Amed Bali Hidden Gem for Diving Snorkeling Sunrise Views

Discover the authentic beauty of East Bali’s serene coastal village, famous for world-class diving, spectacular sunrises over Mount Agung, and traditional fishing culture.

Overview

Amed is a tranquil fishing village stretched along a stunning 10-kilometer black sand coastline in East Bali, famous for its spectacular sunrise views of Mount Agung, world-class diving and snorkeling, and authentic Balinese village atmosphere. Unlike the busy tourist areas of South Bali, Amed offers a peaceful escape where traditional wooden fishing boats (jukung) still line the beaches, salt farmers harvest sea salt using centuries-old methods, and life moves at a relaxed pace.

The name “Amed” technically refers to a single village, but the term is commonly used to describe the entire coastal area including villages like Jemeluk, Bunutan, Lipah, Selang, Banyuning, and Aas—each with its own character and diving/snorkeling spots. This 10-kilometer stretch has become East Bali’s premier destination for underwater enthusiasts, with pristine coral reefs accessible directly from shore.

Key Information:

• Location: Northeast coast of Bali, Karangasem Regency
• Distance: 85 km from Denpasar (approximately 2.5-3 hours drive), 30 minutes from Tirta Gangga, 45 minutes from Lempuyang Temple
• Character: Quiet coastal villages, black sand beaches, diving/snorkeling paradise
• Famous For: Sunrise views of Mount Agung, shore diving, Japanese Shipwreck, USAT Liberty Wreck (nearby Tulamben), traditional salt farming
• Best Time to Visit: April to November (dry season for best diving visibility)

What Makes Amed Special

World-Class Diving & Snorkeling

Amed is consistently ranked among Bali’s top three diving destinations (alongside Tulamben and Nusa Penida). What makes Amed extraordinary for underwater exploration:

• Shore Diving Paradise: Most dive sites accessible directly from beach—no boat required for many spots
• Excellent Visibility: 15-30 meters visibility typical during dry season
• Calm Conditions: Protected bay areas ideal for beginners and training
• Diverse Marine Life: Vibrant coral reefs, macro creatures (nudibranchs, seahorses, ghost pipefish), turtles, reef sharks, occasional manta rays
• Multiple Dive Sites: Over 10 distinct sites within 10 km stretch, each with unique character
• Japanese Shipwreck: Sunken patrol boat in 6-12 meters depth, perfect for snorkeling and diving
• Year-Round Diving: Diveable throughout the year, though dry season (April-November) offers best conditions
• Affordable: Significantly cheaper than South Bali dive centers

Spectacular Sunrise Views

Amed’s east-facing coastline provides unobstructed sunrise views with Mount Agung as the dramatic backdrop. Many visitors consider Amed’s sunrise among Bali’s most beautiful:

• Mount Agung (Bali’s highest volcano) rises directly behind the beach
• Traditional jukung boats silhouetted against colorful skies
• Best viewing from beaches: Jemeluk, Lipah, and Amed proper
• Most resorts positioned for sunrise views from rooms and pools
• Sunrise typically 5:30-6:30 AM depending on season

Authentic Balinese Village Life

Unlike commercialized South Bali, Amed retains authentic character:

• Traditional fishing culture—wooden jukung boats launch daily
• Ancient salt farming using evaporation ponds and wooden troughs
• Small family-run warungs serving fresh seafood
• Friendly local communities welcoming to visitors
• Slower pace of life focused on fishing, farming, and tourism
• Affordable local prices compared to South Bali

Proximity to East Bali Attractions

Amed serves as excellent base for exploring East Bali highlights:

• Tirta Gangga Water Palace: 30 minutes
• Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven): 45 minutes
• Taman Ujung Water Palace: 40 minutes
• Tenganan Traditional Village: 35 minutes
• Mount Agung Trekking: Base for sunrise treks

Top Diving & Snorkeling Sites in Amed

1. Jemeluk Bay & Amed Wall

Amed’s most popular dive site, perfect for all levels:

• Depth: 5-30 meters
• Access: Shore entry from Jemeluk Beach
• Highlights: Beautiful coral garden in shallows (ideal for snorkeling), wall drop-off starting at 10 meters, reef sharks, turtles, macro creatures
• Conditions: Usually calm, minimal current, excellent for beginners and training
• Best For: First-time divers, snorkelers, underwater photography

The shallow coral garden (3-8 meters) right off Jemeluk Beach is considered one of Bali’s best snorkeling areas.

