A peaceful north Bali spring pool where locals swim and sea views shine.
Tucked along Bali’s quiet north coast, about 15 minutes east of Lovina, is a peaceful seaside spot that most visitors to the island never hear about – Air Sanih. This small village may not have the name recognition of Bali’s bigger destinations, but for those looking to unwind, swim, and explore a local side of the island, Air Sanih offers a welcome escape. Its main attraction is simple but special: a freshwater spring-fed pool that flows just metres from the sea, offering cool, clear water and a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural significance.
Sacred Waters with Mountain Origins
The name “Air Sanih” means “Sanih Water”, referring to the natural spring that feeds the coastal bathing pools. According to Balinese belief, the spring originates all the way from Lake Batur, high in the mountains to the south, making the water not only refreshing but spiritually meaningful. Locals have long considered the spring sacred, and for generations, it has been a place of both relaxation and ritual.
The main pool is open to the public and surrounded by low stone walls and shady trees. It is clean, quiet, and popular with families, especially on weekends and holidays. There is also a smaller children’s pool nearby, making it a safe and fun option for all ages. The water is noticeably cooler than the sea and has a soft, pure feel – perfect for a mid-day swim when the coastal sun is at its hottest.
Local Flavors and Ocean Views
What makes Air Sanih special is the sense of calm. There is no booming music, no lines of sun loungers, and no crowds of tourists. The setting feels genuinely local. Visitors often find themselves sharing the space with Balinese families who come for picnics, laughter, and an afternoon dip. Around the pool, simple warungs serve fresh coconut, nasi goreng, and grilled satay. The food is basic but tasty, and the views out to the Bali Sea are wide open and unobstructed.
More Than a Swimming Spot
Just beyond the pool area, black sand beaches stretch out in both directions. The sand is volcanic, warm, and dotted with fishing boats and the occasional shell. It is not the kind of beach made for Instagram, but it is quiet, real, and uncrowded – perfect for a walk at sunrise or sunset. On clear days, you can see all the way to Mount Agung, or even across the water to the outlines of Java’s eastern mountains.
Air Sanih is also a good base for exploring northern Bali’s other highlights. From here, it is an easy drive to places like Gitgit Waterfall, Beji Temple, Tejakula, and Kintamani. Many travellers stop here for lunch and a swim while on a coastal road trip, especially those heading toward Amed or east Bali. There are a handful of small hotels and guesthouses in the area, including a few with seaside rooms and infinity pools overlooking the water. The vibe is quiet and family-run – ideal for travellers who want to unplug for a night or two.
While the spring is not a major temple site, it does carry cultural weight. Locals often bathe here before ceremonies, believing the water helps purify both body and spirit. Offerings can sometimes be seen at the edges of the pool, placed with care and respect. Visitors are welcome to swim, but as always in Bali, it is appreciated when guests observe the local customs – modest swimwear, quiet behaviour, and no littering go a long way in keeping the space respectful.
Getting to Air Sanih is easy if you have a scooter or driver. From Lovina, it is a 15–20 minute coastal drive heading east. From Ubud or the south, allow 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and route. The pool is well signposted, and there is a small entrance fee, usually under IDR 10,000. Parking is available on site, and facilities are basic but clean, including changing rooms and toilets.
In a country known for its waterfalls, temples, and surf beaches, it can be easy to overlook something as understated as a freshwater spring. But Air Sanih reminds you that Bali’s magic often lies in these small, quiet places – where locals gather, nature flows freely, and time seems to slow down.
For travellers looking to trade crowds for calm and discover a little-known gem along the north coast, Air Sanih is worth the stop. Come for a swim, stay for the sunset, and leave with that unmistakable feeling of having found something truly peaceful.