21 Fantastic Things To Do In Amed, Bali In 2023 (+ Travel Guide)

Everyone’s heard of Bali these days and knows how beautiful the Island Of Gods is. But what you might not know, is that just outside the famous spots of Canggu and Ubud, there’s a small fishing village called Amed. Amed has got to be one of my favourite places in Bali and is full of amazing things to do!

Still flying under the radar to the popular tourist route, it’s a place of beautiful sunsets, calm waters and delicious seafood. It’s a spot which comes alive with epic snorkelling and diving opportunities, stunning views and is the perfect place to reconnect with one’s inner-self.

Your Ultimate Guide To Visiting Bali’s Amed And The Best Things To Do!

Just so you know, in this post I will talk about all the fantastic things to do in Amed, Bali. I’ll share my full travel guide including:

• The best ways and how to get to Amed
• The best hotels and where to stay in Amed.
• The best places to eat and drink
• Plus, other essential travel information. 

Is Amed, Bali Worth Visiting?

For us, Amed was by far one of our 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. It’s a relaxing village with a strong sense of local community; the Balinese culture and heritage at its heart.

With this in mind, Amed is the perfect place to visit if you’re in search of 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 this side of Bali!

✅ Looking for where to stay in Amed? We’ve got you covered with my ultimate Amed hotel guide here! It covers all budgets from backpackers to luxury villas ;D

Things To Do In Amed, Bali

I guess by now you’re ready to hear about all these amazing things to do in Amed! So, here they are, 21 of the most epic activities in East Bali.

1. 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.

You will be able to find good shallow reefs around Lipah Beach and Jemeluk Beach. If it’s sharks you’re on the hunt for head over to Selang Beach where the black tips are common.

✅ Tour Shoutout: Well, actually 16 of them! Check out my 16 Best Snorkelling Tours In Bali In 2023: Blue Lagoon, Manta Rays & More, you won’t want to miss these!

2. Beach Walks

One of the things Jack and I wanted to do when we reached Amed was enjoy an evening beach walk, stop by a beachside bar and have a cold Bintang. And when we got there this is exactly what we did. 

Amed Beach is perfect for strolling along sparkling volcanic sand, hand-in-hand while listening to the waves breaking gently on the shore… enough of that romance, for now. But in truth, we really looked forward to our evening strolls and sunsets in Amed.

You can go during the day too, it’s a nice walk – if you don’t mind dodging 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. Scuba Diving

The diving opportunities this side of Bali and phenomenal and I would go as far as saying some of the best in the world! There is nothing quite as relaxing as spending an hour under the water surrounded by majestic sea life.

There are a few incredible dive sites around Amed including shipwrecks and coral walls which stretch deep into the abyss. You will find plenty of certified dive centres in Amed that can help arrange a dive.

That being said, I would recommend a company called Dive Concepts. We used them when we visited Amed and also in Nusa Lembongan – Bali, where Jack did his PADI O/W Course.

✅ DISCOVER SCUBA: Have you ever tried Scuba Diving before? If not and you want to try it you can now do a Discover Scuba Dive!

4. Try Free-Diving

One thing which 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. There are instructors that can teach absolute beginners the techniques and tricks used to become an accomplished free diver. 

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, check out Ocean Prana Bali

5. Traditional Boat Ride & Fishing

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. 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 you want to head out and get everything arranged and agreed upon prior to leaving. The price will depend on your negotiating skills but aim for something in the region of 250,000 IDR to 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 for you, the Blue Earth Village has one of the best shalas in Bali with breathtaking views over Jemeluk bay and Mt. Agung. They also provide rooms to stay, meditation spaces and a restaurant, they are also one of the first freediving communities in Bali!

7. Kayaking With Amed Canoe 

With tranquil waters, Bali’s Amed is the perfect place to enjoy a spot of kayaking or paddle boarding. Although we didn’t get the chance to go we did see 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 Mt. 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 too.

8. Local Seafood

Amed is at its heart a fishing village. You will see the small but colourful fishing boats lining Amed beach going and coming with the tides as they bring in fresh daily catches. These catches get 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. 

9. Salt Farm Centre In Amed

Unknown to many who visit Amed is the fact that they have their own salt farms! These farms are maintained by a handful of local families who aim to preserve the traditional methods of salt cultivating 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 the salt from The Salt Farm Centre. It’s a fun and educational activity in Amed for the whole family.

