The 20 Best Things To Do In Kuta, Bali

The resort area of Kuta is located in the south of Bali and was one of the island’s first tourist developments. Famous for its nightlife, surfing opportunities, and endless tourist amenities, this place has a lot to offer.

Kuta is certainly one of the most touristy destinations in Bali, but it’s worth a visit. Get ready to watch epic sunsets by the beach, indulge in local street food, and even release baby sea turtles!

In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Kuta as well as helpful information such as where to stay and how to get around. This way, you can really make the most of your visit.

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you buy or book something through these links, we earn a small commission, but at no extra cost to you! If you want to learn more, you can take a look at our privacy policy!

The Best Things To Do In Kuta, Bali

1. Have fun at Waterbom Bali

Visiting Waterbom Bali is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Kuta during the day. This awesome waterpark offers a variety of rides, attractions, and facilities, and is a popular spot with families.

Highlights at Waterbom Bali include the lazy river, flow rider, and various water slides (such as Boomerang, Python, Twin Racers, and Double Twist). There are also plenty of dining options throughout the park, as well as gazebos, lockers, spa services, and even a retail shop.

You can purchase a 1-day entrance ticket in advance through Get Your Guide. It includes access to the entire park, but there may be additional charges for certain attractions such as the Flow Rider and Euro Bungy.

Waterbom Bali is open Monday to Sunday, 9 am – 6 pm. To make the most of your day, we’d recommend getting here early. Try to visit on a weekday too as it may be quieter!

2. Release baby sea turtles

Yes, you read that right, you can actually release baby sea turtles in Kuta! These releases are run by the Bali Sea Turtle Society (BSTS), with the centre being located right along Kuta Beach.

This charity-led society was founded by the Balinese people and has been around since 2011. They work to protect the local sea turtles through several projects and by raising public awareness.

Unfortunately, turtle numbers have declined in Bali over the years, due to fishing nets, public disturbance, plastic waste and more, so these releases give them a fighting chance!

This experience is a must for any Asia bucket list but there are a few things to know. Firstly, these releases don’t take place every day. Instead, dates are announced on the charity’s Facebook page. The release typically takes place at 4 pm, but you’ll want to get there around 3 pm to ensure you get a participation ‘token’.

3. Relax on Kuta Beach

Although Kuta Beach isn’t one of the prettiest beaches in Bali, it’s certainly worth a visit. Due to its convenient location, it’s a popular spot with both tourists and locals and there are plenty of facilities nearby.

Stretching for approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles), Kuta Beach offers plenty of room if you’re looking to relax. It’s also bordered by Legian Beach, with the popular Double Six Beach located even further along.

In our opinion, the best time to visit Kuta Beach is at sunset. At this time of day, you can join in friendly football matches, enjoy a cold Bintang from one of the local ‘beach bars’ or chat with the locals. Sometimes, you’ll even find fire dancers strutting their stuff along the shore.

Those wanting to stay near Kuta Beach should check out Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort. You’ll be just steps away from the shore and there are some beautiful suites to choose from.

4. Enjoy the local nightlife

Kuta is one of Bali’s partying hot spots and is the perfect destination if you’re looking for vibrant nightlife. Known for its large nightclubs, super-cheap drinks, and variety of music genres, this town is the perfect place to get your groove on.

Whether you’re interested in pop hits, R&B, reggae, or mainstream dance music, there’s something for everyone in Kuta. There’s also something for every vibe, ranging from rooftop bars and lounges to buzzing clubs.

Although there are plenty of venues to choose from, Sky Garden Bali is one of the most popular. It’s the largest nightclub in Indonesia and hosts various events throughout the year. They have some great drink deals and it’s also possible to book a VIP table.

Other popular nightlife venues in Kuta include Engine Room Bali, Paddy’s Pub, and Bounty Discotheque. There are plenty of options, but just make sure you take precautions, such as keeping valuables close to you.

