Welcome to Bali and the best things to do in Amed. It’s one of my favourite places to visit on the island of Gods and a place that stole my heart. It’s also a great destination to head to avoid the nasty crowds in the south!
As part of a 6-month trip to Bali and the rest of Indonesia, I spent six days exploring the sleepy fishing town of Amed on the east shore. It was a fantastic visit and a destination I wish I had spent more time in.
Amed is excellent for nature and adventure thanks to its perfect snorkelling conditions, proximity to ancient temples and attractions like waterfalls. I’ve done all of them and cherry-picked the absolute best. In this post, discover what to do in Amed when you visit!
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Top Things To Do In Amed, Bali
Below is an activity map to help you plan a visit to Bali. I’ve marked each activity and location to make things easier for you.
But First, Why I Think Amed Is Worth Visiting
Amed was by far one of my favourite Bali destinations. It’s completely different from the surfer towns in west Bali and shelters calmer bays with an incredibly diverse marine ecosystem, which is superb for snorkelling. I loved how relaxing the village was, and the strong sense of local community was refreshing. It’s a place where the Balinese culture and heritage remain at its heart.
Amed is the perfect place to visit if you’re searching for a peaceful retreat away from the chaos in Canggu and the crowds in Ubud. That being said, don’t be fooled into thinking Amed is boring; there are plenty of fun things to do on this side of Bali!
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1. Go Snorkelling
For me, a true water baby, nothing can beat a fantastic coral reef. Luckily, Bali has plenty of them and the shores of Amed are perfect for splashing around. The waters are, for the most part, clear, warm and calm, ideal conditions for snorkelling.
When I was there, I went snorkelling and diving and found some great shallow reefs around Lipah Beach and Jemeluk Beach. If you’re on the hunt for sharks, head over to Selang Beach, where the black tips are common.
Looking For A Snorkelling Tour? Check out my Best Snorkelling Tours in Bali post!
2. Enjoy Relaxing Beach Walks
When I reached Amed, I wanted to enjoy the tranquillity, so I went for a walk along the beach, stopped by a beach bar or two, and enjoyed a cold Bintang.
Amed Beach is perfect for strolling along. I found my feet sinking into the sparkling black sand while listening to the waves breaking gently on the shore, which was exactly what I needed to completely recharge after a somewhat hectic three-week of tripping around the island.
Explore during the day, too, it’s a nice walk. Keep an eye out for boat ropes around the bay. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to stop by with music and entertainment.
Can You Swim In Amed Beach?
Since Amed Beach is protected inside a small bay, it allows for a calm sea, which is safe and easy to swim in. With water temperatures around 28°C, taking a dip in the ocean is perfect, and since visibility is good, you’ll have excellent chances of spotting marine life – just be sure to take some goggles.
3. Learn To Scuba Dive
The diving opportunities on this side of Bali are phenomenal, and I would go as far as to say some of the best in the world! For me, there is nothing quite like spending an hour under the water surrounded by sea life.
There are a few incredible dive sites around Amed, including shipwrecks and coral walls that stretch deep into the abyss. There are plenty of certified dive centres in Amed that can help arrange dives.
That being said, I would recommend a company called Dive Concepts. I used them when we visited Amed and also in Nusa Lembongan.
⭐ Pro tip >> Have you ever tried Scuba Diving before? If not, you can now do a Discover Scuba Dive, which is like an introduction to the sport to see if you’d enjoy it.
4. Try Free-Diving
One thing that is taking Bali by storm is free diving. It’s a sport best described as diving without standard scuba equipment and only holding your breath. It’s crazy the depths these athletes reach—think 80 metres or more in a single breath—and Amed is fast becoming a hub for the extreme sport!
You don’t need to be a pro or even have previous experience to enjoy free diving. Instructors can teach absolute beginners the techniques and tricks of becoming an accomplished free diver.
⭐ Company Shoutout >> With practice, you could be diving to depths within Jemeluk Bay, spotting schools of fish and other macro marine life. Amed has some places that offer courses, but check out Ocean Prana Bali.
You might also be interested in
- A complete 3-day itinerary for Amed
- If you want to snorkel, Pemuteran is a good place to visit.
