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Where to Stay In Amed, Bali (2026)

Amed is a stretch of small coastal villages on Bali’s east coast, known for its slower pace and quieter feel. I spent ten days here as part of a longer stay in Bali and here the days naturally unfolded without much planning. This guide focuses on where to stay in Amed, and how different parts of the coastline feel, so you can decide if Amed belongs in your Bali itinerary.

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Quick overview of Amed Bali

  • Amed is made up of several small coastal villages along Bali’s northeastern coast
  • Amed Village is the most practical base, with a long stretch of beach and the plenty of places to eat and stay
  • Jemeluk is more relaxed and good for people interested in snorkelling and yoga
  • Aas and Selang are further along the coast so they are more remote, but give you easy access to dive sites
  • Accommodation ranges from simple homestays to private villas set above the sea
  • Amed is 2–2.5 hours by car from Bali’s international airport and two hours from Ubud
  • The best time to visit is during the drier months from April to October

Is Amed worth visiting on a Bali trip?

Amed is actually a series of fishing villages dotted over nine miles (14 km) along the east coast of Bali. The villages are called Amed, Jemeluk, Bunutan, Lipah, Lean, Selang, Banyuning and Aas.

It’s worth visiting if you’re looking for a slower, more settled stretch of a Bali trip. It’s the kind of place where days feel unhurried and simple routines quickly take over: mornings by the sea, time in the water and a relaxed dinner in a warung.

How many days should I spend in Amed?

I initially planned a short stay here and found it easy to relax. The calm coastal life and excellent diving makes Amed feel grounding rather than stimulating, which is exactly why it appeals to so many people.

For most travellers, 2-3 days in Amed is enough to enjoy what makes it special – time on the reef, quiet beaches and a sense of ease that’s harder to find elsewhere on the island.

Where to stay in Amed, Bali

In this section, I introduce each village, from west to east, and share some of the best accommodation options in each one. Accommodation is available for all budgets, from beautiful beach resorts to villas, hotels, Airbnbs and homestays. 

Amed village

Amed village has the longest beach and views of Mount Agung. Here, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options.

Stay at the Amed Beach Resort, which has an outdoor swimming pool, friendly staff and live music. Other top-rated hotels in Amed village include the Amed Beach Villa and the Hotel Uyah Amed Spa Resort which doubles as a dive centre.

Budget hotels in Amed village include the Mango 5 Hotel close to Amed beach, which has a swimming pool. Solo travellers looking for hostels in Amed, can check out the Black Sand Hostel near Amed beach.

Check out the latest availability and prices of accommodation in Amed via the map below:

Jemeluk

Jemeluk is a 15 minute walk from Amed village. I liked this village with its charming homestays close to restaurants with friendly staff. It’s one of the best places to find yoga in Amed. Here, you can also find the ferry terminal where you can catch fast boats to the Gili Islands.

I recommend Dharma Yoga. We stayed in this spacious, sunny and affordable homestay with reliable WiFi connection, managed by the delightful manager, Ketut. The upstairs rooms have a large balcony overlooking the sea and every day we enjoyed the glorious sunrises.

Alternative options include the Bamboo Bali bungalows and the Jemeluk Beach Bungalows, while yoga lovers will adore the beachfront Ocean Prana Village hostel.

Check out the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Jemeluk via the map below:

Bunutan

For Balinese massages and spa treatments, try the Om Shanti Spa or the Bamboo Sweet Spa. If you’re looking for a fun place to enjoy a Bintang beer and music, check out Bunutan village’s Peace Bar.

Places to stay in Bunutan village include the Santai Hotel Amed and the Amed Dream Ibus Beach Club hotel, which has a private beach.

Check out the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Bunutan via the map below:

Lipah

Lipah beach has black sand and great snorkelling, though be aware there are jellyfish in the area at certain times of year.

Places to stay here include the beachfront Puri Wirata Dive Resort and Spa, which has two swimming pools, and Waeni’s Sunset View Hotel & Restaurant.

Check out the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Lipah via the map below:

Lean

Lean is a quiet, two-street fishing hamlet, known for its black-sand bay and clear waters. Like the other Amed Bali coastal villages, it has a ‘slower and more rooted‘ rhythm of life and community. For a slice of luxury, stay at the 4-star Life in Amed boutique hotel in Lean village.

