Amed Sunset: Where to Watch, When to Go and What to Expect
If you’re planning a trip to the northeast coast, the Amed sunset deserves a spot on your list. It’s quieter than Bali’s famous west-coast sunsets, and it’s a different kind of show. We’re PADI instructors based here, and after a morning of diving, a sunset on the beach is how most of our students end the day.
How the Amed Sunset Is Different
Amed faces east, so the sun doesn’t drop into the sea here. It sets behind the hills and Mount Agung inland. You don’t get the classic “sun touching the horizon” shot, but you get something nice in return:
- Warm golden light on the black sand and colourful jukung fishing boats
- The volcano turning to a dark silhouette against an orange sky
- Pink and purple colours reflecting over the water after the sun is gone
- Far fewer people than the west coast
On a clear evening you can also see the sea glowing and, sometimes, Lombok across the strait.
Best Spots to Watch the Amed Sunset
- Jemeluk Bay: the easiest choice. Sit on the beach or at a seafront warung, with boats on the sand and the reef just in front of you.
- Lipah Beach: a wide, calmer stretch of black sand with plenty of space to yourself.
- Bunutan: a quiet, local-feeling corner of the coast, good if you want to avoid the crowds.
- The hill viewpoints above Jemeluk: a higher view over the bays, worth the short climb for photos.
What Time Is the Amed Sunset?
Bali sits close to the equator, so sunset stays fairly steady all year, usually between about 5:45 and 6:20 pm. Because the sun goes behind the hills, the light fades a bit earlier than the official time. Aim to arrive 45 minutes early and stay about 20 minutes after, when the sky colours peak.
Best Time of Year for an Amed Sunset
The dry season, roughly April to October, usually gives clearer skies and better views of Mount Agung. In the wetter months, clouds can hide the volcano, but you still often get a good evening glow between showers. Check the sky around mid-afternoon and decide then.
Plan Your Day: Dive in the Morning, Watch the Sunset in the Evening
Morning is usually the best time to dive in Amed. The sea is calm and the visibility is good, which also keeps beginners relaxed. That leaves your afternoon and evening free for the beach.
Interested in diving while you’re here? Our small groups are usually 1 instructor to 2 students, never more than 4, and we teach at your own pace. See our PADI Discover Scuba Diving and PADI Open Water Diver course, or read our guide to scuba diving in Amed.
Tips for Enjoying the Amed Sunset
- Arrive early and pick your spot before the light changes
- Bring a light layer, since it can cool off after dark
- Carry a small torch or use your phone light for the walk back
- Order dinner at a beachfront warung and watch the show from your table
- Take care on scooters after dark, as roads can be dim and uneven
- Keep your camera ready for the colour after the sun has gone, not only before
Amed Sunset FAQ
Can you see the sun set over the sea in Amed?
Not usually. Amed faces east, so the sun sets behind the hills and Mount Agung. The colours reflect on the sea afterwards.
What is the best place to watch the Amed sunset?
Jemeluk Bay is the easiest and most popular. Lipah Beach and Bunutan are quieter.
Is Amed good for sunrise too?
Yes. Because Amed faces east, sunrise over the water is the highlight for many visitors.
What time should I arrive?
About 45 minutes before the listed sunset time.
Can I dive and watch the sunset on the same day?
Yes. Dive in the morning, rest in the afternoon and watch the sunset in the evening.
Book Your Amed Trip With Us
Want to see Amed from below the surface as well as from the beach? Get in touch and we’ll help you plan your dives around your days here.
Ecodive Bali in conjunction with My PADI IDC Asia and Course Director Martin Slisans is proud to announce the successful completion of our fourth PADI IDC (Instructor Development Course) held in Amed from Nov. 14 – 30, 2017. All ten candidates passed the Instructor Examination (I.E.) conducted by PADI Regional Manager Paul Tanner from Dec. 1 – 2 and are now PADI Open Water Scuba Instructors. Well done all!