- I also enjoyed Uluwatu in the Bukit Peninsula.
- Another chilled place to visit in Bali is Medewi, a great spot for surfing!
5. Traditional Boat Ride & Fishing in Amed
If you can get up early enough (5:30 am), there’s an opportunity to head out with a local fisherman on his traditional Jukung (fishing boat) and do a spot of fishing in Amed. This isn’t a tour-operated excursion, so you will have to do some asking around, but you’ll find the locals are always happy to help.
Pre-arrange this the day before heading out and get everything arranged and agreed upon before leaving. The price will depend on your negotiating skills, but aim for something between 250,000 IDR and 300,000 IDR ($20.00/£16.00) for two people.
6. Yoga At Blue Earth Village
I don’t know about you, but I love a bit of yoga. These days, I don’t practice as much as I would like to. However, when we were in Bali, it was yoga every day. And when you’re in Bali, and certainly Amed, it’s one of the best things you can do.
Luckily, Blue Earth Village has one of the best shalas in Bali. It has breathtaking views over Jemeluk Bay and Mount Agung. The resort offers rooms to stay, meditation spaces, and a restaurant. It is also one of the first freediving communities in Bali!
7. Kayaking With Amed Canoe
With its tranquil waters, Bali’s Amed is the perfect place to enjoy kayaking or paddle boarding. Although I didn’t get the chance to go, I saw a few people out on the water during the day and at night.
It seems that kayaking in the afternoon just in time to witness the sunset over Mount Agung was popular. You can do this, too, if you head out around 5:30 pm. I would make sure to put bug spray on, though, as this is when the mozzies come out.
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8. Try The Local Seafood
Amed is a fishing village at its heart. Small but colourful fishing boats line Amed Beach, moving with the tides as they bring in fresh daily catches. These catches are sold to the local warungs, and there is never any shortage of fresh local seafood.
One of the best things you can do in Amed is sit down at a local warung with beach views and order the catch of the day. What I will say is that the Balinese have an obsession with chilli, and their Sambal is not to be messed with! Be sure to ask them to keep the marinade mild if you can’t handle the heat.
9. Salt Farm Centre In Amed
This is a little hidden gem in Amed. Many visitors are unaware of the salt farms, which are maintained by a handful of local families who aim to preserve the traditional methods of salt cultivation in Amed.
For hundreds of years, salt has been farmed in Amed. Unfortunately, higher wages in the tourism industry threaten the practice. You can help by visiting the salt farms, taking a tour, and buying salt from The Salt Farm Centre. It’s a fun and educational activity for the whole family in Amed.
10. Bike Tour
One of the best and most eco-friendly ways to explore Amed is to jump on a bike and go for a scenic ride. Of course, going alone is possible and cycling around Amed’s coastline can be a fun and energetic way to explore – keep in mind that Amed is not flat.
It’s quite likely you will get a little lost or end up looking up at some gigantic hill, wondering if you can conquer it. Maybe you can! But if you’re anything like me, you probably can’t.
This tour company near Amed is great. They will drive you to the top of the mountain (if you want), where you can easily cruise down, admiring the views and visiting rice fields in small groups or private tours.
11. Visit Temples Near Amed
Just like everywhere else in Bali, Amed has no shortage of charming temples. There are a few more popular temples found only a short journey from Amed village. Plan a day trip from Amed to change things up a bit.
12. Besakih Temple
Known as the Mother Temple of Bali, Besakih temple is actually a complex of 86 smaller temples which date back to 1007 AC. The temple was close to being destroyed in the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung; however, it survived, becoming the largest and holiest of temples in Bali
13. Visit Tirta Gangga
Famously known as the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, it was a Royal Palace built in 1946 but has now been turned into beautiful gardens with stone carvings and statues.
14. Pura Lempuyang Temple (gate of heaven)
Surprisingly, this temple is really small! I had imagined it to be big, although I wouldn’t say it was a disappointment; it does make for a beautiful backdrop. I would recommend visiting on a sunny day and early in the morning when Mount Agung is less likely to be cloud-covered.
