Things to do in Kuta
The stretch of white sand at Kuta Beach is the typical image people have of Kuta. But Kuta is a vibrant holiday destination beyond its surfing and beach culture. Just a short distance from Ngurah Rai International Airport, Kuta is a district that never sleeps in Bali. The beat from the street bars and clubs on Legian Street, the rows of sunbeds and umbrellas by the beach, and the five-star beachfront hotels and resorts are the pulse and life of Kuta.
Best Kuta Accommodations
The diversity of accommodation has made Kuta a popular destination. From the five-star beachfront resorts and hotels to the budget hostels hidden in the back road, Kuta is heaven when it comes to places to stay.
Best Restaurants in Kuta
In Kuta, it’s easy to find the most casual seafood restaurants and cafes by the beach, as well as the ones serving international and Asian food. And let’s not start talking about the nightlife since Kuta has rows of nightclubs and bars on Legian Street that will make your night out a blast!
What to Do in Kuta
As the first developed tourist area in Bali, Kuta offers various things to do but still has many areas to explore. Waterbom Bali is perfect for a day trip if you’re traveling with your little ones. Beachwalk and Discovery Shopping Malls, with their beachfront locations, are more than just about shopping. You can also participate in releasing turtles to the sea in Kuta. And don’t miss the chance to apply for that surfing class!
1. Take Surfing Lessons
Surfing may as well be included as part of the Balinese culture. Since the 1970s, Kuta has become the centre of surf culture in Bali. It’s only fitting to get your hands on surfing opportunities in Kuta. The sandy bottom at Kuta Beach makes it one of the beginner-friendly surfing spots in Bali. As long as you find a trustworthy surf school around Kuta, they will guide you every step of the way. It’s certainly not for everyone, but taking surfing lessons has a fun and adventurous side. After all, you’ve already made a trip to the surfing mecca of the world, so why not take advantage of it?
2. Relax at Kuta Beach
One of the best things to do in Kuta is relaxing by the beach. Rent one of the sunbeds and the umbrellas, put on sunscreen, take out your book, and enjoy the breeze. A bottle of Bintang or young coconut will complete your relaxing day at Kuta Beach. If you want, you can also get a massage from the local ladies offering their services. But ask for the price beforehand and get ready to haggle!
3. Experience Waterbom Bali
Going to Waterbom Bali is surely a fun way to spend a day. Waterbom has many rides and attractions you can explore. It is perfect for all ages, from Pipeline to Tailspin and Boomerang. Don’t worry about the safety standard, as some of the rides and attractions have age and weight restrictions. There are also cafés, pool bars and a food court to recharge your energy. You can purchase a Single-Day or Two-Days Pass at Waterbom to ensure you can have a fun-filled day and try all the rides.
4. Visit the Ground Zero Memorial
On 12 October 2002, two bombs exploded in two locations in Kuta: Paddy’s Pub and Sari Club. Considered to be “the worst act of terror in the history of Indonesia,” the attacks killed 202 civilians, including 38 Indonesians and 88 Australians. The effect of this attack was devastating for Bali, long known as a peaceful destination. The Bali Bombing Memorial was erected on the former location of Paddy’s Pub to honour the victims and as a reminder of this incident. The names of the victims are written on the marble plaque.
5. Shop at Kuta Square
Kuta Square is any shopaholic’s biggest dream. Stores are lined up in this small street leading up to Kuta Beach. You can find clothes from famous surf brands, casual clothing and souvenirs at Kuta Square. Plus, once you’re done shopping, there are a few restaurants where you can refuel your energy. Kuta Square also has several spas and convenience stores, further cementing its status as the perfect shopping street in Kuta.
6. Enjoy Legian Beach
Legian Beach shares the same coastline as the Kuta and Seminyak beaches. Further down the west of Kuta, it’s another popular spot to relax. Although Legian doesn’t have a strong surf culture, you can swim here and rent sunbeds and umbrellas. Legian Beach is also home to some famous beach bars in Bali. The beach is always busy during sunset, and you can see people doing various activities.
7. Participate in Sea Turtle Conservation
One of the unique things to do in Kuta is releasing turtle hatchlings. Bali Sea Turtle Society is a sea turtle conservation centre that helps to conserve the turtle population on Bali island. To participate in releasing the sea turtles, you need to check their social media pages, as it doesn’t happen every day. When it happens, you can go there to pick up your ticket for free, though donation is accepted. Then, you come back in the afternoon to release the turtle. The nesting season is from March to September, while the hatching season happens from April to October.
8. Explore Beachwalk Shopping Mall
If you want a fixed price in Kuta, Beachwalk Shopping Mall is one of the safest choices. Beachwalk is the biggest shopping mall in Kuta. The beachfront location ensures that you can shop and go to the beach simultaneously. The mall is home to many famous brands, such as H&M, Sephora, and Mango, as well as restaurants and cafés. Besides finding world-renowned brands in the mall, it also has a garden deck where you can see the sunset! Even if you’re only window shopping, Beachwalk is still a great place to explore in Kuta.
9. Visit the Catholic Church of St. Francis Xavier
Visiting a church may not always be among the key things to do in Kuta. Opportunities to find a church in Bali are few and far between, as you’ll encounter more temples than churches. But the Church of St. Francis Xavier feels like an anomaly. Surrounded by entertainment and tourist attractions, the church is an oasis. Though mainly for praying, you can take a look or sit in the park alongside and soak in the ambience. If you want to attend a Sunday mass, there is one at 6 PM in the English language.
10. Taste Local Flavours at Kuta Night Market
There is no better place to check out the local flavours in Kuta than Kuta Night Market. With a food court concept, you can find many Indonesian food vendors to try. This place is buzzing with people during dinner and has a thick smell of Indonesian spices. Eating at Kuta Night Market is not only about getting a cheap meal but also about learning local customs. The night market is a nice break from having to eat at restaurants. Nothing is better than having a good meal at an affordable price in an open area like Kuta Night Market.
