What is there to do in North Bali? Much more than you might think. Waterfalls, hot springs, royal palaces, temples, mountain lakes and beautiful snorkelling and diving spots make it easy to plan a varied holiday.
Head out early to look for dolphins, walk through the green hills around Munduk or discover the underwater world at Menjangan. Visit a local market, take a canoe trip or play a round of golf in the mountains. A day in Ubud, a trip to Mount Batur or a journey towards Amed are also possibilities.
From Villa Bima Sena, you can explore both the north coast and the inland countryside. Some outings fit comfortably into a leisurely morning, while others deserve a full day. More distant destinations can also become part of a longer Bali itinerary.
Our driver knows the area and is happy to suggest routes that suit your interests. And of course, you do not need to go exploring every day: an afternoon beside your private pool is just as much part of the holiday.
Dolphin Watching from the Beach Outside the Villa
As the sun rises, you head out to sea in a traditional Balinese boat. Your skipper looks for dolphins swimming off the north coast. Sometimes you see just a few; at other times, a large pod appears and you hardly know where to look first.
Guests at Villa Bima Sena do not need to drive to Lovina’s main beach first. When conditions allow, the boat can depart from the beach directly outside the villa. You simply walk from your accommodation down to the sea.
For me, those early mornings never lose their magic: the light changes, the coast slowly comes to life and suddenly a dorsal fin appears.
Dolphins are wild animals, so sightings are never guaranteed. Before setting off, ask for a calm, respectful trip that gives the animals space without chasing them.
Afterwards, you can return to the villa for breakfast, with the rest of the day still ahead of you.
Lovina: Beaches, Restaurants and a Relaxed Afternoon
Lovina is known for its dark volcanic beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Around the centre, you will find restaurants, cafés, small shops and the familiar dolphin statue by the sea.
It is a lovely place for a stroll, a coffee or a leisurely lunch. Stay for dinner by the sea or return to the peace of your own villa after an afternoon exploring.
An outing does not always need to be a big adventure. Sometimes a trip to Lovina for a cappuccino and a slice of banana cake is exactly what you feel like.
Banjar Hot Springs
At Banjar Hot Springs, also known as Air Panas Banjar, warm water flows from carved stone dragon heads into a series of pools. Surrounded by tropical greenery, the springs are a lovely destination for a relaxing morning.
Bring swimwear and a towel. Arrive early if you would prefer to visit when it is quieter.
A visit combines well with the nearby Buddhist monastery, Brahmavihara-Arama.
Brahmavihara-Arama: Gardens, Temples and Views
Not far from the hot springs lies Brahmavihara-Arama. Set on a green hillside, this Buddhist monastery has several prayer rooms, statues and peaceful gardens.
Explore the grounds, admire the architecture and take time to enjoy the views. It offers an insight into another side of Bali’s spiritual life.
There are steps and changes in level throughout the grounds. Dress respectfully and be mindful of people who come here to pray or meditate.
Singaraja: A City with a Royal Past
Singaraja was Bali’s administrative capital during the Dutch colonial period. It was also the centre of the former Kingdom of Buleleng. This history makes it an interesting destination for visitors who would like to see more than beaches and countryside.
The royal palace, Puri Agung Singaraja, also known as Puri Gede Buleleng, is a reminder of that past. There is also Puri Kanginan, a historic palace complex connected to the city’s royal and cultural life. Check in advance which areas are open to visitors and whether a guided tour or cultural activity is available.
Singaraja is also a lively city where people live, work and go to school. Explore the old harbour area, walk past historic buildings or visit a local market.
Gedong Kirtya and Buleleng Museum
An unusual stop in Singaraja is Gedong Kirtya. This library preserves old manuscripts written on lontar palm leaves, covering subjects such as religion, stories and traditional knowledge.
Buleleng Museum is nearby. Together, they offer an interesting introduction to North Bali’s history and culture. Check visiting arrangements beforehand, especially if you plan to go at the weekend or on a public holiday.
Pura Beji in Sangsit
East of Singaraja lies Pura Beji, a temple known for its elaborate stone carvings in the distinctive North Balinese style.
Take time to look closely at the decorations, statues and reliefs. These details are what make the temple special.
Pura Beji fits well into a route through Singaraja, the villages east of the city and other nearby temples.
Pura Meduwe Karang in Kubutambahan
Further east lies Pura Meduwe Karang. Here, too, you will find remarkable stone carvings and reliefs, including the well-known image of a cyclist.
A visit gives you the chance to compare the architecture and stories of different North Balinese temples. A local guide can help explain the meaning behind the carvings and customs.
