One of Bali’s most lively tourist spots, Kuta is also the Indonesian island’s best-known surf destination that’s home to scenic Sunset Beach, street food stalls galore, and plenty of nightlife options along Jalan Legian road. A popular stop-off for first-time visitors to the island—as well as partiers and backpackers—there are plenty of things to do in Kuta, from fishing and surfing to spa days and golf experiences. Those looking for some retail therapy will find everything they need at Discovery Mall Bali and Kuta Square, while nature lovers can visit the Bali Sea Turtle Society.
Bali’s weather is balmiest and Kuta’s surf rolls in with metronome precision for the island’s dry season (roughly mid-April to mid-October). The European summer vacation and Australian winter vacation bring heavy traffic and high prices June–August, so May, September, and early October are better choices to skip the crowds. Avoid late November and early December, when newly minted Australian high school graduates descend en masse for Schoolies, a turbo-charged spring break.
Bali has very little organized public transit, and narrow lanes, 1-way systems, and erratic riders make driving in Kuta hell on wheels. Most travelers get around with car charters, metered taxis (Bluebird is trustworthy), or rideshares: Grab and GoJek have both 2-wheel and 4-wheel rides available. This resort is no place to learn to ride a motorbike—only rent one if you’re legally licensed in your home country, have the right International Driving Permit, and are covered by comprehensive insurance.
Watching the sunset is a Bali rite of passage, and rooftop bars are a great way to savor a thermonuclear Indian Ocean sunset with a glass of something cold. More upscale than most venues here, though still affordable by most Western standards, the Social Club is a sleek rooftop club with an Instagrammable infinity pool, a Mediterranean menu, and a healthy selection of drinks. To skip the crowds, head to Kuta Beach (Pantai Kuta) in the early morning for sunrise.