⭐ Pro tip >> Interestingly, there isn’t a pool of water as shown in the photo – the photographer uses a mirror to create an optical illusion! Discover Pura Lempuyang Temple, otherwise known as Heaven Gate, on a private tour.
15. Agung Viewpoint
One of the biggest draws to Amed is the fantastic panoramic views of Mount Agung, the biggest volcano in Bali. At just over 3,000 metres, Mount Agung is a beautiful site.
There are a few Instagram-worthy spots near Amed that you should definitely seek out. Below are two locations. Head there in the morning with the best chance of missing the cloud cover, which usually covers the volcano’s summit.
16. Bukit Cinta
I would say Bukit Cinta is the most popular viewpoint and closest to Amed. It’s only 30 minutes outside the village. It’s easy to access and a vantage point just off the road. You’re looking for a grassy field overlooking rice paddies with an unobstructed view of Mount Agung in the distance.
17. Lahangan Sweet
One of the best viewpoints in Bali, Lahangan Sweet offers a handful of unique platforms which look out over Mount Agung. The view is incredible, and with an entrance fee of only 20,000 IDR (2022), you can’t go wrong!
⭐ Pro tip >> Another great way to experience scenic views in Bali is to go on an ATV tour. It’s a popular adrenaline-fuelled activity which will take you through Bali’s lush landscape.
![Lahangan Sweet viewpoint near Amed. [image courtesy of © Catherine Xu]](https://igoa-adventure.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Lahangan-Sweet-Viewpoint-Bali-©-Catherine-Xu-900x600.webp)
18. Visit Waterfalls
One of the things on everyone’s bucket list for Bali is to visit a waterfall. In truth, it’s an activity that is always on my bucket list, too. If only chasing waterfalls were a real job!
[Full disclosure: Unfortunately, I didn’t visit these waterfalls, but I have heard they are lovely. My favourite waterfall in Bali was the Aling Aling Waterfall near Lovina in northern Bali.]
19. Yeh Mampeh (an hour away)
One of the highest in Bali and still relatively untouched by tourism, the name of this waterfall translates as Flying Water in Indonesian Bahasa (their local language). It’s a 20-minute walk to its base, and you’ll likely see a rainbow over the top of the waterfall.
📍Location: Les, Tejakula, Buleleng, Bali 81173, Indonesia
20. Jagasatru waterfall
Another one which still remains a hidden gem, although more difficult to get to, is the Jagasatru waterfall. Good if you love a challenge. It seems the roads are pretty bad, especially if you visit during the wet season – so be careful.
📍Location: East Duda, Selat, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80862, Indonesia
21. Temukus Village & The Marigold Fields
Another place we only heard of after we left Bali and somewhere which is now securely on my hit list for when we get back to Bali is the marigold fields of Temukus village.
Home to the beautifully bright orange marigold flowers used in Hindu religious ceremonies and daily offerings, the fields are meant to be a stunning sight, and somewhere I’m sure you’ll enjoy.
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Ideas On Where To Stay In Amed
Amed is not a very big village, but there are many choices when it comes to places to stay. It has all types of accommodations, from guesthouses and luxury resorts to camping. I suggest beach views.
The good thing about Bali is that you can get a lot for a little. So, if you’re backpacking, there are always good deals to be found, but if you’re willing to pay a bit more, you’ll get something unbelievable.
Top 3 Hotels In Amed According To Budget
Looking for more hotels in Amed? I’ve written a complete guide to the best hotels in Amed.
Budget Suggestion: Soka Amed Beach
This is where we stayed during our time in Amed, Bali, and we loved it. It was just behind Amed Beach on the outskirts of town. The bungalows are set behind another hotel down a little alley, but we can still hear the waves at night.
📍 Mid-Range Suggestion: Bali Dream House
“Loved our 3-night stay here – perfect place to finish our 2 week holiday in the area. Bungalows are huge and lovely. Pool is in great location right on sea front. Coral reef right in front of property is actually one of the best we saw in our entire time in the area”
Scott, UK
Luxury Suggestion: MATHIS Lodge Amed
“Absolute paradise. So clean and comfortable with the most unreal views. We had hot tub which was also very clean, loved using watching the day go from day to night. Food and drinks also lovely (expected hotel prices after reading reviews and well because… we were in a hotel!)“
Paige, UK
You might also be interested in
- Hop over a couple of islands to Sumatra and visit the jungle village of Bukit Lawang and the island of Lake Toba.
