Among Bali’s many beaches, Amed Beach stands apart. It’s not made of golden sand or surrounded by busy bars — instead, it’s a stretch of quiet, volcanic coastline framed by mountains and the endless blue of the Bali Sea. Located on the island’s northeast coast in Karangasem Regency, Amed Beach is the heart of the fishing and diving region known simply as “Amed.”
If Amed Beach is the soul of East Bali, Jemeluk Bay is its beating heart — a perfect curve of black volcanic sand, turquoise water, and colorful coral reefs just beneath the surface. Located in the quiet coastal village of Amed, Karangasem Regency, this bay represents the best of Bali’s east coast: peaceful mornings, gentle waves, and a deep connection between the ocean and the people who live beside it.
Lipah Beach — Coral Reefs, Calm Waters, and the Japanese Shipwreck
If you follow the coastline east from Amed and Jemeluk, you’ll reach Lipah Beach, a tranquil cove that feels worlds away from the noise of modern Bali. Known for its calm waters, thriving coral reefs, and the mysterious Japanese shipwreck resting just offshore, Lipah is one of East Bali’s most beautiful and peaceful beaches.
Here, life moves at the slow rhythm of the sea — fishermen preparing their boats, divers gliding over coral gardens, and travelers relaxing under palm trees with Mount Agung in the distance.
A Peaceful Bay on the Amed Coast
Lipah Beach sits within a small bay protected by natural headlands, keeping the sea calm even when other parts of the coast grow windy. The sand here is a mix of black and golden volcanic grains, soft underfoot and shimmering in sunlight.
Traditional Balinese fishing boats, called jukung, line the shore like a row of painted wings. Their white hulls and curved outriggers create a postcard-perfect contrast against the dark sand and turquoise sea.
The bay is shallow for a long stretch, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The gentle waves and quiet atmosphere make Lipah especially popular among families, couples, and travelers looking to unwind in nature.
The Japanese Shipwreck
Just 20 to 30 meters from shore lies one of Bali’s most accessible and fascinating dive sites — the Japanese Shipwreck of Lipah Bay.
Believed to be a small World War II patrol vessel, the wreck now rests in 6 to 10 meters of water, its structure broken and scattered but completely transformed into an artificial reef. Over the decades, coral and sponges have covered every inch of the ship, creating a thriving ecosystem.
Today, the wreck is home to a colorful variety of marine life — schools of butterflyfish, lionfish, nudibranchs, and sometimes even octopuses hiding in the shadows. For photographers, it’s a paradise: beams of sunlight filter through the clear water, illuminating the coral-covered hull.
Because of its shallow depth and excellent visibility, the wreck is ideal for both snorkelers and beginner divers. You can swim straight from the beach and find it easily — a surreal experience to float above a relic of history surrounded by tropical fish.
Coral Reefs and Marine Life
Beyond the shipwreck, Lipah Bay is known for its healthy coral gardens. The underwater landscape features hard and soft corals, sea fans, and even small artificial reef structures added to support marine restoration efforts.
You’ll often see:
Clownfish playing among anemones
Parrotfish nibbling at coral
Trumpetfish and moray eels hiding in crevices
Sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water
The bay forms part of the Karangasem Marine Protected Area, established to preserve coral diversity and encourage sustainable tourism. Many dive centers in Amed participate in coral restoration and reef clean-ups, keeping the marine environment vibrant for future generations.
Above the Water — Serenity and Local Charm
Lipah Beach is not just about diving. On land, it’s one of the most peaceful corners of Amed. The coastal road runs close to the beach, lined with family-run guesthouses, yoga studios, and small restaurants serving freshly caught seafood.
Many visitors stay here for days, drawn by the relaxed rhythm of local life. You’ll wake to the sound of waves, eat breakfast with a view of Mount Agung, and watch fishermen push their jukungs into the sea before sunrise.
In the evening, the same boats return as the setting sun paints the sky orange and purple. Locals gather near the shore to chat, mend nets, and play music — moments that capture the authentic heart of Bali.
Snorkeling Tips for Lipah Beach
Bring or rent snorkeling gear directly from the beach. Many small stalls offer affordable rentals.
Swim out along the left side of the bay to find the Japanese shipwreck. It’s easy to spot even without a guide.