2. Japanese Shipwreck (Banyuning)

Iconic underwater attraction, perfect for snorkeling and diving[5]:

• Depth: 6-12 meters (snorkeling depth!)
• Access: Short swim from Banyuning Beach
• Highlights: Sunken Japanese patrol boat from WWII era, completely encrusted with coral and sponges, abundant fish life, intact ship structure
• Conditions: Shallow and calm, perfect for snorkelers
• Best For: Snorkelers, beginner divers, photographers

This is Amed’s signature snorkeling spot—the shipwreck lies shallow enough for easy snorkeling exploration.

3. Lipah Bay

Excellent site for both diving and snorkeling:

• Depth: 3-25 meters
• Access: Shore entry from Lipah Beach
• Highlights: Vibrant coral reef, macro life (nudibranchs, shrimps), turtles, soft corals, good fish diversity
• Conditions: Protected bay, usually calm
• Best For: Snorkelers, macro photography enthusiasts

4. Pyramids (Amed Pyramids)

Stunning topography with pyramid-shaped coral formations:

• Depth: 12-30 meters
• Access: Short boat ride or shore entry
• Highlights: Unique pyramid-shaped coral bommies, swim-throughs, reef sharks, barracudas, excellent coral coverage
• Conditions: Mild current (drift dive), intermediate level
• Best For: Experienced divers, drift diving enthusiasts

5. Ghost Bay (Amed Ghost Bay)

Muck diving paradise for macro photography:

• Depth: 5-18 meters
• Access: Shore entry
• Highlights: Ghost pipefish, frogfish, nudibranchs, seahorses, rare critters, black sand environment
• Conditions: Usually calm, minimal current
• Best For: Macro photographers, critter hunters, experienced divers

6. Bunutan (Selang Beach)

Beautiful coral reef with good fish diversity:

• Depth: 5-20 meters
• Access: Shore entry from Bunutan Beach
• Highlights: Healthy hard and soft corals, turtles, reef fish, good for snorkeling and diving
• Conditions: Protected bay, calm conditions
• Best For: All levels, families, snorkelers

Nearby: USAT Liberty Shipwreck (Tulamben)

Located 15 minutes north of Amed in Tulamben, the USAT Liberty Wreck is Bali’s most famous dive site:

• US Army cargo ship torpedoed in WWII, grounded in 1942, slid into sea during 1963 Mount Agung eruption
• Lies 5-30 meters depth—accessible to snorkelers and all dive levels
• 125-meter-long wreck completely covered in corals and sponges
• Abundant marine life: schools of fish, turtles, occasional mola mola
• Shore entry directly from Tulamben Beach

Most Amed dive centers offer trips to Tulamben Liberty Wreck as part of their services.

Diving & Snorkeling Prices (Reference Rates)

Snorkeling Trips

Based on current Amed dive center pricing (2026):

Table 1: Typical snorkeling prices at Amed dive centers

Snorkeling packages typically include:

• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket)
• Professional guide
• Boat transport to sites (if needed)
• 45 minutes to 1 hour per snorkeling spot

Scuba Diving Trips (Fun Diving for Certified Divers)

Based on Amed dive center rates (2026):

Table 2: Fun diving prices at Amed dive centers (certified divers)

High Season: July 1 – September 30
Low Season: October 1 – June 30

Dive packages typically include:

• Tanks and weights
• Dive guide
• Transport to dive sites
• Local site fees
• 10% VAT

Gear rental (if needed):

• BCD, regulator, wetsuit, or fins: IDR 50,000 per item per day

Dive Courses

Table 3: Dive certification course prices in Amed

Note: Prices vary between dive centers. Amed is generally 30-40% cheaper than South Bali dive centers for equivalent services.

