'''Kuta''' is the largest tourist resort on the island of Bali in Indonesia.

Understand

With a long, broad beach on the Indian Ocean, Kuta was originally discovered by tourists as a surfing mecca. It has long been a stop on the classic backpacking route in Asia. Back in the 80's they used to talk about the three Ks (which were Katmandu in Nepal, Khao San road in Bangkok and Kuta). Today Kuta still attracts large quantities of tourist especially Australians as Bali is on their back doorstep. Due to the continuous influx of tourists Kuta has developed rapidly and is not shy of a few large rather unsightly concreted infrastructures. It can at times be chaotic and overcrowded with congestion. However, the 5km long arcing white sand stretch of Kuta is still arguably the best beach front on Bali. The beach is safe, partially clean, well-maintained, although the vendors remain annoying. The long stretch of sand, is full of sunbathers and holiday makers attracting and although most of the serious surfers have moved on to newer pastures, there are still tons of surfer dudes around. Kuta is far from the fishing village it once was: it is now a Pacific resort and its streets are clogged with traffic, particularly during the peak seasons of July and August. The northern beach resorts of Petitinget (within the greater Seminyak area) and Kerobokan are in many ways more laid back versions of Kuta, less crowded and more suitable for longer stays. Further north still, Canggu and Dalung offer even more tranquility.thumb|left|350px|Kuta Beach front

Kuta is now the party area of Bali and most clubs are lined up on Jl. Legian. Also it's the base for every backpacker who starts his/her tour around Bali as Kuta is the transportation hub for the whole island.

Get in

By plane

The Denpasar Airport (DPS) is in fact directly south of Kuta, just 10 minutes away by taxi. The fare from the airport to Kuta should be around Rp50,000. If you don't have too much luggage you can save a lot of money by walking 200 meters to the right out of the airport area and take a taxi from a company that does not pay the commission to the airport (and therefore is not allowed to enter the airport for picking up customers. They are however allowed to deliver you to the terminal at your departure). For example, the metered Taxi from Bali Taksi (Tel. +62-361-701111) or Bluebird charges just around Rp20,000 for the same trip. You can also catch a bemo for 5,000Rp, although it can be difficult to bargain down from the touristy price of 10,000 Rp.

By taxi

The airport taxi counter is immediately to the left as you emerge from customs outside in the International Arrival Terminal and the Domestic Arrival Terminal. And tourists can buy a ticket from the counter for the sedan taxis, prices are clearly marked on the notice board behind. Metered taxis operate outside the airport just beyond the entrance. Make sure they start the meter before you take off, or agree on a fare before you get in (only the Bluebird Taxis always run on meter but check if its on). If you want to take a bemo, just walk out to the intersection past the entrance and flag one down making the turn north (left) down Jl. Kartika Plaza through Tuban and beyond to Kuta.

By bus

Bemos (public minibuses) still ply the streets of Kuta but they can be hard to recognize. Shuttles from Denpasar's bus stations should be approximately Rp.5,000 per person.

By boat

'''Benoa Harbor''' — not to be confused with Tanjung Benoa — is around 20 min northeast of Kuta, and offers ferries and cruises to the Gili Islands (Lombok), Nusa Lembongan, etc. Most companies operating from here offer free pick-up and drop-off in and around Kuta.

Get Around

Kuta stretches along the beachfront and small lanes lead into the densely populated hotel zone. The infrastructure is totally insufficient for the amount of people holidaying in Kuta and the best option is a combination of walking (in small lanes) and taxi (longer ways e.g. Kuta Gallery) or motorbike.

By Car

Traffic jams are a constant problem especially when the rain starts. It is usually better to park your car just before you reach Kuta area and walk. "Downtown" Kuta is only about 1,5 kilometer length by half kilometer wide. But when stuck in traffic you might spend 30 minutes to travel the 1,5 kilometer. However there are car parking areas in the middle of Kuta (usually Rp5000 for an unlimited stay) including a large one on JL Legian near the top of Poppies II. Kuta Beach has plenty of parking most days.

By Taxi

Taxis are ubiquitous on the streets of Kuta and the best way of getting around especially at night.

Some taxi-drivers charge you more than you should pay, especially when the meter is off. Be sure to bargain before you get in if it is not a metered taxi.

The 'Bluebird group' always uses a meter and will not overcharge you. There is a bit of envy from other taxi-companies because of the good service Bluebird provides. You don't see Bluebird taxis parked at night near the discos in Legian, Seminyak etc, as other companies have exclusive contracts with these businesses. However they can be found by walking up the street. The taxis outside the clubs do not use meters at night, offering a fixed price, although this is negotiable. There are plenty of others if one won't play ball. Usually taxi drivers only have very limited small change so better have small notes to avoid problems.

