Lovina

Where Kuta is busy, fast-paced and even a bit raucous at times, Lovina, located on the northern side of the island, is quiet, laid back and low-key. Resorts scattered along this 7.5-mile (12-kilometer) stretch of coast tend to cater to families and couples, and everything from the waves on the beach to the nightlife tend to be calmer than their counterparts to the South.

The town itself is actually a string of seven coastal villages, with the largest concentration of restaurants and shops in Kalibukuk. Travelers don’t come here for the towns, however. They come here -- like in much of Bali -- for the beaches. Unlike the southern coast, the beaches of the northern coast have black sand and tranquil waters safe for swimming.

If you’re interested in doing some dolphin watching while in Bali, these trips often depart from Lovina. You’ll also find diving, snorkeling and a few inexpensive and reputable spas.

While you can reach Lovina by public bus, the trip can get long, especially if you’re coming from the South. It’s easier to hire a car and driver to drop you off and pick you up again after your stay.