Best Time to Visit Amed

Dry Season (April to November) – BEST

• Best Diving Visibility: 15-30 meters, clear blue water
• Calm Seas: Minimal waves, easy shore entries
• Sunny Weather: Consistent sunshine, comfortable temperatures
• Clear Mount Agung Views: Best sunrise visibility
• Peak Season: July-August busiest with tourists

Wet Season (December to March)

• Reduced Visibility: 10-20 meters due to plankton and rain runoff
• Rougher Seas: Occasional larger waves, some sites inaccessible
• Rain: Afternoon showers common, morning usually clear
• Fewer Tourists: Lower accommodation prices, quieter atmosphere
• Still Diveable: Many sites remain accessible, just reduced conditions

Special Seasons

Mola Mola Season (July to October):

• Rare ocean sunfish occasionally spotted at deeper sites
• Better chances at Nusa Penida, but possible in Amed
• Advanced divers only (deeper dives required)

Manta Ray Season (Year-round possibilities):

• Mantas occasionally pass through Amed sites
• More reliable sightings at Nusa Penida

Accommodation in Amed

Amed offers diverse accommodation from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, most with ocean views and sunrise vistas.

Luxury & Mid-Range Resorts

• The Griya Villas and Spa: Five-star hillside resort with private pool villas, infinity pool, spa, stunning Mount Agung views
• Blue Moon Villas Resort: Cliffside boutique resort with infinity pools, ocean views, romantic atmosphere
• Life in Amed Boutique Hotel: Modern boutique property with stylish rooms, pool, beachfront location
• Amed Beach Resort: Relaxed beachfront resort with tropical gardens, direct beach access, on-site dive center
• Palm Garden Amed: Beachfront resort with Balinese-style bungalows, spa, coral reef access

Budget & Mid-Range Options

• Amed Dive Center (Santai Hotel): Budget-friendly dive resort with basic rooms, on-site dive center
• Jemeluk Beach Bungalows: Simple beachfront accommodation near best snorkeling
• Galang Kangin Bungalows: Traditional Balinese bungalows with sea views
• Hidden Paradise Cottages: Hillside cottages with ocean panoramas

Accommodation Price Range (Approximate)

• Budget: IDR 200,000 – 500,000/night (basic room, fan or AC)
• Mid-Range: IDR 500,000 – 1,500,000/night (nice room, pool access, good views)
• Luxury: IDR 1,500,000 – 5,000,000+/night (private pool villa, high-end amenities)

Accommodation Features to Look For:

• Sunrise-facing rooms for Mount Agung views
• On-site dive center or partnership with dive shops
• Pool with ocean views
• Beachfront access
• Restaurant serving fresh seafood
• Good WiFi (quality varies in Amed)

Things to Do in Amed (Beyond Diving)

Salt Farming Tours

Amed’s traditional salt farming is a unique cultural experience:

• Watch salt farmers harvest sea salt using centuries-old evaporation method
• Black sand heated by sun evaporates seawater in wooden troughs
• Best observed early morning when farmers are most active
• Can purchase locally harvested salt as souvenir
• Free to observe from beach, or arrange guided tour (IDR 100,000-150,000)

Fishing with Local Jukung

Experience traditional fishing methods:

• Join local fishermen on traditional wooden jukung outrigger boats
• Early morning departures (5:00-6:00 AM)
• Learn traditional fishing techniques
• Catch can be cooked for lunch at local warung
• Arrange through accommodation or local guides (IDR 300,000-500,000 per boat)

Trekking & Nature

• Mount Agung Sunrise Trek: Amed is base for climbing Bali’s highest volcano—6-8 hour night trek to summit for sunrise (IDR 800,000-1,200,000 with guide)[8]
• Village Walks: Explore traditional villages, rice terraces, and local life
• Coastal Walks: Walk or bike along scenic 10 km coastal road between villages

Day Trips from Amed

• Lempuyang Temple: 45 minutes – famous Gates of Heaven photo spot
• Tirta Gangga: 30 minutes – royal water palace with pools and gardens
• Taman Ujung: 40 minutes – grand royal water palace estate
• Tenganan Village: 35 minutes – ancient Bali Aga village preserving pre-Hindu culture
• Virgin Beach: 40 minutes – white sand beach on east coast

