OnBali

10 Best Things to Do in Kuta

By Catur Herawanto
9 min read
Jul 18, 2024
Date of Last Update: Oct 30, 2024

Among the many things to do in Kuta, you may ask, "But what should I do in Kuta, exactly?" Kuta, Bali is one of the most popular areas on the island and has been synonymous with Bali's tourist attractions for decades. Before the development in Bali was as massive as today, many of Bali's activities centred around the Kuta attractions, which were the most developed compared to other areas.

In this Kuta travel guide, I will give you some ideas about the best things to do in Kuta: from releasing hatchlings to enjoying the ocean, and from trying horse riding to having some fun at Waterbom. There are other options for sightseeing in Kuta besides the beach, even though watching the sunset at Kuta Beach is one of the best things to do on your Kuta trip.

Let's dive into detail about activities in Kuta for your unforgettable holiday in Bali.

  • All You Need to Know About Kuta

    There are various things to do in Bali, whether visiting the beach clubs, seeing the temples, going for a Balinese massage, or sauntering through some of the shopping malls like the Beachwalk Shopping Centre or Discovery Shopping Mall. Kuta is no different, as many of the attractions are located in the heart of Kuta. Although Kuta is a popular destination for partying and surfing, there are other places to visit and things to see to make your time in Kuta enjoyable.

    Vacationer under an umbrella on the beach in Kuta

    🚕 Transport in Kuta

    Finding transport in Kuta is easy due to its strategic location to other destinations like Canggu, Seminyak, and Jimbaran. Many taxi services are available and you can order online taxi apps like Grab and Gojek to take you there. But the best way to find out some of the fantastic things about Kuta is by walking.

    Kuta is best visited during the day if you're looking for activities related to the beach or waterpark. However, if you're looking for nightlife, then Kuta is one of Bali's best locations for partying and clubbing. Whichever you choose, Kuta caters to different crowds and has (almost) everything for everyone.

    Scooters and cars on the urban road in Kuta

    Best Attractions in Kuta

    As one of Bali's most popular tourist destinations, Kuta promises many attractions and activities, whether you're travelling solo or with family. One of Kuta's best characteristics is its versatility, and you can find the best things to do if you know where to look. Plus, you don't need to look elsewhere as we've got you covered.

    People are catching the waves on the beach in Kuta
  • 1. Kuta Beach

    If you think of Bali, chances are the first thing that you imagine is its beaches, and Bali is famous for many stunning beaches across the island. One of the most popular beaches in Bali is Kuta Beach. With the white sandy beach and mellow waves, Kuta Beach is the perfect place if you want to sunbathe or if you're someone who wants to try surfing for the first time.

    Kuta Beach - the signboard

    Kuta Beach is one of the most popular places in Bali, and locals and tourists can enjoy both the scenery and activities there. Whether it's surfing, lazying on the sun lounges, or simply seeing the sunset, Kuta is a good place for all of these.

    Kuta Beach - sun loungers with umbrella

    Detailed Info About Kuta Beach:

    💸 Entrance fee at Kuta Beach: Free

    👣 How difficult is it to go to Kuta Beach?: Easy

    🕛 Opening hours of Kuta Beach: 24 Hours

  • 2. Surfing in Kuta

    Surfing in Bali is one activity that attracts people from all over the world. Uluwatu, in the south of Kuta, is known to have some world-class surfing spots. Even so, if you're a beginner or want to learn how to navigate the waves in Bali, surfing in Kuta is your best choice. There are many surf schools in Kuta where you can gain knowledge about surfing, whether you're a novice or have surfed before.

    The man is holding the surfboard on the beach in Kuta

    Odysseys Surf School

    Odysseys Surf School has been in the surfing school industry for over 20 years and, with so many years of experience, you'll be in safe hands, especially if you're a beginner. They have certified instructors and different surf classes you can take, from group lessons to private ones.