By Motorbike

For those with a sense of adventure, try hopping on the back of a local's scooter, they are always looking for a passenger, making negotiation easier and more successful. It is also a faster and a cheaper form of transport. You may even choose to rent a scooter for your stay. These can be as little as 30-50,000RP per day, and a lot of fun. Insist on a helmet for the motorcycle, for both your safety, and because police officers have been known to fine (read 'demand bribe') foreigners who do not wear one. The streets just outside Kuta, between major cities such as Uluwatu, Sanur and Denpasar, for example are chaotic and dangerous for inexperienced riders. If you intend to surf make sure you have a proper hanger for your surf board allowing you to safely speed through the narrow streets

See

Surfing, shopping & parties are three main things in Kuta. Interesting sites are a bit rare but the main spots are

  • '''Bali Bombing Memorial''' Jl. Legian cnr. Poppies Gang II @ the former site of bombed old Paddy's and opposite the Sari Club (empty space right to the Billabong Shop). Not designed as an attraction but set-up to commemorate the 202 murdered people on 12th October 2002. Every year on this date there is a ceremony for the mourning of wounded and dead people. Whilst viewing the memorial it is advised to be calm and silent out of respect.
  • '''Hard Rock Hotel & Restaurant''' is definitely a nice place for a photo stop.
  • '''Beach offerings''' In the morning you can see more or less regular Balinese people throwing offerings (especially when Nyepi is coming closer) into the sea. Best spot is the temple right next to the beach (200-250m to the right of Hard Rock Hotel)
  • Do

    ''''''Surfing'''''' Kuta is a well known destination among surfing enthusiasts. A long sandy beach with a lack of dangerous rocks or coral makes the area an attraction for beginners. More advanced surfers can choose from over 30 other surfing breaks within 30 minutes drive from Kuta as listed in the [http://www.indosurf.com.au/ '''Indo Surf and Lingo''']guidebook

  • A 3-day surfing course in an accredited school costs approximately Rp.1,144,976.55 (US$100). [http://www.balilearntosurf.com/ Bali learn to surf] is Bali's first professional surf school, that offers equipment in good condition and premises for surfing introduction in calm water (swimming-pool at the Hard Rock Hotel). The lesson lasts 2.5 hours and the students are offered transfers from/back to their hotels and fresh water. 5-day courses also includes "surfari" to other surfing spots.
  • It is also possible to rent the equipment from locals on the beach for anywhere between Rp20,000 and 80,000 per half day. If you rent from the same guys for a few consecutive days you will almost certainly get a better price. The equipment quality is worse than in surfing-schools. These guys can also give you some basic lessons and look after your stuff while you are in the water, but if it's your first experience of surfing it's safer to use a surf school for your first few days (fully insured) before heading out on your own.
  • There are SPA's by the dozen and as Kuta is the most competitive place in Bali, prices are the lowest. Ensure to shop around and ask for package discounts. Take a look at the place first and don't let yourself be talked into something by touts. A well known Spa, is Villa de Daun @ Jl. Legian. Most Hostels & Hotels have their own SPA's or partners.
  • Enjoy the sunset. In the evenings plenty of people head down to the beach or seaside cafes to watch the wonderful sunset.
  • Learn

    Yoga is very popular and several courses are always on offer. Some Hostels offer courses to learn Bahasa Indonesia.

    Work

    See the Indonesia#Work article for the working permit part. Kuta is all about entertainment and hospitality and Indonesian migrant workers take every job to flee their dire work conditions in the rest of Indonesia. Beside management position in Hotels, teaching English will be the only option where you might actually make some money

    Buy

  • There are a loads of popular surf brand shops such as, Volcom, Rip Curl, Rusty, Billabong and Quiksilver all selling surfing clothes, accessories and other stuff.
  • A lot of brands (such as Levi's, Polo, Rip Curl etc.) have outlets on the island.
  • '''Kuta Square''', Jl. Kartika Plaza. A shopping complex that is popular. There are small shops on both sides of the street and a big '''Matahari''' department store, with a cheap and utterly wacky collection of T-shirts on the 3rd floor.
  • '''Discovery shopping mall''' located across from Waterbom Park on busy Jl. Kartika Plaza in Tuban is a big mall with plenty of shops of international brands and cafes/restaurants with wonderful seaviews.
  • Be aware that if you buy things from people on the beach, you will attract dozens more pushy vendors who'll try to make you feel bad for not buying something from them also at a special "good luck price" or "morning/sunset price". The trick is to not look them in the eye and respond to their offers with a stern "no thank you". Always stay polite!
  • You can buy shirts for Rp.30.000 but you can bargain down to Rp.10.000 just remain persistent.
  • Eat

    Kuta is a center of the package holiday tourist, so you can find any international and local food you desire. Restaurants are usually either dirt cheap or in the mid-range. Exclusive restaurants are rare but some gems stand out of the mass. For true luxury dining head to Jimbaran or Seminyak.

