bali visit month

Best Time to Visit Bali: Month by Month Breakdown

Bali is one of the most popular islands in Southeast Asia, and deciding the best time to visit Bali is going to affect not only the weather you experience but also how many other tourists are there with you.

Like most of tropical Indonesia, Bali only really has two seasons throughout the year, the dry season and the wet season. 

All year-round, it’s hot, and for many, Bali can be visited any time of the year, but between November and March, you can expect downpours most days during the wet season. 

April to October is the dry season and you can expect larger crowds and higher prices but the weather will be perfect.

Often, the best time to visit Bali is a trade-off between the weather and the number of visitors. 

To help you to plan your trip, here’s our guide on the best time to visit Bali. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Indonesia (Country Guide)

Table of Contents

Bali Dry Season

The dry season is the best time to visit Bali when it comes to the weather because for half of the year you can expect beautiful clear skies and almost no rainfall.

The dry season in Bali runs from May to October, although this can vary each year. The peak months are the height of the Balinese winter, which is June, July, and August.

May in Bali

May is the start of the official dry season in Bali, but you can still expect a mixed bag when it comes to the weather.

One year it could be raining all through May but the next it can be dry from as early as April. 

If it does rain in May though it’s guaranteed to just be a few light showers, and this is the best time to visit before you hit the high season from June to August.

Prices will be lower in May and with the better weather, it’s a good time to start diving and snorkeling, as the water visibility clears up.

It’s getting cooler too and less humid, so a hike to the summit of Bali’s mysterious volcano, Mount Batur, can be a great activity in May, as you’ll miss the crowds and enjoy better conditions for hiking. 

June in Bali

June is the start of the high season in Bali, although it’s not quite as busy a month as July and August. The weather is likely to be perfect with temperatures averaging in the mid-twenties and humidity low. 

You’ll have to be really unlucky to see even a light rain shower, so it’s a great time to hit up the beaches and make the most of the clear skies and sunshine. 

Prices start to climb in June, but you’ll miss the worst of the high season which picks up towards the end of the month when the European summer holidays begin in earnest. 

In June you should visit the more touristy attractions such as the famous temples in the south – Uluwatu for instance – or the increasingly popular Nusa Islands before the summer crowds make their appearance. 

July in Bali

July is usually the busiest month to visit Bali, but for good reason, and that’s because you’ll be enjoying the best weather of the year. 

But as well as enjoying sunny, clear skies and zero rain, you’ll be sharing the beaches and resorts with hundreds of thousands of holidaymakers. People flock here from Europe, America and more than anywhere else, from Australia. 

Prices will be higher for flights and hotels, but if you do want to escape the crowds then head north.

This is a great time to experience a side of Bali that most miss, and by exploring the black sand beaches of Amed or the coast and jungle of Bali Barat National Park, you’ll see how the south of Bali was a few decades previously. 

August in Bali

Much like July, August is always super busy in Bali. The weather is again beautiful, with clear skies and sunny days, and it’s a great time for lounging on beaches and drinking cold Bintang Beers. 

If you want to escape the holiday crowds though then plan a trip north, and visit the beautiful coastline in more rustic destinations such as Lovina or Amed, where tourism has only recently begun to develop.

There are great snorkeling and diving up north too, including some famous shipwrecks, and as it’s the height of the dry season the water will be beautifully clear.

September in Bali

September can be the best time to visit Bali if you want a great mix of good weather and smaller crowds. 

Things will still be busy and flights will be more expensive than the later shoulder season months. But you’ll save money compared to the true high season and have fewer people around when you explore touristy destinations such as Ubud, Kuta or the Nusa Islands. 

October in Bali

October is a great shoulder season month, but the dry weather is coming to a close. There are more and more rainy days, but these can be unpredictable.

If you’re in Bali for two weeks, you’ll most likely have enough dry days to make the most of your visit. 

Enjoy the south and the more traditional beach areas, get cultural in Ubud or escape to the north to see a wilder side of the island. 

