Why Amed? Reasons to Visit Amed That No One Talks About
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There are so many reasons to visit Amed, but for me, it started with a feeling. A few years ago, I spent time in this peaceful part of Bali and couldn’t shake the connection I felt. So I came back. This time, I stayed.
I lived in a fishermen’s village about 10 km from Amed, joined daily prayers, shared fried bananas and tea with my neighbours, and became part of the local rhythm. By the end of my stay, I knew most of the village by name. It wasn’t just a place to visit; it felt like a place to belong.
That experience alone would’ve been enough to book another stay (which I’ve already done!). But there are so many more reasons to visit Amed, whether you’re looking for connection, calm, or a totally different side of Bali. In this post, I’ll share what makes it truly special and why you should add it to your itinerary!
Plan Your Trip To Amed:
Ways to get to Amed
If you are leaving from Ubud is about 2,5 hours by car. From the airport, around 4 hours!
Definitely don’t get a Grab taxi. The reason is that the driver wouldn’t stop on the way!
And this is a long drive + there is a lot to see on the way (read here for more info!). However, a private driver would and it’s the same price if not cheaper than a Grab taxi!
I would recommend 👉 booking a driver or 👉 renting your car via Klook.com. It’s a widely used company in Bali and super reliable!
Which place to book in Amed
There are stunning resorts as well as family-owned businesses where you can really get to learn a lot about Balinese culture.
👉 Book your stay at Meditasi Bungalows, you get a beautiful room by the sea with an empty beach! It’s super affordable and romantic (yes, even if you’re on your own!)
Now let’s get into it! This is why you should really visit Amed ASAP!
1. You Can Admire the Highest Balinese Peak!
Close your eyes and picture this: you are walking on a black sand beach. Local children are playing on the beach and dogs chase each other. It’s just after sunset and the sky is blue.
A shade of blue you didn’t think your eyes would be able to see. And there it is Mount Agung, It’s so tall that clouds would cut through it! If you are familiar with Mount Fuji in Japan, well, you will find a lot of similarities with Mount Agung!
Best Spots To See Mount Agung Clearly:
You can queue 5 hours to get a picture of you and Mount Agung by the The Gate of Heaven – or just easily from these spots:
From the beach: Head to the Reggea Bar on the beach. This is my favourite spot to see Mount Agung clearly.
From the road: Jl. I Ketut Natih in Amed is one of the best roads to spot the volcano on a clear day, just walk down the road with your camera and you will see that, plus stunning rice fields!
Maha Kencana Paradise: There is a restaurant called Maha Kencana Paradise, very close to The Gate of Heaven. You have to queue a little bit and pay IDR 20k to take the photo (free of charge if you eat at the restaurant).
2. You Get To Stay In Places Away From The Crowds
Forget about these places where you hear the travellers next door or struggling to find a spot on the beach in front of your accommodation.
If you want to have a beach entirely for yourself in an intimate and affordable place, 👉 You should book the Meditasi Bungalows!
Amed is not widely known by tourists yet, in fact, if you’re in Ubud or Canggu right now and confess to a fellow traveller you’re thinking of going to Amed, you will probably get a blank face saying “sorry, where???”.
Have you ever watched Eat Pray Love? Well, when I visited Meditasi Bungalows, I found this note left by Elizabeth Gilbert, the writer of the book and film interpreted by Julia Roberts.
She stayed at Meditasi and ate at the Smiling Buddha, which is right next door.
👉 Reserve Your Room At Meditasi Bungalows Here!
3. It Gives You The Chance To REALLY Learn About Balinese Culture
On my last trip, I stayed in a fisherman’s village a step away from Amed. I’ve been treated like I was part of the village from day 1.
We prayed together, ate together, and I attended all the ceremonies! I also got to learn a lot about what it is like to be a fisherman!
I’ve been taught a lot about mackerel, boats, fishing nets and how they sell fish on their way back to the village. I know way too much now if you ask me, considering I don’t eat fish or meat! Amed does this to you!
