Whilst most visitors to Bali stay in the built-up south of the island, more discerning travellers head north to escape the crowds and discover the real Bali.

Lovina, meaning “Love Indonesia”, is a peaceful resort town formed from a string of coastal villages on the northern tip of the island.

This review from Yahoo Travel is fairly typical:

Escape from the hustle and bustle of Kuta to Lovina Beach located in north Bali, about 100 kilometers from southern tourist hotspots. Famous for its early morning dolphin-watching boat trips, Lovina also offers good snorkeling and diving, and trekking in the nearby mountains. Do not miss the opportunity to soak in hot springs and catch beautiful sunsets! With a wonderful variety of hotels, restaurants and bars located on or very near the calm beach, Lovina offers something for everyone. It is also a good base to take day trips to the nearby attractions of north and west Bali.

Lovina is the ideal base for a relaxing and uplifting stay in Bali and is well worth the 2-3 hour drive from the airport.