5. Learn how to surf

Bali is a fantastic surfing destination and although the best swells are typically found in Uluwatu, Kuta does see some of the action. As such, you’ll find plenty of keen surfers hitting the waves here.

The are lots of surfboard rentals along Kuta Beach, where you can just hire a board. Just make sure you shop around for the best prices. Many of these rental shops also offer surfing lessons, which is a great option for those who don’t have any experience.

This 2-hour surfing lesson takes place at Legian Beach (which neighbours Kuta Beach). You’ll learn the best techniques from your local instructor, making this a popular option with both beginners and intermediate surfers. Alternatively, you can opt for this private surfing lesson.

March to November offers the best conditions for beginners as the trade winds blow offshore at this time of year.

6. Visit the Bali Bomb Memorial

There’s no shortage of places to visit in Kuta, but make sure you head to the Bali Bomb Memorial.

This memorial site is dedicated to the 2002 bombings which took place on the 12th of October. On this day, three bombs were detonated. Two of these were detonated in Kuta in busy nightlife hotspots.

In total, 202 people, from all across the world died in this horrific attack. Today, the Bali Bomb Memorial commemorates the individuals who died in this attack, and their names are listed on the monument. Here, you’ll find various flags, a large fountain, and exotic plants. Traditional Hindu offerings are also left at the memorial.

The Bali Bomb Memorial is located where the former Paddy’s Pub once was, which was destroyed in the attack. The memorial has recently undergone renovations and is the place to visit if you’re looking to pay your respects.

7. Head to the Hard Rock Cafe Bali

We visited the Hard Rock Cafe on our second visit to the island. This iconic restaurant was established here in 1993 and used to have a double-neck guitar statue outside. This giant statue was a replica of Balawan’s original guitar, who is a popular Indonesian guitarist (but we’re not sure if it’s still there).

The highlight of visiting the Hard Rock Cafe Bali has to be the food. There’s an extensive menu here, offering various dishes including burgers, steak, fajitas, grilled salmon, and mac & cheese.

Of course, there are plenty of tasty appetizers and desserts too. Not to mention, this place is also famous for its handcrafted signature cocktails!

The Hard Rock Cafe Bali is open every day; Sunday to Thursday (11 am – 1 am) and Friday to Saturday (11 am – 2 am). Live music is also played every day at 9:30 pm. Just be aware that opening hours for the on-site shop vary depending on the day.

8. Indulge in the local cuisine

There’s no denying that Indonesian cuisine is delicious. Nasi goreng – a traditional fried rice dish is our personal favourite, and it can be found throughout Indonesia. Other popular dishes include sate, rendang, soto, bakso and mie ayam.

There are plenty of local restaurants in Kuta (also known as warungs), but Dewi Sri Food Center is a great dining spot. Located out of town, it’s around a 25-minute walk from Kuta Beach but is worth the visit.

At Dewi Sri Food Center, you’ll find a variety of stalls, serving Indonesian and other Asian dishes. Prices are very affordable with some dishes costing as little as 20K IDR (£0.99). This food market is typically open Monday to Sunday, from 8 am – 12 am.

If you’d prefer to dine elsewhere, there are lots of options. Some of the most popular local spots in Kuta include Warung Indonesia, Made’s Warung, and Shinta Warung.

9. Have fun at the Pandora Experience Escape Rooms

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Kuta, head to Pandora Experience Escape Rooms. As the name suggests, this place is known for its thrilling escape rooms – perfect for a rainy day in Bali.

Expect to discover hidden chambers and secure passages as you and your group work together to solve mysteries. You can play in a team of 2-10 and you’ll be in a race against time to escape!

The escape rooms are based on horror themes as well as historic events and places, such as Alcatraz, Area 51, and Chernobyl. Some of these rooms are pretty scary and you’ll have around 120 minutes to escape.

Just be aware that the capacity depends on which type of room you choose. The escape rooms also differ regarding difficulty, fear factor, and physical activity levels.

The Pandora Experience is typically open daily, 11 am – 7 pm.

10. Try out some watersports

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Kuta. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, indulge in local cuisine, or enjoy the nightlife, there’s something for everyone!

