North Bali is a place that not many people visit when coming to the island. However, an offbeat vibe, black sandy beaches and impeccable nature make this area so worth exploring!
Whether you’re a time-crunched traveler or embark on an extensive island road trip, this guide and itinerary is your roadmap to the 16 most enchanting places in North Bali. Immerse yourself in the authentic Bali experience, discovering not just what to do in Bali, but also uncovering serene retreats seamlessly integrated into the breathtaking landscapes.
North Bali is best explored as a road trip, not a base-and-return destination. Whether you have 3 days or a full week, this itinerary shows you where to slow down, where to move on, and which places are worth the extra drive.
Why Visit North Bali?
North Bali is not about ticking sights fast, it is about trading convenience for depth. That trade is exactly why it feels so different from Canggu/Ubud, where you have everything you need: the best restaurants, waves for surfing, a buzzing coffee scene and all sorts of yoga and wellness facilities
North Bali Highlights Map
This map shows the main places mentioned in this guide to help you understand distances and regions in North Bali. It’s designed for orientation rather than a fixed daily route, since many travelers visit these spots via different day trips or overnight stays.
How To Reach North Bali
How This North Bali Guide Works
North Bali can be explored in two very different ways. You can follow this guide as a slow, multi-day road trip, staying overnight in places like Munduk, Lovina or Pemuteran, which is how I personally experienced the region.
If you are short on time or prefer not to drive, many of the places mentioned below are also visited on long but adventure-packed day tours from Ubud or Canggu. I note where organized tours make sense, and where staying overnight offers a completely different experience.
If you are based in Ubud or Canggu, this private full-day North Bali tour covers several of the highlights mentioned in this guide, making it a good option if you want a taste of the region without committing to an overnight road trip.
If you are comfortable on a scooter, North Bali is ideal for a self-guided scooter road trip. Distances are longer but traffic is lighter than in the south. So staying overnight allows you to experience places like Munduk or Lovina without rushing back the same day.
Where to Stay in North Bali (So You’re Not Driving Back 4+ Hours)
North Bali is not a base-and-return destination. Choosing where you sleep determines whether this trip feels relaxed or exhausting. I’ll note below where an overnight stay changes the experience, and where a day trip still works.
Munduk, The Best Overnight Base in North Bali
If you stay anywhere overnight in North Bali, make it Munduk. The cooler climate, misty mornings, and jungle scenery are what people imagine when they think of this region.
Munduk Clove House is a budget-friendly guesthouse with charming rooms set among clove and rice fields. Ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful base.
Munduk Moding Plantation is your stay for stylish villas surrounded by coffee plantations. Enjoy the infinity pool and soak in the northern Bali views. Optional day-pass for non-guests.
If you want a different experience for your stay in Bali, I highly recommend these modern cabins with views of the valley and volcanoes. Munduk Cabin offers luxury with a view, beautiful interior, amenities such as a jacuzzi and a fireplace to share marshmallows.
Bedugul, Better as a Stop Than a Base
Bedugul is best known for Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Lake Beratan. While it’s beautiful, most travelers don’t need to stay overnight and works better as a stop between Munduk and the coast rather than a place to sleep.
Lovina or Pemuteran, When the Coast Is the Priority
Lovina is worth staying overnight if you plan to do a sunrise dolphin tour or want a quiet coastal evening. Pemuteran, on the other hand, suits travelers who want to slow down even more, especially for snorkeling or diving around Menjangan Island.
Both make sense as overnight stops, but only if the coast is a key part of your plan!
North Bali Complete Itinerary: The 16 Stunning Spots You Need to See
North Bali: Tabanan
As Tabanan is rather an addition and probably on your way up to North Bali, I wanted to include it for you! It’s recognized for its tea plantations & rice paddies that are part of the UNESCO Heritage List.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih in Bahasa Indonesian means “real” and “beautiful” – and I couldn’t agree more! Right at the foot of Mount Batukaru, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are an outstanding sight of Bali and shouldn’t be missed on any itinerary. In my opinion, it tops the Tegallalang Rice Terraces by far and is less busy.
If you don’t want to drive Bali’s mountain roads or plan multiple stops yourself, booking this full-day North Bali tour is the easiest way to see Jatiluwih, Ulun Danu Beratan, Banyumala and Tanah Lot in one day without rushing or backtracking
Tip: Stop by Batu Karu Kopi for some amazing coffee and views!
Leke Leke Waterfall
Leke Leke is one of the more accessible waterfalls in North Bali, with a short walk and a narrow cascade framed by jungle. It’s ideal if you want a waterfall experience without a long hike. If waterfalls are a priority and you’re based in Ubud or Canggu, combining this stop with others via booking a private Bali secret waterfall tour saves time and backtracking.