Bali Wet Season 

The wet season in Bali runs from November through to April, corresponding with the southern hemisphere summer and fall.

It’s tropical, and that means that while it does rain hard when it rains, showers and storms are brief but fierce.

The rainy season can be a great time to miss the crowds but give December and January a miss because these two months are still incredibly popular despite the wet weather. 

November in Bali

November is when the rainy season starts in Bali, but just how much rain there will be, can vary.

You’ll have good odds of having lovely sunny days still, and it’s a great time to visit because you’ll miss the Christmas crowds who are just around the corner. 

You can get wonderful deals on flights and hotels through November, and you’ll still be able to snorkel and dive before the water gets too cloudy from the rains.

It’s getting hotter, but take a trip to the summit of Mount Batur and you’ll be able to cool down after a challenging hike to the top of Bali’s iconic volcano. 

December in Bali

December is usually the rainiest month of the year, and weather-wise, this really is not the best time to visit Bali. 

The tourist crowds would beg to differ though because while you might get soaked, it’s also incredibly warm still.

That draws over the Christmas crowds seeking winter sun from Europe and North America , and it still brings over the Aussie crowds looking for a cheap getaway. 

It’s a lively time to be in Bali, and it’s not a bad place at all to spend Christmas and New Year, but be prepared for high prices and lots of other travelers and tourists. 

January in Bali

January can be just as busy as December and unfortunately, just as rainy. This is the height of the wet season, but again, it doesn’t put off the crowds. 

If you do visit, then the southern beaches and classic resort areas are best avoided. Head north instead, and find a bit more peace and quiet in the lesser-visited parts of Bali.

February in Bali

In February, the weather starts to cool down slightly and the rainy days begin to disappear, but it’s still very much the wet season. 

It’s a great shoulder season month, right after the Christmas crowds go home, and you can enjoy many of Bali’s best sights with fewer people around. 

Head to the waterfalls, as they will be in their element, and the jungle will be lush and green from all the rainfall over the last few months. 

March in Bali

March can be a wet month or it can be a dry month, the weather gods in Bali are unpredictable this time of the year. 

It will be a quiet month on the tourism front though and that makes it the best time to visit Bali if you’re a fan of shoulder season travel. 

The Christmas and New Year crowds are long gone, and the dry season tourists are a few months away.

You can get great deals on flights and resorts if you book in advance, and you’ll find that lots of beach areas in the south such as Kuta, Seminyak or Canggu are quieter.

This is Bali though, so if you’re here for the social aspects then there are always other travelers around to hang out with. 

April in Bali

April is a great shoulder month, but be careful of the Easter Holidays in Australia or Europe, as Bali becomes a popular holiday break destination during this time of the year. 

You could enjoy almost all sunny days or conversely it could also rain a lot, but that’s the gamble in April as the rainy season draws to a close. 

It’s the tail end of the wet season though and Bali will be blooming, making this a great month to visit the waterfalls and the rice paddies before they start to dry out again.

Visit Ubud for cultural festivals and then hike through the rice terraces nearby.

Top Recommended Tours:

• Wellness Bali with G Adventures – 9 days
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• Active Bali & Java with G Adventures – 12 days
• Bali: Beaches & Boat Rides with G Adventures – 9 days
• Classic Bali & Sailing Adventure with G Adventures – 14 days

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• Photographing the Kuta Sunset in Bali
• What to wear in Bali: The Ultimate Packing List
• 15 Photos and Facts About Visiting Gili Trawangan

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Best & Worst Times to Visit Bali 2024 (First-Timer Guide)

The best times to visit Bali are May, June, September, and October during its dry season. During these months, there are fewer tourists, allowing you to relish the sunny beaches, clear skies, and pristine islands to the fullest.

With a tropical climate, Bali experiences a consistently warm climate throughout the year. Its daytime temperatures are around 30°C (86°F). There are mainly two seasons there: the dry season ((April to October) and the rainy season (November to March). see below some key facts on Bali weather/climate:

• Dry season : April to October
• Rainy season : November to March
• Hottest month : May
• High season : May to September

When Are the Best Months to Go to Bali?