Yoga & Wellness

Several resorts and centers offer:

• Yoga classes (often with sunrise ocean views)
• Traditional Balinese massage and spa treatments
• Meditation sessions
• Wellness retreats

Tour Packages by Excellent Bali Tour

Package A: Amed Snorkeling Adventure (Half Day)

Duration: 4-5 hours

Itinerary:

• Hotel pickup in Amed area
• Visit 3 best snorkeling spots: Japanese Shipwreck, Lipah Bay, Jemeluk Bay
• Professional snorkeling guide
• 45 minutes snorkeling at each location
• Light refreshments
• Return to hotel

Package Includes:

• All snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel, life jacket)
• Professional snorkeling guide
• Traditional boat transport between sites
• Mineral water and light snacks
• Hotel pickup/drop-off (Amed area)

Price: IDR 400,000 per person (minimum 2 persons)

Package B: Amed Full Day Discovery Tour

Duration: 8-10 hours

Itinerary:

• 08:00 AM – Hotel pickup
• Morning snorkeling at 2 best spots (Japanese Wreck + Jemeluk Bay)
• Traditional salt farming observation
• Lunch at local seafood warung
• Afternoon visit to Tirta Gangga Water Palace
• Optional stop at traditional village or viewpoint
• Return to hotel

Package Includes:

• Private air-conditioned vehicle
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Snorkeling equipment and guide
• Entrance fees
• Indonesian set lunch
• Mineral water
• Hotel pickup/drop-off

Price per vehicle (1-6 persons):

• From Amed area: IDR 650,000
• From Candidasa: IDR 700,000
• From Ubud: IDR 850,000
• From South Bali (Seminyak/Kuta): IDR 1,200,000

Package C: East Bali + Amed Combination Tour (from South Bali/Ubud)

Duration: 10-12 hours (full day from South Bali)

Itinerary:

• Early hotel pickup
• Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)
• Tirta Gangga Water Palace
• Lunch at Amed with ocean views
• Afternoon snorkeling at Japanese Shipwreck or Jemeluk Bay
• Return to hotel

Perfect For: Travelers staying in South Bali or Ubud who want to experience both East Bali cultural sites and Amed snorkeling in one comprehensive day.

Package Includes:

• Private air-conditioned vehicle
• English-speaking driver/guide
• All entrance fees (temples, water palace)
• Snorkeling equipment and guide
• Indonesian set lunch
• Mineral water throughout tour
• Hotel pickup/drop-off

Price per vehicle (1-6 persons):

• From Ubud: IDR 950,000
• From Sanur: IDR 1,000,000
• From Seminyak/Kuta/Canggu: IDR 1,050,000
• From Nusa Dua/Uluwatu: IDR 1,150,000

Package D: Mount Agung Sunrise Trek + Amed Snorkeling (2 Days)

Day 1:

• Afternoon arrival and check-in at Amed accommodation
• Sunset snorkeling at Jemeluk Bay
• Dinner and early rest
• 11:00 PM – Begin Mount Agung trek

Day 2:

• 05:30 AM – Summit sunrise viewing
• Descend and breakfast
• Rest at hotel
• Afternoon snorkeling at Japanese Shipwreck and Lipah Bay
• Evening departure or extend stay

Package Includes:

• 1 night accommodation in Amed
• Mount Agung trekking guide and permits
• All snorkeling equipment and guides
• Meals (1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner)
• Hotel pickup/drop-off

Price: Contact for customized pricing based on group size and accommodation level

Getting to Amed

From Denpasar/South Bali

• Distance: 85 km (approximately 2.5-3 hours)
• Private Driver: Most convenient option, door-to-door service
• Rental Car/Scooter: Scenic coastal route via Candidasa
• Public Transport: Bemo (local minibus) possible but requires multiple transfers, not recommended with luggage

From Ubud

• Distance: 70 km (approximately 2-2.5 hours)
• Route: Via Rendang and Culik villages, scenic mountain roads

