The 418-room Hard Rock Hotel Bali -- Asia's first Hard Rock outpost -- is an upscale, family-friendly resort in the middle of bustling Kuta, just across the street from Kuta Beach. Large, contemporary rooms have iPod docks and Nespresso coffeemakers, and many have kid-pleasing perks like bunk beds and game consoles. The are multiple pools, including a kids' pool, and several on-site restaurants and bars plus a spa with treatments for adults and kids. Of course, the brand's signature rock 'n' roll memorabilia is displayed throughout, and there's plenty for music enthusiasts. That being said, rates and restaurant prices can be steep, and guests should compare rates at the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort just up the beach.

The Kuta Beach Heritage Hotel Bali is a four-pearl property with 159 rooms in the heart of Kuta, across the street from the beach. Rooms are chic and spacious, with a tasteful nautical theme plus air-conditioning and minibars -- some feature large balconies with sea views. The infinity pool has excellent views of the ocean and other highlights include well-liked restaurants, a large and varied breakfast buffet, plus a spa and fitness center. This is one of the nicest spots that we've seen in Kuta, though the vibe is lively and may not please those looking for peace and quiet. Given its upmarket finish, rates can be a relative bargain. As a comparison, the Bali Dynasty Resort has similar features and pleasant decor, though it's more expensive and less stylish.

The Berry Glee Hotel is a three-and-a-half pearl property that's best for younger travelers and families, and stands out for its colorful modern design. Kuta Beach and the Legian tourist area are driving distance away, so guests will need a scooter or cabs to get around. The 111 rooms and suites are decorated with neon purple lighting or pop art murals; they have flat-screen TVs, minibars, and large windows. Features at this mid-size property include an indoor glass-enclosed pool, a casual restaurant serving buffet breakfast (for a fee), a karaoke room, and a kids' club. Parking and Wi-Fi are free. For a similar price, guests could also stay at Grand Istana Rama Hotel Bali, which is on the beach, but has less flashy decor.

The Citadines Kuta Beach Bali is a contemporary three-and-a-half-pearl hotel located directly across from Kuta Beach. Many popular restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and shops are within walking distance. Guests are mainly young couples and groups of friends in town to enjoy the beach, affordable shopping, and nightlife. There is a range of rooms options available, and while all are fresh and bright, none have balconies. Higher category rooms do stand out, with additions like kitchenettes, washing machines, and spacious living rooms. The hotel contains a small fitness center, a laundry room, meeting rooms, two restaurants, and a rooftop pool. Alternatively, the nearby Patra Jasa Bali Resort has similar features and a direct beachfront setting, though rooms are more classically Balinese and rates are higher.

Waringin Homestay is a 22-room budget crash pad off Poppies II, less than a 10-minute walk from Kuta Beach and five minutes from Jalan Legian, which is home to Bali's largest nightclubs. The hotel is popular with surfers and backpackers on a shoestring budget, in Kuta to enjoy the beach and nightlife. Facilities are limited to a swimming pool and breakfast. Rooms have balconies, but are aged and worn. Most rooms are equipped ceiling fans and cold water, and you shouldn't expect TVs or safes either. However, higher-category rooms do add air-conditioning and hot water showers. Free Wi-Fi is only available in the lobby. For travelers with a bit more cash to spare, Kuta Lagoon Resort is a worthy upgrade, with more modern rooms and better facilities.

The boutique,
mid-range Dekuta Hotel is in Kuta’s city center -- a two-minute walk to Kuta Beach. It has an infinity pool with a waterfall feature, and 49 big, air-conditioned rooms, some with balconies and rainfall showers, at value prices. The on-site restaurants and bars, including a rooftop bar and lounge, are popular with guests as well as locals, but breakfast is not included in room rates. Wi-Fi is free but can be sluggish. Travelers might want to check out the beachfront
Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas, which, although not centrally located, has a spa and offers free breakfast.

Bounty Hotel is an affordable three-pearl hotel in central Kuta next to the Beachwalk Mall shopping complex, about a five-minute walk from Kuta Beach. In keeping with its club-heavy Kuta environs, the atmosphere here is a non-stop party. Young, mostly Aussie guests congregate at the 24-hour swimming pool that has a swim-up bar, nightly DJ, and weekly party. The hotel also has a second pool with swim-up bar, plus two 24-hour restaurants, a lobby bar, and on-site spa. Unfortunately the party noise often reaches many of the 166 rooms, so the hotel isn't for light sleepers. The simply decorated rooms come with minibars, free Wi-Fi (which often has reliability issues), and flat-screen TVs. Those who want a more relaxed boutique hotel in this area might try the nearby Dekuta Hotel.