Looking to visit Amed, Bali? In this guide, I share all of the top things to do in Amed, plus where to eat, where to sleep, and all of our top tips for visiting.
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Amed Bali At a Glance
- Book accommodation in Amed with Booking.com
- Check if you need a visa with iVisa
- Stay connected in Amed with a local e-sim
- Explore Amed on a best-selling tour.
- Don’t forget travel insurance!
Things to do in Amed Bali
Breathtaking viewpoints, world-class diving, and stunning religious sites make up the best things to do in Amed. Here are 14 ideas to help you plan your trip.
1. Scuba Diving
The waters of Amed in Bali are an underwater playground, boasting a variety of dive sites and marine life. As well as reef diving, Amed is known for its muck diving, wreck diving, and even night diving opportunities.
Swim with reef sharks, sea turtles, octopuses, and barracudas, – big fish lovers will be in their element. To help plan your diving venture, here is a list of some of the best dive sites in Amed:
- Best for Wreck Diving: Tulamben
- Best for Spotting Big Fish: Gili Selang
- Best for Muck Diving: Ghost Bay
- Book a Tour: Amed Scuba Diving
2. Snorkelling in Amed Bali
If diving isn’t really your cup of tea, there are several reefs just metres out from the coast that are perfect for snorkelling.
Jemeluk Bay is the most popular snorkelling spot in Amed and is ideal gentle snorkelling experience. Here you’ll find a variety of coral species, as well as an ancient underwater temple.
For a more adventurous snorkelling experience, Visit Lipah Beach or Selang Beach where it’s not uncommon to see sea turtles and black tips sharks.
Book A Tour: Snorkelling in Bali Tour
Tip – Snorkelling gear is available to rent from most shops, restaurants, and hotels. The going rate is 50,000 IDR ($3.50) per day and should include a mask, snorkel, fins, and lifejacket.
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3. Relax on a Volcanic Beach
Black sand beaches in Bali are not unusual; however, with Mount Agung dominating the view, the Amed coastline is especially unique. The looming volcano adds an air of mystery to the otherwise sleepy town.
Separated by small villages along the coast, there are seven beaches in Amed. Here are some of our favourites:
- Best for Sunset Strolls: Amed Beach
- Best for Lazy Beach Days: Jemeluk Bay
- Best for Snorkelling: Selang Beach
- Best for Clear Water: Lipah Beach
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4. Watch the Sunset
The best sunset spot in Amed is Sunset Point. The elevated viewpoint boasts an outdoor restaurant serving drinks and food; however, you can escape the crowds by finding a quiet spot along the cliff edge.
Sunsets in Amed are dramatic, and watching the sun disappear behind Mount Agung is quite a surreal experience.
5. Bukit Cinta – Mount Agung Viewpoint
Bukit Cinta is not only the best viewpoint of Mount Agung but a strong contender for our favourite view in Bali. If you don’t mind the early start, we suggest visiting Bukit Cinta for sunrise.
On a perfect morning, mist cloaks the rice fields while pink hues in the sky cast a magical glow on the volcano. If you are to experience only one sunrise during your time in Bali, make it this one!
Tip – You can read everything you need to know about Bukit Cinta Viewpoint here.
6. Pura Lempuyang Temple
Located upon Lempuyan Mountain, a 30-minute drive from Amed, this Hindu temple is considered to be one of the most sacred sites in all Bali. While the temple complex is made up of seven separate sanctuaries, it’s most famous for the ‘Bali Gateway to Heaven‘.
Boasting a perfectly framed view of Mount Agung, this spot has become one of the most Instagrammed places in Bali. But prepare to wait up to 3-hours for a photo! If your motive is to explore the spiritual side of this ancient temple, we recommend arriving early to skip the crowds.
Book A Tour: Pura Lempuyang Tour
7. Lahangan Sweet
Another epic Mount Agung viewpoint and photo spot, Lahangan Sweet is an absolute must on your list of things to do in Amed. Set high up in the hills, various viewpoints allow for epic views of the volcano and it’s surrounding landscapes.
The most popular photo spot is the tree platform which you’ll need to climb a ladder to get to. Again, the best time to visit is at sunrise for both the best lighting and to escape the crowds. There is a small entrance fee and you can get there by car or scooter.
Book a Tour: Lahangan Sweet Tour
8. Cruise Amed Bali by Scooter
One of the advantages of being away from the bigger tourist hubs of Bali is that there are far fewer developments tainting the scenery. Whether it was cruising the coastal road or travelling inland, exploring Amed Bali by scooter was one of our favourite things to do.
There are several shops in the town where you can rent a scooter. In line with other areas of Bali, rentals start at 60,000 IDR per day. As always drive safely, wear a helmet, and don’t drive without travel insurance!
9. Tirta Ganga
Another cultural attraction in East Bali is the former royal palace of Tirta Ganga. Today the grounds have been transformed into a lavish garden, adorned in intricate carvings, fountains, and typical Balinese flora and fauna.
Located just 30-minutes outside of Amed, a visit to Tirta Ganga makes for a peaceful and spiritual retreat. Exploring the palace grounds will not take you long, so we recommend combining your visit with Bukit Cinta or Pura Lempuyang Temple.
Book your tour here – Tirta Gangga Tour
10. Restaurants in Amed Bali
With so many exciting things to do in and around Amed, you will want to fuel your adventures with some nutritious food. Thankfully, there is a choice of great restaurants in the town suitable for all budgets and diets. Here is a pick of our favourites.
- Warung Enak – Serving up delicious local food, Warung Enak is a modest but cosy restaurant in the heart of Amed. If you are on a budget, this is a top choice!
- Blue Earth – Boasting incredible views over Jemeluk Bay and serving 100% organic produce, Blue Earth offers a unique dining experience in Amed.
