Riding a Scooter to Lovina, North Bali

Lovina is the main resort area on Bali's north coast — a string of quiet black sand beach villages that feel a world apart from the crowded south. The north coast faces the Java Sea, the water is calm and flat, and the entire area has a relaxed, unhurried character that many long-term Bali visitors consider their favourite part of the island.

Getting to Lovina from south Bali on a scooter is one of the great Bali riding experiences. The classic route climbs through Ubud, up into the Kintamani highlands past the Mount Batur caldera, then descends dramatically through forest and coffee plantations to the north coast. Via Bedugul, you pass crater lakes and mountain gardens. Either way, the journey rivals the destination.

Once in Lovina, the pace slows right down. Mornings begin before sunrise for the famous dolphin trips, afternoons are spent at hot springs or waterfalls, and evenings bring long dinners of fresh grilled fish by the sea.

North Bali is underexplored by most tourists, which is exactly why it's so rewarding. The roads are quieter, the scenery is greener, and the local culture is more visibly intact. Lovina itself is a gentle base from which to explore waterfalls, Buddhist monasteries, and the old Dutch colonial town of Singaraja.

Lovina is best experienced as a 2-day adventure from south Bali — ride up on day one, explore on day two, and return via a different route. A WiPassion scooter booked from Sanur or Kuta gives you everything you need for the full north Bali loop.

Start early. The ride from south Bali to Lovina takes 2.5–3 hours depending on your route. Leave by 7am and you'll arrive in time for lunch, with a full afternoon to explore.

Fill up before the highlands. Petrol stations become less frequent north of Ubud and around the Kintamani highlands. Keep your tank topped up before heading into the mountain sections.

Pack for different weather. North Bali often has different weather to the south. The highlands can be cold and misty even when the south is sunny. The raincoat included with your rental is essential for mountain rides.

Plan a 2-day itinerary. Lovina is too far for a comfortable day trip. Budget at least one night to make the most of the north coast — dolphin trips depart at sunrise and the waterfalls take time.