Asia - Bali Hotel advice

I'm travelling to Bali in mid-October by myself for 5 days. I'm looking to take surfing lessons, sit on a beach most days and be close to the nighlife which has led me to Kuta. I'm mid 20's, don't want a honeymooners place either.

I don't want to spend a lot on accomodation as I won't be in it much, but A/C, hot shower and proximity to the beach are high on the list. I do want to be able to sleep, which rules out a couple of places. I've done the backpacking so I can handle most things within reason and am not expecting anything luxurious, but clean and functinal would be good.

Where should I stay? I'd like to not spend more than $50-75 per night, which seems possible down there, especially in October right?

Thanks!

I don't know from personal experience, as I've always stayed elsewhere in Bali, but I think the kinds of places you're looking for are likely to be found on streets called Poppies Lane and Poppies Lane II. I'd suggest googling "hotel or guesthouse Poppies Lane Kuta Bali" and see what comes up.

These types of places might be the kind where you can get a better deal showing up on the doorstep than if you have a reservation. I'm not sure about the crowds in October, which would control whether that approach is too risky (i.e. possibly everything sold out or having only high rates).

I agree turn up and check it out, even get nto a few bars and ask the foriegners there, that time of year you can bag some bargains for about $30 a night