Once a local fishing village, Kuta has since transformed into one of the top tourist destinations in Bali. Whether planning a relaxing island getaway or an action-packed adventure, Kuta has something for everyone. Check out the main Kuta attractions, things to do and places to stay in the ultimate guide to Kuta Beach in Bali.
With long stretches of white sand beach, gentle waves and epic sunsets, it’s no wonder Kuta is one of the most popular beaches in Bali. The famous area offers an array of thrilling watersports, electric nightlife, vibrant markets, and some of the best hotels and resorts in Bali. Kuta’s central location also makes it the perfect base to explore all corners of Bali.
Sunsets in Kuta are so spectacular that the beach is often referred to as ‘Sunset Beach’. The lively atmosphere and endless beach bars make it an ideal location to sip sundowners as the sun sinks into the idyllic Indian Ocean. Find your spot, whether it’s sipping cocktails at a chic rooftop bar or sinking ice cold Bintangs on the beach at a casual Kuta beach bar.
Kuta has risen the ranks to become one of the most popular surfing spots in Bali. Given the length of the beach, the gentle waves and soft sand bottom — it’s no wonder Kuta is a favourite amongst tourists and locals alike. The iconic beach is also home to world-class surf school — Rip Curl School of Surf — where surfers of all levels can learn to ride waves in Bali.
Another top Kuta attraction is the shopping. Whether you love haggling in the vibrant markets, hunting for local arts and crafts, or perusing some of the best designer stores, Kuta is undoubtedly a shopper’s paradise. Find the best Bali bargains, souvenirs, crafts and artwork in the colourful street markets of Kuta. And for something more upmarket, Kuta Beachwalk Shopping Centre is a top shopping destination filled with designer boutiques and an assortment of dining options.
Kuta holiday with the family? Waterbom Park in Kuta provides an all-day family adventure with world-class rides and attractions. The park offers rides that range from mellow to extreme, from shooting down a near vertical drop on the 26m Smashdown 2.0 or floating gently down the Lazy River. Waterbom also features 54 gazebos for a relaxing afternoon in the sun, a food court with tasty Italian, Mexican, Japanese and Indonesian options, and food vendors dotted around the park.
Kuta is notorious for its exciting nightlife with glamorous clubs, laid back beach bars and rooftop terraces. Enjoy a few sundowners and kickstart the night at one of the many beachfront Kuta bars — a favourite amongst surfers.
For an all in one Kuta club experience, the legendary Vi Ai Pi is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Kuta, Vi Ai Pi is a combination of underground bar, sports bar, restaurant and nightclub. LXXY is another Kuta hotspot with a ground floor Bistro and Bar and a second-floor VIP nightclub with some of Bali’s finest DJs spinning the decks.
For a touch of insta-worthy glamour, venture to Kuta Social Club at Mamaka by Ovolo, an exclusive rooftop pool club perched above the palms featuring cabanas, sunloungers, cocktails and gourmet bites, with stunning Kuta views. The Seven Rooftop Bar, Infamy Rooftop Lounge and Skylight Rooftop Bar also offer glamorous spots to relax and soak up the vibrant Kuta atmosphere.
Whether you are a lover of delicious street food or 5-star dining, Kuta restaurants can cater to all needs. Kickstart the day with buttermilk waffles or souffle pancakes at trendy Brunch Club, or take a break from the beach with epic Asian street food classics and handcrafted cocktails at beachfront bar and kitchen Street 32 at Mamaka by Ovolo.
For a taste of the familiar, head to Jamie Oliver Kitchen in Kuta; for something spicy, try the famous Don Juan Mexican Restaurant, or head to Fat Chow for an unforgettable Asian dining experience in the heart of Kuta.
Once you have had your fill of surfing, sun lounging and bar hopping, enjoy a cultural excursion to Vihara Dharmayana Temple. Dating back 200 years, this Old Chinese Buddhist Temple is one of Kuta’s top cultural landmarks, serving as a serene oasis amidst the lively atmosphere of this iconic beach suburb.
The temple, located one kilometre from the bustling main strip, features intricate far Eastern-style architecture, murals, Chinese figurines and relics, and a small moat with turtles.
Kuta isn’t short of incredible places to stay, from beachside backpackers to luxury resorts and boutique hotels.
Our top hotel pick is MAMAKA by Ovolo — a beachfront resort with 5-star perks and a little quirk in a prime Kuta Beach location. This beachside Bali hotel offers contemporary rooms, luxury amenities, not to mention spectacular Indian Ocean views. This one of a kind hotel in Kuta is also home to a glamorous rooftop pool with luxury cabanas, a vibrant cocktail bar and eatery and a range of perks, including superspeed WIFI, free self-service laundry, breakfast and 24hr wellness zone access
In Bali, the ultimate mode of transport is by moped. Hop on your bike and zip through the bustling streets of Kuta or discover other top Bali destinations like Canggu, tranquil Ubud and surfing paradise, Uluwatu. There are plenty of alternatives from taxi services, car hires, and bicycle rentals for the more risk-averse.