4. Enjoy Black Sand Beaches Without The Crowds
Beaches in Amed are spectacular! They are mostly with black sand, occasionally with pebbles and most importantly – the water is crystal clear. No wonder why this is one of the best spots in Bali for snorkelling!
Best beaches to explore
![A woman in a coral bikini sits on an orange towel spread over dark volcanic sand, smiling at the camera as the sun sets over the ocean. The sky is glowing with soft golden and pastel hues, and a white tote bag next to her reads "I can and I will. Watch me." Trees, beachgoers, and gentle waves line the background. [From Blog Post: Why Amed? Reasons to Visit Amed That No One Talks About]](https://thegoodobserverblog.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/PXL_20250609_094307291-1-530x530.jpg)
- Next to Amed Beach: Follow this exact point on Google Maps. This is my favourite beach in Amed. Not far from the Reggae Bar I mentioned earlier. It’s near cafes, restaurants and small shops in case you need anything! This place is perfect for swimming and snorkelling (+stunning sunsets!).
![A quiet tropical beach curves along the shoreline with soft waves lapping at the sand, leading toward a green hillside dotted with villas and palm trees. On the right, a weathered wooden shack with a thatched roof sits near the water, shaded by lush trees. The sky is a flawless blue, adding to the serene and sunny coastal vibe. [From Blog Post: Why Amed? Reasons to Visit Amed That No One Talks About]](https://thegoodobserverblog.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/PXL_20250615_050616174-1-530x530.jpg)
- Lipah Beach: I would say this beach has salt and pepper sand rather than black. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving. There are lots of amenities like restaurants, bathrooms and small shops! It’s not that busy and there are no pebbles at all.
- Selang Beach: This beach is not far from Lipah Beach. It’s a lot quieter, but it might be a bit dirty depending on the time of the year you are visiting. So it’s a bit of a hit or miss, but stunning if you are visiting at the right time! It’s worth checking out.
5. Snorkelling And Diving In Amed Is Amazing
Snorkelling and diving are definitely some of the best things to do in Amed!
For snorkelling, you can literally rent or buy your props from anywhere on the street and snorkel on your own.
If you prefer a tour, 👉 explore Japanese shipwrecks from World War II! It’s definitely an unforgettable experience!
For diving excursions, you can ask your accommodation or…
👉 book your course here on Get Your Guide! The experience will last about 6 hours and you will be led by professional local divers!
6. Sunsets Here Are SPECTACULAR
I will never forget the sunsets I’ve seen here in Amed. My favourites were right by the beach.
The best places to watch sunsets in Amed are from Amed Beach (or the beach spot I mentioned earlier) or from Sunset Point Amed Bali, which is a restaurant with a pool. You will have to pay for a minimum spend at the restaurant and that’s it!
7. You Get To Visit Old And Authentic Balinese Villages
Tenganan Pedringsingan village is not exactly in Amed, but probably about a 1-hour drive.
It’s a beautiful and old Balinese village where you can really get an idea of what it used to be like ages ago. If you are lucky enough, you might even see wild buffalo walking around the streets and the village! They are funn,y but you can tell they know their way around!
I really enjoyed meeting different local artisans showing me their secrets to thread amazing fabrics, paint or even sculpting.
Here you can also learn a lot about traditional dances and old traditions that have been carried on until this day!
There is a donation-based fee (I paid IDR 20k, but it’s up to you!) and toilets nearby too.
8. You Can Go For A Fantastic Yoga Class
If you get a rainy day and are wondering what to do in Amed, go for a yoga class!
Check out the Blue Earth Village, a wellness hub that offers yoga with a breathtaking ocean view.
They have classes going on every day for people of all yoga levels!
9. You Can Watch The Sunrise From Your Bedroom
During my stay, I would set my alarm for 6AM and watch a spectacular sunrise right from my bedroom every single day.
