Amed, Bali: 8 Unique Things To Do in Amed

If you’re craving an escape from the usual Bali crowds, Amed is the place to be. Nestled on the island’s northeast coast, this sleepy fishing village is where black sand beaches meet crystal-clear waters, and where the daily soundtrack consists of waves lapping the shore and the distant hum of fishermen setting out to sea.

Amed is not about all-night beach parties or trendy smoothie bowls—it’s about slow travel, raw beauty, and some of the best diving and snorkeling on the island. Whether you’re here for underwater adventures, epic volcano views, or just to soak in the tranquility, Amed is an experience like no other.

Where to Stay in Amed

Villa Sky Dancer – We stayed here for 5 days and absolutely loved our experience. Here we experienced a heavenly beach getaway amidst the tranquil charm of East Bali’s black sand beaches, nature’s most stunning shades of green, as well as the enthralling view of the unique Balinese traditional life in the surrounding communities. Villa Sky Dancer is a remarkable beachfront villa that offers refined accommodations, each one thoughtfully designed to complement and emphasize the villa’s idyllic natural surroundings.

Villa Sky Dancer Amed

Let me share with you why Villa Sky Dancer should be your top choice for an unforgettable stay in Amed.

• Idyllic Location: Nestled in a secluded corner of Amed, Villa Sky Dancer offers a serene haven far away from the bustling crowds. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of the sparkling ocean and lush tropical landscapes, immersing yourself in the purest essence of paradise.
• Luxurious Comfort: Villa Sky Dancer boasts spacious and meticulously designed rooms that blend Balinese charm with modern elegance. Indulge in the utmost comfort as you unwind in your private oasis, complete with luxurious amenities and breathtaking vistas. Whether you choose a suite or a private villa, each accommodation is a sanctuary of serenity.
• Exemplary Hospitality: The dedicated staff at Villa Sky Dancer go above and beyond to ensure your every need is met. From personalized service to expert recommendations on local attractions and activities, their warm hospitality will make you feel like royalty throughout your stay.
• Seaside Bliss: With direct access to a pristine beach, Villa Sky Dancer allows you to revel in the soothing embrace of the ocean. Spend leisurely days sunbathing on the white sands, taking refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters, or exploring vibrant coral reefs with snorkeling or diving excursions.

Why you should visit Amed

Amed has long been a retreat for those looking to step off Bali’s beaten path. Far from the chaos of Kuta and Seminyak, this stretch of coast offers something different—peace, authenticity, and a glimpse into Bali’s traditional way of life. The area consists of a collection of small fishing villages, each with its own charm. Whether you’re learning to dive, wandering through lush hillsides, or catching a sunrise that sets the sky on fire, Amed has a way of making time slow down.

If you’re looking for a serene escape, Amed, located on Bali’s picturesque east coast, is an ideal destination. Primarily known for its traditional salt farming, this area offers visitors a unique glimpse into local life—something you can still experience firsthand. Moreover, if diving interests you, Amed’s coastline is the perfect place to learn, thanks to its calm waters and beautiful reefs. Alternatively, if diving isn’t your thing, you can easily rent a motorbike and explore the tranquil surroundings at your own pace. Additionally, since Amed is still relatively untouched by mass tourism, it's a wonderful spot to immerse yourself in authentic Balinese culture and peaceful natural beauty. We stayed and enjoyed our time at Villa Sky Dancer in Amed which offers refined accommodations, each one thoughtfully designed to complement and emphasize the villa’s idyllic natural surroundings, for a rejuvenating and fulfilling experience.

Top Things To Do In Amed

Enjoy some of the best diving in Bali

Amed is a diver’s paradise. Its waters are home to thriving coral reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and an abundance of marine life. The most famous site here is the USAT Liberty Shipwreck in nearby Tulamben, a sunken World War II vessel that has become an underwater playground for divers. The wreck is covered in vibrant corals and swarming with schools of fish, making it an unforgettable dive experience. For those who prefer staying closer to the surface, snorkeling at Jemeluk Bay or the Japanese Shipwreck in Banyuning is equally rewarding.

