About Amed
Tucked away on Bali’s eastern coast, Amed is a tranquil seaside village known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, black sand beaches, and vibrant underwater life. Far from the bustling tourist hubs of the south, Amed offers a slower pace and authentic local charm—making it a favorite among travelers seeking peace, world-class snorkeling and diving, and breathtaking views of Mount Agung in the background.
Getting There
Like much of Bali, public transportation options in Amed are limited, unreliable, and generally not suitable for tourists. The most convenient way to reach Amed from the southern part of the island is by renting a car or hiring a private driver.
The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic. A one-way trip typically costs between IDR 650,000 and 850,000 if you're hiring a driver.
Getting Around Amed
Amed isn’t a single town but a stretch of coastal villages spanning about 10 km, alternating between black sand beaches and cliffs. Because of this layout, having your own transportation is essential if you want to explore everything the area has to offer.
Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are not available in this remote part of Bali. If you need a ride, your best bet is to ask your accommodation for help arranging transport. Hiring a driver for short distances isn’t always economical, but renting a motorbike is easy and much more cost-effective.
Check out our post on everything you need to know about renting a motorbike in Bali.
Choosing Where to Stay
Since Amed's attractions are spread out, choosing the right location for your stay can really shape your experience.
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For a peaceful retreat with quiet beaches for swimming and relaxing, we recommend staying on the eastern end of Amed, near Lipa Beach or Bhima Beach.
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For a livelier atmosphere, the western end around Amed Beach offers more restaurants, cafés, bars, and spas—most within walking distance.
When it comes to accommodation, Amed offers a range of options—from traditional hotels and homestays to private villas (many of which you can find on Airbnb) that are perfect for families or groups, often featuring multiple bedrooms. Nightly rates in Amed are generally much more affordable than in southern Bali, making it a great place to enjoy a relaxing and memorable holiday without breaking the bank.
Ocean Activities in Amed: Diving, Snorkeling & Fishing
Amed’s top attractions are all centered around its incredible marine life. Whether you're a certified diver or a casual snorkeler, you'll be amazed by the vibrant underwater world just off the coast of Amed and its surrounding areas.
Diving in Amed
Alongside Nusa Penida, Amed is one of Bali’s premier diving destinations.
Dozens of dive shops are scattered throughout the village. You can reach out to them ahead of your trip or simply walk into one once you arrive. Prices and dive sites tend to be similar across providers, with the most popular diving locations including:
- Jemeluk Bay, known for its colorful coral gardens and unique underwater temple
- USAT Liberty Shipwreck in nearby Tulamben, just a 20-minute drive from Amed
Most dive centers offer packages that include everything you need: equipment, towels, hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as snacks or refreshments. Expect to pay around IDR 900,000 for two dives in a day, or about IDR 1,300,000 for three dives.
Snorkeling in Amed
Many of Amed’s best snorkeling spots are easily accessible directly from the beach — no boat required. However, if you don’t have your own transportation, getting between spots can be a bit tricky. Fortunately, there's another great option: hiring a local boat. Local fishermen are happy to take you on a private snorkeling tour, bringing you from one reef to another without the need to return to shore between stops. To get a boat, you can ask your accommodation, or simply find one on the beach. Dive shops can also help you organize those.
Amed is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it a fantastic destination for snorkelers. As you explore the reefs, you can expect to encounter a variety of tropical fish and, if you're lucky, sea turtles. Here are some of our favorite snorkeling spots in Amed:
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Japanese Shipwreck – A small, shallow shipwreck just meters from the shore, ideal for beginners and great for spotting colorful fish like angelfish, and butterflyfish. The wreck is often visited by green sea turtles, adding a magical touch to the experience.
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Jemeluk Bay Underwater Temple – Swim straight from the shore to reach a unique underwater temple garden surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Expect to see schools of parrotfish, surgeonfish, and lionfish, along with the occasional sea turtle gliding through the clear waters.
Aside from these spots, Amed is home to various other underwater treasures, including vibrant coral gardens and hidden caves, teeming with diverse marine life such as moray eels, wrasse, and even the elusive seahorse.
And last, here is the for of prices you can expect:
- Snorkeling Gear Rental: Most dive shops in Amed offer snorkeling gear rentals, which typically cost around IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000 per day.
