Amed - Where Bali’s Soul Meets the Sea

With its black and white sand beaches, rich marine life, and jaw-dropping sunsets, Amed is perfect for travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity.

A Scenic Journey

Reaching Amed is an adventure in itself.

Located about 90 km from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, the three-hour drive takes you through Bali’s diverse landscapes. As you leave the city behind, the scenery transforms.

Vibrant city streets give way to lush green rice terraces and dramatic mountains.

Once you get closer to Amed, the majestic Gunung Agung rises in the distance, its powerful energy impossible to ignore.

To get there, renting a car with a driver is a great option. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey without worrying about navigating Bali’s chaotic roads.

For the more adventurous, renting a motorbike gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Be cautious on the road! While the streets around Denpasar are busy, the further north you go, the narrower and steeper the roads can become.

Want a Taste of Authentic Bali?

If you’re looking for an authentic Balinese experience, stop by a local warung (small eatery) along the way. Keep an eye out for places offering Babi Guling, a local favourite.

This crispy-skinned, spice-infused roast pig is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Bali. You’ll recognize it by the ‘roasted pig’ signs outside many warungs.

Ameds Blue Wonderland

Amed is renowned for its underwater world. Crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs make it a haven for divers and snorkelers who want to escape the crowded dive spots elsewhere in Bali.

Where to Dive?

One of Ameds biggest highlights is the USAT Liberty shipwreck, located in nearby Tulamben. This World War II-era cargo ship was torpedoed by the Japanese in 1942 and now rests just 30 metres from the shore. The wreck is accessible for both beginner and experienced divers and is home to vibrant coral gardens, colourful fish, turtles, and even reef sharks.

Did you know?
The ship didn’t sink right off Amed’s coast. After being hit, it was towed to Tulamben’s shore for salvaging, but when Mount Agung erupted in 1963, the tremors caused the vessel to slip into the sea, creating one of Bali’s most popular dive sites.

Coral Restoration – Make a Difference

If you’re passionate about marine conservation, Calypso Diving Bali offers a unique opportunity.

As the only dive centre in Amed with a dedicated coral conservation project in collaboration with Ocean Gardener, they run courses led by marine biologists.

You’ll learn how to transplant coral fragments onto underwater nurseries, helping to restore fragile reefs. It’s a hands-on way to make a difference in the fight to protect our oceans.

Jemeluk Bay and Lipah Beach

If you prefer to stay on the surface, Ameds snorkelling spots won’t disappoint.

Jemeluk Bay is a snorkeler’s paradise, with shallow waters teeming with marine life and fascinating underwater statues that form artificial reefs.

Lipah Beach, with its calm waters and beautiful coral reefs just off the shore, is another must-visit for snorkelers. The contrast between the black volcanic sand and the turquoise waters makes for a stunning view both above and below the surface.

Pro Tip:

• For the best visibility, start snorkelling early in the morning.
• This is when the waters are clearest, and you’ll have the best chance of spotting larger fish.

Where to Eat

Amed’s relaxed vibe extends to its dining scene, offering a mix of local warungs and seaside restaurants. Here are some places you shouldn’t miss:

• Warung Enak – As its name suggests (Enak means “delicious” in Indonesian), Warung Enak serves flavorful local dishes in a laid-back setting. Try the grilled fish, caught fresh daily, and don’t miss Bubur Injin, a traditional Balinese black rice pudding.
• Galanga – For a romantic dinner, head to Galanga. Set in a beautiful garden with cosy gazebos, it offers a delightful fusion of Indonesian and international cuisine. Their signature curries and sate lilit (Balinese fish skewers) are not to be missed.
• Good Stuff Café & Eco Store – Craving something fresh? Good Stuff Café serves salads, smoothies, and kombucha, using sustainable ingredients. Their eco store offers a variety of environmentally friendly products you can take home.

The Best Places to Watch the Sun Go Down

Amed is famous for its unforgettable sunsets. Here are two of the best spots to catch them:

• Jemeluk Viewpoint – This elevated spot offers panoramic views of Ameds coastline with Mount Agung in the background. Grab a seat at one of the warungs like Joli Best View, order a drink, and watch as the sky transforms into a stunning array of colours.
• Blue Earth Village – My personal favourite for sunsets. From the second floor, you’ll have an amazing view of the sunset behind Mount Agung. The vibe here is relaxed, and if you’re into yoga, you can catch a class with one of the best views in Amed.

If you want a unique experience, rent a traditional fishing boat called a jukung for a sunset cruise. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the water gives you a completely different perspective of Amed’s coastline.

And if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins playing in the waves.

Slow Travel at its Best

Amed is made up of small fishing villages spread along the coast, so the best way to explore is by renting a motorbike.

This gives you the freedom to visit each village at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver. Just remember that ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek aren’t available in this area.

It’s super easy to rent a motorbike from nearly anyone in Amed.

Take your time exploring beyond Ameds main strip. Head inland to experience the lush hills and the warmth of the local Balinese people. You’ll be welcomed with friendly smiles and a slower pace of life.

A Destination Worth the Journey

Amed offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm that’s hard to find elsewhere in Bali. It’s a place where time slows down and the focus shifts to relaxation and connection.

Amed invites you to experience Bali’s soul in its purest form. I highly recommend you check it out!