The east side of Bali is so underrated — there’s so much to see, and it’s far calmer than the chaos of Canggu or other busier parts of the island. The north has a similar vibe: slower-paced and refreshingly free of crowds.

Many travelers choose to stay in Amed for scuba diving, but I spent a few nights in a cozy tent near Amlapura at a place called Camani Glamping. The couple who owned the campsite were absolutely lovely — I spent hours chatting with them, and they were so kind and attentive throughout my stay. If I were to go back though, I would stay in Amed, there are alot more cafes and amenities and you are near the beach.

Bali really is a special place. I remember walking out one morning to watch the sunrise, surrounded by endless greenery. Everything felt so alive and pure — lush and vibrant, yet never dirty or overrun. It’s the kind of natural beauty that stays with you.

Getting Here and Around

Take a Grab from DPS Airport and know that it is going to be a long journey, there is so much traffic

In East Bali, it’s best to rent a motor scooter, you can arrange with your accommodation.

Top tourist sites and if they are worth going to

Pura Lempuyang Madya

Skip. It’s extremely touristy — even when I arrived right at opening, the line was already over two hours long. The famous “reflection” photo is actually done with a mirror, not water! It’s definitely a social media trap. I didn’t bother waiting; someone was kind enough to AirDrop me one of their photos instead.

Tirta Gangga

Go. Despite the crowds, it’s absolutely worth visiting. The water palace is beautiful and serene, with koi ponds, stone bridges, and fountains that make for a lovely walk and great photos.

Taman Ujung

Go. Peaceful, spacious, and beautifully landscaped — it’s a perfect spot for a quiet stroll through royal gardens with ocean views.

Sang Hyang Ambu Temple

Skip. It’s quite a drive up, and when I reached the top, the temple looked abandoned. Not worth the effort unless you’re nearby and curious.

Candidasa Lotus Lagoon

Skip (unless you’re in the area). The lotus pond is pretty, but small. If you’re already in Candidasa, it’s a quick and pleasant stop, but not worth going out of your way for.

Rice Terraces Viewpoint

Go. It was so beautiful and there are little cafes where you can soak in the view.

Bukit Cinta Pangi

Go. It was a little hard to find but it was stunning!

**Best Views for Sunset in Amed**

**Blue Earth Village:** They have drop in yoga classes and you could do teacher training here. Truly such a vibe!
**Sunset Point:** Most popular, but it’s a bit touristy
**See You Again Cafe:** Very nice view and good food

Top Things to Do:

Go to the beach and snorkel/scuba dive
- The beaches around Amed aren’t the most impressive — they’re great for relaxing, but not exactly the postcard-perfect kind. I visited Lipah and Selang Beach as well, and they were pretty similar. The only truly beautiful beach in the area is Pasir Putih, with its soft white sand and greenish blue water.
Watch the Sunset
- Many people go to Sunset Point, but it’s a bit touristy, I liked Blue Earth Village
- See You Again Cafe has a nice view as well
Temple Hop
- Tirta Gangga
- Taman Ujung

Favorite Cafes:

Apneista Freediving and Yoga School
- They have a really nice space to sit and chill and view of the beach

Rimba Cafe
- The food was INCREDIBLE and the aesthetic is gorgeous! I highly recommend
La Cocina Mexicana
- I couldn’t bring myself to get Mexican food in Asia, but this is highly rated
Surf Point Cafe & Restaurant
- Highly rated and recommended by a local to me

Indonesia: East Bali