Make sure you reserve a room by the sea and the daily show will be secured! 👉 Meditasi Bungalows is one of the best places for this.
Just after sunrise, you will also start seeing fishermen coming back home by sailing colourful boats. You will never forget that view!
-> Find out other beautiful places to stay in Amed here!
10. Indulge In Delish Food
Food in Amed is delicious and you can get anything you want.
If you crave Western food, you should go to Amed centre to places like Good Stuff Amed ( I had the best brunch there!).
Otherwise, obviously go for Indonesian food. I’ve gone a lot to the Smiling Buddha so I would say that was my favourite spot for Nasi Goreng and morning pancakes!
-> Check out more places to eat in Amed here!
If you eat seafood, these are the dishes you can’t miss:
- Grilled tuna: Freshly caught and grilled to perfection, this dish is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike. Served with a Balinese salsa that’s to die for!
- Prawn curry: This local delicacy features plump, juicy prawns simmered in a fragrant blend of spices. You’ll be mopping up every last bit with your rice!
- Seafood barbecue: A mix of the day’s catch – could be anything from snapper, mahi-mahi, to mackerel. It’s grilled on an open fire and served with a tangy, mouthwatering sauce.
- Squid satay: Yes, you heard it right! This is satay like you’ve never had before. Tender pieces of squid are skewered and grilled, then slathered with a rich, sweet and spicy satay sauce.
- Fish sambal matah: A Balinese speciality, this dish features grilled fish topped with a refreshing and fiery sambal matah – a raw sauce made with shallots, lemongrass, and chillies.
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11. Visit The Royal Palace
Again, this is not in Amed but about 40 minutes away by car. I would say it could be a fun day trip from Amed if you have the time!
They call it Royal Palace By The Water and locals call it Taman Ujung but it’s the same place!
This royal palace is beautiful and with a lot of history! They say that one of its guests was the King of Siam at the time which was the King of Thailand!
Gardens are really well kept and stunning, you can go for lovely walks here and get really nice pictures!
The entrance fee is IDR 100K but totally worth it!
12. Witness Traditional Salt Making
Gain insight into an age-old Balinese tradition by visiting Amed’s traditional salt-making sites. Watch as local villagers harvest sea salt using traditional methods passed down through generations!
Best places to learn about Salt Making in Amed:
- Amed Salt Center: This is the hub of salt production in Amed. Here, you can witness the entire process, chat with the friendly locals, and even try your hand at traditional salt making.
- Jemeluk Bay: Apart from its stunning underwater garden, Jemeluk is also a buzzing salt-making site. Catch the early morning sun glinting off the salt pans for an unforgettable sight.
- Lipah Beach: Known for its crystal-clear waters, Lipah Beach also hosts salt farmers who carry on the ancient tradition.
- Selang Beach: On a good day, you can spot salt farmers working along the shorelines of Selang Beach. It’s the perfect opportunity to appreciate this age-old craft in a peaceful setting.
Best places to stay in Amed
Some of the best places in Amed I would recommend are:
Budget choice 👉 Alur Beach Homestay
Mid-range 👉 Meditasi Bungalows
Luxurious 👉 The Griya Villas & Spa
Supermarkets in Amed:
If you are staying in Amed long term and wondering if there are any supermarkets selling international food. The answer is NI!
There won’t be any Pepito or popular international supermarket BUT DAYUH SHOP sells Oat milk and nice fruits and veggies. BHUANA MART is also a good alternative I found pasta, bread (without sugar – a novelty here!), nice crisps and good chocolate bars!
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
Ubud and Amed are completely different! The first is super busy and touristy but it’s also richer in culture and art. Amed is more like for a snorkelling trip or for some isolation. I went to focus more on my business and swim in the sea during my breaks!
After Amed, you can either move north to Lovina. Alternatively, I would suggest taking the ferry to Gili Trawangan. You can totally do that via Padang Bai.
