Route Overview: Airport to Amed

Amed is a string of small fishing villages along Bali’s remote northeast coast, approximately 80-90 kilometers from Ngurah Rai Airport. The journey takes 2.5-3.5 hours depending on traffic, particularly through the Denpasar and Klungkung areas. Once past Candidasa, traffic thins dramatically and the coastal road becomes one of Bali’s most beautiful drives.

The primary route follows: Airport → Sanur bypass → Gianyar → Klungkung → Candidasa → Amlapura → Amed. This eastern coastal road offers increasingly spectacular scenery as you leave the busy south behind — passing through rice terraces, traditional market towns, and eventually the dramatic coastline of East Bali with Mount Agung looming to the north.

For travelers who prefer a more scenic but longer route, the northern approach via Kintamani and Tulamben adds approximately 1 hour but passes through Bali’s volcanic highlands with views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur before descending to the northeast coast.

Why Visit Amed?

Amed is Bali’s premier destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The coral reefs here are among the healthiest in Bali, with visibility regularly exceeding 20 meters. The famous Japanese Shipwreck lies in Amed’s bay at depths of 3-12 meters, making it accessible to snorkelers and beginner divers alike.

Just 30 minutes north, the USS Liberty wreck at Tulamben is Indonesia’s most famous dive site — a WWII cargo ship encrusted with coral and teeming with marine life, accessible directly from the beach at 5-30 meters depth. Most Amed visitors combine both destinations during their stay.

Beyond diving, Amed offers a glimpse of traditional Bali that’s largely vanished from the south. Salt farming using ancient techniques, traditional jukung fishing boats, quiet black sand beaches, and friendly village life create an authentic experience. Accommodation ranges from simple beachfront bungalows (IDR 200,000/night) to boutique dive resorts.

Sightseeing Stops En Route

Kertha Gosa (Klungkung Palace): Historic judicial court with stunning painted ceiling panels depicting karma and Balinese mythology. A brief 20-minute stop approximately 1.5 hours from the airport.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace: Royal bathing palace with ornate fountains, pools, and lush gardens. One of East Bali’s most beautiful sites, located 30 minutes before Amed. Entry: IDR 50,000.

Taman Ujung Water Palace: Massive royal complex overlooking the sea, recently restored and less crowded than Tirta Gangga. Spectacular photo opportunities with mountain and ocean backdrop.

Virgin Beach (Pasir Putih): Hidden white sand beach near Candidasa — a rare find on Bali’s east coast. Perfect for a swimming break during the transfer.

Transfer Pricing

Vehicle	Capacity	IDR	USD	AUD
Toyota Avanza	4 pax	650,000	$41	A$63
Toyota Innova	6 pax	800,000	$50	A$77
Toyota HiAce	12 pax	1,100,000	$69	A$106
Toyota Alphard VIP	4 pax	1,300,000	$81	A$125

One-way transfer, door-to-door. Sightseeing stops included at no extra charge. Combine with Fast Track for the smoothest arrival.

Practical Information for Amed

Amed is remote by Bali standards. ATMs are limited (one BNI ATM in Amed village — bring backup cash). Mobile signal is decent but not always reliable for data-heavy use. Most dive shops accept credit cards but restaurants and small businesses prefer cash. The nearest hospital is in Amlapura (30 minutes away).

The best time to visit Amed for diving is April-November when seas are calmest and visibility peaks. December-March brings occasional rough seas but also lower prices and fewer tourists. Water temperature is 26-29°C year-round, and most sites don’t require a wetsuit.

How long does the transfer from Bali airport to Amed take?

Approximately 2.5-3.5 hours depending on traffic conditions, particularly through the Gianyar-Klungkung corridor. Early morning or afternoon transfers typically experience lighter traffic.

Can I stop at attractions along the way to Amed?

Yes, the route passes several worthwhile attractions including Tirta Gangga Water Palace and Taman Ujung. Stops are included in the transfer price — you only pay attraction entrance fees.

Is Amed suitable for non-divers?

Absolutely. The snorkeling is world-class and accessible from the beach. Beyond water activities, Amed offers sunrise views of Mount Agung, traditional salt farming tours, yoga retreats, and some of Bali’s most peaceful beaches for relaxation.

Should I combine Amed with Tulamben?

Yes — Tulamben is only 30 minutes north of Amed. Most visitors base themselves in Amed and do day trips to Tulamben for the USS Liberty wreck. We can also arrange a separate transfer directly to Tulamben.

Diving and Snorkeling Paradise in Amed

Amed coastline stretches along several kilometers of volcanic black sand beaches, each bay offering different underwater landscapes that collectively make this one of the best shore-diving destinations in Southeast Asia. The Japanese Wreck, a small cargo ship from World War II resting in shallow water just meters from the beach, provides an accessible wreck dive suitable for beginners. The coral gardens at Jemeluk Bay feature dramatic drop-offs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasional reef sharks, while the Wall at Bunutan offers experienced divers deeper exploration opportunities along vertical coral-encrusted cliff faces descending into the blue abyss.

Last updated: March 2026 | Bali Airport VIP — Part of Juara Holding Group