The Best Beaches in Amed – A Complete Guide 2025
I’ll never forget my first sunrise in Amed, golden light spilling over Mount Agung, igniting the black sand Beaches in Amed with a surreal glow. Unlike Bali’s crowded southern shores, Amed feels like a secret whispered by the sea. Nestled on the northeastern coast, this 14-km stretch of fishing villages has a unique and relaxing vibe you will come to love.
I have spend 1 month in Amed, the plan was around 5 days but i got attached to the relaxing vibe, the incredible people and the easy life here. Its a true escape from the over populated Ubud and Canggu and once you get here you will know why. You will see restaurants, warungs and diving schools on every corner of the street with lots of free diving happening here also.
In this guide I will tell you all about the beaches in Amed, what they offer and what you can do here in Amed that will make you want to come and stay here. Bali is my home and base for the last year and Amed really has taken my heart.
As an affiliate, I may earn a small commission for purchases on the links provided at no extra cost to you – disclaimer. All the tours, accomodations and services I recommend are carefully selected and I use them myself throughout our travels.
What Makes Amed So Special?
Tucked away in Bali’s Karangasem Regency, Amed stretches along a 14-km coastline of fishing villages. I fell in love with its unpolished beauty, with the black sand beaches on one side, and the deep green mountains on the other, with views that will keep you amazed.
Here, Mount Agung which is the big Volcano you can’t miss when your on the beaches in Amed, casts a spiritual aura over beaches of black volcanic sand, created from its ancient eruptions.
The beaches in Amed are a perfect place for water lovers. Snorkeling and scuba diving thrive here, with coral reefs and shipwrecks like the Japanese patrol boat and USS Liberty (a short drive away) surrounded with turtles, reef fish, and alive corals.
Freediving is getting more and more popular, especially at Jemeluk’s underwater temple. I love freediving and I have not seen so many Freediving Schools in one area before. Unlike Bali’s busier dive spots, Amed’s sites are accessible right from the shore, making it beginner-friendly yet exciting enough for pros as well.
What makes Amed special is its authenticity. Fishermen still sail jukung boats, and salt-making traditions thrive, grounding you in Balinese culture. The pace is slow, the vibe relaxing, perfect for those craving an escape from tourist traps. You’ll find warungs serving fresh seafood and cozy homestays nestled along the beach with palm trees all around.
I learned from local dive guides and online sources that Amed’s reefs are among Bali’s best, with clear waters (especially May-September) ideal for spotting marine life. Whether you’re snorkeling over Jemeluk’s corals, diving the Japanese Shipwreck, or simply enjoying the relaxing vibe and beautiful sunsets, Amed offers a coastal charm that feels like Bali’s best-kept secret.
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Beaches in Amed – What Is My Experience
The beaches itself are, i am sorry to say, not spectacular. To be fair, not even good as its surrounded with rocks, fishing boats and thick black sand. So for the beaches itself i wouldn’t recommend coming here as there are other places that are far better.
The fishing boats have its charm, but the beach is completely filled with them, making finding a place to relax away from the boats hard to find, especially in the centre of Amed.
If you want to go into the water, you can do so with bare feed – but all the rocks can make it painful at times and not easy to get out. So if possible, wear some swim shoes. But its not all negative.
Why should you go to Amed?
So if the beaches are not that special, why should you still go to Amed?
Well, as i mentioned i planned to go to Amed for 5 days and ended up staying close to a month. Why?
Because the place has an incredible vibe, its nice and quiet away from busy Ubud and Canggu meaning you can drive a scooter around without being stuck in traffic. They have amazing dive sites, you can go free diving. Great restaurants and affordable places to stay, the surroundings are incredible with the big volcano towering above the left side of the beach and deep green mountains on the other side of the ocean.
It has its own micro climate, because its hidden between the ocean and the mountains, and its very easy to navigate as its one long road that connects all of Amed. I love the vibe here and the simple way of life. There is a brand new gym in the beginning of Amed called the Lift which is also very affordable. The people are friendly, the restaurants are great and there are some unique spots like sunset point bali.
So if you wanna escape the crowds and have a place to relax, do some diving and sight seeing this is definitely the place to be for you.
The Beaches – What Do They Have to Offer
There are around 10 different beaches but i will walk through the most popular ones including the Japanese Shipwreck, which is definitely worth going to for diving and snorkeling.
Amed Beach – Pantai Amed
Pantai Amed, which marks the heart of Amed village, stands out for its raw beauty and easy accessibility. Its black volcanic sand and smooth pebbles, which come from Mount Agung’s ancient eruptions, create a dramatic sight against the quiet turquoise sea.
