Swimming safety is extremely important in Kuta. It is prohibited to swim near the special flags, that are placed where currents are especially strong. Always swim between the red and yellow flags, where the lifeguards have deemed it safest. Do not swim out too far as the waves and currents here are stronger than you might expect and change very rapidly. The sea water in Kuta can be filthy and you should be aware of this potential problem and try not to swim in the obviously polluted areas. Watch your belongings at the beach, better yet do not bring your valuables to the beach if you intend to swim or surf. The Lifeguard Station or Bala Penyelamat Wisata Tirta is located on Kuta Beach Street, phone: +62 361 755660.
Touts and scammers will constantly look for their chance. Be wary of deals. If its sounds too good to be true then it probably is. When walking alone (especially down Kuta Beach Street and Legian Street) you will be hassled by touts offering transport on motorbikes. Generally this is harmless and can be used as a means of getting around, although too much touts offering transport can be an annoyance. Remember to stay calm and don't be pressured into buying anything you don't want.
At night, drunk driving and big potholes in the streets are a problem, so be very aware of road safety after dark.
Drugs should be avoided in Kuta (and all of Indonesia). Punishments for possession are harsh and there have been a number of arrests of tourists over the years. Beware of unsavoury touts offering drugs (often after initially offering transport). These "dealers" are often working with the police in order to get small payouts for arrests. Say "no" and walk away.
Pickpockets have been known to be a problem recently ouside bars, specifically on Legian Street. One common method used against drunk tourists leaving bars and clubs is for a large group of boys and teenagers to block the sidewalk. As the target attempts to squeeze through, the thieves attempt to reach into their pockets and/or bags and take whatever they can get. Be very aware of this.
Theft is not a big problem, but visitors do lose things from unlocked hotel rooms or from the beach. Going into the water and leaving valuables on the beach is simply asking for trouble (in any country). Snatch thefts are rare. Thievery sometimes occurs but there is not something to worry about as long as the travelers make sure they leave their hotel rooms locked while going out. If you love swimming or surfing, do not leave all the valuables on the beach since it may invite the thief to come. Most hotels in Bali provide safety box where you can save all of your valuables such as wallet and passport. This way you can travel and roam the country more comfortable and safe.