The best time for snorkeling is early morning, when the sea is calm and visibility highest.
Always wear reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on or touching coral.
Watch for small currents near the outer edge of the bay, though conditions are usually gentle.
When to Visit
Lipah Beach is beautiful year-round, but the dry season (April–October) offers the calmest seas and clearest water. Rainy months (November–March) bring more waves and slightly reduced visibility but also fewer crowds.
Temperatures remain warm at all times, averaging between 27°C and 32°C. The water is pleasantly warm for swimming, usually around 28°C.
Early mornings and late afternoons are best for photography — when the light enhances the color of the sand and sea, and Mount Agung appears sharply in the background.
What to Do Around Lipah
Jemeluk Viewpoint: A short drive west for one of the best panoramic views in Bali.
Tulamben: Visit the USAT Liberty Shipwreck, only 30 minutes north.
Salt Fields of Purwakerti: Learn how locals still harvest sea salt by hand.
Sunset Dinner: Enjoy grilled mahi-mahi or tuna at a beachfront warung as the day fades.
Yoga by the Sea: Join morning or sunset yoga sessions offered by small retreat centers nearby.
Responsible Tourism and Ocean Protection
Like the rest of Amed, Lipah’s future depends on balance — between tourism and preservation. Visitors are encouraged to support eco-friendly accommodations, minimize plastic use, and respect the underwater world.
Every small act helps keep Lipah’s reefs alive. Joining a community clean-up dive or simply saying no to plastic bottles is part of protecting the environment that makes this place so special.
A Quiet Treasure on Bali’s East Coast
Lipah Beach is where the true spirit of Bali’s ocean comes alive — not in noise or luxury, but in simplicity and peace. It’s a place where fishermen still sail by moonlight, coral grows beneath the waves, and every sunrise feels like the first one.
Whether you come for diving, relaxation, or photography, Lipah offers what travelers often search for but rarely find — a beach where time slows, nature heals, and beauty speaks quietly.
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Banyuning — The Hidden Bay of Amed with Coral Gardens and Quiet Waters
At the far eastern end of the Amed coastline lies Banyuning, a small fishing village that remains one of Bali’s best-kept secrets. It’s quieter than Amed Beach, more secluded than Jemeluk, and every bit as beautiful — a calm bay where turquoise waters meet a reef full of color and life.
Banyuning is the final chapter of the 14-kilometer stretch that makes up the Amed region, a place where travelers come to escape the noise of the south and discover the authentic spirit of coastal Bali.
A Hidden Gem Beyond Lipah
Just a few minutes east of Lipah Beach, the road winds through small hills before opening onto a peaceful shoreline — Banyuning Bay. The beach is narrow and framed by green slopes, with a mixture of black and golden volcanic sand that sparkles in the sun.
Traditional jukung fishing boats rest along the shore, their bright paint faded slightly by salt and time. Behind them, coconut palms and small homestays line the road. There’s no crowd, no loud music — only the sound of waves and the soft hum of the wind through the trees.
Because Banyuning is a bit farther from the main Amed tourist centers, it remains mostly local and serene. Many travelers describe it as “Amed before tourism” — simple, calm, and full of natural charm.
The Japanese Shipwreck — A Window into the Past
Banyuning shares its most famous attraction with Lipah Bay: the Japanese Shipwreck, one of Bali’s easiest and most fascinating snorkeling sites.
Located about 20 meters offshore, this small wreck rests at a depth of 6 to 10 meters. It’s believed to be a Japanese patrol boat from World War II that sank during the 1940s. Over the decades, coral and sponges have covered its surface, transforming it into a thriving artificial reef.
Today, the shipwreck is surrounded by schools of reef fish, including butterflyfish, angelfish, and damselfish. Divers often spot lionfish, octopus, and sometimes even turtles gliding nearby.
Because the wreck is so close to shore and the water is crystal clear, you can snorkel right from the beach and see it easily without needing a boat. It’s an unforgettable experience — swimming above a piece of history alive with marine life.
Coral Reefs and Diving Spots
Beyond the wreck, Banyuning offers a series of coral gardens that extend along the coastline. The reefs here are shallow and full of variety, from branching staghorn corals to large table formations.