Check out the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Lean via the map below:

Selang

The scenic Selang Beach is known for its beautiful coral reef and is another good spot for snorkelling and diving.

The Aquaterrace Amed hotel is Bali’s answer to an Ibiza-style boutique retreat, while the Blue Moon Villas Resort is another popular choice. Meanwhile, the beachfront Good Karma Bungalows is a great place to stay in Selang if you’re on a budget.

Check out the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Selang via the map below:

Banyuning

About 5 miles (8km) southwest of Amed village is the fishing village of Banyuning. Here you can find the sandy Ibus beach and the nearby Japanese Ship Wreck Point, a unique place to snorkel.

Places to stay in Banyuning include the Villa Infinite Horizon, which has an infinity pool, while the nearby Nalini Resort has a private beach area.

Check out the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Banyuning via the map below:

Aas

Amed’s final village of Aas is about total relaxation. Yoga fans will adore the peaceful Meditasi Bungalows & Villas, where you can take classes at the on-site Buddha Sunset Yoga centre and enjoy organic food at their Smiling Buddha restaurant. Alternatively, the Villa Sky Dancer hotel is run by all-female staff and has an outdoor pool.

Check out the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Aas via the map below:

What Amed, Bali is actually like

Life in Amed is super laid-back but it has an entrepreneurial spirit. A group of friendly local guys told us that many of them have several jobs supporting the area’s tourism. Don’t be surprised if you recognise your taxi driver serving dinner at a restaurant in Amed. Or perhaps you’ll spot your scuba diving instructor later than night performing on stage in a reggae band. This means, if you’re looking for things to do in Amed, they’re sure to be able to help you – or they’ll know someone who can.

Beyond the stunning scenery, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay. From relaxing on black sand beaches to experiencing traditional Balinese culture, here are my favourite things to do in Amed.

Walk along the black sand beaches

One of the main things you’ll notice when you’re in Amed is the imposing Mount Agung. This is Bali’s highest volcano and dominates the backdrop. Head to Amed beach for awe-inspiring views of this impressive peak. Look down and you will see there is volcanic black sand under your feet. Sunbathing on this black sand is one of the most popular things to do in Amed during the day.

Other black sand beaches in the area include Lipah Beach, Lean and Jemeluk Beach. At the latter you can enjoy a Bintang beer at a local Amed warung called Sunset Point.

Where to stay in amed bali

Relax in a spa

Take your time and enjoy a relaxing massage in Amed’s spas. They include the Om Shanti Spa and the Bamboo Sweet Spa, both in Bunutan village.

Take a yoga class

If you’re a fan of yoga studios, the best places for yoga in Amed include Apneista Bali in Jemeluk. In this village, there’s also the Ocean Prana freediving and yoga school. In Aas, check out the Blue Earth Village and Buddha Sunset Yoga. 

See the Balinese festivals

While I was in Amed, the locals were preparing for the Galungan festival, one of Bali’s most significant religious ceremonies. I chatted to a guy who was creating a penjor. This is a beautiful decorated bamboo pole arching over the street, laden with gifts and offerings for the spirits.

Extended families from all over the country are reunited for this important event in the Balinese calendar. Our homestay owner Ketut kindly offered to lend us a motorbike and visit her family temple for the festival. We dressed in traditional Balinese sarongs that we’d bought from local shops and they welcomed us in. Here, we watched the women in their colourful lace and sashes carry plentiful offerings of food and flowers.

things to do in Amed Bali

Where to go scuba diving and snorkelling

A 35 minute drive from Amed is Tulamben. This is home to the USAT Liberty (better known as USS Liberty) shipwreck. It’s known as one of the world’s best scuba diving sites. The best thing is it’s even suitable for total beginners.

A Japanese submarine torpedoed this US Army cargo ship during World War II. Its remains originally lay on the beach. When Mount Agung erupted two decades later, the tremors caused the shipwreck to slip into the sea.

As it is still in relatively shallow waters, it’s easily accessible if you’re learning to scuba dive in Amed. There are several dive shops in the area so you have plenty to choose from. If you are looking for somewhere blissful to stay in Tulamben, check out the wonderful Bali Dive Resort & Spa.

My experience diving the Liberty Wreck

It had been one of my ambitions to explore a shipwreck and it was truly a magical experience. The ship’s dark iron skeleton is now home to an abundance of marine life. We even swam inside the wreckage.

