Kuta Beach Bali

This beach is by far the most popular and whitest beach in Bali, attracting all ages and nationalities. The beach extends from Canggu to the airport in Tuban. It is ideal for those who wish to combine a beach holiday with testing their surfing skills.

Kuta's six-kilometer-long, crescent-shaped surfing beach, protected by a coral reef at its southern end, and long and wide enough for Frisbee contests and soccer games, is famous for its beautiful tropical sunsets.

Kuta first discovered by the surfers and hippies of the 60's has now become known around the world for its magnificent sunsets, surf beach and nightlife. The best waves are the left-handers out on Kuta Reef. The best surfing is from March to July. It is a fantastic place to lay your sarong, frolic in the waves and soak up the warm sun.

Young Kuta cowboys tend to be real possessive about their waves, so make friends with them first. For surfing equipment, head for the dozen or so surf shops on Jalan Bakung Sari and Jalan Legian. Run by veteran surfers, these shops rent and sell surfboards, boogie boards, and such accessories as water-sport wear and tide charts. These guys can also give you current information on the state of the surf. Surfboards can also be rented on the beach. Although Kuta's beach is inviting, watch the treacherous undertow and strong currents. Since 1958, over 100 tourists have drowned here. Always swim within the flag markers on the beach, keep near the crowds and lifeguards, and remain within the reef.

Getting There and Around

A taxi from the airport is available. The problem is the airport taxis won't go into Kuta's small lanes and often dump tourists out to schlep their bags sweating and cursing to their hotels. To avoid this, get out of the taxi on the main street outside the airport, then transfer to a metered blue/yellow taxis. Or walk out the airport gate and hire a 'bemo' to the start of Jalan Pantai Kuta.

Get to Kuta from Denpasar by boarding a 'bemo' from Stasiun Tegal in southern Denpasar. 'Bemo' from Denpasar travel only one direction-Denpasar to Kuta, then to Legian via one-way Jalan Pantai Kuta, then back through Kuta down Jalan Legian before returning to Denpasar. Stay on the 'bemo' until you're closest to your destination.

Getting Away

A thick and endless stream of motorcycles, 'bemo', cars, vans, and buses travel to Legian via the beachfront road, Jalan Pantai Kuta. 'Bemo' from Denpasar's Tegal station stop very briefly at Bemo Corner to let out passengers, then travel down.