This is a great spot for relaxing at local warungs for a drink or some food at sunset. Unlike Amed’s snorkeling havens, this beach isn’t about underwater adventures. Instead, its magic lies in authenticity and night beauty. Watching fishermen gather the fish from their boats and chatting with locals on the beach feels like stepping into Bali’s soul.
Why visit? To soak in unfiltered Balinese life. Stroll the shore, swim in calm waters, or join a fishing trip for a hands-on thrill. I felt grounded here, far from touristy chaos.
When you step away from the beach and go onto the main street, this is really the heart where all the magic happens at Amed. Dining shines at Warung Enak with lovely Indonesian plates, Warung Osin’s spicy chicken satay, or Rimba Cafe’s refreshing smoothie bowls (my personal favorite) or healthy vegan dishes, all steps from the sand.
You have a great bakery – baker street bali, if you wanna have something else for a change.
Supermarkets are mostly basic in Amed and smaller in size, so of you want to have some special products, make sure to bring them from other places. I was looking for protein powder f.e. while going to the gym and some other healthy products, and couldn’t find them in or around Amed.
2 supermarkets that did offer a variety of produce and some health products are AW Shop and the more expensive Adi Shop (also fresh bread)
My Favorite Accommodations @ Amed Beach
Amed Lodge by Sudamala Resorts, this accommodation is right on the beach, has high service and a lovely traditional Japanese style. I think its perfectly located in the heart of Amed Beach and with the spacious rooms it has great value for money and is considered more luxury than most surrounding accommodations.
Another place i enjoyed staying while in Amed Beach is Minory Guesthouse.
Its basic, right next to the beach but still very spacious and also very affordable. The owner is a lovely person and the rooms are recently renovated. Bed is comfortable and has a high value for the money. Especially interesting for the more budget travelers looking for a longer stay.
Selang Beach – Pantai Selang
Selang Beach, a quiet spot near Lipah in Amed, totally won me over with its chill vibe and amazing underwater scene. Unlike the busy Amed Beach, this 250-meter stretch of fine black sand, mixed with a few rocks, feels like a secret hideaway.
What makes it special? The coral reef right offshore is bursting with colorful fish, turtles, and sometimes blacktip sharks – perfect for snorkeling. I jumped in at high tide and was blown away by the nice corals, though the currents need to be something to be aware off.
Why go? It’s a peaceful spot for snorkeling or diving, with clear waters and reefs you can reach straight from the beach. The shady trees and a cool swing over the sand add a fun touch. I loved chilling with a coconut at one of the nearby warungs.
Good Karma Bungalows’ restaurant serves tasty Balinese food and is an amazing stay with pools overlooking the beach. Reki Bar & Resto has also awesome ocean views. Stay at Aquaterrace for its infinity pool and big rooms with a lovely bath, Kura Kura Divers Lodge if you’re into diving, or find one of the many budget-friendly homestays. Selang’s calm, reef-filled shore is perfect for anyone wanting Amed’s quieter, natural side.
Jemeluk Beach – Pantai Jemeluk
Jemeluk Beach is a total standout in Amed, and I was hooked the moment I saw the beach covered in a lovely bay. This place is lively but not overcrowded. What makes it so special? The underwater temple, a hidden gem just offshore, surrounded by beautful coral reefs and schools of colorful fish.
Snorkeling here is a blast – I floated over the temple, spotting bright parrotfish among many other fish, and the water was so clear at high tide. It’s also a hot spot for scuba diving, with a reef drop-off at 2-6 meters that’s perfect for all levels, and free diving is awesome for those who want to dive deeper.
Why go? Jemeluk’s got it all – epic snorkeling, diving, and a chill vibe with amazing Mount Agung views. I love grabbing a smoothie at Diver’s Cafe after snorkeling, or chilling at Blue Earth Village for dinner with a sunset view.
You also have the best sunset view point of Amed (at least on the beach site) at Sunset Point Amed. You pay a 110K fee, but you can use this for drinks and food. There are several pools overlooking the ocean and its the best point to watch the sunset with the Volcano in the background. Definitely something you don’t wanna miss when in Amed.
Lipah Beach – Pantai Lipah
Lipah Beach is a slice of paradise in Amed that totally stole my heart with its relaxed vibe and stunning underwater world. Unlike the busier Jemeluk, this beach has softer, greyish-white sand mixed with a few rocks, making it perfect for chilling out or soaking up the sun. What makes it special?
The turquoise waters are pretty clear here, and just steps from the shore, you’ll find lively coral reefs packed with turtles, colorful fish, and even small blacktip reef sharks when you get lucky. Snorkeling here is amazing, but you’ve got to watch out for the rocks to avoid scratches. It’s also a great spot for scuba diving, and free divers love the easy access to the reefs.