Spend a Day on Amed’s Volcanic Beaches

Forget white sand—Amed’s beaches are covered in striking volcanic black sand, a stunning contrast to the turquoise waters. These shores are far less crowded than Bali’s southern beaches, making them the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon. With a good book in one hand and a fresh coconut in the other, you might just find yourself wondering why you ever considered staying anywhere else.

Take a Trip to Pura Lempuyang Temple

Known as the Gates of Heaven, Pura Lempuyang Temple is one of Bali’s most photographed landmarks. But beyond the Instagram hype, this sacred temple offers a spiritual and cultural experience unlike any other. Sitting high on Mount Lempuyang, the temple complex provides breathtaking views of Mount Agung, especially on clear days. Be prepared for a bit of a hike if you want to reach the highest temple, but the journey is worth it.

Visit Taman Ujung

Before we came to Taman Ujung Water Palace, we thought it would be just okay, but it turns out has been leaving a deep impression on me. It’s very gorgeous!! Taman Ujung Water Palace is a marvellous water park consisting of three large pools and the main building in the middle of the pool is named Gili Bale, which is connected to the edge of the pool by European-style bridges. It was built-in 1909 by King of Karangasem I Gusti Bagus Jelantik as his recreation and relaxation site.

The word ‘Ujung’ means extremity in the Indonesian language. This often makes it easy for local people to describe its location as one of the largest historical landmarks and places of interest in the most eastern part of Bali island. A water palace known as the Taman Ujung or Taman Sukasada Ujung in the local language is one of the palaces made by the late King of Karangasem and is located in Seraya village in Karangasem regency. This beautiful water palace in Karangasem features big fish ponds and surrounds the Karangasem Empire building which the king used for relaxing and a meeting place during his time.

Explore Tirta Gangga’s Royal Water Gardens

Tirta Gangga water palace is a former royal palace in Karangasem, east Bali, built in 1946. The beautiful Tirta Gangga water palace is still owned by the royal Karangasem family. It features 1.2 hectare of ponds and fountains surrounded by tropical gardens and stone sculptures of mythical creatures. You can feed the Koi fish in some of the fish ponds and walk around the gardens to admire its beauty and the history. Tirta Gangga is based on the beliefs of Balinese Hindusm, where the river Ganges and it’s waters are considered sacred. When translated, Tirta Gangga means water from the Ganges.  If you love trekking in the midst of water fountains, pools, gardens, stone structures and the nearby rice fields then this is the place to be.  The area is certainly one of the best and scenic walks in Bali, suitable to people of all fitness levels.  A camera should be ready at all times!

Discover the Hidden Beauty of Tree Hill Lemped

Nestled in the heart of Bali, Tree Hill Lemped is a captivating natural retreat that offers a serene and tranquil environment for visitors. With breathtaking views of lush greenery and rolling hills, this hidden gem provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The well-maintained gardens, filled with vibrant flowers and towering trees, create a soothing ambiance that encourages relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you're seeking a moment of solitude, a romantic getaway, or simply a chance to connect with nature, Tree Hill Lemped offers an idyllic setting. With its serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, this natural retreat is the perfect destination for those looking to unwind and find inner peace amidst Bali's beauty.

Rent a Scooter and Explore the Coastline

The best way to experience Amed is by scooter. With little traffic and stunning coastal views, riding through Amed’s villages feels like an adventure in itself. You’ll pass terraced rice fields, traditional salt farms, and hidden beach coves waiting to be explored.

Renting a scooter gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and discover places most tourists never see. A scooter costs around 50,000 – 80,000 IDR a day (not including fuel). A scooter will give you access to the entire coastline, town, and hidden spots, just waiting to be explored.

8. Enjoy the Sunrise and Sunset on the Beach

In between all of the activities above, try to fit in some time to relax. Amed is a beach destination first and foremost, so spend a few sleepy days on a sun lounger admiring the view of the mountains and sipping on a coconut. The best surprise when arriving in Amed is that you can actually enjoy the sunrise that is coming from behind Lombok Island. Amazing!

Conclusion

Amed is not your typical Bali destination—it’s better. Whether you come for the diving, the serenity, or the stunning landscapes, this coastal village offers a side of Bali that remains authentic and unspoiled. If you’re looking for an escape from the usual tourist circuit, Amed will reward you with unforgettable experiences, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of the real Bali. Once you visit, you’ll understand why so many travelers keep coming back.