Top 10 Things To Do In Lovina That Let You Experience Bali’s Calmer Coastal Side

Lovina, located on the peaceful north coast of Bali, is a destination that is refreshing and a mere shadow of the crowded south, which is only a matter of time. The most notable things to do in Lovina are dolphin-spotting in the early morning, which has water with a temperature similar to natural hot springs, visiting quiet temples, and black sand beaches. This chilled-out area has the best of both worlds as it takes the cultural charm of the region and blends it with the natural beauty, thus giving tourists a much slower, more soulful side of Bali.

10 Things To Do In Lovina

The list of things to do in Lovina is almost endless, with some of the best options being the early morning dolphin tours, relaxation in the hot springs, and hiking to the waterfalls in the jungle.

1. Catch The Sunrise With Dolphins At Sea

Photo: Michelle Maria / Wikimedia Commons

One of the most iconic experiences in Lovina is taking a traditional outrigger boat into the calm Bali Sea at dawn to witness wild dolphins in their natural habitat. As you glide across the glassy water, dozens of dolphins, such as spinner, spotted, or bottlenose varieties, often appear, leaping gracefully beside the boat. The view of Mount Batur in the distance adds to the magic. Tours last about 1.5 to 2 hours and may include a short stop for snorkelling on the way back. For wildlife lovers, this sunrise encounter is unforgettable and uniquely Lovina.

Average Cost: IDR 100,000 / ₹430
Best For: Wildlife lovers, families, early risers
Highlights: Sunrise over the Bali Sea, wild dolphin sightings, peaceful boat ride

2. Relax At Banjar Hot Springs

Photo: Jumilla / Wikimedia Commons

Just a 15-minute drive from central Lovina, Banjar Hot Springs is a place of calm and energy where one is surrounded by tropical plants. The water that was naturally heated and had a strong smell of sulphur from the dragon-shaped spouts flowed into three-tiered stone pools, each with different temperatures. The place is very quiet with the green plants and the statues that give the spiritual place a new feel. Banjar Hot Springs is undoubtedly one of the best ways to relax after a day of sightseeing or waterfall trekking.

Average Cost: IDR 20,000 – 45,000 / ₹85 – ₹195
Best For: Couples, families, wellness travellers
Highlights: Thermal sulphur pools, lush garden setting, healing soak

3. Snorkel Or Dive At Menjangan Island

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Menjangan Island, located inside West Bali National Park, is the top spot for snorkelling and diving in Lovina, which is easily reachable. The island is at a distance of about 1.5 hours by car and boat, but most of the tours from Lovina include transportation, park permits, and equipment. The beach on the island has very calm and clear water, which is full of vibrant marine life such as colourful corals, reef fish, sea turtles, and occasionally reef sharks. For the divers, the sudden drop-offs and wall dives provide spectacular underwater scenes.

Average Cost: IDR 450,000 / ₹1,940
Best For: Snorkellers, divers, and marine life enthusiasts
Highlights: Coral gardens, sea turtles, crystal-clear water

4. Visit Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Monastery

Photo: AnnieGreenSprings / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the hills near Banjar village, just 20 minutes from Lovina, Brahmavihara-Arama is the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali and one of the most peaceful things to see in Lovina. Surrounded by serene gardens and intricate Balinese-style sculptures, the monastery features meditation halls, golden Buddha statues, and a miniature replica of Borobudur. From its elevated grounds, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and lush greenery. With its quiet atmosphere and spiritual charm, it’s an ideal place for reflection, far removed from Bali’s usual tourist crowds. Modest attire is recommended.

Average Cost: IDR 25,000 – 40,000 / ₹110 – ₹175
Best For: Spiritual seekers, peace-lovers, architecture fans
Highlights: Buddhist architecture, panoramic views, serene meditation

5. Stroll Lovina Beach At Sunset

Photo: Melissa Cassar / Unsplash

Lovina Beach is widely known for its black volcanic sand and waters, which are calm and shallow, extending along Bali’s northern coast. This beach is transformed by the soft golden light in the evenings and a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for a stroll, enjoying the sunset. Being high in contrast to the crowded southern beaches, Lovina is a place with a relaxed vibe that allows you to really immerse yourself in the sound of gentle waves and watch the fishing boats peacefully coming back from the sea. At times, street performers or acoustic musicians play, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Average Cost: Free
Best For: Couples, photographers, evening strollers
Highlights: Black sand beach, golden sunsets, local acoustic music

