Amed’s black sand beaches and crystal-clear waters make it one of Bali’s most underrated coastal destinations. While the island’s southern beaches get all the attention, this quiet fishing village on the northeast coast offers something special – genuine tranquility without the crowds. The traditional outrigger boats dotting the shoreline and Mount Agung’s dramatic backdrop create a scene that feels worlds away from the chaos of Seminyak or Kuta. If you’re craving a proper escape where the only sounds are gentle waves and distant temple bells, Amed delivers in spades.
What makes Amed truly special isn’t just its peaceful vibe – it’s the incredible snorkeling and diving right off the beach. The coral reefs here are some of Bali’s most pristine, and you can literally walk into the water from your hotel and find yourself swimming with tropical fish within minutes. These charming beachfront properties we’ve selected embrace this laid-back atmosphere while offering the comfort and service you’d expect from quality accommodations.
This isn’t just another beachfront hotel – Baliku Dive Resort is a proper sanctuary for those who want to disconnect from the world. The secluded location means you’ll have stretches of black sand beach practically to yourself, while the infinity pool seems to merge seamlessly with the ocean horizon. The staff here genuinely care about your experience, going out of their way to arrange everything from diving trips to traditional massages.
The rooms and villas are spacious and thoughtfully designed, each with private terraces that frame stunning ocean views. But honestly, the food alone is worth the stay – guests consistently rave about the restaurant serving some of the best cuisine they’ve had in Bali, mixing traditional Balinese flavors with international dishes. It’s the kind of place where you can spend days writing, diving, or simply watching the sunrise over Mount Agung.
What We Love
Life in Amed perfectly captures the essence of its name – this is what life should be like. The traditional Balinese bungalows and villas are scattered throughout lush tropical gardens, creating an intimate village-like atmosphere right on the beach. You can literally roll out of bed, grab your snorkel gear, and be exploring vibrant coral reefs within minutes. The property feels like a hidden oasis where time moves at a different pace.
What sets this place apart is its holistic approach to hospitality. Morning yoga sessions overlooking the ocean, healthy meals with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, and staff who treat you like family rather than just another guest. The restaurant consistently impresses with fresh, flavorful dishes that fuel your adventures without weighing you down. It’s the kind of place that makes you question why you live anywhere else.
What We Love
Mejore Beach Hotel proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to wake up steps from the ocean in Amed. This modern property sits right in the heart of the village, giving you easy access to local warungs, dive shops, and that authentic Amed vibe. The rooftop bar is the real star here – panoramic views of Mount Agung and the bay make it the perfect spot for sunset drinks after a day of exploring the underwater world.
The hotel keeps things simple but effective with two swimming pools, clean modern rooms, and staff who know the area inside and out. While some rooms are on the smaller side and could use more natural light, the spotless conditions and prime beachfront location more than make up for any minor shortcomings. It’s ideal for travelers who want to spend their time outside exploring rather than lounging in their room.
What We Love
Blue Moon Villas Resort offers a more intimate villa experience right on Selang Beach, one of Amed’s quieter stretches of coastline. The property focuses on providing private, spacious accommodations where you can truly unwind away from the crowds. Each villa feels like your own private retreat, with direct beach access and the kind of tranquility that makes you forget about the outside world entirely.
The resort maintains high standards of cleanliness throughout the property, creating a fresh and comfortable environment for guests. While some of the amenities might need updates and service can be inconsistent, the location and peaceful atmosphere make it appealing for travelers seeking a more secluded Amed experience. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize privacy and don’t mind being a bit further from the main village action.
What We Love
Final Thoughts
Amed might not have the flashy beach clubs or Instagram-famous infinity pools, but that’s exactly why it’s so special. These beachfront hotels offer something increasingly rare – genuine peace and connection with Bali’s natural beauty. Whether you choose the luxury of Baliku Dive Resort or the budget-friendly charm of Mejore Beach Hotel, you’ll wake up each morning to views that remind you why you fell in love with travel in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time to visit Amed for a quiet beach getaway?
The dry season from April to October offers the best weather for swimming and snorkeling, with calm seas and minimal rainfall. However, Amed remains relatively quiet year-round compared to southern Bali, so you’ll find peace even during peak season. The shoulder months of April-May and September-October provide the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Can I snorkel directly from these beachfront hotels?
Absolutely! That’s one of Amed’s biggest advantages – most of these hotels offer direct access to excellent snorkeling spots. The coral reefs start just meters from shore, and you’ll see colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and pristine coral gardens. Many hotels provide complimentary snorkel gear or rent equipment at reasonable prices.
How far is Amed from other popular Bali destinations?
Amed is about 2.5-3 hours from Ngurah Rai Airport and Ubud, making it feel wonderfully remote without being completely inaccessible. The journey involves winding mountain roads with spectacular scenery, so plan for a longer travel day. Most hotels can arrange airport transfers, or you can rent a scooter/car to explore the eastern part of Bali at your own pace.