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. |