Undoubtedly, the best time to visit Bali is April to October for a sun-soaked vacation. During this period, we've thoughtfully singled out the best months for popular activities and travel themes.

• For a romantic getaway in Bali : the best times to visit Bali are late April to mid-June and late August to early October for fewer peak season crowds.
• For family trips: the island's best weather time (April to October) lines up perfectly with kids' spring break and summer vacations. To avoid local holidaymakers, you're suggested to take your family trip in April, June, or August.
• For water fun : If you seek minimal rainfall and calm seas for water fun, you're suggested to travel to Bali between June and September.

Insider tips: As Bali experiences its peak season during these times, you're suggested to make your bookings at least 3 months in advance, particularly for hotels with great views or family rooms.

Feeling overwhelmed by planning logistics? Just share your interests and we'll customize a hassle-free Bali trip for you in 24 hours!

Check our itineraries of Bali for 10 days .

The Worst Time to Visit Bali

The rainy season (November to March) seems to be the worst time to visit , particularly the rainiest month, January. So for sun seekers with flexible schedules, avoid this period or go to sunbathing island destinations, like Thailand , Vietnam , and the Philippines.

Rainfalls are occurring every 2 or 3 days during these months. The sky may be overcast. It is very humid on the beaches.

However, if your travel date is fixed, traveling in the rainy season still brings benefits: the lowest costs along with the smallest crowds .

Tips to Make "Worst Time" a Better Experience

• Consider late March and early November : They are perfect for enjoying a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and lower costs.
• Staying on the east coast : consider places like Nusa Dua and Uluwatu, is helpful to get drier experiences too.
• Indulge in indoor activities : such as yoga classes, cooking classes, and hands-on experiences in local workshops.
• Travel with a flexible private Bali tou r ( which we provide ): You can maximize the sunny intervals and easily adapt to short-lived afternoon downpours with minimal hassle.

Temperature and Rainfall in Bali

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

Bali in January: Wettest Month, The Most Affordable Month

• Average temperature range : 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F)
• Weather : warm/hot, humid, stormy, averaging 27 rainy days, very high rainfall
• Recommended 2024 festival : Gulungan, Bali's most important Hindu festival celebrates ancestral spirits visiting in a great cultural event every 210 days.

January weather conditions may be the worst of the year, but Bali is still warm/hot, and the rain can even offer respite from the heat when it comes as afternoon downpours.

This is the month for finding the best deals on hotels and flights . You'll find uncrowded temples and plenty of space on the beaches. The exception is January 1st to 6th when there are New Year vacationers.

It is not the time for diving, snorkeling, etc. or island hopping, but if you are content to grab some rays when you can on the beach and bring waterproofs/umbrellas for any time in the jungle or on the rice terraces, you could make Bali in January an enjoyable and economical trip.

Bali in February: Wet, Low Prices

• Weather : some downpours, humid, averaging 22 rainy days, high rainfall

Though better than January, February is still an off-season month, featuring regular heavy rain, but low prices and low visitor numbers at top sights...

You could enjoy a peaceful holiday in this month , with some dry hours on the beach on most days , if you're prepared to take it easy, dodge the rain, and spend more time indoors.

Avoid diving and other ocean activities due to poor visibility underwater and strong currents . Rough seas mean ferry crossings aren't recommended. Visibility on Mount Batur is often poor and long hikes are not recommended.

Read more about How to Plan a Trip to Bali >>>

Bali in March: Great Deals and Feww Crowds

• Average temperature range : 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F)
• Weather : some downpours, humid, averaging 20 rainy days, high rainfall

March is still a wet month in Bali, especially in the first half of the month. It starts to get a little warmer and the showers start to peter out at the end of March.

