Discover the Hidden Beauty of Amed's Underwater World

Bali is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning landscapes, cultural landmarks, and world-class surfing beaches. While the southern parts of the island, such as Kuta and Seminyak, attract large crowds of tourists, there is a lesser-known gem located on Bali’s northeastern coast that promises tranquility, natural beauty, and some of the best underwater adventures in Indonesia. This hidden paradise is Amed, a small fishing village that has become a haven for snorkelers and divers from around the globe.

Amed offers a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist areas of Bali. With its black sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it’s easy to see why this area has gained a reputation for being one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a beginner looking to try snorkeling for the first time, Amed has something for everyone.

1. Amed: A Snorkeler’s Dream Destination

Amed is a quiet coastal village located about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Bali’s Denpasar airport. The journey takes you through winding roads and past scenic rice terraces, offering glimpses of Bali’s rural life. Upon arriving in Amed, the laid-back atmosphere and unspoiled natural surroundings immediately set it apart from the bustling south of the island.

The village itself is known for its traditional salt farming and fishing, but in recent years, it has also gained fame for its incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities. The underwater world in Amed is as rich and vibrant as its surface, with diverse coral reefs, colorful tropical fish, and fascinating underwater landmarks like shipwrecks and statues.

Unlike some of the more commercialized tourist spots in Bali, Amed maintains a rustic charm, with small boutique hotels, beachside cafes, and local fishing boats known as jukung lining the shore. The area’s serene environment and clear waters make it a prime location for snorkeling, attracting visitors who want to escape the crowds and experience Bali’s natural beauty up close.

2. The Japanese Shipwreck: A Fascinating Underwater Landmark

One of the most famous snorkeling spots in Amed is the Japanese Shipwreck, a sunken vessel from World War II that now rests just offshore near Lipah Beach. This historic wreck, which lies in shallow waters at a depth of around 5 to 12 meters (16 to 40 feet), has become a vibrant coral reef, home to a variety of marine life.

The Japanese Shipwreck is an ideal spot for both snorkelers and divers. Even from the surface, snorkelers can get an excellent view of the wreck, which is covered in colorful corals and sponges. Schools of tropical fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish, frequently swim around the wreck, making it a perfect location for underwater photography. The relatively shallow depth means that even beginners can enjoy this unique site without needing specialized equipment or diving experience.

As you float above the wreck, it’s hard not to be amazed by the contrast between the man-made structure and the thriving marine ecosystem that has claimed it as home. The ship’s metal frame has been softened by the vibrant corals and sea fans that have taken root over the decades, creating an otherworldly underwater scene.

3. Coral Garden and Turtle Point: Vienna Beach’s Pristine Snorkeling Spots

Just a short distance from the Japanese Shipwreck is Vienna Beach, home to two of Amed’s most beloved snorkeling spots: Coral Garden and Turtle Point. These areas are renowned for their clear waters, healthy coral formations, and the chance to swim alongside sea turtles.

Coral Garden is aptly named, as this snorkeling spot offers a stunning array of hard and soft corals, which create a beautiful underwater garden teeming with life. The shallow waters and calm conditions make it a great spot for snorkelers of all skill levels. As you glide over the coral formations, you’ll likely spot a wide variety of marine species, from clownfish hiding among the anemones to larger fish like groupers and barracudas cruising through the reefs.

A short swim from Coral Garden brings you to Turtle Point, one of the highlights of snorkeling in Amed. As the name suggests, this area is frequented by sea turtles, which can often be seen lazily swimming through the water or resting on the sandy bottom. Snorkelers have the rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat, making Turtle Point a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Amed’s marine life.

4. Jemeluk Bay: The Underwater Temple and More

Jemeluk Bay is another iconic snorkeling spot in Amed, known for its calm waters, rich coral gardens, and unique underwater features. Located just a few kilometers from the village, Jemeluk Bay offers one of the most accessible and diverse snorkeling experiences in the area.

One of the most interesting features of Jemeluk Bay is the Underwater Temple, a man-made structure that has been placed on the ocean floor and now serves as an artificial reef. The temple is adorned with statues of gods and goddesses, giving snorkelers the surreal experience of swimming through a submerged cultural monument. Over the years, the statues have become encrusted with corals, making them look like ancient relics lost to the sea.

In addition to the temple, Jemeluk Bay is home to an array of marine life, including colorful fish, nudibranchs, and even occasional reef sharks. The bay’s shallow depth and calm conditions make it perfect for snorkelers of all levels, and the clear water provides excellent visibility for spotting marine creatures and coral formations.

5. Gili Selang and Beyond: Exploring Amed’s Hidden Gems

While the Japanese Shipwreck, Coral Garden, and Jemeluk Bay are among the most popular snorkeling spots in Amed, the area is also home to several lesser-known sites that are well worth exploring. One such spot is Gili Selang, a small islet located just off the coast of Amed. Gili Selang offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience, with its rich biodiversity and vibrant coral reefs.

The waters around Gili Selang are known for their strong currents, which can bring in larger pelagic species like tuna and barracuda. For more experienced snorkelers, this site offers a chance to see a different side of Bali’s marine life, far from the more crowded snorkeling spots.

Another hidden gem is Labuan Reef, located near Amed’s southeastern tip. This pristine reef is home to a variety of marine species, from tiny critters like pygmy seahorses to larger animals like manta rays. The clear waters and healthy coral formations make Labuan Reef an excellent spot for those looking to escape the crowds and experience Bali’s underwater beauty in peace.

6. Snorkeling with Amedia Snorkeling Tour: Your Gateway to Amed’s Underwater World

If you’re ready to explore Amed’s incredible underwater world, Amedia Snorkeling Tour is here to help. We offer guided snorkeling tours to all of the top spots in Amed, including the Japanese Shipwreck, Vienna Beach, Jemeluk Bay, and more. Our experienced guides know the best times to visit each site, ensuring that you have the best possible experience.

At Amedia Snorkeling Tour, we pride ourselves on offering personalized, eco-friendly tours that showcase the beauty of Bali’s marine life while promoting conservation and sustainable tourism. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, our team is dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable snorkeling adventure.

Amed is truly one of Bali’s hidden gems, offering some of the best snorkeling opportunities on the island. From the historic Japanese Shipwreck to the vibrant coral gardens at Vienna Beach, Amed’s underwater world is full of wonder and excitement. Whether you’re swimming with turtles, exploring an underwater temple, or discovering the hidden beauty of Gili Selang, Amed has something to offer every snorkeler.

So why wait? Book a tour with Amedia Snorkeling Tour today and experience the hidden beauty of Amed’s underwater world for yourself!