    Budget

    Beach-stall food is delicious, filling and very cheap. These are dotted along Kuta and Legian beach beneath trees or awnings near the road.

  • '''Aromas Cafe''', Legian St. (''near the Rip Curl shop''). Some of the best vegetarian food in Bali.
  • '''Warung Indonesia''' between Poppies 1 and 2 is popular with locals and long-termers and is packed out most nights - a good sign. The best food is not on the menu but stalled out behind a glass display from where you can pick any ingredient you want and are charged Rp1000 - 2000 per ingredient.
  • Mid-range

  • '''Havana Club Bali''', Gg. Poppies I (150m down from Jl. Legian), two Floors, upper floor can be reserved for private parties. Good & tasty Food.
  • '''Made's Warung''', Jl. Pantai Kuta (''near intersection with Jl. Legian''), [http://www.madeswarung.com/]. The first restaurant in Kuta, now on two floors and still has a roaring trade. The menu covers Indonesian, Balinese and Western food. Try the pork ribs with green papaya. Rp. 50,000.
  • '''Yut'z Place''', Jln. Werkudara 521,Legian. Good European food, tasty steaks.
  • Belgian cafe on Jalan Pantai Kuta, not far from the beach offers good coffee and ice-cream.
  • '''Warung MAX''', Jl. Benesari/Poppies II, Mexican Restaurant, mainly western food, cocktails, friendly staff.
  • Splurge

  • '''Macaroni''', Jl. Legian, [http://www.maccaroniclub.com/home.php] near the Bombing memorial. Italian restaurant & lounge with good Italian food and some Asian influences. Excellent service and luscious desserts
  • '''Poppies Restaurant''', Poppies Gang I 100m down from Jl. Legian, one of the oldest and best restaurants in Kuta with good selection of international and Indonesian dishes. Set in a tropical garden that filters out the noise and mayhem of Kuta.
  • Drink

    Kuta is the party center of Bali and has recovered from the bomb blasts in 2002 & 2005. Tourist still flock to the bars where alcohol is served freely and excessively.

    Jl. Legian is the main party area between Poppies Gang I & II. The biggest clubs are:

  • '''Mbargo''', Jl Legian. Air-conditioned, security is tight and they hire models to serve you drinks. Fashion shows at 12.30am Thursday nights.
  • '''Bounty''', Jl Legian. Looks from inside like a torn ship with several different areas + pool tables. Party starts everyday from 10pm but really starts at midnight. Go here to get 'Fish bowls'. The crowd is mostly Australian tourists.
  • '''Paddy's''', Jl Legian & next to Bounty. Irish pub with TV corner (ESPN). Several special parties (e.g. all-inclusive drink & food for 250 kRupees etc.) every week
  • '''Engine Room''', Jl. Legian just across the street from the Bounty is a newer place that is lounge style with the same music as Paddy's.
  • '''Vi Ai Pi''', Jl. Legian cnr. Poppies II, First floor lounge with good view on Jl. Legian and the Bali Bombing Memorial.
  • At the waterfront several places have opened up. The biggest is currently the '''Ocean Beach Club''' with its own pool and VIP area. Most are lounges that offer (sea)food and entertainment afterwards. It's definitely an option to get going and is not so overrun by the Australian hen/stag party groups.

    There are in-numerous smaller bars and clusb etc. in Poppies I & II including very touristy places like Hard Rock Cafe.

    Sleep

    Kuta is the epicenter for backpacker and package tourists who either stay in huge hotels or cheap hostels. Private villas are less frequent as Kuta lacks the space requirement for them as it is the most developed area. Prices completely depend much on the season, so if you want to stay between June-August better book in advance.

    Budget

    There are a lot of cheap guest houses (50-200.000RP PPPN) on Poppies 2, but you can find nicer places on the lanes between Poppies 1 and 2. Always see room first & haggle!

