Things to do in Amed: Hidden Gems and Mountain Views
If you’re headed to Bali, Amed is a must-see for all the adventurers out there! Here are some of our top picks for places to eat, swim, and catch the best sunsets.
- Favorite restaurant: Blue Earth
- Favorite Beach: Amed beach
- Favorite Mountain View: Lahangan Sweet
- Best Sunset Viewpoint: Blue Earth
- Best Sunrise Viewpoint: Amed Beach
- Favorite Activity: Driving around the mountain roads
Things to Know Before Traveling to Amed
When I booked an Airbnb in Amed for just $20 a night, I knew it could either be the best or the worst decision of my trip. But wow, it turned out to be amazing! This little village on the northeast side of Bali is one of the island’s best-kept secrets. It feels real here—no touristy gimmicks, just authenticity, gorgeous views, and a piece of local life that’s as chill as it gets.
Sure, it’s more remote than Ubud or Kuta, and there are fewer tourist spots, but that’s what makes it so special. If you want to escape the crowds, soak in the scenery, and just take a breath, Amed is perfect. That being said, there are a few things you should know before you go.
1) Getting Around in Amed
Heads up: Amed isn’t exactly a walkable place. While you can wander through the village, pick up some snacks at the Indomaret, or stroll to the beach, if you want to explore more, you’ll need wheels. If you’re comfortable with scooters, that’s your best bet—but be prepared for hilly, winding roads (and no sidewalks!).
If scooters aren’t your thing, make sure you arrange reliable transportation because taxis or Gojek/Grab can be scarce. And don’t forget a flashlight for nighttime walks—it gets really dark out there!
Learn more about the walkability of Amed from our other post about walkable places in Bali here.
2) Grocery Shopping in Amed
When we planned our stay, I thought we’d be cooking all our meals in our Airbnb (as we’re vegetarians and we didn’t think there’d be many vegetarian options out there)…until we realized there aren’t many grocery stores nearby. You’ll find a few mini-marts with basics, but fresh produce is pretty limited, which meant we ended up dining out more than expected. However, we did discover Blue Earth, a cozy spot up on a hill with vegetarian-friendly options and stunning ocean and mountain views.
Side note: If you’re a fan of sugary drinks, give Jungle Juice a try—it’s weirdly addictive. You’ve been warned.
3) Amed is for the Adventurous Souls
So, if you’re expecting fancy restaurants or bustling nightlife, Amed probably isn’t for you. But if you’re up for a little adventure, you’ll be rewarded with some of Bali’s most breathtaking views. Sure, it’s a bit rugged, but that’s the charm! Embrace the off-the-beaten-path experience, and Amed will steal your heart.
Things to do in Amed
Now that you know more about Amed, let’s get to all the best things to do in the area. While it’s more local and a bit at a distance from most tourist attractions, there’s still quite a lot to do around the North East side of Bali. Let’s get started!
Lahangan Sweet
Hands down, the best view of Bali’s volcanoes. The drive up is half the fun (if you like steep, bumpy roads). I’d recommend hiring a driver or hopping on a bus since the roads can be a bit much for scooters. When you’re there, though, the view is totally worth it.
Once you reach the top, it’s just you, nature, and some of the most breathtaking views Bali has to offer. Honestly, photos don’t do it justice—you’ve got to see it for yourself.
Tirta Gangga
This stunning water palace is about 30 minutes from Amed. It’s absolutely beautiful! Don’t miss out on the giant koi ponds, cute stepping stones, and gardens. The real highlight is the stepping stones that crisscross the ponds—you can literally walk over the water like you’re in some kind of board game.
Overall, it’s a magical experience, and the photo ops are endless. Whether you’re feeding the fish or just taking in the beauty of the temple, Tirta Gangga is a must-visit. The serene atmosphere here is perfect for unwinding, and it’s one of those places that makes you stop and appreciate Bali’s natural beauty.
Taman Ujung
If you’re headed to Tirta Gangga, add this stop to your list—it’s just down the road. The architecture is gorgeous, and you get a view of both the mountains and the ocean. It’s a little more spacious and laid-back than Tirta Gangga, but both are must-sees.
Amed Beach
This beach is the heart and soul of Amed, and it’s unlike any other in Bali. The first thing you’ll notice is the black volcanic sand, which gives the beach a unique and striking look.
It’s not a busy beach, so you can expect a peaceful, laid-back vibe. You’ll likely spot a few locals with their fishing boats, going about their day, and some friendly street dogs hanging around. It’s the perfect spot to relax, listen to the waves, and enjoy the mountain backdrop.
The best time to visit Amed Beach is sunrise—the light reflecting off the water while the sun creeps up over the horizon is pure magic. You’ll feel like you have the entire place to yourself, and it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Blue Earth Village
If there’s one place you shouldn’t miss for dinner, it’s here. It’s up on a hill so you’ll be treated to a jaw-dropping sunset with gorgeous ocean and mountain views. The food’s delicious, but honestly, the view steals the show. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Final Thoughts
Amed may be a bit off the beaten path, but that’s exactly why it’s so special. If you’re up for some adventure, scenic views, and authentic Bali experiences, then Amed should definitely be on your travel list. Just be prepared for a little discomfort (no grocery stores, lots of hills, and remote mountain roads), but trust me—it’s worth it!
Maeve & Kart
Ram ram!
We’re Maeve & Kart – an introverted American girl with a love for letters, flowers, and chai on one side, and an introverted extrovert nature enthusiast Indian boy with a sweet tooth on the other.
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Maeve & Kart
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We are Maeve and Kart – a long distance married couple from America and India.
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