Why Amed, Bali Is the Next Big Thing—And Why You Should Visit Now

Crystal-clear waters. Lush green hills. The kind of sunsets that make you stop everything just to watch. Is this the life you want? If so, you might want to turn your attention to Amed - a quiet coastal stretch on Bali’s eastern tip, that's making waves internationally. International Living recently featured Amed as a rising destination for expats, retirees, and travelers seeking an authentic slice of Bali.

This is big news. When international publications start shining a spotlight on a place, it usually signals a shift. And for Amed, that shift is towards becoming a sought-after alternative to Bali’s more commercialized tourist hubs. But what exactly makes Amed so special? Let’s dive into the details.

Amed: A Hidden Gem No More

Tucked away from the party scenes of Kuta or the wellness retreats of Ubud, Amed is different. It’s a collection of seven fishing villages—Amed, Jemeluk, Bunutan, Lipah, Lean, Selang, and Aas—stretching along 14 kilometers of black volcanic sand beaches. The backdrop? The mighty Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano.

For years, Amed has remained under the radar, mostly known to divers and backpackers who sought out its pristine coral reefs and shipwreck dive sites. But with International Living recognizing its appeal, things are changing. The publication describes Amed as “deeply authentic, with Balinese culture and natural beauty still very much intact.”

Amed’s charm lies in its balance. It offers the beauty of Bali without the overwhelming crowds. Visitors often describe it as how Bali used to be before mass tourism took over. As one traveler puts it,

"Amed is one of those rare places where you can still hear the waves without the sound of traffic and enjoy the view without a sea of umbrellas blocking the horizon."

Why Tourists Are Taking Notice

So what’s drawing attention? Here’s what makes Amed stand out:

• Affordability: Compared to Canggu or Uluwatu, living in Amed is significantly cheaper. Rent, food, and daily expenses stretch much further here. You can find long-term rental villas with ocean views for a fraction of what they would cost in Seminyak or Ubud.
• Authenticity: Unlike the fast-paced commercialized parts of Bali, Amed has managed to retain its traditional village charm. The sight of fishermen bringing in their daily catch at sunrise is still a daily occurrence here.
• Natural Beauty: Snorkeling, diving, and breathtaking ocean views make it a paradise for nature lovers. The coral reefs just off the shore are home to vibrant marine life, making it a dream location for underwater explorers.
• Peace & Quiet: No traffic jams. No loud beach clubs. Just the sound of waves and the occasional rooster. If you’re looking for a place to escape the constant buzz of city life, Amed delivers.

Tourists who visit Amed, like expats who have settled here, frequently talk about how easy it is to slow down and appreciate life. Many describe it as a place where time moves differently—a place where you wake up with the sunrise and let the days unfold naturally.

A Slow-Paced Lifestyle with Modern Comforts

Life in Amed moves at a different rhythm, attracting both travelers and those looking for a long-term escape. It’s not the place for high-energy nightlife or luxury shopping malls, but for those who prefer a more laid-back existence, it’s perfect.

Tourists and long-term visitors here wake up to ocean sunrises, spend afternoons exploring local warungs (small eateries), and end their days with sunset swims. There’s also a growing café culture. International Living highlights that “like the rest of Bali, Amed has embraced the coffee culture, with a wave of trendy new coffee shops offering delicious brews at equally tempting prices.”

Even fitness-conscious residents aren’t left out. Amed recently welcomed its first modern, air-conditioned gym—a small but significant sign of the area’s slow yet steady development. Yoga studios and wellness retreats are also popping up, catering to those who seek a balance of relaxation and health-conscious living.

Housing: What’s Available?

The real estate scene here is still relatively untouched by major developers, meaning there are great deals to be found. Options include:

• Traditional Balinese-style homes with open-air living spaces
• Modern ocean-view villas built for comfort
• Budget-friendly guesthouses perfect for short-term stays before making a long-term move

And unlike the soaring property prices in southern Bali, Amed still offers affordable opportunities for those looking to settle down. A two-bedroom house with a garden and ocean views can be rented for as little as $300–$500 per month.

For those looking to invest, land prices are still reasonable, but that may not last long. With international recognition comes growth, and it won’t be surprising if Amed experiences a real estate boom in the coming years.

What About Daily Necessities?

Despite being somewhat remote, Amed isn’t cut off from modern conveniences.

• Groceries: Solar Luna Supermarket provides a wide selection of Western and local groceries, while smaller shops offer fresh produce at affordable prices.
• Healthcare: Basic medical care is available, but for major treatments, expats typically travel to Denpasar (about three hours away). Many rely on international health insurance and schedule checkups in larger cities when needed.
• Internet & Connectivity: High-speed internet is available, making it possible for remote workers to set up base here. Many digital nomads are beginning to take notice, with coworking spaces emerging as a response to demand.
• Transport: Most locals and expats get around by scooter, but taxi services and private drivers are also an option. Unlike the congested roads of Canggu, traffic here is minimal, making scooter travel safe and enjoyable.

The Future of Amed

With International Living now recognizing Amed’s potential, there’s no doubt that this little-known paradise is on the rise. But the real question is—how long before the secret gets out completely?

Tourism is already subtly increasing. More boutique hotels and eco-resorts are popping up, yet they are being developed with an emphasis on sustainability rather than mass tourism. The locals and expats who love Amed are protective of its charm and hope to maintain a balance between growth and preservation.

For now, it remains one of Bali’s most serene and affordable places to live. And for those dreaming of a life where the ocean is your backyard, the cost of living is manageable, and the community is welcoming, Amed might just be the perfect spot to call home.

As International Living puts it,

“Amed offers something rare: a chance to experience Bali as it was decades ago, without sacrificing the comforts of modern life.”

If you’ve ever considered escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, this might be your sign. Amed is waiting—but maybe not for long.