Air Sanih: Swimming in Natural Spring Water
Looking for a refreshing stop during a trip along the northeast coast? At Air Sanih, you will find pools fed by natural springs.
Swimming here offers a different experience from the sea or the villa pool. Bring swimwear and a towel, and perhaps combine your visit with the temples east of Singaraja.
A Purification Ceremony at Pura Ponjok Batu
Pura Ponjok Batu stands on the coast east of Singaraja. At the associated Pura Segara Taman Beji, five sacred springs are used for melukat purification rituals.
If you are interested in Bali’s spiritual traditions, you can enquire about taking part with local guidance. Sacred water plays an important role in the ritual cleansing.
Our team can check the arrangements, appropriate clothing, offerings and guidance beforehand, so you can learn about the ceremony’s meaning and what to expect.
Waterfalls around Aling-Aling and Sambangan
Several waterfalls, including Aling-Aling, lie in the Sambangan area. Walking routes take you through tropical greenery, past streams and rice fields.
At some nearby waterfalls, activities such as swimming, natural water slides and jumps into the pools are offered. What is possible depends on the location and conditions.
Go with a local guide and only take part where activities are permitted. You can also choose a walk that focuses on the scenery and waterfalls.
Gitgit Waterfall
Gitgit is a well-known waterfall in North Bali’s green interior. A walking path leads from the road down to the water, passing tropical vegetation and small stalls along the way.
The path can be damp and slippery, so wear comfortable shoes with a good grip. Gitgit fits nicely into a day in the mountains, with time for viewpoints and lunch along the way.
Sekumpul and Fiji Waterfalls
At Sekumpul, several streams of water tumble down tall, green cliffs. Even the view from above is impressive.
If you would like to walk down to the waterfalls, expect steps, changes in elevation and a demanding climb back up. Bring drinking water and suitable footwear.
A local guide can show you around and advise whether the Fiji Waterfalls can also be included in your route. Choose a walk that suits your fitness level and allow plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings.
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls lie in a green valley. A path leads down to the falls and the natural pool beneath them.
Parts of the descent can be steep or slippery. Suitable footwear makes the visit more comfortable. Whether swimming is possible depends on the conditions and local guidance.
Banyumala can be combined with a drive through the mountain area around Munduk and the twin lakes.
Munduk: Walks among Plantations and Waterfalls
Munduk lies higher in the mountains, where the air often feels cooler than on the coast. The landscape is a mixture of plantations, rice fields, forested slopes and waterfalls.
Walk among coffee and clove plantations, visit a waterfall or stop for local coffee with a view. Waterfalls in the area include Munduk and Melanting.
Early mornings have a special atmosphere here. Mist between the mountains, dew over the lakes and villages slowly waking up can make the drive an experience in itself.
Walking around Munduk is one of the loveliest things to do in North Bali if you enjoy nature.
Bring a light jumper or rain jacket. The weather in the mountains can be different from the conditions at the villa.
Rice Fields, Villages and Countryside Walks
You do not always need to visit a famous attraction to have a memorable day. A walk through the countryside can be just as rewarding.
Around Mayong, Munduk and Blimbing, also spelt Belimbing, you will find routes through rice fields, plantations and small villages. Blimbing is a lovely destination for walking among green rice terraces and discovering rural Bali.
With a local guide, you can learn more about the crops, traditional irrigation systems and daily life. There is time along the way to look around, ask questions and enjoy the views.
These places are spread across the interior and offer different options for an outing. Discuss with your driver which area you would like to explore, how far you want to walk and whether you prefer a gentle stroll or a longer trek.
The Twin Lakes: Buyan and Tamblingan
Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan lie in Bali’s mountainous interior. Around the lakes, you will find forests, viewpoints and small temples.
The surroundings are green, peaceful and often cooler than the coast. Stop at a viewpoint or take a guided walk through the forest.
You can combine the lakes with Munduk, a waterfall or a visit to Bedugul.
Canoeing on Lake Tamblingan
On Lake Tamblingan, you can take a trip in a traditional wooden canoe with a local guide.
From the water, you see the forested shores and sacred temple sites from a different perspective. A canoe trip combines well with a forest walk.
It is a lovely activity for anyone who wants to enjoy the landscape at a relaxed pace, with time to take in the surroundings.
Ulun Danu Beratan: The Lakeside Temple
Ulun Danu Beratan stands beside Lake Beratan near Bedugul. When the water level is high, part of the temple complex appears to float on the lake.