More active travellers will be happy to know that there are plenty of watersport opportunities along Kuta Beach. Aside from surfing, you can enjoy other activities such as jet skiing and parasailing.

Bodyboarding is another fan favourite, especially as you can hire bodyboards by the hour. This is what we did while in Kuta, but make sure you haggle for the best price.

If you want to enjoy some watersports, this 4-hour adventure tour is a great option. You can enjoy a selection of activities including parasailing, jet skiing, donut boats, and banana boats. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included from Kuta and you’ll have access to lockers, changing rooms and shower facilities.

11. Relax at a beach club

There’s no shortage of activities to do in Kuta. However, if you’re after a more laid-back getaway then there are some fantastic beach clubs located in the surrounding area!

Azul Beach Club is perhaps the most convenient option as it’s just a 15-minute walk from the Beachwalk Shopping Center. As Bali’s first tiki bar, this place has much to offer including handcrafted tiki cocktails, an outdoor infinity pool, and an open-air restaurant.

Cocoon Beach Club is located along Double Six Beach, under a 30-minute walk from Kuta Beach. Alternatively, you can hop in a taxi to get there. Here, you can relax in the pool, indulge in tasty comfort dishes, and catch up on your favourite sports in the on-site sports bar.

Potato Head Beach Club is another fantastic alternative if you don’t mind heading out of Kuta. It’s located around 6 km (3.7 miles) from Kuta Beach and offers an infinity pool, world-class DJs, and a beach bar.

12. Explore the Beachwalk Shopping Center

The Beachwalk Shopping Center is one of the most popular Kuta tourist attractions. Known for its award-winning architectural design, beachfront location, and variety of flagship retail stores, this complex has a lot to offer.

There are several floors to wander around, with this shopping centre focusing on more luxurious brands. Here, you’ll find popular brands including H&M, Zara, Timberland, Michael Kors, and Bath & Body Works. You can shop for clothes, shoes, jewellery, electronics, toys and more!

Afterwards, you can grab something to eat or drink at the Beachwalk Shopping Center. Food options include Johnny Rockets, Genki Sushi, Dairy Queen and Zenbu, as well as other fan favourites such as Burger King and Starbucks. No matter what you fancy, you won’t be short of options.

The Beachwalk Shopping Center is open daily; Monday to Thursday (10 am – 10 pm) and Friday to Sunday (10 am – 11 pm). Parking is also available.

13. Head to other shopping centres in Kuta

Aside from The Beachwalk Shopping Center, there are plenty of other places to shop ’til you drop in Kuta.

Discovery Mall Bali is another popular option for keen shoppers. This beachfront shopping mall is just a short walk from Waterbom Bali and it’s one of the island’s largest malls. Not only are there plenty of shops, but there’s no shortage of dining options either!

Then there’s the Mal Bali Galeria, which is just over a 10-minute drive from the Discovery Mall. After treating yourself to a purchase or two, you can head to the Galeria Food Terrace. Alternatively, there’s a cinema on-site if you want to catch the latest movies.

Of course, there are more local shopping options, such as Kuta Art Market. At this traditional market, you can pick up affordable clothing, bags, jewellery, and home decorations. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, this is a great place to start.

14. Try a Balinese cooking class

There’s no better way to appreciate the local cuisine than by taking a cooking class. You’ll learn how to cook delicious Indonesian dishes, so you can take a part of Bali home with you!

This Balinese cooking class takes place in Seminyak but includes hotel pick-up in Kuta. This class lasts for approximately 4 hours and includes a local market tour. Here, you’ll select your ingredients before heading back with the chef to make some delicious Indonesian dishes.

The Hard Rock Cafe also offers a cooking class, which takes place daily from 1 pm to 3 pm. You’ll learn how to cook Ayam Betutu, which is a traditional Balinese roasted chicken. The class costs approximately 250,000 IDR (£12.30) per person and you’ll need to reserve your place at least 24 hours before.