Diving and snorkeling conditions are excellent year-round, with visibility often reaching 20 meters. The bay is also home to small artificial reef structures placed by conservation groups to encourage coral growth.
Some of the highlights include:
Banyuning Reef: colorful soft corals and reef fish close to shore.
Ghost Bay: a nearby artificial reef made from submerged structures, now covered with coral and home to juvenile fish.
Muck diving sites: patches of sandy bottom that attract unique macro species — ideal for underwater photography.
Local dive shops offer short boat trips for deeper dives, but most visitors find plenty to explore directly from the beach.
A Quiet Escape
What sets Banyuning apart is its peaceful atmosphere. It’s not a place for nightlife or crowds — it’s a place to relax, swim, read, and enjoy the rhythm of coastal life.
In the morning, you’ll see fishermen returning with their catch; in the afternoon, children play along the beach; and by evening, the sky turns golden as the sun sets behind the hills.
The few cafés and warungs here serve simple Balinese food — grilled fish, nasi goreng, and coconut juice — often right at the water’s edge. Many accommodations are small family-run homestays, offering ocean views and genuine hospitality.
If you’re looking for a slower, more personal experience of Bali, Banyuning is where you’ll find it.
Photography and Views
Banyuning Bay offers beautiful light for photography, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. From the rocks at the eastern end of the bay, you can capture the curve of the shoreline, the blue water, and the boats resting quietly on the sand.
Underwater photographers will love the combination of the Japanese shipwreck and the colorful reef. The clarity of the water makes it easy to take wide-angle shots even with simple equipment.
The nearby hills also offer great viewpoints of the entire coast — perfect for panoramic sunrise photos.
How to Get There
Banyuning lies about 15 minutes east of central Amed by scooter or car. The road is narrow but paved, winding through small coastal villages and offering glimpses of the sea between palm trees.
Most visitors stay in Amed or Lipah and make a short trip here for snorkeling or a quiet day by the water. However, there are a few small guesthouses directly in Banyuning for those who want to spend the night surrounded by peace.
Conservation and the Future of the Bay
Like other parts of Amed, Banyuning’s reef suffered some damage decades ago from overfishing and coral mining. But the community has since worked hard to protect and restore it. The area is now part of the Karangasem Marine Protected Area, where fishing is limited and reef conservation projects are active.
Local dive operators organize reef clean-ups, coral planting, and education programs for schoolchildren — ensuring that Banyuning remains healthy for years to come. Visitors can help by following simple eco-guidelines: use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching corals, and support local conservation efforts.
Why Banyuning Is Special
Banyuning may not appear in every Bali travel brochure, but that’s what makes it so appealing. It’s a place where the water is clear, the people are kind, and time seems to move at its own pace.
Whether you come to snorkel over a World War II wreck, photograph the fishing boats, or simply sit and listen to the sea, Banyuning offers the quiet beauty that defines the Amed coast.
It’s a reminder that Bali still holds places untouched by mass tourism — where nature, history, and culture flow together in perfect harmony.
Amed — The Hidden Gem of East Bali
Tucked away on Bali’s remote northeast coast, Amed is a place where the island slows down and the sea takes center stage. Stretching for about 14 kilometers along the rugged shoreline of Karangasem Regency, Amed isn’t just one village — it’s a string of peaceful seaside communities: Amed, Jemeluk, Bunutan, Lipah, Lehan, Selang, Banyuning, Aas, and Kusambi. Together they form one of the most scenic and culturally rich regions in Bali, far removed from the crowds of Kuta or Seminyak.
Here, volcanic mountains rise dramatically behind black-sand beaches, fishing boats float on crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs thrive beneath the surface. It’s a place where sunrise replaces nightlife, and the rhythm of daily life still follows the sea.
The Black-Sand Coastline
The beaches of Amed are famous for their volcanic black sand, a reminder of the island’s fiery origins. Mount Agung, Bali’s largest and most sacred volcano, towers above the region and shapes both the land and its spirit.
Each beach along the Amed coast has its own charm.
Amed Beach itself is lined with colorful jukung (traditional outrigger boats) and small cafés serving fresh grilled fish.
Jemeluk Bay offers one of the island’s best natural snorkeling spots, with coral gardens starting just a few meters from shore.