- If you’re looking for an adventure, this post on how to spend 3-weeks in Bali is for you!
- Finally, the Island of Gods is not the only paradise island in Indonesia.
Places To Eat & Drink In Amed
Top 4 Places To Eat In Amed
During my week in Amed, I tried a few restaurants and have noted the best below. I hope you enjoy them, too.
Chill Bar & Grill
The first place I stopped at while strolling along Amed Beach reminded me of Greece with its white and blue decor. Gentle reggae was playing, and the sea view was perfect. With sand under my feet and a Mexican menu, it was perfect.
Green Leaf Cafe
It turned out to be my favourite vegan-friendly cafe in Amed. It’s right on the sand at Jemeluk Bay and serves decent crepes. It’s also a nice place for fresh juice and to watch the free divers come and go.
Rimba Cafe
I loved this cafe for breakfast smoothie bowls, and it turned out to be one of the better breakfast places in Amed. It’s right in the centre of town and easy to get to, the staff are really nice too.
See You Again Cafe
My favourite restaurant in Amed is a bright orange building on the roadside. It offers a superb view over Jemeluk Bay and delicious food. The restaurant is on the upper level, so there is no view of the road, just Mount Agung and the bay.
FAQs | Things To Do In Amed Bali
When is the best time to visit Amed?
Most people like to visit Bali during the dry season which is May to September. The best months for good weather in Amed are June, July, August, September and October.
The temperature is hot all year round although it will be more humid during the wet season. One thing which is always pleasant is the sea, with temperatures around 28°C it’s ideal for swimming all year round.
The Wet Season is from October to April, with the rainiest months in January, February and December.
How to get to Amed?
Amed is located on the east coast of Bali and is relatively easy to reach. However, due to the lack of public transport on the island, you will need to arrange transportation.
Driving to Amed is really beautiful and there are a few options. Either head through the mountains or take the coastal road, both options provide stunning views. Driving from the airport takes around 3 hours, the same goes for Canggu depending on traffic.
If you’re heading straight to Amed from the airport, there are a few options: rent a car, hire a private driver, motorcycle, or taxi (Gojek is Bali’s equivalent to Uber), or arrange a shared minibus.
Best way to get around Amed?
Rent a scooter >> The most popular way to get around the Island of Gods is to rent a scooter. Scooters are also the easiest way to get around the Bali roads, which at times, can be nothing more than dirt tracks.
Private driver >> Hiring a driver is another popular way to get from A to B. Drivers are usually found through hotels, guesthouses or somebody who knows somebody. It’s a comfortable and hassle-free way to move around.
Taxi >> My favourite way to get around Bali is to use a taxi app. Similar to Uber, Indonesia uses Gojek and Grab, both of which work in the same way as Uber and are super efficient and cheap.
Feet, feet, feet >> It goes without saying the best way to explore and discover the very best of Amed is on foot. It’s possible to walk along the beach and through the villages.
How many days in Amed?
The amount of time you spend in Amed depends on what you want from your visit. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and disconnect, then spending a week or more in Amed would be perfect. If you’re only interested in diving, then a night or two would suit you better.
Ideally, I would suggest at least 3 nights to enjoy the best of Amed and the surrounding areas. I stayed a week in Amed and enjoyed every moment of it!
Final Thoughts | Things To Do In Amed, Bali
Hopefully, by now, you will be super excited about your trip to Bali and looking forward to trying all the exciting things to do in Amed. I hope this guide has been helpful and provided you with all the information you need to make your trip amazing.
I always love hearing from you, so if you know of anything else that should be added to this list or that needs updating, feel free to send me a message.
👉 Read Next: Have you ever wanted to visit Komodo National Park? It’s where the Komodo Dragons live. They are endemic to Indonesia, so you won’t see them in the wild anywhere else in the world!
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