Kuta Travel Tips – Make the Most of Sun, Sand & Surf

Kuta is blessed with a long and wide beach that is lapped by the Indian Ocean. It started out as a surfer's paradise and was a favoured backpacker route in South East Asia. Today Kuta is a popular tourist resort for backpackers, families and a large number of young Australians. Kuta does have its share of undeveloped buildings, bustling crowds & general hustle and bustle of Bali, however there is a relaxing vibe to the place that keeps many visitors coming back. Adding to this is the 5 km stretch of golden sandy beach which many consider to be the best in Bali. The beach is clean in most places and is thought to be safe; the only downside are the touts and hawkers who try their level best to get a purchase from you. Kuta Beach can be quite crowded with dozens of sunbathers and some surfers but heading north along the beach there are more secluded areas. Kuta is also the party capital of Bali; when the sun goes down this resort comes alive with plenty of action that goes on into the wee hours of the morning.

The nearest airport is the Ngurah Rai International Airport also called the Denpasar International Airport. It is located just 15 minutes to the south of Kuta. The general rate for catching a taxi from the airport to Kuta is Rp 50,000; a cheaper option would be to walk the 200m from the airport to the spot that houses metered taxis. You also have a choice of reaching Kuta by bus as the resort is well connected to many parts of Bali by bus. A third option would be by boat; the boats are run by private companies and offer connections to Kuta from Gili Islands, Nusa Lembongan and Lombok. A pick-up and drop-off service is provided by most boat operators from Benoa Harbour which is 20 minutes north east of Kuta.

Choosing a good resort in Bali Kuta is paramount to enjoying your stay. Many of the hotels here offer budget accommodation and do not have the trappings of a luxurious Kuta five star resort. If it is an outdoor pool, beachfront access and spa facilities you hanker for, look for upmarket hotels that will enhance you stay. The Beachwalk shopping precinct situated next to the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is a good choice of location for choosing your Kuta accommodation.

Kuta is often congested with traffic blocks and it is wise to enter the downtown area by foot, which is a mere 1 ½ kms in total. You have the option of driving a hired car, taking a taxi or motorbike. The most trusted taxi services are Bali Taksi and bluebird. Local scooters are always happy to offer you a ride and are a quick mode of transport around the city, if you are up for some action.

Starting with shopping, Kuta is home to a wide number of shopping malls many which are found on the Beachwalk area and Kuta Square. Kuta is also the best place to get yourself cheap Balinese massages. Relishing the gorgeous sunsets of Kuta is another treat to look forward to and if you are not snuggled up on a lounger of your beachfront Kuta hotel, head over to the nearest beach.

There is no shortage of both classy and budget eateries in Kuta. If you are looking forward to an elegant night out there are gourmet restaurants like Maccaroni Club and Ma Joly. Night owls will find a range of bars serving drinks to the accompaniment of diverse entertainment options. Stay safe choose accommodation wisely and enjoy your time in Kuta.