- Private Boat Tours: If you're looking to explore multiple spots without returning to shore, hiring a local boat is a great option. Private boat tours can range from IDR 400,000 to IDR 800,000 for a 1–2 hour trip. Prices may vary depending on the duration and the number of people in your group.
- Guided Snorkeling Tours: Some dive shops offer guided snorkeling tours, which usually include transportation, gear, and a guide. These tours typically range from IDR 200,000 to IDR 600,000 per person.
Fishing trip in Amed
Amed, traditionally a fishing village, still thrives on its close relationship with the sea. One of the most authentic ways to experience this is by joining a local fisherman for a trip on a traditional jukung boat. These early morning or late afternoon outings are not only a chance to try your hand at fishing but also to soak in the serene coastal views and learn about age-old techniques passed down through generations. Common catches include mahi-mahi, tuna, barracuda, and small reef fish — depending on the season and time of day. It’s a peaceful, down-to-earth activity that offers a deeper connection to Amed’s culture and daily life.
Fishing trips with local fishermen in Amed are generally quite affordable and vary depending on the duration and what’s included. Here's a typical range:
- Short trip (2–3 hours): IDR 300,000–500,000 per boat
- Half-day trip (4–5 hours): IDR 500,000–800,000 per boat
Prices are usually per boat, not per person, and can accommodate 1–2 guests comfortably on the traditional jukung. Some fishermen will even clean and cook the catch for you afterward — either for a small extra fee or as part of a package — so you can enjoy a freshly grilled meal right on the beach or back at your accommodation.
It’s best to ask your hotel or guesthouse to arrange it — they’ll usually know someone reliable.
Amed's Black Sand Beaches
After exploring the underwater world, you might want to slow down and unwind on Amed’s unique black sand beaches. Formed by volcanic activity, these beaches offer a striking contrast to the white sand shores found elsewhere in Bali. Some beaches are soft and sandy, while others are a mix of pebbles, larger rocks, and coarse volcanic grains — each with its own charm.
Here are our two favorite spots for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing:
- Bhima Beach – A peaceful, unspoiled stretch of fine black sand with minimal development and a calm, natural atmosphere.
- Jemeluk Beach – A lively beach lined with local warungs where you can lounge, grab a bite, swim in clear waters, and enjoy a laid-back beach day.
Eating and Evening Activities
Although Amed is a quiet, laid-back village, it still offers a handful of options to enjoy dinner by the beach, catch some live music at relaxed bars, or simply spend a peaceful evening with family and friends.
Watching the Sunset Over Mount Agung
After a day spent in the water, one of the most rewarding experiences is sipping a cold local beer or an arak cocktail while watching the sun set behind the majestic Mount Agung.
If your accommodation doesn't come with a sunset view, here are two of the best public spots to enjoy it:
- Sunset Point Amed Bali – A restaurant and bar with a pool, offering panoramic views over Jemeluk Bay and a stunning sunset backdrop.
- Mejore Hotel Restaurant – This hotel features a lesser-known rooftop bar that's open to the public. Quiet, crowd-free, and perfect for a serene sunset moment.
Dinner and Evening Entertainment
Keep in mind that Amed winds down early — most restaurants close around 9:30 or 10:00 PM, so plan your dinner accordingly.
While we don’t have specific restaurant recommendations, you’ll find a variety of warungs and eateries along the main coastal road, most serving similar menus with a focus on fresh seafood and local dishes. If you'd rather eat in, your accommodation staff can often help you order delivery from nearby places.
That said, we do want to highlight Rimba Café — a cozy spot offering excellent international dishes and baked goods, open from morning to evening. It’s definitely worth a visit.
For some evening fun, several beachside restaurants in the western end of Amed host live music and offer cocktails in a laid-back setting. Notable mentions include:
Final Word
Amed is a hidden gem on Bali’s eastern coast — a place where time slows down, the ocean takes center stage, and tranquility defines the rhythm of daily life. Whether you're coming for world-class diving and snorkeling, scenic black sand beaches, or simply a break from the busier parts of the island, Amed offers an authentic and unforgettable escape. With its welcoming community, breathtaking views of Mount Agung, and rich underwater world, Amed is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful, nature-filled experience in Bali.
