Blessed with intense natural beauty and diverse culture, North Bali is an interesting place to explore offering visitors a wide range of entertainment options.
There are a number of picturesque beaches located on the north coast, of which Lovina is perhaps the best known and most popular. One of the interesting things about many beaches in north Bali is that they have black volcanic sand.
Singara is the largest city in North Bali and visitors will find a large number of attractions here as well as places to stay and restaurants offering a wide range of culinary treats. This is a good place to use as a base to explore the rest of the region.
Getting around North Bali is easy as there is a bus service running through the region as well as local transport such as bemos and taxis. The north shore of Bali is located just a couple of kilometers from the island of Java and there is a ferry service between the two islands. Take the time to explore North Bali before sailing away to learn about the distinctly different Javanese culture.
Orientation
North Bali, stretching along the island’s northern coast, is a region marked by a quieter pace, scenic coastal stretches, and lush inland mountains. Unlike the bustling southern parts of Bali, North Bali offers a mix of serene beaches, natural attractions, and historic sites, making it a destination for travelers who prefer tranquility and exploration over tourist crowds. The main hubs in North Bali include Lovina, Singaraja, and the smaller villages scattered between the coast and the volcanic highlands.
The northern coast is loosely connected by a single main coastal road, Jalan Singaraja-Gilimanuk, which runs from Lovina in the west, through Singaraja, and continues eastward. This road is the primary route for exploring the region, with smaller roads leading inland to waterfalls, temples, and natural hot springs nestled in the hills.
Lovina is one of the best-known areas in North Bali, known for its black sand beaches and dolphin-watching tours. The region around Lovina encompasses several villages like Kalibukbuk and Temukus, each offering a variety of accommodations and easy access to the coast. Lovina serves as a good base for day trips to natural attractions and scenic coastal drives, drawing visitors with its peaceful beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
Singaraja, a short drive east from Lovina, is Bali’s former colonial capital and a place of historical interest. The town is known for its cultural sites, like the Gedong Kirtya Library and Museum Buleleng, as well as its markets and Dutch-era architecture. While Singaraja lacks sandy beaches, it makes up for it with its unique character, traditional markets, and proximity to inland attractions.
To the east, Yeh Sanih is a popular natural spring, offering fresh spring water pools surrounded by tropical gardens, while the rocky Pura Ponjok Batu temple sits along the coast, providing a scenic contrast to Bali’s southern temples. Inland, a series of waterfalls like Gitgit, Sekumpul, and Air Terjun Singsing are hidden in the mountains, each offering stunning views and cool, refreshing waters.
North Bali is distinctively shaped by its natural geography, from the black sand beaches of Lovina to the rugged volcanic slopes rising just a short distance inland. The coastline is scenic, with gentle seas ideal for snorkeling, diving, and dolphin spotting, while inland hills and forests offer excellent hiking and nature experiences.
The natural attractions in North Bali, while relatively close in distance, are often spread out and require transportation to reach. For instance, Lovina and Singaraja are only 10 kilometers apart, but traveling to the mountain waterfalls or inland temples often requires short drives followed by hikes through lush forests. The inland routes are particularly scenic, with views of rice terraces, tropical forests, and occasional glimpses of the coast from higher elevations.
Where to Go
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Lovina: A laid-back coastal village known for its tranquil beaches, dolphin-watching, and relaxed atmosphere away from Bali’s bustling south.
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Pemuteran: A scenic village with stunning coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and eco-tourism, surrounded by mountains and the serene Bali Sea.
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Singaraja: A historic city blending colonial charm with local culture, featuring traditional markets, temples, and a glimpse into Bali’s Dutch colonial past.
Getting There
The main entrance point to north Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is located in the city of Denpasar. Denpasar has a large bus station, and most towns and cities in North Bali can be reached in around 2 hours. There is also a bus service connecting all major tourist destinations within this region of Bali.
Getting Around
North Bali is generally navigable by car or scooter, as the region’s main attractions are connected by coastal or inland roads. For shorter distances, walking is possible within the towns of Lovina and Singaraja, especially around beach areas, local markets, and central attractions. However, the best way to explore the broader area is by renting a scooter or hiring a private driver, both widely available in Lovina and Singaraja.
Scooters provide flexibility for those comfortable with driving and are ideal for reaching attractions slightly off the beaten path, such as Yeh Sanih or the waterfalls around Gitgit. For a more comfortable option, private drivers can be hired for half or full-day trips, allowing visitors to explore multiple attractions without the hassle of navigation. Given the mountainous terrain and the spread-out nature of attractions, private drivers are a popular choice for those who prefer a guided experience.