After the Liberty wreck, we went to an Amed scuba diving site known as the Tulamben drop-off. This is a sheer wall covered in colourful coral. We were treated to a rare sighting of a school of large silver bumphead fish. They were on their way to rest in the wreck for the evening.

The best snorkelling spots

Amed is renowned for its snorkelling. If you’re at one of Amed’s beaches, why not explore the coastline’s many pretty underwater spots. The unspoiled coral and colourful marine life make this area an underwater paradise, even if you’re a novice snorkeller.

Jemeluk Bay is a well-reputed snorkelling location thanks to its vibrant marine life and its incredible underwater temple and sculptures. Other popular areas to snorkel include Lipah Beach which has many vivid coral formations.

Day trips from Amed

While Amed itself has plenty to keep you occupied, its location on Bali’s east coast makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions. The peaceful water palace of Tirta Gangga is just a short drive away, while the Gili Islands are easily accessible by fast boat from Jemeluk bay. Here are the top day trips from Amed.

A peaceful and pretty water palace

Thirty minutes’ drive from Amed is the Tirta Gangga water palace. This pretty place is a former royal palace in eastern Bali. It’s named after the sacred river Ganges, which flows through India and Bangladesh.

Here, you can wander around the peaceful gardens and fountains. We enjoyed hopping between paving stones, like lily pads, across the main pond.

Check out this top-rated Amed day trip including an unforgettable visit to the Tirta Gangga Water Palace.

things to do in Amed Bali

Take a fast boat to the Gili Islands

Amed is the perfect location to catch a fast boat from Bali to the Gili islands. This is a popular destination loved by travellers for their chilled-out scene, fun parties and famous sea-swing.

Departing from Jemeluk bay, the fast boats operated by Freebird Express leave daily at 9:30am. The fast boat from Amed Bali to Gili Trawangan only takes an hour. This is quicker than other boat routes from Bali to Gili. To Gili Air it’s 1.5 hours. The boat’s final stop is at Lombok, two hours by fast boat from Amed. The price for boat tickets is around €33 one way or €65 return.

You can read my full guide to Gili Trawangan

backpacker gili trawangan

The best restaurants in Amed Bali

Despite being a quiet coastal area, Amed has a surprisingly diverse food scene. From fresh seafood caught that morning to authentic Indonesian cuisine and international dishes, you’ll find plenty of delicious options. I loved simply relaxing in Amed’s restaurants, organic cafes and local warungs. Often you’ll dine to the sounds of live music played by local reggae bands.

Fresh seafood and Indonesian cuisine

Warung Made’s in Jemeluk serves authentic Indonesian food including fresh fish curry. Warung Asri is another excellent choice for fresh seafood. The restaurant is situated right over the water, so you can watch the fishing boats while you eat.

For a more upscale dining experience, Sails Restaurant in Lean village is popular for its outstanding food and magnificent sea views. The seafood here is beautifully presented and the sunset views are incredible.

International cuisine

La Cocina Mexicana in Jemeluk serves authentic Mexican food – they use real corn tortillas and have a homemade dragonfruit hot sauce that is to die for.

Trattoria Amed in Banyuning is the place to go when you’re craving Italian food. Their pizzas are tasty and generously sized.

Cafes and light bites

Small Point Cafe is perfect for breakfast. They have everything you could want for a great price, from smoothie bowls to eggs benedict. For coffee lovers, Wedang Amed has cheap coffee, while Kopi Di Tymor is a cute little place with good coffee and a relaxed atmosphere. The rustic, open air Blue Earth Village in Jemeluk has an eclectic, vegetarian-friendly menu, wonderful views and a beautiful setting. It’s an ideal spot for a healthy lunch or sunset dinner.

Sunset spots

One of the most popular spots to watch the sunset is Sunset Point Amed Bali. This place has an infinity pool, cocktails, food and a DJ. There’s a minimum spend, but it’s worth it for the incredible views and atmosphere. The setting is spectacular, perched on the hillside with panoramic views over the bay.

Other excellent sunset cafes include Joli Best View Cafe, See You Again Cafe, and Blue Earth Village. These cute cafes are on the side of the mountain, giving you amazing views of the sunset and the bay below. I recommend getting to these places early so you can snag the best seat. There’s often live music in the evenings.

Where to stay in amed bali

Nightlife in Amed Bali

Life in Amed is super laid-back, so don’t expect the nightclubs and parties you’ll find in Seminyak or Canggu. However, that doesn’t mean the evenings are boring.

