Kuta Beach: Bali’s not-yet-totally-crowded beginner break

Crowds. That’s what us beginners have to battle when we travel half across the world in search of better waves than our local ones. So when I read that Kuta Beach, Bali is super crowded these days, and on top of that covered in garbage, I almost wanted to remove it from our 25 best beginner surf breaks list. 

Don’t be hasty, and don’t believe everything you read. I didn’t jump on a plane to check conditions myself, but Surfline Kuta Beach didn’t look any different than Venice Beach over the summer when it comes to the crowds. 

As for the garbage, Kuta Beach experiences a period of increased flotsam and jetsam (meaning debris washed ashore) during the monsoonal months, which is October and March. This annual occurrence seems avoidable, but it doesn’t remain on the beach for too long, and is removed by government cleaners, assisted by local volunteers. 

Ok, so Kuta Beach stays. Hurray! Wherever you’re flying from Lombok International Airport (LOP) just about 20–25 minutes from Kuta Beach by car or scooter.

🌊 Waves: It’s a beach break! But it’s a consistent, quality beachbreak. Best at high tide when the faster sections are more makeable

🚰 Water quality: Clean, warm, and tropical— Just be mindful after big storms, when runoff can affect clarity.

👙 Wardrobe: Totally bikini and boardshorts. friendly. The water is warm year-round: 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). A rash guard is a good call for sun protection

☀️ Best time to surf: The dry season (May–September) brings the most consistent, beginner-friendly conditions

⚠️ Hazards: No major surf-specific hazards on Kuta Beach itself, but do watch for strong sun, boat traffic if you paddle out, and the occasional coral fragment near the shore.

🏄🏻‍♀️ Surfboard rental: Kuta town is the surf hub of South Lombok. You’ll find rentals, instructors, and friendly surf camps where you can gear up and catch a ride to the actual surf spots.

🎉 What else to do in Kuta: Eat, shop, relax and enjoy exploring on a scooter. Hit close-by breaks for some variety.

🏄🏻‍♀️ Solo traveling: Yep. Kuta is safe, social, and walkable. It has a laid-back backpacker-meets-surfer vibe and is a great base for solo female travelers.

Girls Who Can’t Surf Good recommend (these guys actually went to Bali 😜)

Kura Kura in Lembogan

Easy Life in Lombok

Xanadu Surf Camp in Lombok

Newbro in Lembongan

Ombak movement in Kuta

Coach Yarty

See you there!