Amed & East Bali

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AMED is the name given to a 15km stretch of coast in beautiful East Bali, in the Karangasem region. In reality it is just one of the first villages, which has now given its name to the whole stretch of beaches. The coast is made up of several sheltered shingle or sandy bays separated by rocky outcrops, which give you great views down towards each bay. It is about 100 km, a little over two hours by car, from the airport and 20 km from Amlapura, the regional capital. If you visit Bali and like it peaceful and laid back Amed is for you.

Amed is very picturesque and low key compared to other tourist spots in Bali. It is an ideal place to get away from it all or for a romantic break. It is also perfect for diving and snorkeling. The reefs offer a wealth of tropical marine life and the waters are crystal clear much of the time. You can snorkel safely off the beaches and the reefs are right there, no need for a boat, although you might want to take one to a different beach. Most beaches offer safe entry to the water even at the lowest tides when you are right on the reef, although you may need to pick your spot carefully if you don't want coral cuts. The coral reefs found in this area draw visitors from all over the world. Always check with locals about currents,. which are generally not a problem, but may be in some locations.

Tourism is relatively new to this part of Bali. Farming and fishing and saltpanning are the traditional industries and fishing is still a major activity for many locals. You will see many jukung (local outriger boats) under sail on the the rising tide a wonderful sigh are there are so many of them. This not a place to find many attractions or places of interest, so all the betrter for chilling out.

As you enter Amed you will see salt being made by evaporation of sea water right on the beach near the road. Jemeluk bay has a good dive center there called Ecodive it has good snorkeling. Bunutan is quieter and hotels are more upmarket. Next along the coast is is Anda Amed Resort, Puri Wirata, Wawa Wewe II. Travelling on you come to Lipah with Coral View and Hidden Paradise. Easy snorkeling here with a nice sandy beach and sandy entry in the beach centre at low tide with coral to both sides. Safe for kids to swim here. Mid priced hotels dominate here and it is one of the more lively villages, if you can call it lively, but there is live music at Wawa Wewe restaurant some nights. The next bay is at Lean. A sandy beach with many fishing boats and just one small and lovely resort "Life in Amed". Selang beach is next. Good Karma bungalows occupy the whole of the beach front. The snorkeling is excellent here, but it is not easy to get in or out of the water at low tide when the snorkeling is at its best. There is one more lovely sandy beach before you get to Banyuning with Reincarnasi bungalows for the budget traveller. There is a small Japanese shipwreck here. It is close to the shore and an easy snorkel. Then on to Aas and Meditasi bungalows for a truly tranquil stay.

There are not so many restaurants or warungs along this coast but, all hotels have restaurants open to non residents. Warung Gede in Lipah doubles as an art gallery and there is an extensive, authentic Balinese and Western menu. There is jewelry and gifts for sale here and there, but Amed is not the place to go for shopping. Neither is it the place to go for nightlife. However, if you want to get away from the bustle of South Bali, this is the place to be. You can go on a fishing trip, sailing, explore the coral reefs, walk in the hills or just languish on a peaceful tropical beach. Then follow it up with good or simple food and glass or two of arak (careful!!), wine or beer and bed before midnight; Wonderful!

Tourist Map of Bali