Local reggae bands

Some warungs in Amed will often have a live reggae band playing while you have dinner. However, the best way to find out about the Amed nightlife during your stay is to ask one of the locals. They are well-connected and sure to be able to help you.

One day during our stay, one server we chatted with invited us to the launch party for a new bar in a neighbouring village. We wandered up the road to find locals and tourists dancing all night to the band’s cool reggae grooves. They made us feel really welcome and we had a great night.

Bars and evening spots

Peace Bar in Bunutan village is a fun place to enjoy live music and Bintang beer. The atmosphere is relaxed and you’ll often find both locals and travellers mingling here.

Sunset Point Amed often has a DJ and a lively atmosphere in the evening. Many of the beachfront restaurants also have live music several nights a week.

That said, the nightlife in Amed typically winds down around 11pm or midnight, reflecting the area’s peaceful, early-to-rise fishing village culture.

How to get to Amed, Bali

The most convenient way to go to Amed in east Bali is by taxi. It is 60 miles or almost 100km from Bali’s international airport in Denpasar to Amed. The journey takes about two and a half hours by car. You can avoid hassle at the airport by booking a private transfer in advance.

From Ubud to Amed, it’s about 45 miles (just over 70km) and around 1.5 hours by taxi, depending on traffic. If you’re on a budget, you can take a public bus from Ubud – the journey takes two hours. Many travellers staying in the south of the island, in places like Canggu, rent a scooter to reach Amed. While it’s a 3 hour journey, the scenic coastal route is stunning, though some roads can be steep and winding.

The best time to visit Amed

The best time to stay in Amed is during the dry season from April to October. These months have calmer seas, perfect for diving and snorkelling. The wet season (November to March) can still be enjoyable, with lush green landscapes, though you should expect occasional heavy rainfall.

Weather in Amed Bali is tropical year-round. During the dry season, expect sunny days with temperatures around 27-32°C (81-90°F) and minimal rainfall. The wet season brings afternoon showers and slightly cooler temperatures of 24-29°C (75-84°F). Water temperatures remain fairly constant at 27-29°C (81-84°F) throughout the year, so you won’t need a thick wetsuit for diving.

Peak season runs from July to August and around Christmas and New Year. For the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in April, May, September or October.

Frequently asked questions about Amed Bali

How do I get around Amed?

The best way to get around is by renting a scooter. The villages are spread out over 9 miles (14km), so having your own transport is ideal. Otherwise, ask around and one of the locals will most likely be able to offer you a taxi ride.

Is it better to stay in Amed or Tulamben?

I stayed in Jemeluk village and it was no problem to travel the short drive to Tulamben for the scuba diving. Amed has a livelier atmosphere and a wider range of accommodation, restaurants and activities so it makes a great base. That said, if your priority is the diving then choose Tulamben.

Where to stay in Amed for snorkelling?

Jemeluk Bay is the best area for snorkelling, thanks to its incredible underwater temple sculptures. Lipah Beach also has excellent snorkelling with marine life and coral.

Where to stay in Amed on a budget?

There are plenty of affordable guesthouses in Amed. I loved the Dharma Yoga homestay in Jemeluk village which has friendly hosts and amazing sunrise views. If you prefer a hostel, try the Black Sand Hostel in Amed village.

Can you swim at Amed Beach?

Yes, you can swim at most beaches in Amed, though conditions vary by location and season. Jemeluk Bay is particularly good for swimming as it’s protected from strong currents. Lipah Beach is also safe for swimming, though be aware of jellyfish during certain times of year.

What’s the nightlife like in Amed?

The nightlife in Amed is pretty laid back. In the evenings, you’ll sometimes see live performances from local reggae bands at restaurants. Popular spots include the Peace Bar in Bunutan village.

Final thoughts on where to stay in Amed

Amed feels different from much of Bali in a quiet, understated way. Life here moves slowly, and choosing the right village makes it easy to settle into a simple daily rhythm: days by the sea and evenings that don’t demand much more than sunset.

What gives Amed its character is the balance between its natural highlights and relaxed everyday life. Village routines and small ceremonies remain part of daily life here.

For most travellers, Amed works best as a short, intentional stop. It’s a place to slow down, enjoy what’s in front of you and continue your Bali trip feeling refreshed rather than restless.

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