There are plenty of other cooking classes to choose from so take a look around for the option most suited to you!

15. Visit Vihara Dharmayana Temple

Vihara Dharmayana Temple is one of the best places to visit in Kuta, Bali. This old Chinese Buddhist temple is nearly 200 years old and is one of the area’s only cultural landmarks.

Often referred to as Kongco Leeng Gwan Kuta by locals, this temple offers a sense of peace and tranquillity. You can take in the spiritual atmosphere of this place, by exploring the courtyard and taking in the incense smoke. The temple itself is also beautiful, boasting large lanterns, giant red pillars, and impressive dragon sculptures.

Vihara Dharmayana Temple has an impressive history, especially as it was visited by Tibet’s 14th Dalai Lama, in 1982. Locals come here for communal activities and prayers, but outside visitors are also welcome. Just make sure you wear proper attire and don’t use flash photography.

Vihara Dharmayana Temple is typically open Monday to Sunday, 9 am – 8 pm. It’s located around a 20-minute walk from Waterbom Bali.

16. Wander down Kuta Beach Walking Street

There are so many incredible things to do in Kuta. Whether you’re looking to looking to enjoy some watersports, head to a local market, or enjoy live music at the Hard Rock Cafe, you won’t be short of options!

However, while here, you should take some time to wander down Kuta Beach Walking Street (also known as Jalan Pantai Kuta). This street is one of Kuta’s main thoroughfares. It runs between Bemo Corner and Joseph’s Beach Bar & Surf School, which is roughly where Jalan Pantai Legian starts. It runs adjacent to the beach and is packed with tourist amenities.

Along Kuta Beach Walking Street, you’ll find various restaurants, shops, spas, beauty salons, and more! Although you can visit any time of day, this area truly comes alive at night.

Just be aware that Jalan Pantai Kuta experiences heavy traffic as it’s a one-way road. As such, keep an eye out while you’re walking and stick to the pavement.

17. Try 5GX Bali Reverse Bungy – if you dare!

If you’re after something unique, why not try the 5GX Bali Reverse Bungy?

This slingshot ride offers an exhilarating experience, where you’ll first be strapped into a capsule while on the ground. You’ll then be catapulted 50 metres (164 feet) into the air at a speed of approximately 200 km/h (124 mph). As you can imagine, it’s a pretty terrifying experience!

5GX Bali is typically open daily from 10:30 am – 2:30 am. Although these are unusual opening hours, it does mean that you can experience this ride in the dark which is pretty crazy.

The price for this ride depends on the number of people taking the ride – the capsules seat three people, so the price will be cheaper if it’s full. There’s also the opportunity for a photograph.

Just be aware that this ride isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with certain health conditions.

18. Head to the Dream Museum Zone Bali (DMZ)

Visiting the Dream Museum Zone (DMZ) is one of the best things to do in Kuta with kids. This awesome 3D art museum offers a fun experience for all the family, so ensure you take plenty of photographs.

The DMZ features 120 life-sized and immersive wall paintings. Thanks to well-positioned lighting and paint, these artworks create a fantastic 3D illusion, where each scene looks like it’s truly coming alive.

This museum is divided into different sections, depicting a variety of impressive landscapes. Themes include everything from dinosaurs to Indonesian temples so there’s something for everyone.

There are even marks on the floor, indicating the best spot to take photographs. The staff will also give you tips on the best poses and shooting locations which is always handy!

The Dream Museum Zone Bali is typically open daily, 9 am – 10 pm.

19. Enjoy a spa treatment in Kuta

There’s no denying that Kuta can feel quite chaotic, especially during the peak travel season. Luckily, there are plenty of great spas nearby where you can relax and enjoy a treatment (or two).

Bhava Spa is a popular wellness establishment located at Amnaya Resort Kuta. The signature treatments here are derived from Asian holistic health traditions with the spa’s well-being concept being centered around Mother Nature. All treatments use the purest products which are prepared onsite from fresh ingredients.

