The idyllic coastal resort of Amed offers a dreamlike setting and numerous dive spots. However, Amed is not actually a single place in the tourist sense, but rather a 14-kilometer-long coastal strip that includes the following seven villages: Amed, Jemeluk, Bunutan, Lipah, Selang, Banyuning and Aas. It is located on the east coast of Bali and offers a wonderful view of the volcano Gunung Agung, the highest mountain on the island.
With its impressive underwater world, the coastal strip attracts numerous divers, snorkelers and apnoea divers (also called “freedivers”) and is a popular vacation destination.
But what else can you do in Amed and for whom is a visit to the vacation region in the east of Bali worthwhile?
Where is Amed located?
From the international airport in Denpasar you can reach Amed in about two and a half hours. The place is located quasi at the foot of the largest volcano of the island on the east coast of Bali, about two hours north of Sanur. Other tourist regions, such as Kuta, the Bukit Peninsula or Canggu can be reached within two to three hours.
Diving and snorkeling
The main attraction of the coastal region is without a doubt its dazzling underwater world. Numerous diving schools have settled in Amed and many divers make a pilgrimage to Amed to complete diving courses or courses in scuba diving and freediving. But even armed only with a snorkel and diving goggles, a look under water is worthwhile, because there is much to discover here. Many of the diving spots are easily accessible from the beach without a boat.
Shipwrecks under water
There are two shipwrecks in the area and a very lively underwater world. Colorful schools of fish cavort together with turtles, manta rays, colorful starfish and many other exciting sea creatures. In addition, many of the corals are still intact and alive, which unfortunately is not the case in all diving regions of Bali.
One of the shipwrecks is a 20-meter Japanese patrol ship from World War II. This lies on the bottom just a few meters from the beach in Banyuning. You can easily explore it from the beach with a mask and snorkel, as it lies not far from the shore at a depth of only 2 to 12 meters.
Discover the USS Liberty
Another wreck is the famous “USS Liberty” in Tulamben. This is a 120 meter long cargo ship from New Jersey (USA), which was hit by Japanese torpedoes in 1942. The attempt to tow the demolished boat to Singaraja failed and it had to be unloaded in Tulamben. There it remained on the beach rusting away until an earthquake in 1963 caused it to slip into the sea. Now it lies a mere 30 meters from the shore at a depth of five to 28 meters.
The shipwreck is unique because it is covered all over with soft corals. Normally the color prevents corals from settling, but the rust makes it possible. This makes it teeming with sea creatures that have found their home here.
Very popular in Amed is also the so-called macro diving, where the smallest sea creatures get the most attention and are photographed.
Other activities in Amed
Fishing
Many locals here still live from fishing. If you are interested in fishing, you can go out to sea with a local fisherman before dawn and accompany him in his daily work. Dolphin sightings are not uncommon here.
Beaches in and around Amed
In the Amed region there are numerous beaches. And the great thing is that they are very varied. Some have light sand, some dark volcanic sand, some are very long and others are hidden in small bays. So you can make various beach trips without getting bored.
On some beaches you can take endless walks. This is especially beautiful at sunset, when the sun disappears behind the majestic Mount Agung. This view can best be enjoyed at the so-called Sunset Point. Here you have the best view of the highest volcano in Bali.
But also the sunrise is worth getting up early, because the sun rises directly above the horizon at the sea.
Yoga
In Amed there are several yoga studios, some of which offer yoga classes in shalas with a sea view, which makes practicing all the more beautiful and relaxing.
Trips to the surrounding countryside
The nature around Amed is very lush and green and the mountains, jungle and rice fields invite you to explore.
Volcano hike
If you are in the mood for a real adventure, you can hike up Bali’s largest mountain and active volcano Gunung Agung in the middle of the night to marvel at the sunrise from there.
Trip to the Gili Islands
From Amed you can take a speedboat to the neighboring Gili Islands within an hour. This group of islands, consisting of three islands, offers itself as a day trip or as the next stage of the journey.
Sights in and around Amed
Tirta Gangga
About thirty minutes drive from Amed is the water temple called Tirta Gangga. A wide variety of flowers bloom in the well-kept grounds, a large pool is home to koi carp, and various stone structures and sculptures adorn the palace. In a designated pool, one can bathe in the sacred water, which promises eternal youth. There is also a café, from which you have a beautiful view over the temple garden.
Pura Lempuyang Luhur
The temple “Lempuyang Luhur” in Karangasem is located about half an hour from Amed and is a very popular sight among tourists. This is the oldest and most important temple in Bali. To visit it, you have to walk up the steps for two hours. But afterwards you will be rewarded with a great view over the island and Mount Agung.
Culinary in Amed
Thanks to the rich marine life, fresh fish is on the menu every day in Amed. In addition to local warungs and western restaurants, there are numerous restaurants on the beach or along the main road that offer freshly caught fish and seafood.
Conclusion – For whom is a visit to Amed worthwhile?
In Amed the clocks tick a little slower than in the tourist areas around Kuta or Canggu. There are no parties, bars or nightclubs here. A visit to the relaxed Amed is therefore worthwhile for anyone looking for relaxation and tranquility, but also for those who are interested in the fascinating underwater world. Divers and freedivers or those who want to become one, will get their money’s worth here. Also for couples or families with children Amed is an ideal vacation resort.
