Exploring the East Coast of Bali

Exploring Bali’s East Coast: Where Adventure Meets Authenticity

By Fenna | Photos & Words

A Different Bali Awaits

When you think of Bali, what comes to mind? Canggu’s surf scene, Ubud’s rice terraces, or perhaps the Instagrammed infinity pools of Seminyak? But there’s a whole other side to the Island of the Gods, one that whispers rather than shouts, where tradition, adventure, and wild nature intertwine. Welcome to Bali’s East Coast—my new favorite escape, and perhaps soon, yours too.

From Tulamben to Sidemen: A Route Less Traveled

As a Dutch traveler, I’m always drawn to places that blend natural beauty with cultural authenticity. The East Coast of Bali offers exactly that—untamed landscapes, age-old villages, and none of the crowds. My journey began at dawn in Amed, the fishing village that’s steadily winning the hearts of divers and dreamers alike.

Amed: Salt, Snorkels & Sunrise

Picture this: Early morning, the sky painted in pastels, and the silhouette of Gunung Agung—a sacred volcano—rising dramatically in the distance. Fishermen launch their jukung boats as I wander along the black sand beach, camera in hand, capturing moments as delicate as the morning light.

Amed is famous for its salt farms, where local women in conical hats still harvest sea salt using centuries-old techniques. It’s a ritual as mesmerizing as any ceremony. And beneath the waves? Coral gardens await, just meters from the shore. Grab your snorkel and you’ll find yourself swimming with neon parrotfish and, if you’re lucky, a graceful sea turtle or two.

Practical Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the coastline at your own pace. The narrow, winding roads offer stunning ocean views and hidden warungs (local eateries) where you can savor fresh ikan bakar (grilled fish) with sambal that’ll wake up your Dutch taste buds!

Tulamben: Diving Into History

A short ride north brings you to Tulamben, home to Bali’s most famous dive site: the USAT Liberty shipwreck. Sunk by a Japanese torpedo in WWII and later nudged closer to shore by the eruption of Mount Agung, the wreck now teems with marine life. Even if you’re a beginner, you can dive or snorkel here—the ship rests just 30 meters from the shore.

Dutch Touch: I couldn’t help but notice how the dive shops here echo the gezelligheid (cosiness) of a Dutch café: relaxed, welcoming, and eager to share stories. After my dive, I sipped strong Bali coffee with fellow travelers, swapping tips and tales beneath the shade of frangipani trees.

Sidemen: Bali’s Green Heart

Heading inland, the landscape shifts. Welcome to Sidemen—a valley that feels like Bali’s answer to Tuscany, but with rice terraces instead of vineyards and the mystical presence of Agung looming above. Here, the rhythm is slow and the air sweet with clove and frangipani.

I stayed at a family-run guesthouse, where the owner, Pak Ketut, taught me how to weave offerings from coconut leaves—an art form that connects everyday life with the divine in Balinese Hinduism. As the sun set, I cycled through emerald paddies, waving at children and listening to the distant sounds of gamelan music.

Travel Tip: Sidemen is ideal for hiking, cycling, and connecting with local artisans. Don’t miss the chance to join a batik or traditional weaving workshop—perfect for hands-on travelers (and a unique souvenir to bring back to Amsterdam or Rotterdam!).

Tenganan: Time Travel in a Bali Aga Village

No East Bali adventure would be complete without visiting Tenganan, one of the island’s oldest Bali Aga (pre-Hindu) villages. Strolling through its stone pathways, I felt as if I’d stepped into another era. The residents live by strict customs, crafting the famous double ikat textiles—a technique so intricate, it rivals the patience required to bike through Dutch headwinds.

As I watched a woman deftly tie threads, she smiled and explained how every pattern tells a story, passed down for generations. It reminded me of the Dutch appreciation for craftsmanship, whether in Delft pottery or Haarlem’s lace.

Insider Insight: Tenganan is also famous for its unique pandanus leaf battles during the annual Mekare-kare festival—a spectacle of ritual, adrenaline, and community spirit.

Why East Bali Should Be on Your Radar

If you, like me, crave the thrill of discovery and the comfort of genuine connection, the East Coast is Bali at its most raw and rewarding. It’s a place to put away your phone, embrace the unknown, and let the island’s energy guide you. Whether you’re chasing sunrises in Amed, diving into history in Tulamben, or weaving your own path in Sidemen, East Bali promises adventures—and memories—that linger long after you’ve returned home.

Fenna’s East Bali Essentials

• Getting There: Rent a scooter or hire a driver from Denpasar (2-3 hours). Roads are winding but scenic.
• Best Time to Visit: April–October for dry, sunny days.
• Don’t Miss: Sunrise in Amed, USAT Liberty wreck, Sidemen valley hikes, Tenganan village.
• Cultural Tip: Dress modestly and ask before taking photos, especially in villages.
• Packing Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a good camera, and an open mind.

Tot ziens from Bali’s wild side!
—Fenna

P.S. Want to see more East Bali magic? Check out my photo gallery below for a visual taste of my journey!