- Green Leaf Cafe – Vegans and vegetarians are in no shortage of options in Amed, although Green Leaf Cafe is a winner when it comes to variety and flavour!
Other Things to do near Amed Bali
If you run out of things to do in Amed or fancy exploring further afield, here are some other places to visit in the East of Bali.
11. Bias Tugel Beach
South of Amed is Bias Tugel Beach – a strong contender for our favourite beach in Bali. In deep contrast to the black sand beaches in Amed, Bias Tugel boasts pristine white sand and beautiful azure waters.
It’s also a popular spot for snorkelling. Sun loungers and warungs make it convenient for chilling out for the day. The beach is easily accessible, and the water is generally calm for swimming.
12. Hidden Canyon (Beji Guwang)
If you are looking for adventurous things to do near Amed, the Hidden Canyon should be at the top of your itinerary. This is another rare spot where tourism hasn’t completely taken over, so it feels like a real off the beaten path adventure.
Accompanied by a guide, you will navigate your way through chest-high water through the mystical canyon. The trek itself isn’t too strenuous; however, you should be prepared to clamber over obstacles and face a bit of climbing and jumping.
13. Climb Mount Agung
Marvelling the view of Mount Agung may be one of the top things to do in Amed; however, how do you fancy the challenge of actually climbing it? Despite Agungs volatile history, travellers continue to hike the island’s tallest and most sacred volcano. That is unless the government declare it unsafe to do so.
If conditions allow, it is common to start trekking during the middle of the night to reach the summit in time for sunrise. This is a challenging hike and it can be dangerous. We recommend that you hike with an experienced guide.
Book a Tour: Mount Agung Tour
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14. Take a Boat to Nusa Penida
If you’re planning a trip to Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands, or Lombok, you may want to consider travelling from Padang Bai port in the East of Bali. Regular ferry transfers run between the neighbouring islands.
For just 60,000 IDR/pax, we were able to get a return ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida, while the same journey from the south of the island will set you back 300,000 IDR/pax.
Where to Stay in Amed Bali
Accommodation options are on the rise in the Amed, ranging from budget through to mid-range and luxury. In case you are yet to arrive, here are some Amed Hotel recommendations that you may wish to consider.
- Budget: Ocean Resort Amed
- Mid-Range: Oasis
- High-End Aquamarine Beach Villas
You can also compare accommodation options here or by using the map below.
Booking.comRelated Read
Tips for Visiting Amed Bali
Here are some useful tips that I hope will enhance your travel experience when enjoying all the things to do in East Bali.
Getting to Amed Bali
The Amed coastline hugs the far Eastern part of Bali, which is pretty far from the tourist hubs of Canggu, Ubud, or Uluwatu.
If you can drive a scooter, this will be the cheapest and most convenient way to get to Amed. However, this may be tricky if you have lots of luggage.
Your other options are to rent a car, or take a private car or taxi. From Canggu it takes approximately 2.5-3 hours without traffic.
Getting Around in Amed
Again, the best way to get around in Amed is by scooter or motorcycle. The landscapes here make for some epic road trips and rentals are fairly inexpensive.
If you’re not confident on a motorcycle, you can book a guided tour that will allow you to visit some of the Amed attractions on this list. If you want full control over your itinerary, then a private tour may be a better option.
How Long to Stay in Amed Bali
To cover all of the top things to do in Amed will take no more than 2-3 days; however, to enjoy all the other attractions in East Bali, I’d recommend 4 days or more.
Amed is also one of those places where you don’t feel like you have to do things all time. I recommend embracing the slow pace of the beachside town and enjoying some time doing nothing at all.
Best Time to Visit Amed Bali
The best time to visit Amed will be in the dry season, which runs from April to late September. While there is always a chance of an odd rainy day, this is when you have the best chance of calm waters and clear visibility.
July and August are considered the high season in Bali, and consequently, prices are higher, and places are busier.
To assess the best time of day for snorkelling, it pays to keep an eye on the Bali tide timetable and check for low tides. At low tide, you have a better chance of clear, calm waters, as well as spotting the underwater statues.
Enjoy These Adventurous Things to do in Amed Bali!
So there we have it, 14 unmissable things to do in and around Amed. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us in the comments. Otherwise, we hope you have an incredible trip!
Planning a trip to Bali?
Check out our Indonesia series for more travel tips and advice.
Jandy Yvonne Fiske
Saturday 19th of August 2023
Hello! We are going to Bali in December during rainy season as it's the only time we can get off. Is it worth going to Amed for snorkeling during this time or is it best to give it a miss?
Janhavi
Friday 28th of July 2023
Amed Bali appears like a treasure trove for nature lovers and adventure seekers. I am glad that I came across your blog.
Our Taste For Life
Wednesday 2nd of August 2023
Hello Janhavi, Amed is full of adventure, there's something for everyone! We have many more posts for Bali if you'd like to check them out. All the best!
Arthur
Thursday 12th of May 2022
Looks beautiful! Way more relaxing than the south of Bali... can't wait to go here!
Our Taste For Life
Wednesday 2nd of August 2023
It really is a completely different vibe! Hope you have a great trip to Amed ♥
Visiting Bali Guide: Bali Trip Costs and Indonesia Visa Tips
Saturday 10th of July 2021
[…] Things to do in Amed and East Bali […]
Denise & Ryne
Tuesday 11th of February 2020
Many thanks for this very helpful post!! We're in Amed right now and we'll definitely check out the things you've mentioned! So Lipah is best for turtles?
Our Taste For Life
Tuesday 11th of February 2020
Hello Denise & Ryne, Thank you so much! We are so pleased to hear our article has helped you plan your time in Amed. Yes, get yourselves to Lipah Beach or Selang Beach! Let us know how it goes!