes Lovina so special.
Our Recommendation: If your Bali itinerary allows it, we recommend spending 3 nights in Lovina. It offers the perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxation while allowing you to discover a side of Bali that many travelers never experience.
6
Getting Around Lovina
One of the things we loved most about Lovina is how easy it is to explore the surrounding region.
Many of North Bali’s top attractions are located within a 15 to 60-minute drive, making Lovina an excellent base for day trips.
Location d'un scooter
Renting a scooter is the most popular and affordable way to explore Lovina and North Bali.
Daily rental prices typically range from 70,000 to 120,000 IDR ($6-10 CAD) depending on the model and rental duration.
However, like previously mentioned in our “How to Get There” section, there’s one important thing we’d recommend based on our own experience:
Don’t rent a small scooter like a Honda Scoopy if you plan on exploring beyond Lovina.
North Bali has far more steep mountain roads than we expected. During one of our rides, our scooter actually lost power while climbing a particularly steep hill. It rolled backward, and we ended up falling over at low speed.
If you plan on visiting waterfalls, viewpoints, or driving through the mountains, we strongly recommend renting a more powerful scooter, especially if two people will be riding together.
Hiring a Private Driver
If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter, hiring a private driver is another excellent option.
Many drivers offer full-day tours around North Bali, allowing you to visit several attractions in one day without worrying about navigation or road conditions.
Walking Around Lovina
Lovina itself is relatively easy to explore on foot.
Many restaurants, cafés, accommodations, and Lovina Beach are within walking distance, especially if you’re staying near the beachfront.
7
Where to Eat in Lovina : Our Restaurant Recommendations
One thing we didn’t expect before arriving in Lovina was how many great cafés and restaurants we would find. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast spot, fresh seafood by the beach, healthy vegetarian food, or a restaurant with an unforgettable view, Lovina has something for every type of traveler.
Here are a few of our favorite places, along with a couple of popular recommendations we would love to try on a future visit.
Buda Bakery & Resto
Our favorite restaurant in Lovina.
We ended up eating here twice because the menu is so varied, offering everything from Indonesian dishes and Western meals to homemade pastries and excellent coffee.
It’s a great choice at any time of day, whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert.
COFFEENOSKY
One of the best cafés in Lovina, especially for the view.
From the street it looks quite simple, but the terrace overlooks beautiful rice fields and mountains, making it a wonderful place for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee.
Sea Breeze Lovina
If you’re looking for a beachfront dinner, Sea Breeze is one of the most popular choices in town.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood, cocktails, and one of Lovina’s beautiful sunsets while dining just steps from the ocean.
AKAR Café
AKAR Café is a fantastic option for anyone looking for healthy, vegetarian, or vegan meals.
The menu focuses on fresh ingredients and colorful dishes, making it one of the best breakfast and lunch spots in Lovina.
Hanging Restaurant & Bar
As will be mentioned below in this article, Hanging Restaurant & Bar, located about an hour from Lovina near Sekumpul Waterfall, offers one of the most spectacular restaurant views we’ve ever experienced in Bali.
If you’re planning to visit Sekumpul Waterfall, we highly recommend combining both experiences into the same day.
Café Leo & Loaf Life
Although we didn’t have time to visit these ourselves, both cafés are frequently recommended by travelers for their excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and delicious brunch menus.
They’re great options if you’re planning to spend a few mornings café hopping around Lovina.
8
Best Things to Do in Lovina: A Quick Overview
One of the reasons we enjoyed staying in Lovina is that there is much more to do than simply taking a dolphin tour.
While the town itself has a relaxed atmosphere, it’s also the perfect base for exploring some of North Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls, temples, hot springs, and scenic viewpoints.
Whether you’re spending two days or nearly a week in the area, you’ll find plenty of activities within an easy drive from Lovina.
Some of the highlights include:
Join an Ethical Dolphin Watching Tour
Lovina is famous for its sunrise dolphin tours, where wild dolphins can often be seen swimming just offshore. We recommend choosing an operator that follows ethical wildlife practices by observing the dolphins respectfully instead of chasing them with the boat.
Chase North Bali’s Incredible Waterfalls
Some of Bali’s most spectacular waterfalls are located within an hour of Lovina. From the iconic cascade Sekumpul to the adventurous Aling-Aling Waterfall, there are options for every type of traveler.
Se détendre aux sources chaudes de Banjar
Surrounded by tropical gardens, the natural hot springs of Air Panas Banjar are one of the most relaxing places to visit in North Bali after a day of exploring.
Visit Bali’s Largest Buddhist Monastery
Brahmavihara-Arama offers peaceful gardens, impressive Buddhist architecture, and panoramic views over the surrounding hills. It’s one of the most unique cultural attractions in North Bali.