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 mountain wondering if you can conquer it. Maybe you can! But if you’re anything like me you probably can’t…enter East Bali Bike Tours. 

This tour company is great and will drive you to the top of the mountain (if you want) where you can easily cruise down admiring the views and visiting rice terraces in a private tour or small groups.

✅ Tour Shoutout: If you fancy doing more bike riding around the Balinese countryside, ’cause you know, it’s stunning. We’ve put together a list of the Best Bali Bike Tours here, ’cause you know, we’re good like that!

11. Visit Temples

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.

✅ Tour Shoutout: A selection of the Best East Bali Day Tours hand-picked by me for you: 13 Best East Bali Day Tours 2023 (Temples, Beaches & More!)

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 Mt. 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 used to be a Royal Palace, built in 1946, but now turned into beautiful gardens with stone carvings and statues.

14. Pura Lempuyang Temple

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. What I would say is to visit on a sunny day and early in the morning when Mt. Agung is less likely to be cloud-covered.

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 Heavens Gate on a private tour.

✅ Tour shoutout: Do you love temples? Bali is full of them but one of the most sacred is Tanah Lot Temple, check it out here!

15. Agung Viewpoint

One of the biggest draws to Amed is the fantastic panoramic views of the biggest volcano in Bali. Mt. Agung stands just over 3,000 metres and is a beautiful site. 

There are a few Instagram-worthy spots near Amed that you should definitely seek out, here are two locations. Head there in the morning with the best chances to miss 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 an easy access and vantage point just off the road. You’re looking for a grassy field overlooking rice paddies with an unobstructed view of Mt. 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 Mt. Agung. The view is incredible and with an entrance fee of only 20,000 IDR (2022), you can’t go wrong!

✅ Tour Shoutout: Another great way to experience scenic views in Bali is to go an ATV tour. It’s a popular adrenaline-fuelled activity which will take you through Bali’s lush landscape.

18. Visit Waterfalls

One of the things which are always on everyone’s bucket list for Bali is to visit a waterfall, in truth, it’s an activity which is always on my bucket list too. If only chasing waterfalls was a real job!

[Full disclosure: unfortunately, we didn’t visit these waterfalls ourselves but have heard they are lovely. My favourite waterfall in Bali was Aling Aling Waterfall near Lovina in north 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’re going to enjoy.

Where To Stay In Amed?

Bali’s 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 would, however, 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!

📍 Budget Suggestion: Soka Amed Beach

Rating: Superb
Location: Just outside the village on Amed Beach.
More Info: 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 could still hear the waves at night.

📍 Mid-Range Suggestion: Bali Dream House

Rating: Superb
Location: Amed Beach
More Info: 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

Rating: Fabulous
Location: Bunutan Valley (shuttle running to Amed Beach)
More Info: 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

✅ Looking for more hotels in Amed? We’ve got you covered with the ultimate Amed hotel guide here!

Why Do People Visit Amed?

Most people will visit Amed, Bali for the astounding coral reef and marine life which wrap around the coastline. As well as ample opportunity for snorkelling and diving, Amed is also a great place for reconnecting with nature, hiking and relaxation. 

The numerous temples surrounding the area attract Balinese heritage enthusiasts and it’s one of the best places to be during religious ceremonies, such as Galungan and Kuningan, as there is a strong local community.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Amed, Bali

Bali is subject to two seasons known as the wet season and the dry season. You don’t really want to be visiting Bali during the wet season if you’re on a 2-week beach holiday. 

However, wrong to popular belief it doesn’t rain all day every day during the wet season. In fact, if you’re travelling to Bali on a budget then visiting during this time, or at least during the shoulder months, is a good way to save some money.

Do you know what a shoulder month is? It’s the weeks before or after peak seasons, generally just before and after the wet season in this case. It’s also a good idea to stay away from holidays such as Christmas and summertime if you want to avoid crowds.

That being said, most people like to visit during the dry season. 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 Best Time To Visit Amed

The best months for good weather in Amed are June, July, August, September and October.

The Wet Season

October to April with the rainiest months in January, February and December.

How Many Days Do You Need 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 3 nights to enjoy the best of Amed, Bali.