The temple with the mountains behind it is one of Bali’s most recognisable sights. The surrounding gardens are also pleasant to explore.
A visit fits well into a day in the mountains, perhaps combined with the twin lakes and a stop at Handara.
Handara Gate
Handara Gate is a Balinese gateway framed by green mountains. It is a popular photography spot, so expect other visitors and a possible wait.
If you are already visiting the lakes or Ulun Danu Beratan, you can include a stop here as part of a varied day in the mountains.
Golf at Handara
Beyond the famous gate lies Handara Golf & Resort, with an 18-hole golf course in the green mountain landscape.
If you enjoy golf, a round at Handara is another option when planning things to do in North Bali.
Its higher elevation makes it cooler than the coast. The mountains, trees and surrounding scenery create a memorable setting for a round of golf.
Would you like to try the sport or simply hit a few balls? There is also a driving range, equipment hire and a golf academy. Enquire beforehand about lessons, bookings and availability.
Allow plenty of time for a full round. A shorter visit to the driving range is easier to combine with other stops.
Pemuteran: Beaches, Snorkelling and Coral Restoration
Pemuteran is a coastal village in northwest Bali. Many visitors come to snorkel or dive and to learn about projects restoring the coral reefs.
You can make a relaxed stop during a drive along the western stretch of the north coast, or stay longer to get into the water and enjoy lunch.
Depending on the operator and conditions, kayaking and fishing trips with local guides may also be available.
Coral restoration in Pemuteran
Pura Pulaki and Pura Melanting
Near Pemuteran lies Pura Pulaki, between the hills and the coast. Monkeys live around the grounds, so keep your belongings close and follow local guidance.
Pura Melanting is in the same area. Both temples are interesting stops for visitors who would like to include some culture in a trip towards the west.
These are active places of worship. Wear appropriate clothing and be considerate of prayers and ceremonies.
A temple visit can be combined with Pemuteran or the pearl farm. A full snorkelling or diving day at Menjangan usually needs its own schedule.
Visiting the Atlas Pearls Farm
The working Atlas Pearls farm is in Penyabangan, in the Gerokgak district.
During a guided tour, you can learn about the oysters and the process of cultivating South Sea pearls. Discover how much time, care and skill go into producing each pearl.
Depending on the work taking place, you may be able to see a pearl seeding or harvesting demonstration. There is also a showroom displaying pearl jewellery.
It is an unusual outing on the way towards Pemuteran, including for guests who do not wish to snorkel or dive. Check ahead for tour arrangements and availability on your chosen day.
Menjangan: Snorkelling and Diving in a Protected Natural Area
Menjangan deserves a place of its own in your itinerary. The island lies off Bali’s northwest coast, within West Bali National Park.
Underwater, you will find coral reefs, tropical fish and impressive reef walls. Both snorkellers and divers can enjoy the marine life. For divers, the variety of sites is a good reason to plan more than one day of diving.
Its location within a protected natural area makes Menjangan special. Visits are arranged through designated access points and local operators. This protection matters for the reef’s future: do not touch or stand on the coral, and follow your guide’s instructions.
A snorkelling or diving day can be arranged from Villa Bima Sena. When planning, allow time for the drive, boat journey and activities on the water. Agree on departure and return arrangements with your operator beforehand.
For underwater adventures, snorkelling at Menjangan is one of the standout things to do in North Bali.
Planning several consecutive days of diving or snorkelling? You can choose between outings from the villa or a few nights around Pemuteran or Menjangan as part of a longer itinerary.
Mangrove Kayaking at Banyuwedang and Bajul Bay
In northwest Bali, you can also explore nature by kayak. Guided trips around Banyuwedang and Bajul Bay take you along mangroves and sheltered bays.
As you paddle, you can see the vegetation and coastline up close. It is a lovely activity for anyone who enjoys being outdoors and exploring at a gentle pace.
The route depends on the operator, tides and weather. A kayak trip can be combined with lunch or another nearby stop.
West Bali National Park: Walking, Birdwatching and Horse Riding
Northwest Bali is worth exploring above the water too. In and around West Bali National Park, you will find forests, mangroves and coastal landscapes.
Take a nature walk or go birdwatching with a local guide. An early start offers a different experience from a visit in the middle of the day.
Some operators also offer mountain biking and horse riding through the natural surroundings and along the coast. Activities and access for day visitors vary, so check the arrangements beforehand.
Together with Pemuteran, Menjangan and the bays around Banyuwedang, this area offers enough variety for several days of exploring.
