The white sands of Kuta are still arguably the best beachfront
on Bali. The beach is much cleaner than just a few years ago,
although the vendors remain annoying. Kuta is not the fishing
village it once was: it is now a booming Pacific resort and
its streets are clogged with tourists and traffic during peak
seasons. Legian is a bit quieter, less crowded, and more suitable
for longer stays, although in many ways it has become an extension
of Kuta. Further north, Seminyak, Petitenget and Canggu offer
more tranquility.
Bali - Kuta and Tuban
Kuta proper is the area delineated by JI. Legian, JI. Pantai
Kuta, JI. Melasti, the beach front drive and the lanes in between,
especially Gang Poppies I and 11. JI. Legian is the commercial
hub of Kuta and the stage of many of its restaurants and nightlife.
Most of Kuta's big beachfront hotels are in southern Kuta.
Bali - Legian and Seminyak
Legian and Seminyak are northern extensions of Kuta proper along
JI. Legian to JI. Basangkasa. Somewhat quieter with cottage-style
accommodations, this is where many of the ex-pat designers and
long-stay tourists live.There are three ways to reach Legian
and Seminyak: through Kuta and JI ' Melasti, then north; from
JI. Imam Bonjol, turn west on to A Patih Jelantik at the Pertamina
gas station; or from the north via JI. Kerobokan.
Bali - Petitenget and North
Petitenget, Berawa, Canggu, and Seseh are new and quieter continuations
of Kuta's beach, easier to reach through Abian Timbul or Denpasar
and Kerobokan than through Kuta, as there are no bemos north
from Legian.
Kuta Beach also extends to the south, beyond the airport to
Jimbaran.
For assistance with tours and tickets, and information on events,
Rentcar info or Guides
Restaurants
Kuta is a great place to eat. New places open almost daily and
competition is fierce. Most don't last for long. The ones which
do have great food at unbeatable prices. Seafood and Western
dishes are your best bets. Or try Mexican, Indian or Japanese.
The more well-known places are mentioned below, plus some promising
newcomers. Ask around for the latest "in" spots.
Made's Warung I on JI. Pantal Kuta, Specialties include Thai
and Vietnamese salads, prawns in chili sauce, squid fillet,
black rice ice cream, fresh and frozen yogurt, fresh fruit juices,
and frothy cappuccino.
