There is more to Bali than rice terraces, temples, surfing and beach bumming. While Bali is not really a snorkeling destination, some very good snorkeling can be found in Amed on the east coast. Easy access right off the beach, no currents and the fact that it is in Bali are what makes snorkeling in Amed so good.
You can pretty much put your head underwater at any of the beaches in Amed, and the underwater life will be good. Getting a jukung (local outrigger boat) might be a good idea for a fun day out at sea, hopping from one snorkeling site to the next. If that’s what you want to do, ask at your guesthouse to hook you up, or walk down to any beach and talk to the fishermen yourself.
For me, the best way to go snorkeling in Amed though is to grab my mask and fins, jump on the scooter and simply drive out. All along the road, you’ll pass little bays, all of which have decent snorkeling. Stop at any of the warungs, order something to drink, and then go snorkeling right after.
For the best snorkeling you should go to Jemeluk or the Japanese shipwreck. There are many places in Amed renting gear if you don’t have your own.
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Snorkeling at Jemeluk Beach
Jemeluk’s half moon bay is where you’ll find the best snorkeling in Amed. Numerous cafes and warungs line Jemuluk beach, and even if you don’t plan on snorkelling, it makes for a relaxing day. I usually park my scooter at Amed Kedai. This little reggae place right on the beach has good iced coffee, friendly staff and good vibes.
Ask the staff to point in the right direction to find the best snorkeling spot. Basically, look for the buoys towards the right (when facing the water) and swim out that way. The buoys mark the spot of the little underwater temple, and that’s where to good snorkeling really starts.
The coral gets better the farther to the right you go, closer to the small cliff. There is also a large patch of healthy, cabbage coral near the beach next to the cliff. Here I bumped into a big and feisty Titan triggerfish. These triggerfish are quite territorial, especially when guarding a nest. This triggerfish came at me, mouth open and teeth out and would not let me go. It was a little intimidating, to be honest.
Jemeluk has healthy fish life with some bigger fish (looked like mackerel) as you approach the drop-off. Snorkeling at Jemeluk is very enjoyable with decent coral and a variety of colourful fish. This is probably one of the best spots for snorkeling in Bali.
>>> Snorkeling works up an appetite!
Read about the best places to eat in Amed
Snorkeling the Japanese Shipwreck
The wreck of a Japanese ship lies literally a stone’s throw away from the shore. Shipwrecks are normally the exclusive domain of divers, but here in Amed snorkelers get to join in the action.
A small, very missable road sign announces your arrival at the Japanese shipwreck. You’ll need to pay RP20 000 to park your scooter, but this includes a drink and a small bowl of popcorn. Shaded under huge trees, the tables and chairs at this snorkeling site are very welcoming and relaxing, and well worth the entrance fee. There is also a freshwater shower and toilets.
The buoy marks the spot where the wreck is. When there are some waves, don’t be a fool like most others and try to enter the water right in front of the seating area. I’ve sat there chuckling secretly at those as they struggle to get in or out of the water. Walk 20 meters to the right as you face the water and go in there; it’s much easier there. Also, remember to take your flip flops with you and leave them as close to the water as possible for when you return. These black pebbles are like a furnace during the day. Or better, bring some snorkeling booties.
The wreck itself is pretty interesting. Lots of fish and soft coral growing on it. I’ve seen a moray eel here a few times, which I suspect lives somewhere in the wreck
Swimming past the wreck will take you to the drop-off. There is expansive hard coral towards your left (facing the sea) with schools of tiny blue-green fish.
When to Go Snorkeling in Amed?
We visited Amed twice, both times in February which is the rainy season. Being the rainy season, visibility was ok but could have been better. I also came across huge patches of tiny stinging jellyfish. Don’t know if they’re always there.
We were told that the dry season between May and September is the best time to snorkel in Amed. Overall I’m happy with the snorkeling in Amed and will come back here for snorkeling again.