Kartika Plaza is an inland road stretching from the Kuta Airport to the center of town. Explore varied attractions along this popular street, from casual cafés and fine-dining restaurants to interesting shops. Walk from the street to the shoreline for some of Bali’s best beaches.
While the name might suggest a square, Kartika Plaza is actually a 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) street running north and south between the airport and Kuta Center. Hotels, luxury resorts and more than 50 restaurants line the street. As you head north from the airport, note the gleaming white façade of Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Opposite the church, shop or enjoy entertainment in Lippo Mall’s air-conditioned luxury. Farther north, Discovery Shopping Mall Bali features 150 stores. Across the street, enjoy refreshing rides and dining at Waterbom Bali.
Stroll just west of the street to reach Kuta’s favorite beaches on the Bali Sea. At the northern end, Segara Beach is better for relaxing under umbrellas and enjoying sunsets from beach bars rather than swimming. Look for the colorful Hindu carving standing on a turtle atop the Shelter Kebencanaan Baruna, marking the entrance to the beach. Nearby, Pura Pakendungan features several interesting shrines.
At Kartika Plaza’s southern end, Jerman Beach was once a harbor, taking its modern name from the many German vacationers who visited here. Stroll, jog or bike on the long path next to the sand. Stay for sunsets and airport landings.
For additional beach variety, drive south of the airport to Tuban Beach. Because of the 20-minute drive here from Kuta, it’s less crowded than city beaches. Come for swimming, fishing and watching experienced local surfers. Watch sunsets or view airplanes gliding in for smooth landings.
Since the southern end of Kartika Plaza starts right at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can literally step out of the airport and be on the street. Catch an airport taxi to carry your luggage. The airport is near the southern tip of Indonesia’s Bali island.