We stayed a week in Amed and enjoyed every moment of it. We had been riding a scooter around the coast of Bali for almost three weeks, barely staying more than 3 days in one spot. Amed was the perfect place for us to catch up on rest and de-stress.

I will say that Amed is one of those places that people end up staying at for longer than planned. I’ve met people who even extended their visas to do so! It has a certain charm which tourists love and I’m sure you will too. 

Is It Expensive To Visit Amed, Bali?

Bali is a very cheap country to visit as it has a low cost of living. However, Amed is actually an even more affordable place to visit than more popular places like Uluwatu and is slightly cheaper than other, more well-known places in Bali.   

How To Get There & Getting Around Amed

Amed is located on the east coast of Bali and is relatively easy to get to. Due to the lack of public transport on the island, you will need to arrange transportation. The most common ways of getting to Amed are to hire a driver, arrange a transfer, use a taxi app, rent a scooter or drive a car.

Rent A Car/Scooter

The most popular way to get around the Island of Gods is to rent a scooter. Everyone is on one from children to ex-pats, you will even see dogs riding on them. Scooters are also the easiest way to get around the Bali roads, which at times, can be nothing more than dirt tracks. 

Make sure to arrange you’re international driving license before you leave home. If you’re coming from the UK this can be done at the Post Office for £5.00. It will save you a lot of hassle with the police and losing money to fines.

On the other hand, some people like to rent a car. Amed is accessible for cars and you will have no issues driving there and finding parking.

Hire A Driver

Hiring a driver is another popular way to get from A to B. Drivers are usually found through hotels, guesthouses or through somebody who knows somebody. It’s usually an efficient and affordable way to move around. 

We have also arranged private tours this way where we have been able to tailor the day to our own wants. Just make sure to make all arrangements, be clear on where and what you’re doing and agree on a price before you set off.

Arrange Transfer

It’s possible to arrange a transfer through a tour agency or a private driver, similar to the above. Online tour companies such as Viator regularly offer private transfers which will be set up with a local company but arranged for set routes. 

Just a head up: unless the transfer specifically states it’s private you’ll likely be riding in a minivan with a bunch of other tourists making multiple stops.

Taxi App

Second to renting a scooter, 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. 

The thing I love the most is that you can catch them anywhere at any time and the price is set. So, you won’t need to negotiate on price. The app is also linked to your card so you don’t need to pay in cash.

Is Amed, Bali Safe?

From my time in Amed, I can happily say it is a safe place to visit in terms of crime. The level of violent crime in Bali is low, with petty crime, such as theft, being more common.

This being said, you should make no exception when visiting Amed. Even though I have personally never heard anything bad, you must always remain vigilant and not cause opportunity. As with any place, it’s good practice to keep your belongings close, don’t go out with lots of cash and remain sensible.

One thing which people often worry about is the proximity to Mt. Agung. Amed could be affected if the volcano erupts, however, with modern equipment it is highly unlikely an eruption will occur without prior warning and not something which should stop you from visiting. 

Places To Eat & Drink

We tried a few restaurants during our week in Amed and have noted the best of them below for you. I hope you enjoy them too!

Chill Bar & Grill

The first place we stopped at while we strolled along Amed beach. It reminded us of Greece with the white and blue decor, they had gentle reggae playing and the sea view was perfect. With sand under our feet and a partly Mexican menu, it’s perfect.

Green Leaf Cafe 

Our favourite vegan-friendly cafe in Amed. It sits right on the sand at Jemeluk bay and does a decent crepe! It’s also a nice place for fresh juice and to watch the free divers coming and going. 

Rimba Cafe

We loved this cafe for breakfast smoothie bowls and 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

Our favourite restaurant in Amed, the view over Jemeluk bay was superb and the food was delicious. It’s a bright orange building located on the road so you won’t miss it. The restaurant is on the upper level so no view of the road, just Mt. Agung and the bay. 

Conclusion: Things To Do In Amed, Bali

Hopefully, by now you are super excited about your trip and looking forward to trying all the exciting things to do in Amed, Bali. 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 which should be added to this list or needs updating feel free to send me a message. 

👉 Read Next: Have you ever wanted to visit Komodo National Park? It’s where the fascinating Komodo Dragons live, they are endemic to Indonesia meaning you won’t see them in the wild anywhere else in the world!