From Padang Bai (Ferry Port from Lombok)

• Distance: 35 km (approximately 45 minutes)
• Route: Coastal road via Candidasa

Transportation Options

• Private Transfer: IDR 500,000-700,000 from South Bali (one-way)
• Rental Scooter: IDR 60,000-80,000 per day (requires international driving permit)
• Rental Car with Driver: IDR 600,000-800,000 per day

What to Bring to Amed

For Diving/Snorkeling

• Swimwear and rash guard (sun protection)
• Reef-safe sunscreen (non-toxic to marine life)
• Towel and dry clothes
• Waterproof bag for electronics
• Underwater camera (rental available)
• Personal snorkel/mask if preferred (rental available)

General Packing

• Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) – limited ATMs in Amed, nearest in Culik (10 km away)
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sun hat, sunglasses
• Light clothing (hot and sunny)
• Comfortable walking sandals or water shoes
• Light rain jacket (if visiting wet season)
• Mosquito repellent (especially for evening)
• Basic medications (limited pharmacies)
• Dive certification card (if diving)
• Camera for sunrise photos

Practical Information

Money & ATMs

• Limited ATMs: Nearest reliable ATM in Culik (10 km west of Amed)
• Bring Cash: Bring sufficient Indonesian Rupiah from Denpasar/Ubud
• Credit Cards: Accepted at larger resorts, but most warungs and dive shops cash-only
• Money Exchange: Limited and poor rates—exchange before arriving

Internet & Phone

• WiFi available at most accommodations (speed varies)
• Mobile signal good in main villages, weaker in remote areas
• Purchase Indonesian SIM card (Telkomsel has best coverage)

Dining

• Many beachfront warungs serving fresh seafood
• Resort restaurants with international menus
• Local Indonesian food at budget prices
• Limited vegetarian/vegan options (improving)
• Fresh fish grilled to order at sunset

Safety

• Amed is very safe with low crime
• Watch for strong currents when snorkeling/diving
• Always dive/snorkel with buddy or guide
• Respect marine life—don’t touch coral or feed fish
• Roads can be narrow and winding—drive carefully
• Stay hydrated in hot sun

Why Book with Excellent Bali Tour?

• Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of Amed dive sites and East Bali attractions
• Flexible Itineraries: Customize tours based on your interests (diving focus, cultural sites, or combination)
• Professional Guides: Experienced snorkeling guides and cultural tour guides
• Quality Equipment: Well-maintained snorkeling gear included in packages
• Safety Priority: Certified guides, proper safety protocols, comprehensive insurance
• Transparent Pricing: All costs included, no hidden fees or surprise charges
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles for longer tours from South Bali/Ubud
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Amed’s fishing culture, salt farming, and local traditions
• Photo Assistance: Guides help capture your underwater and landscape photos
• 24/7 Support: WhatsApp communication from booking through tour completion

How to Book Your Amed Experience

WhatsApp Booking (Fastest Response)

WhatsApp: +62 XXX-XXXX-XXXX (add your actual WhatsApp number)

Message us with:

• Preferred tour package (Amed snorkeling, full day discovery, or East Bali combination)
• Travel date
• Number of guests
• Current location/pickup point
• Diving certification level (if applicable)
• Any special requests or questions

We respond within 1 hour with confirmation and payment details.

Online Booking

Visit www.excellentbalitour.com:

1. Navigate to “East Bali Tours” or “Amed Snorkeling”
2. Select your preferred package
3. Choose date and number of guests
4. Enter pickup location
5. Add any special requests
6. Complete booking form
7. Receive instant email confirmation

Email Booking

Email: info@excellentbalitour.com

Include:

• Tour package desired
• Preferred date(s)
• Number of guests
• Current location
• Contact information
• Questions or special requirements

We respond within 2-4 hours with detailed information.

Payment Options

• Bank transfer (BCA, Mandiri, BNI – Indonesian banks)
• Credit/debit card via secure payment gateway
• PayPal (international guests)
• Cash payment to driver/guide (50% advance deposit required)