Have Lunch with an Incredible View
One of our favorite discoveries was Hanging Restaurant & Bar, a hidden restaurant overlooking the lush valley near Sekumpul Waterfall. The scenery alone makes the drive worthwhile.
Admirer le coucher du soleil à Lovina Beach
Lovina’s volcanic black sand beaches may not look like the white-sand beaches of southern Bali, but they offer beautiful sunsets and a much quieter atmosphere that’s perfect for ending the day.
Stop at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
If you’re driving between South Bali and Lovina, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a convenient stop along the way. While it wasn’t one of our personal highlights due to its very touristy atmosphere, it’s still one of Bali’s most iconic temples and a great place to stretch your legs during the journey.
Read Our Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Lovina
This is just a quick overview of the main attractions around Lovina.
If you’d like detailed information about each activity, including entrance fees, opening hours, driving distances, what to expect, our honest opinions, practical travel tips, and whether we think each attraction is worth visiting, be sure to read our complete guide:
7 meilleures activités à faire à Lovina, Bali : Guide complet du Nord de Bali (2026)
There, we share everything we learned during our time exploring North Bali to help you decide which activities deserve a spot on your itinerary.
9
Final Thoughts: Is Lovina Worth Visiting?
After exploring Bali’s busy southern areas, arriving in Lovina feels like discovering another island.
It doesn’t have the trendy cafés of Canggu, the nightlife of Seminyak, or the dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu, and that’s exactly why we loved it.
Lovina offers something many travelers are searching for: a slower, more authentic experience.
Whether you’re visiting for the famous dolphin tours, exploring the waterfalls of North Bali, or simply looking for a place to escape the crowds, Lovina deserves a place on your Bali itinerary.
Ensuite?
Keep exploring our articles to plan the most amazing trip in Bali!
- Guide de voyage de Bali : Conseils ultimes et informations à connaître
- 8 des meilleures activités à faire à Canggu, Bali
- 8 meilleures activités à faire à Uluwatu, Bali (Guide voyage 2026)
- Guide de voyage à Gili Trawangan : Tout ce que vous devez savoir
FAQ – Lovina Travel Guide
Lovina vaut-elle la peine d'être visitée ?
Absolutely. If you’re looking to experience a quieter and more authentic side of Bali, Lovina is well worth adding to your itinerary. While it doesn’t have the beach clubs and nightlife of South Bali, it offers incredible waterfalls, scenic mountain roads, Buddhist temples, hot springs, black sand beaches, and a much slower pace of life.
How many days should you spend in Lovina?
Nous recommandons de passer 2 to 4 days in Lovina.
This gives you enough time to explore the surrounding waterfalls, visit nearby temples and hot springs, enjoy a dolphin tour, and experience the relaxed atmosphere without feeling rushed.
What is Lovina famous for?
Lovina is best known for:
- Sunrise dolphin watching tours
- Black sand beaches
- North Bali waterfalls
- Banjar Hot Springs
- Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Monastery
- Une ambiance calme et relaxante
It is one of the best destinations in Bali for travelers wanting to escape the crowds.
How far is Lovina from Ubud?
Lovina is approximately 80 km (50 miles) from Ubud.
Driving time is usually around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
How far is Lovina from Canggu?
The drive from Canggu to Lovina is approximately 90 km (56 miles) and typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours.
The journey crosses Bali’s central mountains, offering beautiful scenery along the way.
Can you get around Lovina without a scooter?
Yes.
Many attractions in North Bali can be visited with a private driver, and the town itself is easy to explore on foot.
If you decide to rent a scooter, we recommend choosing a more powerful model if you plan to explore outside Lovina, as the mountain roads can be surprisingly steep.
Lovina est-elle une bonne destination pour les familles ?
Yes.
Lovina’s relaxed atmosphere, calm beaches, and nature-focused activities make it an excellent destination for families, couples, and travelers looking for a slower pace than South Bali.
Quelle est la meilleure période pour visiter Lovina ?
The best time to visit Lovina is during Bali’s dry season (May to October), when you’ll have the best weather for waterfall visits, dolphin tours, and exploring North Bali.
The rainy season is still enjoyable, but waterfalls will be more powerful and afternoon showers are more common.
Can you swim at Lovina Beach?
Yes.
The water is generally calm, making it suitable for swimming. However, Lovina is better known for its peaceful atmosphere than its beaches, and the volcanic black sand creates a very different experience from Bali’s southern coastline.
Is Lovina expensive?
Not at all.
Compared to many of Bali’s southern destinations, Lovina is generally more affordable for accommodation, restaurants, scooter rentals, and activities, making it an excellent option for travelers on almost any budget.
Vous ne voulez pas manquer nos derniers articles? Assurez-vous de vous abonner à notre site web, et vous recevrez une notification chaque fois que nous publions quelque chose de nouveau!