    The group of students from Odysseys Surf School

    Detailed Info About Odysseys Surf School:

    💸 Average price / per class at Odysseys Surf School: US $35

    📍 Location: Jl. Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361

    ✍🏽 Booking/Info about Odysseys Surf School: Odysseys Surf School

    ☎️ Phone number: +6281-7550-021

    UP2U Surf School Bali

    UP2U Surf School showcases a blend of safety and experience. With over 40 years of experience and knowledge about surfing across the continents, UP2U Surf School is perfect if you've just started. They have different packages, including the five-day surf lesson, in which they will give you all the useful information about types of waves, how to read surf reports, tide charts, and other key aspects.

    Surfers with UP2U Surf School label on the surfboards.

    Detailed Info About UP2U Surf School:

    💸 Average price / per class at UP2U Surf School Bali: US $15

    📍 Location: Jl. Pantai Legian, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361

    ✍🏽 Booking/Info about UP2U Surf School Bali: UP2U Surf School Bali

    ☎️ Phone number: +62821-4414-7382

    S Surf School Bali

    S Surf School Bali prides itself on professionalism and the friendly atmosphere it creates. They offer different classes for beginners and intermediate-level surfers, as well as groups, semi-private, and private lessons. If you're planning a trip to Bali and looking for a reliable surf school, S Surf School can be one of your options.

    Surfers with S Surf School label on the shirts.

    Detailed Info About S Surf School Bali:

    💸 Average price / per class at S Surf School Bali: US $15

    📍 Location: Jl. Pantai Legian, Legian, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361

    ✍🏽 Booking/Info about S Surf School Bali: S Surf School Bali

    ☎️ Phone number: +62813-6742-1173

    Indonesia is home to some incredible surfing spots, including those in Bali. Kuta, particularly, is one of the most beginner-friendly areas in which to learn about surfing.

  • 3. Bali Reverse Bungy

    With 5GX Bali Reverse Bungy, you know what to expect. It's the perfect activity if you're looking for the best thing to test your adrenaline and if you're being extremely adventurous in Kuta. It's a fun activity to enjoy with your friends and there's no need to worry about safety, as every equipment component is built and maintained through a computer. They adhere to international safety standards and ensure that everything is safe.

    The room of Bali Reverse Bungy with places to sit

    The 5GX Bali Reverse Bungy is one of the few things in Bali that you can only get in Kuta. If you make a trip to Kuta and want to try an extreme slingshot ride, you should definitely try it!

    The attraction of Bali Reverse Bungy

    Detailed Info About Bali Reverse Bungy:

    💸 5GX Bali Reverse Bungy average price: US $45

    🕒 5GX Bali Reverse Bungy opening hours: 10.30 AM ‒ 2.30 AM

    📲 5GX Bali reverse Bungy phone number: +62819-9973-3399

  • 4. Sea Turtle Conservation Center

    Kuta Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center is a project from the Bali Sea Turtle Society designed to protect the endangered species of sea turtles. One of the family attractions in Kuta, and an educational one at that, is the release of hatchlings into the ocean. They usually open around 5 PM, so it's better to arrive there before the opening if you want to experience one of the unique sights of your Bali trip.

    Turtle near the sea on Kuta beach

    As only a number of hatchlings can be released, the earlier you come, the bigger the chance for you to release them. The donation goes to protecting the sea turtles as the organisation raises awareness across Bali about this environmental objective.

    Turtle in the water from Sea Turtle Conservation Center

    Detailed Info About Sea Turtle Conservation Center:

    💸 Sea Turtle Conservation Center average price: By donation

    🕒 Sea Turtle Conservation Center opening hours: 5 PM ‒ 9 PM

    📲 Sea Turtle Conservation Center phone number: +62819-1679-3120

  • 5. Beachwalk Shopping Center

    Beachwall Shopping Center is undoubtedly one of the best shopping malls in Bali. Located right opposite Kuta Beach, this mall has everything you're looking for from a modern shopping centre: restaurants, cafés, and shops. One of the best things about Beachwalk is the sunset deck on the third floor, where you can sit in the small garden and watch the sunset.

    Beachwalk Shopping Center - the signboard

    If you want to buy clothes, accessories, skincare, and handicrafts, the Beachwalk Shopping Mall has everything. The conveniently located mall is just within walking distance from Kuta Beach and can provide perfect shelter if the sun outside is too hot.

