Unique Dive Sites: Amed’s Underwater Treasures

Amed is home to some of Bali’s most unique and accessible dive sites. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, Amed has something for everyone.

• USS Liberty Wreck: One of the most famous dive sites in the area, the USS Liberty Wreck is located just off the coast of Tulamben, a short distance from Amed. This wreck, which was sunk during World War II, now sits in crystal-clear water, becoming an artificial reef teeming with marine life. With vibrant coral growth covering the wreck, it provides a thrilling dive experience. Divers can explore the wreckage, swim through its structure, and spot a wide variety of fish, including turtles, barracudas, and groupers.

• Japanese Shipwreck: Located near Amed’s coast, the Japanese Shipwreck is a shallow dive site that is home to beautiful coral gardens. This wreck is a bit smaller and less explored than the USS Liberty, but it is just as breathtaking. The site is covered with colorful corals, and divers can often see lionfish, nudibranchs, and small reef sharks patrolling the area.

• Coral Gardens: Not far from Tulamben, Amed’s Coral Gardens is a must-visit site for macro photographers and critter lovers. The shallow dive is home to an abundance of vibrant corals, making it perfect for those who enjoy slow, relaxed dives while looking for sea slugs, scorpionfish, and moray eels hiding in the nooks.

• Amed Wall: For more experienced divers, the Amed Wall offers an exciting vertical descent along a sloping reef wall. The wall is covered with vibrant coral and hosts a variety of pelagic species, turtles, and jacks. The dive here offers great visibility and a chance to spot larger marine life that frequents the deeper waters.

Rich Marine Biodiversity: A Diver’s Playground

Amed offers an impressive array of marine life, from tiny critters to larger fish. Divers are likely to encounter sea turtles, manta rays, mola mola (sunfish), and schools of tropical fish. The area is also a hotspot for underwater macro life—perfect for those who love seeking out elusive creatures like nudibranchs, frogfish, and leaf scorpionfish.

The coral reefs around Amed are some of the healthiest in Bali, with a fantastic range of hard and soft corals that form a lush, colorful underwater landscape. The marine biodiversity is a major draw for underwater photographers, who flock to Amed to capture the vibrancy of the underwater world.

Best Time to Dive: Optimal Conditions for Underwater Exploration

Amed offers excellent diving conditions year-round, thanks to its calm, warm waters. However, the best time to visit is during Bali’s dry season, from April to November, when visibility is at its peak, often reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). The dry season also brings calmer waters, which is ideal for both experienced divers and those new to the sport.

During the wet season (December to March), the weather can be more unpredictable, but diving conditions remain relatively good, especially compared to other parts of Bali. Rainfall is usually brief, and Amed’s location often shelters it from harsher weather conditions, making it a reliable dive destination even in the off-season.

Amed Above Water: Culture and Scenic Exploration

While Amed’s underwater world steals the show, the village itself is a hidden gem on the surface as well. Amed is known for its peaceful atmosphere, laid-back vibe, and stunning landscapes, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of diving. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunrises over the water, mountain views, and explore traditional Balinese fishing villages.

The nearby Mount Agung, Bali’s highest peak, offers a breathtaking backdrop to the area, and many visitors enjoy the scenic drive along Amed’s coastline, which features dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches. For those interested in local culture, Amed is home to several temples and quaint coastal towns where you can enjoy the slower pace of life in Bali.

Amed: Bali’s Best-Kept Secret for Divers

While Amed may not have the same level of tourist traffic as some of Bali’s more famous dive spots, its serene atmosphere and incredible dive sites make it a top destination for divers who want to escape the crowds. With its healthy coral reefs, abundant marine life, and varied dive sites, Amed offers one of the best dive experiences in Bali—one that combines natural beauty with the thrill of underwater exploration. Whether you’re exploring the historical wrecks, swimming alongside turtles, or simply relaxing along the coastline, Amed is truly a diver’s paradise.

If you’re planning your next diving trip to Bali, make sure to add Amed to your itinerary—it’s an underwater treasure waiting to be discovered!