In Reply to: Beach posted by Alastair on Monday, 25. February 2008 at 09:45 Bali Time:
If you are only after a beach then Amed is probably for you, as the only activity around there is centered on the beach, ie snorkeling and diving or just sunbathing. Lovina's beach is probably a little less appealing but there are many more things to do in this area.
You are very central do day trips here to the mountains, hills and diving spots. There are also many local attractions like the Hot Springs in Banjar, or the cold springs at Air Sani, and there are many lovely water falls in the area as well. Munduk being the best water fall, no sellers there and a lovely walk through coffee and clove plantations. The local town of Singaraja which used to be the old Dutch capital is great for shopping and as it is not a tourist destination, so you can enjoy a hassle free day exploring the markets and local shops and experience a typical Indonesian town. There is also an interesting area where you can visit the museum, Royal Palace and Ikat factory all in walking distance of each other. There is now a new large shopping center Hardy's just down from the museum.
You can get a short boat ride out to the local reef and snorkel the coral reef, or an early morning trip to see the dolphins frolic in the Bali Sea. You are also in striking distance of the best snorkeling in Bali at the national park, Manjangan Island.
If you want to be more adventurous there is some great trekking in the area of Lemukih
Looking for a family run place then look at www.rambutan.org my place.