De Nyuh Spa Kuta is another fantastic option. It’s considered one of the top spas in Kuta and is known for its fantastic packages. For around 300,000 IDR (£14.60), you can enjoy a foot wash ritual, Balinese traditional massage, and body scrub or facial.

There’s also the Carla Spa Kartika Lama which is located nearby. It’s around a 15-minute walk from Kuta Art Market and offers a variety of massages and beauty treatments, as well as hair styling.

20. Take a trip to nearby Seminyak

Although there are plenty of things to do in Kuta, you could always head to Seminyak for a few hours. It’s around a 4 km (2.5 miles) journey by car but traffic can be pretty bad in this area so just keep that in mind.

Seminyak offers a more laid-back vibe than Kuta and it’s got a lot to offer. Firstly, two popular beaches are located here; Seminyak Beach and Double Six Beach, so there’s plenty of room to relax.

Speaking of relaxing, this is where you’ll find the Potato Head Beach Club. Seminyak is also home to KU DE TA, a popular beach club, restaurant, and bar, where you can enjoy food and drinks right by the ocean.

Like Kuta, Seminyak offers plenty of shopping opportunities too, and is primarily known for its designer shops and boutique stores. You won’t be short of dining options here either!

Helpful Information For Visiting Kuta, Indonesia

How to get to Kuta

Kuta is a very popular tourist destination in Bali so you’ll have no issues getting here!

Those travelling to the island will land at Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). The airport is approximately a 3 km (1.8-mile) drive from Kuta, although traffic is crazy in this area, so the journey can take between 10-20 minutes. You can expect to pay around 120,000 IDR (£5.90)

There’s also a bus that runs from the airport to Kuta. It takes 30 minutes and costs around 4,400 IDR (£0.22). Unfortunately, this service is pretty unreliable as the timetable isn’t very accurate. Alternatively, you can opt for a private transfer.

If you’re already exploring Bali, you can reach Kuta via the Kura Kura bus service. The route runs between Ubud and Kuta and stops off at Sanur too. Many people also choose to hire a scooter, to get them around Bali.

How to get around Kuta

Kuta is extremely easy to get around. Many of the popular attractions are within walking distance so you won’t have to worry about using public transport.

Just ensure you’re cautious when walking around Kuta and make sure you stick to the pavement. The traffic is pretty crazy here, and some of the drivers can be reckless, so keep your wits about you!

To visit attractions located further out, hiring a scooter is a popular option. Rentals are extremely affordable, starting from 60,000 IDR (£2.95) a day. However, we’d only recommend this mode of transport if you’re an experienced driver.

Alternatively, you can use taxis to get around. Bluebird Taxis are the best option for local taxis as there’s an app you can use. Prices are reasonable and you’ll know exactly what you’re paying. The ride-hailing service GRAB also operates in Bali, as well as Go Jek.

The best time to visit Kuta

The best time to visit Kuta is typically between May and October. This is the dry season in Bali, where you can expect average temperatures between 24°C and 30°C (75.2°F to 86°F). Not to mention, you’ll encounter less rainfall, especially during the summer months.

However, just be aware that the peak months of July and August can be super busy. During this time of year, Kuta can get very crowded. Visiting in the shoulder season (May to June and September to October) offers a quieter experience.

We visited Bali in September (on both our trips) and had a fantastic time! It’s still predominantly dry and the crowds start to disperse, so Kuta’s beaches, temples, and attractions tend to be a bit quieter.

Alternatively, you can visit Bali during the wet season (November to April). Accommodation may be more affordable, but prepare yourself for high humidity levels and heavy rainfall.

Where to stay in Kuta

You won’t be short of accommodation options in Kuta. Whether you’re after an affordable hostel or a luxurious 5* hotel, there’s something for every traveller.

Here are some of our recommendations:

Budget: Cara Cara Inn

Cara Cara Inn is a boutique property, located just a short walk from Kuta Beach. It offers affordable private rooms, some of which feature multiple bunk beds. The rooms typically sleep between 2-4 people.