Lipah Beach and Banyuning are known for calm waters and small dive sites — including a Japanese shipwreck now covered in vibrant corals.
Whether you swim, snorkel, or simply sit with your feet in the warm sand, the coastline feels alive with both beauty and tradition.
Diving and the Underwater World
Amed is one of Bali’s top diving destinations — and part of the Coral Triangle, the richest marine ecosystem on Earth. The currents that flow between the Pacific and Indian Oceans meet here, bringing up deep-sea nutrients that sustain an incredible variety of marine life.
Among the most popular dive sites are:
The Pyramids: artificial reef structures near Amed Beach that attract schools of fish and turtles.
The Coral Wall: on the east side of Jemeluk Bay, covered with sponges and sea fans.
Batu Belah and Seraya: known for macro photography and rare underwater species.
Ghost Bay: an artificial reef built where coral was once destroyed, now full of new life.
Just a short drive north lies Tulamben, home to the world-famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck, a must-see for divers.
Many local dive centers — often community-run — are also involved in coral restoration projects, helping rebuild reefs damaged decades ago. This mix of natural wonder and environmental care makes diving here both exciting and meaningful.
Culture and Daily Life
Life in Amed still revolves around the ocean. Before tourism arrived, the villages thrived on salt farming and fishing. At dawn, fishermen push their brightly painted boats into the sea, and by late morning, they return with fresh catch to be sold in small coastal markets.
You can still find families producing traditional sea salt by hand — a centuries-old process that uses coconut trunks to collect seawater and dry it under the tropical sun. Watching this craft is a reminder that Amed’s connection to nature runs deep.
In the hills above, small temples and shrines overlook the ocean, offering a quiet place to reflect as incense drifts on the wind. Festivals are frequent, and visitors are often welcomed with smiles and open arms.
Yoga, Wellness, and Simplicity
Amed has become a quiet refuge for yoga teachers, divers, artists, and digital nomads who come seeking calm. You’ll find intimate yoga studios overlooking the sea, eco-lodges surrounded by palm groves, and small cafés serving organic Balinese food.
This isn’t the Bali of nightclubs and resorts — it’s the Bali of slow mornings, natural rhythms, and gentle connection with the land and people.
Environmental Awareness
The growth of tourism has brought both opportunity and challenge. In the 1980s, coral reefs in front of Amed village were damaged by overfishing and reef-mining for construction materials. But since the early 2000s, local organizations have worked to restore marine habitats and establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) along the coast.
Today, Amed is part of the Karangasem Bali Marine Conservation Zone, a project that protects coral reefs, sea turtles, and reef fish populations. Locals now lead clean-up dives, plant coral fragments, and educate visitors on responsible tourism.
When you visit, it’s easy to join these efforts — by choosing eco-friendly operators, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting the reefs.
Things to See and Do Around Amed
1. Jemeluk Viewpoint
A short drive or hike above the bay reveals one of Bali’s most photogenic views — the curve of Jemeluk Bay with Mount Agung rising behind it. The best time to visit is sunrise, when the volcano glows pink and the sea mirrors the sky.
2. Salt Fields of Purwakerti
Visit the traditional salt makers and watch how ocean water becomes pure white salt crystals through age-old methods. You can even buy small packages as local souvenirs.
3. Pura Lempuyang Temple
One of Bali’s oldest and holiest temples, often called the “Gates of Heaven.” Located about an hour away, it offers breathtaking views and deep cultural meaning.
4. Diving and Snorkeling Trips
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the waters off Amed and Tulamben promise unforgettable encounters — coral gardens, sea turtles, reef sharks, and endless schools of fish.
5. Sunset in Lipah
End your day at Lipah Beach, where the sun sets behind the mountains and the water turns gold. The peaceful atmosphere sums up what makes Amed special.
Why Travelers Fall in Love with Amed
It’s not just the scenery or the diving. It’s the feeling of peace and authenticity that still defines this part of Bali. You can spend days without hearing traffic, watching fishermen sail at dawn and children play along the shore. The mountains watch quietly from behind, and every night the stars appear brighter than anywhere else on the island.
Amed is a place for those who want to reconnect — with nature, with themselves, and with a simpler way of living.