Why go? Lipah’s less crowded, making it ideal for a laid-back beach day with top-notch snorkeling and diving. I loved kicking back with a cold drink at Bukit Segara Restaurant, which has killer sea views, or grabbing cheap, tasty Balinese food at Good Karma Bungalows’ warung.
Stay at Good Karma Bungalows for beachfront vibes and low budget, Aquamarine Beach Villas for a fancy stay, or Solaluna Beach Homestay with a pool and breakfast. Lipah’s chill atmosphere and reef-filled waters make it a must for anyone craving a peaceful, underwater adventure.
Japanese Shipwreck – Banyuning Bay
Japanese Shipwreck Beach at Banyuning Bay blew me away the first time I visited. It’s like stepping into a real-life treasure hunt! This pebbly stretch near Amed Village hides a cool piece of history: a Japanese patrol boat that crashed during World War II.
I snorkeled out to it, just 15-20 meters from shore, and was amazed to see it covered in bright corals and teeming with fish like trumpetfish and butterflyfish. The water’s only 2-6 meters deep, so its also perfect for free diving.
What makes this beach special? It’s all about that wreck! The shallow, clear waters let you swim right up to it, and the marine life is unreal, with turtles showing themselves. The beach itself is small and rocky, with shaded spots and a chill café nearby where you can grab a drink. Locals charge a small fee (around 30K IDR) for parking, which includes a free drink. Unlike busier spots, it’s quiet, giving you space to soak in the vibe.
Why go? If you love snorkeling or diving, this is a must. I loved how easy it was to explore the wreck, and the peacefulness made it feel like my own secret spot. Bring water shoes for the pebbles, and go at high tide for the best visibility.
For staying, I’d recommend a short drive to Aquaterrace for a fancy stay with an infinity pool. Japanese Shipwreck Beach is perfect for a laid-back adventure with a splash of history and is definitely a highlight of Amed!
Activities in and around Amed
There are enough things to do in Amed and its surroundings. Here an overview of the things you should do when in Amed and you have the time:
Scuba Diving at USAT Liberty Wreck
Driving 20 minutes to Tulamben for the USAT Liberty Wreck was a highlight of my trip. I joined a guided dive and descended to the 5-30 meter depth where this World War II ship rests. The wreck, now a lively reef, was filled with huge schools of fish, barracudas, and even a reef shark swimming through its corridors.
The water was so clear I could see tiny nudibranchs and an octopus hiding in the shadows. Diving in Amed is cheap with around $25 per dive, often combined with 2 dives for $50. Pretty much all dives are from the beach and perfect for beginner to the experienced diver.
Hiking Mount Agung
Hiking Mount Agung was a challenging yet rewarding experience. Starting at 2-3 AM from Amed, about 30-60 minutes away, I went with a guide through the dark forest and steep slopes. Reaching the crater just as the sun rose was breathtaking. Bali unfolded below me in a stunning panorama.
The 6 hour round trip tested my stamina, so bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy shoes. The view of the ocean and island from the top made every step worthwhile, and I felt a deep connection to Bali’s spiritual side.
Visiting Tirta Gangga Water Palace
My trip to Tirta Gangga Water Palace, a 30-minute drive from Amed, felt like stepping into a peaceful dream. Here you can stroll through the 1940s royal gardens, built by the King of Karangasem, with koi ponds and lotus flowers in its surroundings.
Crossing the stone stepping stones is a fun challenge, and here you can spent some time snapping photos of the fountains, enjoying the cool breeze away from the heat. Cost is about 50,000 IDR to enter. The blend of Balinese and Chinese architecture, along with the sacred springs, give the place a unique cultural feel.
Sunset Viewing at Bukit Cinta
Driving 30 minutes to Bukit Cinta, or Love Hill, gave me one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen. I arrived around 5 PM and found a quiet spot on the platforms with swings, overlooking Mount Agung and the rice terraces that turned golden as the sun set. Watching the sky shift from orange to pink was pure magic, and I sat there with a snack, reflecting on my trip.
It is free to enter, although a small donation is always welcome. The drive from Amed is great with winding roads, and beautiful landscape. I loved the peaceful vibe and later enjoyed dinner at a seaside warung, making it a perfect evening.
Scooter Tours
Renting a scooter in Amed gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. From Amed you can go to Bias Tugel Beach, where there is beautiful white sand and calm water. Another hour from it is Sidemen, where you can relax among rice terraces and enjoy a cool breeze.
I love stopping whenever I felt like, eat a bit at a local warung, stop at a viewpoint for photos or enjoy the incredible landscape bali has to offer. The freedom to discover Amed’s countryside and nearby spots like these made it one of my favorite days, and I planned a loose route to enjoy the journey.
We only use Bikago for our scooter rentals in Bali, as they offer the best service of the island and are reliable with quality scooters.
