Amed, Bali
Laidback and sleepy town, Amed offers a great respite from the usual hustle and bustle of Bali that we know from the famous tourist-infested surfer’s beach Kuta to culture and adventure packed Ubud.
Amed is a long coastal strip that is mainly used for fishing and farming.
Where is it
North eastern tip of Bali, 3 hours drive from Ngurah Rai Airport in Denpasar.
Why go
If you are looking for a relaxed and private getaway, Amed may be the answer for you. Besides, there are some sea activities choices such as diving the famous USS Liberty wreck in Tulamben to learning free-diving and practicing yoga.
When is the best time to go
As all parts of Bali, the weather is generally good here all year round if you have specific criteria. If you come during the dry season (April – October), you will get fewer chances of rain but more people as it is the peak season, but generally, Amed is quieter than the other tourists places. The wet season (November – March) will see fewer tourists and normally only have shower in the late afternoon, therefore, it is still possible to enjoy the sun earlier in the day.
What to do
Relax – Travelers, local or foreign, come here for a relaxing getaway from the hectic Bali.
Honeymoon – It is also a good spot for honeymoon in Bali if you prefer the privacy.
Scuba Diving – For the adventurous, there are also options of scuba diving. The famous Tulamben’s shipwreck diving is nearby.
Freediving courses – This is one of the most popular activities in this region. Many travelers come from far and wide to learn freediving from the best instructors here in Amed.
For art and culture, you may try out the yoga retreats or travel to nearby temples like Tirta Gangga and Besakih. Also take a road trip from around Amed, winding through tiny fishing villages with breathtaking coastal views.
What and where to eat
Not really popular for good food, you may find the usual tourist fare that is more to kill hunger than excite. One of th famous restaurant in Amed is Sails Restaurant at Bunutan. You can enjoy a fishing-village views from here and variety of food from bangers and mas to mahi-mahi (fish wrapped with banana leaves).
Where to stay
There are many hotels for choices in Amed despite the idea of remoteness, but generally the place are quiet and with wide spaces for privacy. For budget choices there are Mesari Homestay and Kelapa Cottage. For mid-range choices that are of quality are Bali Dream House, Soka Amed Beach, while for the luxurious there is the Griya Villas and Spa *.
How to get there
By car, it is 3 hours drive from Bali Airport.
There are regular buses from popular tourist attractions like Lovina and Candidasa.
How to get around
Renting a motorbike to get around is your best bet. Else if you are in a group, renting a car would be a good idea for the independence.
Where to go nearby
Check out popular nearby Top 10 Best Bali Beaches .
Journey back to the heart of Bali – Ubud
Or head to nearby Padang Bai as a springboard to Lombok
You can also sail to the nearby Gili Islands from here.
