Bali is often associated with its white sandy beaches in the south, lush tropical forests in Ubud, and the vibrant nightlife in Kuta. However, for those looking to discover a different side of the Island of the Gods, North Bali offers a stunning “hidden gem”: Lovina Beach. Away from the bustling tourist spots, Lovina Beach provides a unique experience rarely found elsewhere—the chance to witness wild dolphins swimming freely in the waters of the Bali Sea.
The dolphin-watching activity takes place early in the morning. Tourists first board a motorized boat from the beach and head out to the open sea. Besides watching from the boat, tourists can also view the dolphins underwater by swimming and holding onto a rope tied to the boat.
Located about 9 kilometers west of Singaraja City, Lovina Beach is one of Bali’s lesser-known tourist destinations. With its distinctive black volcanic sand, calm waters, and peaceful atmosphere, Lovina stands in stark contrast to the busier, more commercialized beaches in Bali. This is where Lovina’s charm truly shines—it offers an escape from the tourist crowds and a chance to enjoy Bali in a more natural and authentic state.
Lovina Beach is renowned for its spectacular sunrise views, where the sky transforms from darkness into a palette of orange, red, and yellow hues. However, the main attraction in Lovina is the dolphin population, which is often spotted in the morning, around 1-2 kilometers from the shore.
One of the most popular activities in Lovina is the early morning boat tour to see the dolphins. These tours usually begin before sunrise, around 5:30 AM, when the sky is still dark and the waters are calm. On traditional Balinese boats called “jukung,” tourists are taken out to the open sea to watch dolphins swimming and leaping around the boat.
Watching dolphins in their natural habitat is an incredible experience. In the quiet of the morning, the only sounds are the splashes of water and the joyful squeals of the dolphins. Sometimes, large pods of dolphins, consisting of dozens of individuals, appear, swimming together and showcasing their impressive acrobatics. This experience is not only mesmerizing but also instills a sense of peace and awe for the beauty of nature.
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In addition, many tour operators in Lovina also offer the opportunity to go snorkeling after dolphin-watching. The waters around Lovina Beach are quite clear, allowing tourists to see a diverse underwater life, including beautiful coral reefs and various species of tropical fish.
So, how much does it cost to see dolphins at Lovina Beach?
According to information from Kompas.com, there are five departure points to access dolphin-watching at Lovina Beach. These include Penimbangan Beach, Celuk Agung Beach, Lovina Beach, Happy Beach, and Kaliasem. Departing from Lovina Beach Club, the fare starts at IDR 125,000 per person. This fare applies to a minimum of 10 people per motorized boat.
Lovina Beach in North Bali is a hidden gem that offers a different and profound tourist experience. From watching wild dolphins to enjoying the tranquility of the black sand beach, Lovina is the perfect spot for those seeking a more authentic and peaceful experience in Bali. Here, you will not only find stunning natural beauty but also the opportunity to experience the true essence of Bali—far from the tourist crowds, in an environment rich with culture and tradition.
If you’re planning a visit to Bali, don’t miss the chance to explore Lovina and discover the natural and cultural wonders it has to offer. Lovina Beach is not just about beauty; it’s also about understanding and appreciating the rich natural and cultural heritage of this island.
