If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to experience a slower, more authentic side of the island, Amed should be at the top of your list. Known for its volcanic coastline, incredible snorkeling spots, and relaxed village vibe, Amed offers the perfect escape from the busy streets of Canggu or Ubud. Whether you’re here for the turquoise waters or the sweeping mountain views, Amed has plenty to keep you exploring for a few days.
The Journey to Amed: What to Expect
The drive to Amed is half the adventure. From the south of Bali, expect a scenic 3-3.5 hour journey winding past rice terraces, quiet Balinese villages, and views of Mount Agung on a clear day. The roads are narrow with twists and turns, so be careful if you’re driving yourself. For those confident on a scooter, it’s an epic drive, which if on your own schedule, offers plenty of opportunities to stop for views along the way. If you aren’t a confident driver (either by car or scooter) it’s a good idea to book a private driver or transfer rather than attempting the drive yourself. Bring snacks, water, and your camera because you’ll definitely want to capture some of the landscapes along the way.
Where to Stay: Blue Moon Villas
For a comfortable and affordable stay, I highly recommend Blue Moon Villas. At around £90 for two nights for two people, this boutique stay offers spacious rooms, sea views, and a relaxing infinity pool that looks over the coastline. It’s the perfect base to return to after a long day snorkelling or sightseeing.
Snorkelling in Amed
Amed is famous for its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it one of the best snorkelling and diving destinations in Bali.
Lipah Bay – Just a short drive from central Amed, Lipah Bay is one of the best places to spot turtles gliding around the reef. Dive in with your snorkel and expect crystal-clear waters and colourful marine life.
Jemeluk Bay Beach – Another highlight is Jemeluk Bay, where you can rent a snorkel mask and flippers for around 60k IDR. You’ll find coral gardens teeming with fish just a few metres from the shoreline. After your swim, grab a sunbed for 50k and spend the afternoon soaking up the sun.
Watch the Sunset and Sunrise
Amed is positioned incredible for both sunset and sunrise! From the edge of the coast, you’ll be able to see the sunrise each morning pretty easily. On a clear day, you’ll see all the way to Mt Rinjani in Lombok, as the sun slowly starts to peek over.
For one of the best sunsets in Bali, head to Sunset Point Amed. Perched on the hillside, this spot overlooks Jemeluk Bay and Mount Agung, and has such a breathtaking backdrop as the sky turns golden. There’s a 150k minimum spend, so sit back with a cocktail, fresh juice or dinner and enjoy the view. On Sundays, they offer a buffet dinner and a free fire show for everyone.
Day Trip to Tirta Gangga
Just a short drive inland from Amed is the famous Tirta Gangga Water Palace. Entry is 90k IDR, and you’ll wander through elegant pools, lush gardens, and the iconic stepping stones that make this spot so photogenic. Get there early if you can, as the palace does get busy with tour groups.
Coconut with a View: Berina Rice Terraces
Another great stop on the way back from Tirta Gangga is Berina Rice Terraces. Far quieter than the popular Tegallalang terraces in Ubud, here you can grab a snack of fried banana for 20k or a refreshing coconut for 25k while admiring the sweeping rice field views. It’s an authentic and peaceful spot well worth visiting.
Restaurants and Cafés in Amed
- Viewpoint Restaurant – A relaxed place to enjoy traditional Indonesian dishes with panoramic views of the coast. Perfect for a laid-back lunch after exploring.
- Joli Best View Café – A locally-owned gem, run by Amed locals Joli and Juli. This little café serves one of the best smoothie bowls in the area. Expect to pay around 100k for coffee and a smoothie bowl, all while supporting a family-run business. Not to mention the views from this cafe are worth a visit alone!
Final Thoughts on Visiting Amed
Amed is so much more than just a beach stop. It’s a place to slow down, connect with nature, and take in some of Bali’s most incredible scenery. From snorkelling with turtles at Lipah Bay to sipping a coconut above the rice terraces, you’ll find that Amed is the perfect spot for slow paced adventure, and escaping the busy streets of south Bali. Whether you stay for two nights or a week, the charm of Amed is likely to keep you coming back.
Want more? Check out my Indonesia Travel Guide!