Imagine a crescent bay, turquoise colors in the shallow water and deep blue further out. A huge, white-sand beach framed by headlands.

Now imagine a coastline of nearly a dozen of such bays, all backed by a rugged range of coastal hills spotted with lush patches of banana trees and tobacco fields, and you’ll have a notion of Kuta’s immediate appeal.

Kuta is a beach and resort area in the south of the island of Bali, Indonesia. One of Bali's first tourist developments, its best known for its party-centric atmosphere and surfing in the Indian Ocean. Kuta's long, consistent waves make it a popular surf spot, particularly for beginners, with plenty of outfitters offering board rentals and surf lessons.

There's a whole row of activity sales agents along Jl Pariwisata and the main road leading to the waterfront. They can set you up on anything from surf tours to snorkeling in obscure locations. Don't be afraid to bargain.

Kuta's dining scene is getting more creative each day. There's a wide variety of choices – all casual – at great prices. There are also a couple of beachfront bars where there are often well-advertised parties and impromptu beer bashes set up on the sand right near the center of town.

The national currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).