Things To Do
in Singaraja
Singaraja is a coastal town on Bali's northern shore, where a tranquil breeze carries the scent of the sea and coffee from street-side drink stalls. It blends Dutch-era architecture with fishing-village charm, creating a low-key atmosphere away from the south's crowds. The harbor, markets, and temples shape daily life here, offering a window into Balinese life with a distinctly northern vibe.
Visitors can enjoy seafood by the water, short nature trips nearby, and evenings that glow softly over the Bali Sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Singaraja and settle into your beachfront hotel. Take a stroll along Lovina Beach to admire the black volcanic sand and gentle waves. Enjoy a tropical breakfast overlooking the sea.
Visit the Singaraja city center to explore colonial Dutch architecture and local markets. Sample Indonesian snacks and fresh fruit at a bustling pasar malam. Learn about Buleleng’s history at the Gedong Kirtya library.
Relax with a sunset walk along the coast, watching fishing boats return to shore. Dine on grilled seafood at a local warung by candlelight. Listen to traditional Balinese gamelan music as you end your first day.
Wake up before dawn for a boat trip to see wild dolphins in Lovina Bay. Cruise through calm waters while spotting playful pods leaping at sunrise. Enjoy coffee and light snacks brought onto the boat.
Return to shore and visit Banjar hot springs for a relaxing dip in mineral-rich waters. Immerse in the lush jungle setting and natural steam rising from warm pools. Sample local herbal teas sold by friendly vendors.
Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant serving authentic Balinese curries. Wander the moonlit shoreline and listen to the waves gently lapping the sand. Plan your next day’s adventure over fresh coconut water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 💧1.5L bottle of water | $0.30-1 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (per day) | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and authentic Balinese north-coast atmosphere
- Rich coastal scenery, waterfalls, and easier access to nature from Singaraja
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options compared with southern Bali
- Transport options can be less frequent; hiring a car or scooter is a practical choice
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Singaraja
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, early-morning light, and colonial-era façades create classic seascape and street photography opportunities.
Dark volcanic sand, calm water, and silhouettes of boats at dawn offer serene seascapes.
A lush, emerald setting with a waterfall cascade—great for misty, photographic rainforest scenes.
Steamy pools and rockwork set against tropical greenery provide intimate nature shots.
Iconic temple on Lake Bratan with mirror-like water reflections and mountain backdrops—excellent for wide shots and reflections.
Food in Singaraja
Singaraja Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A plate of mixed rice with choose-your-protein, vegetables, and sambal; a great way to sample several local flavors in one meal.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish seasoned with local spices and served with rice and vegetables; best with a side of sambal matah (raw shallot and chili relish).
Spiced minced meat or vegetables mixed with coconut and herbs; often paired with rice or eaten as a side dish.
Minced fish or meat smeared on lemongrass skewers and grilled; a northern Bali specialty with fragrant aromatics.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls selling fresh seafood, tropical fruit, vegetables, and Indonesian snacks—excellent for an authentic sampling walk.
Casual spots along the waterfront offering grilled fish, satay, and coconut water with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect temple sites with shoulders and knees covered; avoid revealing clothing in sacred spaces.
A gentle 'Selamat' or 'Namaste' style greeting is appreciated; public displays of affection are less common in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Singaraja
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are welcome but not mandatory. Leave small amounts (e.g., 5-10% or local equivalent) for good service in cafes, drivers, and tour guides.
Cash in Indonesian Rupiah is widely used; some larger venues accept cards. ATMs are common in town, but carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April to September is typically warm and relatively sunny with lower humidity; ideal for coastal photography and outdoor activities, though evenings can be cooler on the coast.
October to March brings more rain and humidity, with afternoon showers common; greenery is at its peak and waterfalls run fuller, but plan for mud and slick trails.
April and October are shoulder months with a mix of sunny and rainy days; great for flexible plans and fewer crowds.
Singaraja at Night
Hiking in Singaraja
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike through coffee plantations and jungle paths to several waterfalls in the Munduk highlands.
Short but rewarding rainforest walk to a picturesque waterfall; popular for photos and a refreshing dip.
A longer, more challenging trek to a cluster of dramatic waterfalls set in lush green terrain.
Airports
How to reach Singaraja by plane.
Main Bali gateway; about a 3–4 hour drive from Singaraja depending on traffic and route. Accessible by car, taxi, or tour transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group in the region with temples and ceremonies shaping daily life; mixed with Indonesian and coastal communities.
A strong coastal economy with fishermen and small businesses around the harbor and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby reefs and clear waters along the northern coast offer accessible diving and snorkeling options.
Traditional fishing remains a part of daily life for locals and can be an activity for visitors near the harbor.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Singaraja.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Balinese dishes can be prepared without meat; look for nasi campur with vegetable sides, tempeh, or tofu-based options, and request no fish sauce when needed.