Big Banyan Tree
The Big Banyan Tree really is one of Bali’s biggest gems and absolutely mindblowing to see for the first time! The extent of the branches and roots is incredible and standing underneath it really felt like a big hug from Mama Nature. These Big Banyan trees are considered holy by the Balinese and many other countries, to bring prosperity and goodness to the area.
The friendly Balinese man collecting donations mentioned that the tree is over 600 years old. Also, the village is looking forward to more visitors, so make sure to visit this amazing place on your road trip through Bali!
Optional: Bali Coffee Plantation
On the way to North Bali, and just a bit of a detour away to Munduk, you can find one of Bali’s most unique spots, Bali Beans Coffee. This company focuses heavily on supporting fellow local farmers and making sure the coffee grows in a sustainable way.
Bali Beans offers real ‘Crop-to-Cup’ Experiences where you can visit the coffee plantation, learn about the unique way of growing, see the roasted beans and try their amazing varieties.
North Bali: Bedugul
Bedugul is best experienced as a highland stop between central and North Bali, rather than a place to base yourself overnight.
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
One of Bali’s top temples, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, is the iconic sights of Bali. Nestled in the Beratan Lake, the famous Hindu temple attracts thousands of visitors every year. Floating in the lake, the temple is surrounded by mist and moody mountain ranges that add to the scenery. At 1200 meters above sea level, it’s such a must-visit photography spot.
Rumah Gemuk Wedding Space
The beautiful event venue Rumah Gemuk is a pretty unique place in North Bali. With its glasshouse design, it overlooks the wonderful Lake Beratan and makes the ideal place for a stop or a wedding. It’s actually used for events of all sorts but now also offers the chance of a typical picnic.
Handara Gate
The traditional Hindu gate symbolizes the entrance from the outer world to the temple, or the local Golf Course in this case. This place became particularly popular with the rise of Instagram, to the point that people queue for a photo. When you buy a ticket, you are allowed a short time slot to shoot.
Twin Lakes Viewpoint
Next up is a fantastic viewpoint of the Twin Lakes, Buyan and Tamlingan. The two craters lie at almost 4000 feet, right in the heart of Bali’s farming area. On the way up, you’ll pass lots of monkeys on the side of the road and can spot coffee plantations and vegetable fields on the slopes.
There are multiple viewpoints on your left, lined by restaurant terraces and huts to take a rest or dine. Towards the end of the stretch is the best view of both lakes in my opinion.
If you are lucky, the clouds pass, revealing a spectacular view of both lakes!
North Bali: Munduk
(Best to stay overnight but also possible as a long day trip from Ubud/Canggu)
The mountainous and lush region of Munduk is still rather unexplored by most tourists who come to the island. However, with its hidden waterfalls, coffee plantations and scenic volcano views it’s a gem not to miss!
If you’re not staying overnight in Munduk but still want to experience its landscapes, reserving this full-day trekking, temple & waterfall tour is a solid alternative. It links jungle paths, temples, and waterfalls into one continuous experience rather than a checklist of stops.
Banyumala Twin Waterfall
Banyumala Twin Waterfall is one of Bali’s waterfalls that is rather easy to visit. Nestled just off the main street, it makes a great stop when you are in Munduk. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls are made up of two amazing waterfalls that eventually create a huge swimming hole. It’s such a great place to go for a swim.
As with most waterfalls in Bali, it pays off the go early or late afternoon!
Tamblingan Lake
Temblingan Lake and Temple are some of these offbeat places. Frequently visited by locals who love to rent boats, yet so worth making the detour! Situated high in the Munduk mountains, it’s a great spot to visit when you visit North Bali and the Munduk region.
Tip: Go visit for sunrise as the light is amazing!
If you want to slow this part of the trip down, I’ve put together a dedicated 2-Day Munduk itinerary that shows how to group the waterfalls, viewpoints and stays without rushing.
North Bali: Buleleng
(Easy to do on a full-day tour from Ubud/Canggu)
Sekumpul Waterfall
The majestic Sekumpul Waterfall is an absolute highlight of every visit to Bali. Sekumpul is not a casual stop, and that’s exactly why it’s worth doing properly. This guided trekking Sekumpul waterfall trekking tour takes care of access, river crossings, and the best viewpoints, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than navigation.
If you’re only visiting one waterfall in Bali and don’t plan to stay nearby overnight, this is the safest and most rewarding way to do it.
The two 80-metre streams that pour down from the lush jungle cliffs are just an unforgettable sight to be seen. If you keep heading right of the waterfall, you will eventually make it to the more offbeat Grombong Waterfall.
Authentic Balinese Villages
As Bali becomes more and more touristy, it’s hard to find some truly local and authentic villages, but not up north. Go on your bike and just drive around, it will not be long before you stumble upon a ceremony, friendly locals going by their day and fantastic scenery.
North Bali: Lovina
(Best with overnight stay, but reachable on extended day tours)
Lovina works best as a 1–2 night stop, especially if you want to join a dolphin tour or enjoy the quiet black sand beaches. By now, you have reached North Bali!