A Boat Trip along the North Coast
The north coast looks quite different from the water. Watch fishing boats, villages and mountains from the sea, with the breeze and the sound of the water around you.
In the northwest, traditional jukung boat trips are offered, including through the bays and mangroves around Banyuwedang and Gilimanuk.
Would you prefer a peaceful private boat trip closer to the villa? Our team can enquire about local options. The departure point, route and timing will depend on the boat and sea conditions.
Fishing with a Local Skipper
If you enjoy fishing or would like to experience life at sea, a trip with a local skipper can be a rewarding outing.
Travel in a traditional boat and get an insight into fishing along this coast. Local fishing excursions are available around Pemuteran; our team can enquire about options closer to the villa.
Discuss the duration, fishing method and what is included beforehand. Naturally, the catch depends on the day.
Things to Do in North Bali: Local Markets and Shopping
Visit a local market and discover just how much there is to see: tropical fruit, vegetables, spices, flower offerings, household goods and clothing.
A market offers a lively introduction to everyday life. Ask your driver where to browse on the day of your visit.
For souvenirs, clothing and small shops, you can also head to Lovina. Combine your shopping with lunch or a drink by the sea.
Cultural Things to Do in North Bali
Ceremonies are part of daily life in Bali. You will see small offerings outside homes and shops, families in traditional dress and sometimes a procession along the road.
Festivals such as Galungan and Kuningan give the villages a special atmosphere. Many religious activities also take place around the full and new moons.
Nyepi is very different: on this day of silence, public life comes to a standstill and special rules apply to visitors too.
Our team can explain which ceremonies take place during your stay and whether attending is possible and appropriate. Ask permission before photographing people or rituals, and follow your guide’s advice.
Balinese Dance and Music
A traditional dance performance is a wonderful introduction to Bali’s stories, music and expressive arts.
The costumes, hand movements, facial expressions and musical accompaniment make these performances memorable. The dances and performances available vary by location and date.
Our team can enquire about a local performance or the possibility of arranging one for a special occasion at the villa.
Exploring Further: Mount Batur, Ubud and East Bali
Alongside outings on the north coast, you can explore other parts of Bali. The following destinations involve a longer day of travelling or fit well into a multi-stop itinerary.
Choose carefully how much you want to see in one day. In Bali, distances on a map tell you little about actual travelling times.
Mount Batur and Kintamani
Around Kintamani, views stretch across Mount Batur, Lake Batur and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
The area is worth visiting even without a climb. Explore the countryside, have lunch with a view or relax at hot springs beside the lake.
If you enjoy an active adventure, consider a guided climb of Mount Batur. A sunrise trek requires a very early departure from the villa. Discuss the difficulty, route and current access arrangements with a local operator beforehand.
A Day in Ubud
Ubud is known for art, culture, shops and restaurants. Visit the palace and market, browse galleries or choose a scenic walk nearby.
The rice fields and temples outside the centre are also worth exploring. Choose a few places you really want to see, leaving time for lunch and a relaxed look around.
Ubud is a longer day trip from Villa Bima Sena. Staying for one or more nights can be a good option if you want to explore further. It also makes a lovely next stop after your stay on the north coast.
Rafting or River Kayaking on the Ayung
Near Ubud, guided rafting and river kayaking trips are offered on the Ayung River.
Experience the green interior from the water, passing leafy riverbanks and navigating rapids. Choose an activity and operator suited to your group’s ages and experience.
From the villa, this involves a long day. Rafting can also work well during a stay in Ubud or on a transfer day, provided the schedule and luggage arrangements allow it.
Along the Northeast Coast to Tulamben and Amed
Follow the north coast eastwards and you will pass villages, fishing beaches and changing views across the sea.
Possible stops include Pura Beji, Pura Meduwe Karang, Air Sanih, Pura Ponjok Batu and the waterfall at Les. Choose a few that match your interests.
Further along lie Tulamben and Amed, both popular with snorkellers and divers.
Tulamben is best known for the USAT Liberty shipwreck, which lies close to shore. Divers can explore the marine life and growth covering the wreck.
Around Amed, bays such as Jemeluk offer snorkelling and diving opportunities. Fishing boats on the beach, restaurants overlooking the sea and a mountainous backdrop give this coast its own character.
Planning several dives or visits to different places? An overnight stay in the east gives you more time than a day trip from the villa.
Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung
East Bali’s water gardens are beautiful destinations for anyone who enjoys gardens, architecture and culture.
At Tirta Gangga, walk past fountains, statues and ponds crossed by stepping stones. This former royal water garden sits among green surroundings.