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Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint
A 30-minute drive to Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint can be a delightful surprise. You can climb the short but steep path and spend an hour taking photos from the platforms and swings, with Mount Agung looking stunning in the morning light.
The quiet atmosphere can be perfect for a little reflection, and you can bring water to stay hydrated on the way up. It is free, and you can leave a tip to support the upkeep. The drive from Amed winds through charming villages, adding to the experience. You can go early to avoid others and pair it with a coffee stop at a local warung, making it a relaxing and picturesque morning.
Fishing with Locals
Fishing with locals at Jemeluk Beach was a true highlight i’ll never forget. You can join them at dawn on a traditional jukung boat, casting nets and learning basic techniques as they share stories. You can catch small fish and squid, and you’ll be thrilled to see the sunrise paint the sky while you work. It can cost 100,000-200,000 IDR, arranged through your guesthouse, and the early start might be chilly, so wear a jacket.
Afterward, you can have the catch grilled at a warung, and the fresh taste is incredible. It is a hands-on way to connect with Amed’s culture, where you will cherish the quiet moments on the water.
Want to visit the north of Bali?
Here is an extensive guide with the best things to do in North Bali.
Conclusion: Beaches in Amed
As I wrap up this journey through Amed’s and its beaches, I can’t help but feel a deep love for this hidden gem on Bali’s northeastern coast. From the moment I stepped onto the black sands of Amed Beach, watched the sunrise over Mount Agung, and snorkeled the reefs of Jemeluk and Lipah, I knew I’d found something special.
This blog has taken you through the best of Amed – Pantai Amed’s authentic village vibe, Selang’s peaceful snorkeling spots, Jemeluk’s underwater temple, Lipah’s turtle-filled waters, and the thrilling Japanese Shipwreck Beach. Each one offered me a unique adventure, and I want you to experience it too!
Amed isn’t just about stunning beaches; it’s about the soul of Bali. I loved diving into the culture – fishing with locals at dawn, exploring salt farms, and hiking Mount Agung for that breathtaking sunrise. You can do all this and more, whether you’re relaxing with a coffee at Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint or savoring fresh seafood at a warung.
This place sold me with its quiet charm, unspoiled nature, and warm people, and I’m sure it will win you over too. The accommodations, from cozy bungalows to luxe resorts, make it easy to stay, while the nearby activities, like scooter tours to Sidemen or a dip at Tirta Gangga, add endless possibilities.
I urge you to pack your bags and visit Amed. Dive into its clear waters, walk its shores, and taste its local flavors. This blog is your guide to unlocking a quieter, more authentic Bali experience, far from the crowded south. Share your own Amed stories in the comments, and let’s keep this paradise thriving with sustainable travel. Trust me, once you visit, you’ll be planning your next trip back, just like I am!
F.A.Q. Beaches in Amed
What is the best beach to go Scuba Diving?
I would say the Japanese Shipwreck is the best place in Amed to go diving, but just outside of Amed is the USAT Liberty Wreck, which is even better and most diving schools offer dives that go to this unique wreck.
What beach in Amed is the best to go snorkeling?
That is Lipah Beach, because if its clear water easy entry and great coral and marine life. If you want to see a shipwreck while snorkeling, than the Japanese Shipwreck is great to see. For freediving, definitely the Japanese Shipwreck as its lays in shallow water.
Where is the best beach in Amed to relax?
Definitely Lipah Beach, as the sand is lighter, softer, less rocks and fishing boats and a perfect place to relax.
Are there any sharks in the water in Amed?
they are not very common. If you are lucky (yes lucky as they are perfectly safe here in Bali) you can spot one in Pantai Selang.
What is the best beach to go Surfing in Amed?
Amed is not really a place to go surfing. There are some minor swells for beginners during the shoulder season.
How long should i stay in Amed?
That totally depends on what you are looking for and expect of your stay in Bali. If you have the time to explore or just want a place to relax, Amed can be great. I stayed here over 3 weeks on my last longer stay in Bali and truly fell in love with it. Its great for getting your diving licenses and especially during the high season when the other places are over crowded, Amed can be a great escape. Normally, 3-4 nights should be enough to enjoy the highlights of Amed.
How far is it from Ubud with the scooter?
About 2 hours, probably a bit more.
Are there good places for Coworking in Amed?
No, Amed is not really a great place for coworking. I have spotted 1 place for coworking called La Timba, but i found it too expensive for a few days as their day rate is 250K. Restaurants offer Wifi, but most of them are open air with ventilators and don’t offer a great place to work all day. The best cafe i worked at is at the beginning of Amed and called Good Stuff Cafe.
When is the best time to visit Amed?
It is a great place to come to whole year round as they kinda have their own tropical micro climate as it lays in between the mountains and the ocean. But i would say the best time of the year is during the high season, when most of Bali is over populated and Amed offers a truly unique getaway.
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