What is Lovina best known for?
The coastal resort area of Lovina can be found on Bali’s North coast and is an attractive destination for travellers seeking tranquillity. Lovina is much quieter than the bustling resort areas in south Bali, yet it still has plenty to offer visitors!
Lovina’s volcanic, black sand beaches have a raw beauty that’s a million miles from the golden shores of the south. The ocean in this region is also calmer than along Bali’s popular southwestern coast, so conditions are way more favourable for swimmers. If you can’t get enough of the marine life around Bali, Lovina’s abundant dolphin population is sure to delight!
Travel a little further inland and you’ll find the tropical jungle, waterfalls and hot springs to explore – perfect for hiking and trekking enthusiasts.
| Price | Good for | Airport | Kids | Culture | Beaches | Dining | Nightlife | Surf | Spa & Yoga |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $$ | Shopping&spas | 3mi | * * * | * * | * ** * | ** * | * * | * | * *** |
Who should go to Lovina?
Lovina’s many opportunities for adventure make it a top choice among outdoorsy travellers, whilst couples choose Lovina for its secluded tranquillity and romantic scenery.
- Romantic couples
- Honeymooners
- Hikers, trekkers, water sports enthusiasts
When should you go to Lovina?
For the weather
The temperature in Lovina is consistently warm year-round, ranging from 27 – 29 C (81 – 84 F). The rainfall in the region varies drastically throughout the year, however, and is particularly heavy from December to January. For the sunniest weather, visit Lovina in June, July, August, September, or October.
To beat the crowds
Lovina is pretty quiet throughout the year, unlike the thronging tourist regions in the south of Bali. Tourism in the area picks up around July and August, however, when many people use the school holidays to travel. For cheaper accommodation (and good weather) visit in June, September, or October.
For the coolest events
Lovina Beach Festival
Where? Kalibukbuk Beach
When? September
The annual, 3-day Lovina beach festival is held every year at Kalibukbuk Beach. This event is hugely popular among locals and travellers alike and routinely draws people from all over the island. This vibrant celebration of traditional Balinese culture is an awesome way to learn more about the island and its history, so it’s a must-see if you’re in town!
The festivities kick off with an opening ceremony parade featuring colourful dance and musical performances and the fun continues over the next few days. With handicraft exhibitions, photography competitions, flower offerings, bull races, dance and puppet performances and live music, this festival has enough going on to keep you there for the duration!
If you get hungry, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for lunch. The festival is well equipped with food and drink stalls, where you can dine on delicious Balinese cuisine.
The Lovina Beach Festival is lively, informative and heaps of fun – an experience worth being in town for!
Things to see and do in Lovina
Take a boat trip to see the dolphins
Lovina is the best place to see dolphins, with dozens of pods living just offshore. Take an early morning boat trip and see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat as the sun rises over the ocean. These tours are widely available in Lovina and make for an unforgettable experience.
Meditate at the Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery
The Brahma Vihara Monastery is Bali’s only Buddhist temple and is a must-visit if you’re staying in Lovina. This spectacular structure is unlike any other holy site in Bali and both the gardens and temple are beautiful places to explore. The tranquillity of Brahma Vihara Arama can be felt the moment you step inside, with a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for meditation. This is an excellent place to learn more about the practices of Buddhism and guests can even join a Vipassana meditation retreat program during their stay.
Take an excursion to the Sekumpul Waterfalls
The Sekumpul waterfalls are widely considered to be Bali’s most beautiful, so you’d be insane not to seek them out! Located around 27 km from central Lovina, the waterfalls are a bit of a pain in the ass to get to – but trust us, they’re worth it! Once you reach the parking lot, there are hundreds of stairs, dirt roads and one river crossing to tackle before you reach the falls. The glorious cascades are well worth the workout, however; you’ll be blown away by the beauty of the crystalline water and lush surrounding foliage.
Indulge yourself at the Agung Spa
Treat yourself to some serious pampering in Lovina with a trip to the Agung Spa, where you can enjoy massages, facials, hair treatments and more! Lush, leafy scenery creates a soothing backdrop for a rejuvenating session at the hands of skilled and professional therapists. Check yourself in for a body mask or herbal bath and bliss out in the most gorgeous surroundings!
Off the beaten path…
Soak in the Banjar Hot Spring
Just a short drive from Lovina lies the Banjar Hot Spring, a series of naturally hot pools renowned for their healing properties. If you hike to the Sekumpul waterfall during your trip to Lovina, this is the perfect place to soothe those sore muscles the next day!
With three pools of varying temperatures to choose from, you can float for hours in the pleasantly warm water. The Banjar Hot Springs is a favourite swimming spot among locals in the area and can get busy on Sundays; however, the place is much quieter throughout the week. Come for a relaxing soak and check out their restaurant for lunch afterwards. If you want to make a day of it, you can even get a massage at their on-site spa!
Where to eat in Lovina
Secret Garden Restaurant
The small but sensational Secret Garden is a must-visit for foodies in Lovina. This beautifully and intimately designed eatery is tucked away off the main road, making for a quiet and peaceful ambience. If the atmosphere and surroundings don’t win you over, the food certainly will – their concise and lovingly constructed menu offers a range of simple, but delicious, Western and Asian delights.
Warung Ibu Wina
For tasty Indonesian and Balinese cuisine in Lovina, check out Warung Ibu Wina. This simple, local-style warung is favoured for its exceptional service and outstanding food. Low prices make this restaurant perfect for regular dining and it’s a great place to try out new dishes!
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Buda Bakery and Resto
Head to the Buda Bakery in Lovina to satisfy your sweet tooth on your travels, where you can find a mouthwatering array of baked goods. From cheesecake to brownies, these indulgent treats are well worth the trip. If you want to make a full meal of it, check out their upstairs restaurant for fresh ingredients, an inspired menu and outstanding service.
Where to stay in Lovina?
Lovina is a sprawling resort area spanning 20 km of Bali’s northern coastline. Choosing where to stay along this lengthy strip can be tricky, so where should you go?
To be near the action
Çentral Lovina, known as Kalibukbuk Village, is the place to stay if you want easy access to the shops, beaches and restaurants. Accommodation in this area puts you within walking distance of pretty much everything you may need during your stay – perfect if your goal is to relax and take it easy.
For peace and quiet
If seclusion is what you’re seeking, opt for accommodation a few kilometres outside of Kalibukbuk Village. Here you can be close to the local amenities without compromising on your peace and quiet, allowing for ultimate relaxation!
Other places to stay in Lovina: