Are you needing a break from today’s fast-paced way of living? Is waking up to ocean views something you can never get enough of? Do you want to see “Real Bali”?
Perhaps you should consider spending some time in the east of Bali, and you will return home fully recharged, reloaded, inspired and ready to take on the world. Move away from the south towards Candidasa and Amed, and you get to see and experience the beauty and tranquillity of East Bali – a wondrous world where you are bound to find peace of mind and spend true quality time with loved ones.
East Bali is stunning, and once you have made your way to this raw, sleepy and unspoiled part of the island, you may never want to leave… Still not sure?
Check out these 8 reasons to explore the East of Bali this upcoming Bali Holiday:
1. Tranquillity and breathtaking views
Waking up to the view of the ocean is one thing, but getting to enjoy these views to the backdrop of almighty Mount Agung – the tallest and holiest active volcano in all of Bali – is truly spectacular! Far away from tourist crowds, surrounded by pristine volcanic beaches and rice paddy valleys, you just won’t know what hit you! Book yourself a private villa with ocean views from the bed, garden and living room for the most unforgettable island stay.
Whether you are on a romantic getaway with your soulmate or on a family Bali holiday – you are going to love the East of Bali!
2. An underwater paradise awaits
While the south of Bali is all about surfing (and beach clubs and sunset cocktails), East Bali is more about snorkelling and diving. Better said, East Bali is home to an underwater paradise with magnificent coral gardens and amazing marine life. In most coastal villages, you can go snorkelling straight off the beach. In Tulamben (just a short drive from Amed), you can see a shipwreck that dates back to WWII, and it lies in shallow water just 25 meters from the shore. In Candidasa, you can go on a diving trip to the underwater canyon of Gili Tepekong or other islands to spot whitetip reef sharks, Mola Mola fish and more. Do note that this dive site is only suitable for advanced divers!
3. Numerous cultural landmarks to explore
Some of the most beautiful temples and historical landmarks are located in the east of Bali. Why not go on a day trip to see Tirta Gangga Water Palace, Kertha Gosa Hall of Justice, Goa Lawah “Bat cave” temple and the fairytale-like Lotus Lagoon? These are stunning places to see and they’re great for photo-taking, too!
Photo Credit: https://stayclosetravelfar.com/
4. Outdoor adventures in the east
It is not only about tranquillity here in the east of Bali. Up for some outdoor adventure? You can go on a 15 km river rafting trip on the Telaga Waja River in Karangasem. This is a great way to enjoy the breathtaking sceneries, cool down with a dip in the river and have fun on the river rapids. The rafting tour takes approximately 2,5 hours, and at the end of the trek, you will raft off a 4-meter waterfall.
Really cool!
Furthermore, when Mount Agung is not on the verge of breathing fire, you can consider hiking up to the summit and perhaps even see the sunrise from the top. It is an unforgettable experience with out-of-this-world views but the timing has to be right! In the last 2 years, Mount Agung has been quite active and people are often not allowed near the summit. If this is the case, climbing to the top of Mount Batur in central Bali makes a good alternative. (Mount Batur Sunrise Trips are best done from Ubud).
5. The main gateway to the Gili’s
Not unimportant, the east of Bali is the main gateway to Lombok’s celebrated Gili Islands. You have 2 options: you can take the fast boat from the harbour in Padang Bai (close to Candidasa), or you can take the boat from Amed, which makes the boat ride shorter and also less crowded. The Gili Islands are paradise-like islands where you can escape the modern world. There is no traffic whatsoever – there are only bicycles and horsecarts. How amazing and wonderful!
6. Gorgeous villas at affordable prices
Moving away from Seminyak and the south means prices of villas will drop. In Candidasa, you can stay at the most gorgeous beachfront villas, which won’t cost you a fortune. One reason alone to head over to the east of Bali, I would say! Find the best villas in East Bali here :
View our Sanur Villas to rent
View our Candidasa Villas to rent
7. Loveable Candidasa
Candidasa is a charming little tourist town, still sleepy, laidback, and small, yet it is a great place to go for shopping and dining. You can find unique island souvenirs made by local artists here at the shopping stalls along the roadside. Vincent’s is a great place for delicious Western cuisine and amazing jazz bands. Warung Padang Kecag is where to score delicious local food, and Lezat is a great beachfront restaurant for a romantic sunset dinner. Around Candidasa, there are some hidden virgin white sand beaches to explore, as well. Beach lovers, come see!
Also read: Candidasa Travel and Accommodation Guide
8. Sleepy Amed
Amed is a sleepy village in the far east of Bali Island, and it covers quite a large area. The stunning black sand beach is overshadowed by Mount Agung and it is one of the most beautiful places in Bali to recharge and reload. Go snorkelling in Jemeluk Bay, drive along the coastline on a scooter and bring along your camera, eat local food and most of all, take it easy and enjoy the heavenly peaceful atmosphere while it lasts.
Personally, I absolutely love Amed while others may find it too quiet. Go see the traditional salt farmers on the beach and don’t miss out on the yummy food (local and western – everything is tasty!) at Warung Enak. On the beach in Amed, you can enjoy the sunrise and the sunset – prepare to get blown away!
Steven is a die-hard Bali island addict and committed surfie. When he's not writing or taking videos of the latest restaurants or cool places, he's at Echo Beach surfing or riding his scooter around Seminyak, Berawa or Canggu. Steve is part of the Bali Villa Escapes marketing team and has been living in and out of Bali for the last 15 years.