6. Chase Waterfalls At Gitgit Or Sekumpul

Photo: Rainhard Findling / Wikimedia Commons

For people who love nature and are on a trip to Lovina, a waterfall trek is a must. Gitgit Waterfall is located about 30 minutes from Lovina. A short paved path leads to a tall cascade encircled with green plants. For those who are looking for something more thrilling, Sekumpul Waterfall is about an hour away, and it will offer a more dramatic environment. It has many streams that go down a trunk covered with a jungle, and it is necessary to do a more difficult hike that includes stairs, river crossings, and steep trails.

Average Cost: IDR 150,000 / ₹650
Best For: Nature lovers, hikers, adventure seekers
Highlights: Jungle trekking, refreshing pools, misty cascades

7. Explore Singsing Waterfall And Dutch Monument

Photo: Ryan Brayoga / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Exploring Singsing Waterfall is one of the quieter things to do in Lovina, perfect for travellers seeking a peaceful escape into nature. Located just a short drive from the town centre, this small but charming waterfall is reached via a gentle path through local villages and tropical greenery. A short climb beyond the falls takes you to a hidden Dutch war monument from the colonial era, offering views over the surrounding hills and coastline. It’s a lovely spot for reflection, light hiking, and photos.

Average Cost: IDR 20,000 – 50,000 / ₹85 – ₹215
Best For: History buffs, casual hikers, families
Highlights: Quiet nature trail, colonial history, coastal viewpoints

8. Try Local Cuisine At Lovina Night Market

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If authentic Balinese flavours are what you crave, then Lovina Night Market will do the trick after dark. The vibrant night market has it all: grilled chicken satay, spicy nasi campur, fried tempeh, and banana fritters. The food is fresh, cheap and full of herbs, spices and tradition. Even though the stalls are tiny, they are friendly, and most of the dishes are prepared right there. Furthermore, it provides an excellent opportunity for you to soak up the local scene and be a part of the community of family-run food stalls in Lovina.

Average Cost: IDR 10,000 – 30,000 / ₹40 – ₹130
Best For: Foodies, budget travellers, culture explorers
Highlights: Balinese street food, night-time local buzz, affordable eats

9. Take A Balinese Cooking Class

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Taking part in a local cooking class is among the best things to do in Lovina, especially for those eager to explore Balinese cuisine and cultural traditions. A number of eco-lodges, homestays, and small culinary schools in the area do half-day classes. They usually start with a trip to the market in the morning, where you are taught how to choose spices, herbs, and fresh produce. Upon returning to the kitchen, you will be cooking traditional foods such as lawar, ayam betutu, satay lilit, and sambal matah, implementing old-time techniques (stone grinding, banana leaf steaming).

Average Cost: IDR 300,000 – 400,000 / ₹1,300 – ₹1,720
Best For: Culinary enthusiasts, cultural travellers, and groups
Highlights: hands-on cooking, traditional recipes

10. Pose At Wanagiri Hidden Hills Viewpoints

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A scenic day trip from Lovina, Wanagiri Hidden Hills offers some of Bali’s most iconic photo spots overlooking the twin lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan. Located in the highlands about an hour’s drive south of Lovina, this viewpoint area features bamboo swings, giant bird’s nests, and sky platforms perched along the hillside. The backdrops are spectacular, especially on clear days, with misty forests and reflective lakes below. This stop is especially popular among Instagram lovers but also appeals to anyone wanting to enjoy Bali’s natural beauty from above.

Average Cost: Free
Best For: Instagrammers, couples, families
Highlights: Scenic lake views, photo swings, misty highland backdrop

Lovina offers a tranquil side of Bali, where natural beauty and cultural charm blend seamlessly. From spotting dolphins at sunrise to soaking in hot springs and visiting serene waterfalls, there are countless things to do in Lovina. Ideal for nature lovers and cultural explorers, this peaceful destination moves at a slower pace, far from Bali’s busy tourist hubs. Discover the best of northern Bali with TripXL and uncover Lovina’s hidden gems.

Cover Photo: mtsjrdl / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

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