The highlight of staying at Cara Cara Inn has to be the facilities. On-site, you’ll find an outdoor pool and water slide, BBQ, sundown deck, lounge area, and laundromat. There’s also a pop-up bar!

Mid-range: YELLO Hotel Kuta Beachwalk Bali

YELLO Hotel Kuta Beachwalk Bali is another fantastic option. It’s located right by the popular Beachwalk Shopping Center and is known for its street-art-inspired rooms which sleep two people.

Boasting a gaming station, meeting rooms, business facilities, and an on-site restaurant, this hotel has so much to offer. This place also offers 24-hour reception, WiFi, laundry services, and dry cleaning.

Luxury: The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali

The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali is a luxurious 5* hotel. This beachfront property is just a short walk from Waterbom Bali and offers beautiful suites, some of which feature a private swimming pool.

Facilities at this hotel include two restaurants, a pool bar, an on-site spa, a fitness centre, and landscaped tropical gardens. This place is perfect for a relaxing getaway and is popular with couples!

Frequently Asked Questions About Kuta

How many days do I need in Kuta?

We’d recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Kuta. This will give you enough time to see the highlights, party, and try the local cuisine, as long as you don’t mind an action-packed stay.

There are so many awesome things to do in Kuta, so you could easily spend longer here. However, if you only have a short amount of time in Bali, then you’ll want to visit other destinations too.

What is a good budget for Kuta?

We’d recommend a budget of at least £25-£35 per person per day. This will be enough for a cheap hostel/hotel room (especially between two), local meals, and attractions, so you don’t need to break the bank.

The great thing about Bali is that this island is super affordable. However, if you’d prefer a luxurious getaway, you won’t be short of options. As such, there’s something for every budget!

Is Kuta worth visiting?

Although Kuta is one of the most crowded destinations in Bali, it’s still worth visiting. There are plenty of fantastic things to do in this town and there are lots of affordable accommodation options.

However, Kuta does get very crowded so you’ll want to spend some time in other destinations too. We’d suggest spending a couple of days here and then heading onward to either Canggu, Uluwatu, or Ubud.

Which is better – Seminyak or Kuta?

Kuta and Seminyak are both popular destinations, but each one has something unique to offer. Kuta is known for its nightlife and watersports, while Seminyak offers fantastic shopping and dining opportunities.

Regarding beaches, Seminyak is possibly the better destination for beachgoers. However, Kuta offers more activities and attractions so it all depends on what you’re after.

Where to go after Kuta

Although there are plenty of things to do in Kuta, you don’t want to spend all of your time here. There are so many other places to include on your Bali bucket list, including the nearby areas of Legian and Seminyak.

Both of these destinations offer a more laid-back vibe than Kuta, and there’s plenty to do. Seafood lovers should also take some time to visit the fishing village of Jimbaran, where you can sample the local cuisine.

Head further south and you’ll come to the popular surfing destination of Uluwatu. Here, you can explore a cliffside temple, hit the waves, or enjoy a traditional fire show, so there’s something for everyone.

If you’d prefer to head north from Kuta, then we’d recommend spending a few days in the town of Canggu. It’s an extremely popular spot and is known for its fantastic eateries, traditional markets, and laid-back atmosphere. No Bali itinerary is complete without visiting Ubud either!

Final Thoughts on the best things to do in Kuta

As you can see, there are so many things to do in Kuta. Whether you’re looking for a good party, to relax on the beach, or simply shop ’til you drop, there’s something for every traveller, making this island a must for any Southeast Asia itinerary!

To make the most of your visit, allow at least a couple of days in Kuta. This will give you enough time to have some fun (especially at Waterbom Bali), take in the nightlife, and try some local Indonesian dishes.

If you have further questions about the best things to do in Kuta don’t hesitate to contact us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments below!

Here are some other guides that you may find helpful:

• Visiting Pura Lempuyang Luhur
• The Ultimate 10-Day Sumatra Itinerary
• Epic Sumatra Travel Guide

PIN IT FOR LATER!