1. Introduction
Amed, Bali, is a hidden gem where you can escape the tourist crowds of southern Bali, relax on remote beaches, and engage in superb scuba diving. This destination offers tranquility, breathtaking sunsets, and stunning volcano views. In this guide, we outline how to get to Amed, where to stay, and the best activities to enjoy while you’re there.
How To Get To Amed Bali
Amed is located on the northeast corner of Bali island. The drive from tourist hubs in south Bali, such as Ubud, Sanur, Canggu, and Kuta, takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Currently, public transport is unavailable, making a private driver or scooter rental the best options for travel.
How To Get Around Amed
Amed spans about 14 kilometers (9 miles) along the coastline, so transport is advisable for exploration. The most popular mode of transport is a scooter, which you can rent online or from local hotels and shops.
Many hotels offer the option of a driver and car for daily tours, and dive centers often include transport with their services.
Best Things To Do & See In Amed Bali
• Amed Beach
Amed Beach features a blend of fine black sand and smooth rocks, creating a tranquil atmosphere. This area is the main tourist zone where stunning sunsets over the volcano create an unforgettable backdrop. However, some parts of the beach contain debris due to ongoing hotel construction.
• Jemeluk Bay
Jemeluk Bay serves as the primary snorkeling destination in Amed, boasting excellent coral on both sides. The bay also hosts a popular viewpoint perfect for sunset watching, making it a scenic choice for dining and lodging.
• Fishing
Join local fishermen on their morning excursions for an authentic experience. For around 250k IDR (~$17), you can participate in fishing trips, leaving at dawn to catch fresh fish before the waters become choppy. This activity can be arranged through local hotels or by speaking directly to fishermen.
• Sailing
Amed is an ideal spot for sunset and sunrise cruises on traditional bangka boats. They offer stunning views of both the dawn and dusk, enhancing your experience in this wonderful locale.
• Diving
The Amed region is renowned for its incredible scuba diving, featuring vibrant coral gardens, underwater temples, and noteworthy WWII shipwrecks. A variety of PADI and SSI dive shops are available, catering to both novices and seasoned divers alike.
• Snorkeling
If scuba diving doesn’t fit your budget, snorkeling is another fantastic option. Explore the vibrant marine life near Jemeluk Bay and also at the further Lipah Bay, where underwater scenery is exceptionally rich.
• Trekking
Take a hike inland to explore hills and rice terraces near Amed. For the more adventurous, consider hiring a guide for a full-day trek up Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest volcano and most significant peak.
More Things To See Near Amed
• Lempuyang Temple
The ‘gates of heaven’ at Lempuyang Temple are an Instagram sensation, attracting many visitors. Expect potentially long waits for your picture opportunity. Located just a 30-minute drive from Amed, the temple offers a striking view of the sky.
• Besakih Temple
As Bali’s largest and most significant temple, Besakih is perched on the slopes of Mount Agung. Its historical importance dates back thousands of years and is a must-see located approximately 60-90 minutes from Amed.
• Marigold Fields
Near Besakih Temple, the Temukus village has expansive marigold fields, cultivated for religious ceremonies. This area showcases stunning orange flowers against a backdrop of fog-laden mountains.
• Bukit Cinta
Known as ‘Love Hill,’ Bukit Cinta is a scenic viewpoint that provides striking views of Mount Agung and surrounding rice terraces, making it an excellent spot for sunrise photography.
• Tirta Gangga Water Palace
This picturesque water palace features koi fish ponds and is a popular destination for photographs. Located just 30 minutes from Amed, it offers a serene atmosphere for visitors.
• Sidemen Village
Sidemen, located an hour from Amed, is a charming rural village set in a valley adorned with rice terraces and fantastic volcanic vistas.
• Gili Islands
From Jemeluk Bay, daily fast boats are available to the Gili Islands, a trio of beautiful islands just off Lombok’s coast. It’s a one-hour trip to Gili Trawangan or Gili Air, ideal for soaking up sun and enjoying vibrant beach life.
Best Restaurants In Amed Bali
Amed is home to numerous dining options, including:
- Warung Osin: Known for its affordable prices and generous portions, this restaurant serves some of Bali’s best chicken satay.
- Warung Amed: A casual eatery offering delicious food at budget-friendly prices.
- Rimba Cafe: Famous for its amazing fruit smoothie bowls, vegetarian dishes, and delectable desserts.
- Warung Enak: Offers a blend of Indonesian and Western cuisines, slightly pricier but includes complimentary water and bread.
- Blue Earth Village: A diverse menu in a scenic setting with complimentary water, Wi-Fi, and power sockets.
Other Tips For Amed
- Credit Cards: Most establishments do not accept credit cards; cash is preferred.
- ATM: Several ATMs are available in the area, typically allowing for substantial withdrawals.
- WiFi: Many hotels provide sufficient WiFi for basic browsing and some streaming needs.
- Cell Service: Telkomsel provides decent coverage in Amed, although it may vary in different coastal areas.
Best Time To Visit Amed
Amed generally enjoys pleasant weather year-round. However, for diving enthusiasts, the optimal months are May through November, when rain is less frequent and underwater visibility is optimal.
How Long To Stay
You can explore the key attractions of Amed in just a few days; however, due to its relaxed ambiance and beauty, many visitors choose to extend their stay beyond the initial plan.
Happy travels!
Best Transportation Options for Amed
To explore Bali comfortably, utilizing a private vehicle with an English speaking driver is advised. Consider GetYourGuide as a fantastic option. Their rates start at approximately 700k Rupiah (~$48 USD) for a full day of transportation (up to 10 hours) accommodating 1-5 passengers, inclusive of petrol.
If you prefer a motorcycle for more nimble exploration, scooter rentals begin at 140k Rupiah (~$9) and come equipped with necessary safety gear.