    The stall with food and drinks at Beachwalk Shopping Center

    Detailed Info About Beachwalk Shopping Center:

    💸 Beachwalk Shopping Center entrance fee: Free 

    🕒 Beachwalk Shopping Center opening hours: 10 AM ‒ 10 PM

    📲 Beachwalk Shopping Center phone number: (0361) 8464888

  • 6. Waterbom Bali

    One of the most fun activities with kids in Bali is certainly spending a day at the Waterbom Bali. With many different rides and attractions ranging from mellow to extreme, like Pipeline, Lazy River, Tailspin, and Double Twist, Waterbom Bali is one of the reasons you'll be heading to Kuta for a day trip with your kids. You and your kids will have a lot of fun trying to slide across the attractions at Waterbom Bali.

    Adults with children on water attractions

    Although the beach is quality, heading to Waterbom Bali is definitely an essential activity when you're in Bali because of how fun it is. Plus, you can get your ticket online, making it more convenient than arriving there early.

    The top view of water attactions Waterbom Bali

    Detailed Info About Waterbom:

    💸 Waterbom Bali entrance fee: US $25

    🕒 Waterbom Bali opening hours: 9 AM ‒ 6 PM

    📲 Waterbom Bali phone number: (0361) 755676

  • 7. Splash Water Park Bali

    Are you staying close to Canggu and Seminyak with your family and don't want to drive all the way to Kuta? Worry not, as Splash Water Park Bali, which is located inside FINNS, provides another option. They have many attractions, including different slides and a pool for your kids to enjoy the day.

    Children having fun in Splash Water Park

    What's great about Splash Water Park Bali is the complementary single bed at FINNS, which is included in the entrance fee ticket and without a minimum spend! You'll also have access to Splash Dining, which serves Indonesian and Western cuisine for you to enjoy while taking a break from all the fun activities.

    Three children on the paths of Splash Water Park

    Detailed Info About Splash Water Park:

    💸 Splash Water Park Bali entrance fee: US $25

    🕒 Splash Water Park Bali opening hours: 9 AM ‒ 6 PM

    📲 Splash Water Park Bali phone number: (0361) 8483939

  • 8. Kuta Night Market

    There are several night markets in Kuta, but the one that makes this list is located in Legian, not far from Kuta Beach. You can find various food stalls selling Indonesian, Thai, Chinese, and Western food here, making the night market a perfect destination if you're undecided about what to eat.

    Showcase with the hats on Kuta market

    The Kuta night market is a great place to try some Indonesian delicacies. With a spacious parking lot and an easily found location, it's a lovely night market to visit. If you make a trip to Bali without going to one of its famous night markets, you're clearly missing out!

    Labels with inscriptions at Kuta Night Market

    Detailed Info About Kuta Night Market:

    💸 Kuta Night Market average price: US $2

    🕒 Kuta Night Market opening hours: 9 AM ‒ 11 PM

  • 9. Seafood BBQ at Kedonganan Beach

    Surrounded by stunning waters, it is no surprise that there are many seafood restaurants in Bali, and the seafood is always fresh. But the seafood restaurants along the beach in Jimbaran Bay are where you should go if you want to enjoy delicious seafood with amazing sunset views. You can also spot some planes while taking off or landing since it's close to the Ngurah Rai International Airport.

    Kedonganan Beach - restaurant of seafood on the beach

    The area is popular for getting the freshest seafood, often becoming the stop for dinner after spending the day at the Uluwatu temple, Pandawa Beach, Garuda Wisnu Kencan Park, and the surrounding area. When the weather is good, the sunset views here are unbeatable.

    Seafood dishes in the restaurant on Kedonganan Beach

    Detailed Info About Seafood at Kedonganan:

    💸 Menega Café average price: US $15

    🕒 Menega Café opening hours: 10 AM ‒ 10 PM

    📲 Menega Café phone number: (0361) 705888

  • 10. Horse Riding along Kuta Beach

    Are you looking forward to feeling the sensation of riding a horse along Kuta Beach in the afternoon? If so, then this activity will be one of the things you seek out in Kuta. The best time for this is definitely in the afternoon before the sunset as it is not too hot. Also, you can capture the moment perfectly with the sunset in the background.