Last tip! How to get around Amed
You guys, I didn’t drive in Amed but I’m good at asking around if anyone can take me to places (paying obviously!) from the hotel manager to anyone on the street. There are actually people in central Amed offering this “service”.
However, you can easily rent a scooter for a good price but bear in mind streets there are rough. Although there is no traffic, you still have to be careful!
Like always, make sure you have your travel insurance sorted, especially when driving or doing outdoor activities in Bali. 👉 I have been using Safety Wing for years! It’s easy to use and affordable!
Ciao for now,
Silvia x
Related Blog Posts:
- How to Get from Denpasar Airport to Amed
- Amazing Things to Do in Amed When It Rains
- Best Ways To Get From Ubud To Amed And Top Stops On The Way
- Where to Eat in Amed: Exploring Culinary Delights in Bali
- Where to Stay in Amed for Female Solo Travellers
- The Ultimate 10-Day Bali Adventure: Your Perfect Itinerary
✍️ Bali Travel Planning Guide 🌴
Before you start your unforgettable journey to Bali here are the essential tips every female solo traveller should know:
📱 Do I need an eSIM for Bali?
✅ Yes. Having data from the moment you land makes your trip so much easier. I recommend Ubigi eSIM, which connects instantly without queuing at the airport for a SIM card and works better than other eSIMs I have tested. 👉 Get your Indonesia plan now
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for Bali?
✅ 100% YES! — My #1 safety tip for all travellers is to buy travel insurance for every trip in case anything happens during their visit (and yes, Bali belly is a thing!). I highly recommend HeyMondo – you get 24/7 support and it’s budget-friendly!
💧Can you drink the water in Bali?
🚱 No — It’s recommended to drink filtered or bottled water in Bali (I even brush my teeth with filtered water).
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Bali accommodations?
My go-to for Bali hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I normally go for Hostelworld (you can also filter by private rooms if you want!). If you love pets you should consider Trusted Housesitters, you would get free accommodation in exchange for looking after amazing pets ❤️
🐒 What’s the best way to book my Bali activities?
Get Your Guide and Viator are the best ones. You can go through the reviews to learn more about each activity and they have amazing customer support!
🛒 Will I find tampons in Bali?
Yes! However, they are hard to find! Get the guide with the list of sellers and Google Map here!
🚕 How can I book my taxi in advance from the airport to my accommodation?
I always recommend reserving your taxi in advance via Klook. This is because it will ask you for flight details and the driver will be able to track your flight in real time. I would book my taxi especially when I fly to new places or get there at night time! If you want to rent a car, Klook is still your best bet. They have cars available to pick up right at the airport! For scooter rental in Bali, go to BikAgo.
🏄🏽 Where can I book surf camps or yoga retreats?
Booksurfcamps.com is the best for surf camps all over the world. Use Bookyogaretreats.com for the best yoga retreats in Bali and worldwide.
✈️ What’s the best site to book my flight?
Skyscanner is definitely the best one out there! I love their “explore everywhere” function for when I need inspiration on where to go next! If you will embark on a long flight and you love showering in between flights or just using the lounges in airports all over the world, check out Lounge Passes on Klook, GetYourGuide or get a lounge membership on Priority Pass!
🎫 Do I need a visa for Bali?
👍 Yes — US, UK, and EU passport holders can get the Visa On Arrival (Tourist Visa) valid for 30 days in Bali. Read more here)
💰 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆: The currency here is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and there are plenty of ATMs if you need cash. I always withdraw from ATMs to get the best rates (select “no” when it asks you if you accept the conversion rate). The best debit card to use when travelling to Bali is Wise!
🚕 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Getting around Bali is easy peasy! Rent your scooter on BikAgo. The alternative would be getting a scooter taxi using Grab or Gojek which are safe and cheap in major places like Ubud, Canggu and Uluwatu. You can also book your private driver!