Taman Ujung lies closer to the east coast and features large pools, bridges, pavilions and gardens. From the higher parts of the grounds, you can look across the complex towards the sea.
Both fit well into a stay in East Bali. It is a substantial journey from Villa Bima Sena, so combine them with only a small number of other stops.
Lempuyang and the Rice Fields around Sidemen
The temples of Lempuyang and the green countryside around Sidemen are also in East Bali.
Lempuyang is known for its temple setting and much-photographed gateway. Allow for visitor rules and possible waiting times.
Around Sidemen, the landscape takes centre stage: rice fields, villages and walks through the green countryside.
These places are best enjoyed when you allow enough time to explore East Bali.
Travelling from Java to North Bali
Travelling around Java? From Ketapang near Banyuwangi, you can take the ferry across to Gilimanuk in Bali.
You arrive on the western side of the island, making the north coast a natural choice for the next stage of your journey.
One possible route is:
Java → Gilimanuk → Pemuteran or Menjangan → Villa Bima Sena in Brongbong → Ubud or South Bali.
You can also travel directly from Gilimanuk to the villa and explore the northwest from there.
Check current ferry information before travelling. Allow time for check-in, waiting and the onward drive as well as the crossing itself. Your driver can help you plan a realistic schedule.
North Bali’s Beaches
Around Lovina and along much of the north coast, you will find dark volcanic beaches. Fishing boats, views across the Bali Sea and everyday coastal life are part of the area’s character.
The sea here is often calmer than at the well-known surfing beaches in the south. However, waves, currents and swimming conditions vary by day and location. Ask locally where and when it is suitable to swim.
Looking mainly for pale sandy beaches or bays beneath cliffs? You will find these elsewhere in Bali, including the south. The beaches around Uluwatu, Sanur and Nusa Dua also differ considerably from one another.
Villa Bima Sena is directly on the beachfront. From the garden, you look out over the sea and can walk down to the water. The beach is also used by villagers and fishermen. The villa, garden and private pool are exclusively for your group.
Things to Do in North Bali: Planning Your Day Trips
The sights are spread along the coast and through the mountains, so it helps to choose one area to explore each day.
| Area | Ideas for Your Day |
|---|---|
| Banjar and surroundings | Hot springs, Brahmavihara-Arama and lunch along the way. |
| Singaraja and Sangsit | Royal heritage, Gedong Kirtya or Buleleng Museum, a market and Pura Beji. |
| The northeast coast | A selection of Pura Meduwe Karang, Air Sanih, Ponjok Batu and the waterfall at Les. |
| Munduk and the lakes | A walk or waterfall visit, viewpoints and local coffee. |
| Tamblingan | A guided forest walk and a traditional canoe trip. |
| Bedugul | Ulun Danu Beratan, Handara Gate and perhaps the driving range. |
| Pemuteran and surroundings | The pearl farm, a temple visit and lunch by the coast. |
| Menjangan | A full snorkelling or diving day, allowing enough time for transfers and the boat trip. |
| Banyuwedang and West Bali | Kayaking or a nature activity, planned around the timing and conditions. |
Treat these as ideas to choose from. You do not need to visit every place listed within an area on the same day.
What Is the Best Way to Explore North Bali?
For many guests, a car with a driver is a comfortable way to explore. You can enjoy the scenery without having to concentrate on traffic and stop when something catches your eye.
Your driver can help plan a route, estimate travelling times and suggest activities that combine well. Mention beforehand whether you enjoy walking, how many steps you are comfortable with and whether children will be joining you.
For waterfalls and walks, bring drinking water and suitable footwear. Take a light jumper or rain jacket into the mountains, and wear appropriate clothing for temple visits.
Opening hours, access arrangements, guides and activities can change. Have the details checked ahead of your visit.
Things to Do in North Bali for Families, Couples and Friends
Yes. Its variety makes North Bali appealing to different types of travellers.
Families can alternate relaxed days by the pool with a boat trip, a market visit or an outing to the hot springs. Couples have space to unwind together, enjoy scenic walks and explore the mountains. Groups of friends can go diving, play golf or plan an active day out.
You can also do different things: while some of your group head out, others can stay at the villa.
For travellers visiting several parts of Bali, the north coast is also a lovely place to stay a little longer. Explore the area from your own villa without having to pack your bags every few days.
Exploring North Bali from Villa Bima Sena
With so many things to do in North Bali, you can balance days out with time beside your private pool.
Would you like to explore North Bali from your own villa by the sea? Discover Villa Bima Sena or contact us with your preferred dates and group details.