    Man is riding the horse along Kuta Beach

    There are some horse riding activities in Bali and, as the operator is open 24 Hours, you can choose between a morning or afternoon ride. The morning may be less crowded, but it doesn't have the stunning background. Nevertheless, whichever time you choose, it will be one of the most unforgettable experiences.

    Paople are diring the horses along Kuta Beach

    Detailed Info About Horse Riding:

    💸 Horse Riding average price: US $40

    🕒 Horse Riding opening hours: 24 Hours

    📲 Horse Riding phone number: +62822-3600-4611

  • Where to Stay in Kuta?

    Kuta accommodations are varied, just like in any other area of Bali. Suppose you are faced with too many options of where to stay in Kuta. In this case, there are many hotels in Kuta that you can choose from, and most of them are located just across the Kuta beach or alongside Jalan Kartika Plaza (close to the Discovery Shopping Malls).

    There are also resorts in Kuta if you're looking for a more relaxed vibe and if you're travelling with your family. Many of these resorts are part of an international hotel chain, so high service is guaranteed.

    If you're more into villas in Kuta, you need to look behind the main road, as they are mostly on the back road and hidden from plain view. Don't be surprised, as most of them will blow you away with their incredible facilities and service.

    Resort with the swimming pool near Kuta Beach

    On the contrary, if you're a budget-conscious traveller and want to prioritise the overall experience in Bali, you can choose from numerous hostels in Kuta, especially in Poppies Lane. The hostels in Kuta are actually part of the reason that Kuta is shaped the way it is now.

    Bedroom in the hotel near Kuta beach
  • Where to Eat in Kuta?

    You don't have to travel to Nusa Dua for some dining experience as there are many restaurants in Kuta that serve delicious food, and various dishes from Japanese, Indonesian, and Western cuisine are available.

    If you're into nightlife, the bars in Kuta are easily reached. There are bars lined up alongside Jalan Legian, where the Bali Bombing Memorial is located. The vibrant nightlife in Kuta is one of the things that makes this area famous worldwide.

    Sometimes though, you just want to go to a simple café and get your coffee. Worry not! There are several cafés in Kuta that are ready to serve you their coffee, whether you want to enjoy it on the spot or want to enjoy it while exploring the streets in Kuta.

    Beautiful restaurant near the pool in Kuta

    With many selections, you'll not be confused or left wondering where to eat in Kuta. The right question to ask is what you want to eat, as Kuta offers a variety of restaurants, and you may get confused with the selections that Kuta has.

    Interior of one the restaurants in Kuta

Expert Opinion about Things to Do in Kuta

What are the best things to do in Kuta? I hope I've answered this question via this Kuta travel guide. If you're looking for Bali activities beside the beach, you can try the slingshot or the water park. Many of the Kuta attractions will cater to different types of visitors in Bali. Kuta is definitely not Ubud, where people go to seek spiritual journeys, or Uluwatu, in South Kuta, where people search for world-class breaks. Instead, what to do in Kuta depends on your preference.

Out of all the Bali tourist attractions in Kuta, these are some of my favourites:

Seafood BBQ at Kedonganan Beach, Sea Turtle Conservation Center, and Waterbom Bali

These three Kuta sightseeing options cover everything, from releasing hatchlings back to the ocean, enjoying the delicious seafood at Kedonganan Beach while seeing the sunset, and having fun at many attractions in one of the biggest water parks in Bali.

I hope that through this article your image of Kuta, which may often be filled with people wearing Bintang t-shirts, or its reputation as a sunset beach, has been enhanced. Kuta is more than this and you can still have the most fun here!

portrait of the writer on Bali
Catur Herawanto
The author of the project ONBALI
77 articles

Hi everyone! My name is Catur, and I was born and raised in Central Java. I moved to Bali in 2011 but left the island in 2016 before returning in 2018. Bali feels more than a home to me, and maybe that’s why my name feels like a premonition. Catur means four, both in the Balinese and Javanese languages. It is spoken like ‘c’ in chess, which is also the meaning of my name in Indonesian.

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