Lovina Beach
What makes Lovina most attractive is its quietness, fewer people and especially the black sands. You can enjoy quiet beach walks, come past fishermen who are keen to show you their catch and let the days go by. Due to its sheltered location, there are no big waves and it’s perfect for swimming!
Dolphin Watching Tour
Lovina’s dolphin tours start early, which is why staying overnight nearby makes the experience far more relaxed. That said, if you’re already in Lovina or nearby, booking a sunrise dolphin watching tour remains one of North Bali’s most iconic moments.
We set out to sea at around 6 am and it didn’t take long before we saw the first pod jumping out of the water. We saw so many so close to us and even heard their sounds when we were underwater – just a priceless experience.
Although I had mixed feelings about the tour, I was glad to see that none of the guides attracted dolphins with food, nor did the boats come too close to any of the pods. All dolphins were wild and any encounter that happened was because the dolphins allowed it to happen.
During high season, there are unquestionably too many boats out there and regulations are so needed, but that’s a different story.
Where To Stay in Lovina for Beaches
Lovina works best as a 1-2 night stop, especially if you want to join a dolphin tour or unwind on serene beaches.
If you want Lovina at its most refined, The Damai is the clear choice. Set above the coast, this is the kind of place where you come to slow down, swim, eat well, and disconnect. Ideal if you’re pairing Lovina with Pemuteran or want a calm luxury break after days of driving.
Nugraha Lovina Seaview Hotel & Spa is a solid choice if you want to stay close to the water without overthinking it. The beachfront location makes early mornings and sunset walks effortless, and it works well if you’re joining a dolphin tour or just want a relaxed, practical base in town.
Stunning Villa Lily is ideal if you’re traveling with friends or want your own space right by the sea. With room to spread out and a peaceful setting, it feels more like staying in a private home than a hotel.
Reserve your favorite room in Lovina here!
North-West Bali
(allow a stay of 1-2 days)
Gili Putih Sumberkima
Only an hour’s drive from Lovina lies the little fishing village of Pemuteran with its Gili Putih Island. With not more than two small shady huts, it offers some of Bali’s best views of the mountain range and Java’s volcanoes in the distance.
How to get there? By kayak! From the shore, it’s a leisurely 45-minute paddle to the island, passing by stilt houses, sand banks, and coral reefs!
Snorkel in Menjangan Island
Just off the coast of Pemuteran lies Menjangan Island, a pristine paradise known for its vibrant coral reefs and calm waters. Book a full-day snorkeling or diving tour to Menjangan and explore the underwater world with tropical fish, colorful corals, and crystal-clear visibility. Whether you’re a snorkeler or diver, this trip is a must for anyone staying in Pemuteran or nearby Sumberkima.
Hatten Winery
Yes, there are wineries in North Bali! Founded in 1994, Hatten Wines has an award-winning range of 10 wines, 100% grown and made in Bali. You can’t really go wrong with strolling through the vineyards, letting the guide explain some history of the place, and trying a few grapes right off the vine!
After the visit of the vineyard, you’ll go back to the tasting room. Finally, its time to taste two of their white wines, delicious!
Where to Stay in Pemuteran for Beach Adventures
Pemuteran is not a quick stop. It’s a place to slow down, snorkel, and enjoy some of North Bali’s most peaceful beaches.
Amertha Bali Villas offers spacious, stylish villas with private pools and all the comforts of a high-end stay. Ideal for couples or groups wanting both privacy and easy access to Pemuteran’s snorkeling spots.
Taman Sari Bali Resort & Spa is an eco-luxury resort featuring villas and suites with breathtaking sea views, plus spa services and sustainable design. Perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and indulgence.
Perched on a hillside overlooking Pemuteran Bay, Sumberkima Hill Retreat combines modern design with a relaxing, peaceful atmosphere. Rooms are bright and airy, and the pool offers unbeatable sunset views.
Things To Know Before Going to Bali
Currency in Bali
Bali is easy to navigate once you’re there. Cash is still useful in smaller towns and ATMs are widely available.
SIM Card and Internet
To make your trip easier, go purchase an eSIM ahead of time. This is especially handy if you ever arrive late at night at a new destination!
Transportation and Traffic
Most travelers arrive via Denpasar Airport, then continue by private driver or scooter, depending on distance and confidence.
There is so much to explore in Bali and North Bali definitely deserves a place on your itinerary.
Have you read my other articles on what to do in Bali?
Diver? Check out Budget Scuba Diving in Komodo – What You Need To Know
Discover the Best Uluwatu Beaches – The Full Guide to The Dreamiest Spots
The top things to see and do in Amed: Amed Bali The Ultimate Guide
What to do in Bali, Adventure Edition: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike
Keen on Sumba? Read my Sumba Guide, The 20 Most Amazing Places to See
Women Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without
Travel Insurance
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Travel Money Card
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