The large town of Kuta, one of the main tourist attractions on the stunning Indonesian island of Bali, boasts some of the best tourist amenities on the island.
It is a former fishing village that was the first town on Bali to welcome substantial tourist developments with hotels, shops, restaurants, banks and hospitals all built in Kuta. Its long sandy beach attracts surfers and bathers alike and it has a whole range of accommodation types to choose from.
Unfortunately, Kuta was a victim of the Bali bombings in 2002 and 2005, which saw tourism decrease for a few years. Thankfully, the island is proving popular once more and many Australians flock to Kuta Beach to enjoy the huge rolling waves that it is so famous for.
The nightlife in Kuta is vibrant and some of the liveliest around and there are many bars, clubs and restaurants that cater for all budgets and tastes. Kuta is close to Jimbaran and the capital Denpasar and the airport is also nearby. It is known for being the number one site for sunsets and there are many shops and market stalls to explore.
A permanent memorial has been erected at the site of the first terrorist attack where the Paddy’s Pub once stood. It is made from intricately carved stone with a marble plaque that has the name of every victim of the blast in 2002. It is well looked after and it is lit up at night in memory of those who perished.
Backpackers are a common sight in Kuta and as the town is a transportation hub for the rest of the island, many people will start their journey from here. The clubs and bars are a major tourist draw in Kuta, a far cry from its former status as a quiet fishing village.
Getting There & Away
Jakarta is home to the largest international airport in Indonesia and is only a short flight of 1 hour, 20 minutes from Bali. The international airport on Bali is located about five minutes’ drive from the center of Kuta; the capital, Denpasar, is only a 15-minute drive from Kuta.
Things to Do
Kuta Attractions
- Kuta Beach
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Is a surfers’ paradise and locals and tourists flock to the shores at sunset.
- Bali Bombing Memorial
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Located down poppies gang ii, it was not built as an attraction but as a memorial for those who were murdered in 2002 but many people visit the spot and it is important to be quiet and respectful if you want to see it.
- Hard Rock Hotel and Restaurant
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A big attraction in the town is the restaurant at the hard rock hotel as it has good views across the beach.
- Beach temple
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A small temple on kuta beach that is a great spot for people watching.
Side trips from Kuta
- Denpasar
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The capital of bali is only a short drive from kuta and has many things to see and do.