Kuta for children – kids activities

Lively Kuta may be a magnet for young party animals and diehard surfers but it has plenty of magical attractions for young kids too. What Kuta does best is having fun and children of all ages will find plenty of thrilling activities whatever the weather. Much of the action inevitably revolves around Kuta beach which provides a wealth of options for hyperactive youngsters. Kite flying, beach volleyball and soccer and a myriad of water sports are all accessible at most of the beachfront hotels which host daily kids’ club activities.

Older kids will be entranced by the crashing waves and will be keen to try out surfing for the first time. Kuta beach has several well established surf schools with dedicated classes for children. Pro Surf (Jalan Pantai Kuta, tel: +62 (0)361 7441466) and Wave Rider (Jalan Pantai Kuta, tel: +62 (0)361 760098) are situated right on the beachfront and have daily fully supervised tuition for children. Prices are around rp250,000 for a half day. More on surfing in Kuta.

The watery theme continues at Waterbom Bali (Jalan Kartika Plaza, Kuta tel: +62 (0)361 755676) which is the most popular attraction in Kuta by far. This is a thrilling climate controlled aqua park featuring dozens of hair raising water chutes, lush tropical gardens and cascading waterfalls. It guarantees hours of fun for all ages come rain or shine and even has an elegant spa complex just for parents.

Another similar option is to take the kids to the exuberant Hard Rock Hotel, located on Kuta beachfront. It boasts the largest free form swimming pools in Bali along with its own sandy beach area, water slides and inflatable rides. There is even a music recording studio and rock climbing wall to try out.

That true fearless spirit can be put to the test at the Bali Slingshot (Jalan Kartika Plaza Kuta, tel: +62 (0)361 758838) a thrilling reverse bungy jump which catapults riders over 100 feet into the air within seconds. Close by is yet more fun with karting or a game of ten pin bowling.

Kuta is known for its raucous entertainment and lively atmosphere but it certainly shouldn’t deter young families from coming. It is a completely safe and welcoming environment for families and younger children, who are universally adored by the Balinese, will especially be the centre of attention in restaurants and shops. Choosing the right family-friendly accommodation in Kuta however is no easy task.

Traffic noise and congestion is everywhere and the safest and more rewarding choice is to splurge a little on mid to higher end hotels with sufficient grounds and onsite activities for kids. The best family friendly hotels (and most expensive) are located in south Kuta at Tuban beach. Expect wide ranging amenities such as water sports, kids clubs, swimming pools and tropical play areas. More on Kuta hotels.

Older children should also get exposed to a little Balinese culture which is sure to enrich the holiday experience. Spend a pleasant night listening to the haunting melodies of a traditional gamelan orchestra or witness a colourful Balinese dance drama. Regular shows are held in several Kuta restaurants and during the busy summer months there are free performances at the Discovery shopping mall. More on Balinese music and dance.

Kuta activities
Kuta attractions
Kuta day trips and excursions

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