Bali never ceases to amaze. If you are getting a bit tired of the hustle and bustle of Canggu or Kuta and crave an authentic, serene Balinese vibe with a magical underwater world, Amed is your answer.
Located on the remote eastern coast of the Island of the Gods, Amed is famous for its exotic black sand beaches, majestic views of Mount Agung, and most importantly: its vibrant marine life. You don’t need to be a certified scuba diver to witness its beauty—most of Amed’s best snorkeling spots are easily accessible right from the shoreline!
Here is your ultimate guide to the best snorkeling spots in Amed that will make your Bali holiday unforgettable.
Why is Amed a Snorkeling Mecca in Bali?
Unlike the southern coast of Bali, which is famous for its massive surfing waves, the waters in Amed are generally calm, crystal-clear, and have very mild currents. The combination of black volcanic sand and healthy coral reefs creates a stunning, high-contrast color palette underwater. Plus, renting snorkeling gear here is incredibly budget-friendly!
The 3 Most Epic Snorkeling Spots in Amed
1. Jemeluk Bay – Home to the Underwater Post Office
Jemeluk Bay is the most popular spot in Amed, making it perfect for beginners and families. The water is as warm as a hug and incredibly clear.
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The Main Attraction: Aside from colorful coral gardens and friendly schools of sergeant major fish, you will find unique underwater structures (subos) here, including a mini Balinese temple shrine and a functional underwater post office at a depth of about 3–5 meters. You can even buy waterproof postcards to “mail” from beneath the waves!
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Access: Super easy. Just walk straight into the water from the beach.
2. The Japanese Shipwreck (Banyuning) – History Turned Coral Reef
Want to explore a shipwreck without having to go deep-sea diving? At Banyuning Beach, you can see the legendary Japanese Shipwreck with just a mask and a snorkel!
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The Main Attraction: This World War II Japanese patrol boat rests in very shallow water (ranging from just 2 to 10 meters deep). Today, the entire hull is encrusted with spectacular soft corals, creating a thriving habitat for parrotfish, moorish idols, and even sea turtles if you get lucky.
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Tip: The entry area is quite rocky, so wearing water shoes (booties) is highly recommended when walking into the water.
3. Lipah Beach – A Haven for Healthy Reefs and Macro Life
If you prefer a quieter vibe and want to see coral reefs in pristine condition, head over to Lipah Beach.
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The Main Attraction: Lipah Beach features a vast and healthy fringing reef. The water is calm with excellent visibility. Here, you can easily spot blue-spotted stingrays resting on the sandy bottom, as well as families of clownfish (Nemo) playing in their anemones.
Essential Tips for Snorkeling in Amed
To ensure your snorkeling adventure is safe, fun, and eco-friendly, keep these tips in mind:
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Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip between April and November (the dry season) for the best underwater visibility. The ideal time to jump in is early morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) when the water is flat-calm and the sun isn’t too harsh yet.
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Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Amed’s reefs are precious. Please protect them by avoiding sunscreens that contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate.
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Don’t Touch the Coral: Maintain good buoyancy and keep your distance so your fins or hands don’t accidentally break the fragile marine ecosystem.
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Gear Rental: If you don’t bring your own gear, local rentals are available all along the beach. You can rent a mask, snorkel, and fins for around IDR 40,000 to IDR 60,000 ($3–$4 USD).
Conclusion: Ready to Pack Your Bags for Amed?
Amed is the true definition of Bali’s “hidden paradise.” Its laid-back coastal village charm, combined with world-class snorkeling accessible right from the beach, makes it an absolute must-add to your Bali itinerary.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your swimsuit, grab an underwater camera, and get ready to be mesmerized by the magic of Amed!
