BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Authorities in Bali have begun moving forward with a structured plan to reorganize commercial activity along Kuta Beach, as Desa Adat Kuta and the Badung Regency Government prepare to sort and reduce the number of beach vendors operating in the area.
The initiative aims to create a more orderly, comfortable, and competitive tourism environment at one of Bali’s most iconic destinations. As of Friday (December 26), the number of vendors along Kuta Beach is estimated to exceed 800.
Under the proposed plan, authorities are targeting a reduction of approximately 40 to 50 percent as part of a broader beach revitalization program.
Desa Adat Kuta head Komang Alit Ardana confirmed that vendors currently operating on the beach fall into three categories: those officially recorded in 2020, vendors who previously operated along Jalan Pantai Kuta and later moved onto the beach, and unregistered vendors.
“In the future, only vendors who are properly recorded and officially registered with the Kuta Traditional Village will be allowed to operate at Kuta Beach,” Alit Ardana said.
He explained that the reduction is intended to ease congestion and improve visitor comfort. From the roughly 800 vendors spread from Sekeh to the Legian border, around 420 are expected to be phased out. “The goal is to ensure the beach does not feel overcrowded,” he added.
According to Alit Ardana, the policy aligns with the coastal management vision set by Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa. However, he stressed that community livelihoods remain a key consideration.
“We must also protect the livelihoods of local residents who genuinely depend on trading activities along the Kuta coastline,” he said.
Beyond reducing vendor numbers, the plan includes stricter requirements such as mandatory selling permits issued by local banjar leaders and official vendor identification numbers.
Authorities also intend to renovate existing vendor carts, repurposing high-quality wooden materials into standardized tables for designated stalls.
Regent Adi Arnawa reiterated the Badung administration’s commitment to restoring Kuta Beach as a prime attraction for both domestic and international tourists. He warned that disorderly trading practices could create social issues and deter visitors.
“We understand people need income, but public spaces cannot be used without rules. If the area becomes chaotic, tourists will stop coming, and ultimately the local economy will suffer,” he said.
The Badung Regency Government stated it will prioritize a persuasive and inclusive approach to ensure the reorganization process proceeds smoothly and avoids social tension, emphasizing that successful revitalization depends on cooperation from all stakeholders.