    Mid-range

  • '''Fat Yogi''', Poppies Gang 1
  • '''Masa Inn''' [http://www.masainn.com], Poppies Gang 1. 400 meters of Kuta beach, McDonald's, Hard Rock Cafe and KFC. Rooms are clean, quiet and the staff friendly. Two wonderful pools. Small breakfast. Rp.175,000, single, Rp.250,000 double (they have rooms which can accommodate up to 6 people with good prices). Booking can be made on the website by email. This service works very well and you don't need to send credit card number or payment order.
  • '''Sari Bali Cottages ''', between Poppies 1 and 2 has spacious rooms with double bed, a nice communal swimming pool and basic breakfast from Rp 60,000 for cold water and Rp 80,000 for hot water.
  • '''Simpang Inn Kuta''', Jl. Legian No. 133, +62.361.8528521, [http://www.simpanginnkuta.com]. Spammy bastards in the middle of it all.
  • ''' Sri Ratu''' [http://www.users.bigpond.com/rhinorok/] The hotel is situated behind the All Seasons hotel, 10 minutes walk from the ocean. It consists of one building with rooms, patio and small swimming-pool and a bungalow complex. It is better to choose rooms upstairs far from the noise of the swimming-pool and dining area. The staff are helpful, and any bookings for a stay of more than 10 days will secure you a discount.
  • '''Sorga Cottages''', Sorga Rd. Balinese style hotel which consists of two low rise buildings. Rooms are plain and simple and have slightly tired, old furnishings. This hotel is suitable for budget travelers looking for economical priced, unfussy accommodation.
  • Splurge

  • '''Bali Mandira Hotel''', Jln. Padma, Legian, Kuta. tel: +62-361-751381. Luxurious hotel and spa. Located on the beach front, it offers calm surroundings despite being only a 10 minute walk into the heart of Kuta.
  • '''Hard Rock Hotel''', Jln. Pantai, Banjar Pande Mas, Kuta. tel: +62-361-761869. Worldwide chain, offers nothing but fun. The hotel has the largest pool in Bali which offers an array of activities for anyone and everyone to enjoy. Just across from the beach, the hotel is also in the heart of the tourist filled district. The hotel also has 6 places where you can get food and drinks, whilst being entertained by the hotel's very own radio station! From Rp.1,145,000 (US$100 for a superior room).
  • '''Bale Bali''', Jl. Pendidikan no. 86 Sidakarya Denpasar - Bali, tel +62-361-7400442 [http://www.balebali.com]. This private villa agency provides a wide range of private staffed villas for rental. From budget private villas to luxury villas. All private villas are fully staffed and feature private swimming pools.
  • '''Poppies Bali''' Poppies Gang I [http://www.poppiesbali.com/]. Undisputed flagship in central Kuta with lush tropical garden and just 24 bungalows. Excellent service and very calm. An oasis next to shopping & parties. Book in advance and haggle hard (US$65 single/US$75 double)
  • Contact

    Several internet cafes, wartels and phone shops allow communication with the rest of the world. In Poppies Gang I & II several restaurants and bars also offer free wifi.

    Stay safe

  • In the ocean it is prohibited to swim near the special flags, that are put by beach staff near the places where the currents are very strong. Always swim between the red and yellow flags, where the lifeguards have deemed it safest and will be the most patrolled area.
  • The water in Kuta can be filthy. Stay healthy and try not to swim in the polluted areas.
  • Touts and scammers will constantly look for their chance. Be wary of deals. If its sounds too good to be true then it probably is.
  • At night, drunk driving & big potholes in the streets are a problem, so be careful in the dark.
  • When changing money, either go to an official money changer or ask always for the biggest 100.000 Rp. notes. Otherwise scammers give you small 20.000 Rp notes and make you tired of counting. When asking you for a small notes to match the calculated amount he will try to very quickly take back some money from the bunch of notes. The only official money changer is @ Jl. Legian cnr. Poppies Gang I
  • Cope

    The weather is hot & humid so ensure you drink enough water. At dusk & dawn mosquitos are painful so better have a repellent.

    Get out

    Bali

  • Uluwatu is a temple about 1-1,5 hrs by car. Every evening at 5 pm until 6pm is a ceremony that matches the sunset. Very impressive and a absolute must to get a feeling about the Balinese people
  • Seminyak
  • Sanur
  • Ubud
  • Lovina
  • Nusa Dua
  • Jimbaran
  • Canggu
  • Tanah_Lot an other big temple just north of Seminyak
  • International

  • Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) has many international flights. Departure tax is a hefty Rp 150,000 for those, for domestic flights the fee is 30,000 Rp.