Enjoy low prices and longer gaps between rain . Diving's still out, and hiking's still not recommended. Taking (morning) opportunities to see the scenery and enjoy the beaches, reserving temple visits and other indoor activities for when the rain comes is advised.

Bali in April: Outdoor Adventures Firmly Back

• Average temperature range : 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F)
• Weather : hottest month, but less humid, 9 rainy days, low rainfall

April is the hottest month in Bali . It is not unusual for temperatures to exceed 30°C (95°F) all day, and nights often stay in the high 20s Celsius (the 80s Fahrenheit)!

For beach lovers, hikers, divers… you are almost guaranteed some blue sky days and clear seas , but there will still be some rain on about 1 day in 3.

Bali is busy around Easter , but the rest of the month is a shoulder season time. Staying in a lovely beach resort with air-con in the April shoulder season offers a compromise between economy and the absolute best weather.

Get inspired in Private Bali Tours and make your booking at least three months in advance for affordable price.

Bali in May: Good for Island Hopping

• Weather : hot/warm, pleasant, averaging 8 rainy days, low rainfall

May offers good conditions for Bali's activities, from island hopping to jungle swinging, with minimal chance of disruption.

In May, the shoulder season continues. It's a little cooler and drier than April, so better weather with similar prices.

Bali in June: Fine Weather

• Average temperature range : 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F)
• Weather : warm, clear skies/ocean, averaging 6 rainy days, low rainfall
• Recommended yearly festival : Bali Arts Festival (always mid-June–mid-July) in Denpasar offers a colorful journey into the world of Bali art.

June has lots of sunshine and balmy temperatures. It does not feel humid. This is an ideal month for all the island's outdoor activities .

June is the end of the shoulder season and the peak tourism season will arrive at the end of June. Be prepared for full hotels and full prices. Booking early is recommended.

Bali in July: Great Island Conditions

• Average temperature range : 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F)
• Weather : warm, clear skies/waters, just 4 rainy days, low rainfall
• Recommended yearly festivals : Bali Arts Festival (always mid-June–mid-July) in Denpasar is a great opportunity to see local costumes, dances, and displays. Bali Kite Festival is also held through July at Sanur Beach, south Bali.

Enjoy great conditions for tropical relaxation and adventure. You could even plan to climb Mount Batur , Bali's iconic volcano with a lake, with only a slim chance of any significant rain. Sunrise treks with high visibility are a highlight of Bali's dry season .

Tourism comes to a peak in July and prices for accommodation reach their highest. It is best to book accommodation early (at least three months in advance) to avoid extra cost or hotels being fully booked.

Check how to plan a trip to Singapore and Bali >>>

Bali in August: Best Month Weatherwise

• Average temperature range : 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F)
• Weather : warm, clear skies/waters, just 4 rainy days, very low rainfall
• Recommended festival : Indonesian Independence Day on August 17 has parades and other outdoor festivities.

August is the peak month for traveling to Bali. Virtually no rain means travel plans can be made with certainty and the best of snorkeling etc. conditions can be enjoyed.

Get your rooms and tours booked early, whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a tropical family vacation, or a well-earned treat to boost your wellness for the rest of the year.

Read more about Bali Honeymoon Trip Plan: Sample Itinerary, Romantic Experiences >>>

Bali in September: More Balmy Weather

• Weather : warm, clear skies/waters, 8 rainy days, low rainfall

Tourism starts to drop off a bit after August, and September is considered a shoulder month (mainly as it's the back-to-school month for many nations).

Though there is a little more rain, it's still not significant. If you can visit in September, it should be good conditions for less money.

Bali in October: End of the Dry Season

• Weather : heat/humidity builds, showers more often, ~12 rainy days, low rainfall

Bali experiences increasing rainfall towards the end of October, making it another month where deals can be had, as hotels try to fill rooms as demand drops.

In general, October is good value for money. It is your last chance to enjoy diving in Bali before the rainy season sets in and the ocean clouds up.

Bali in November: Off Season Starts

• Weather : hot/humid, a few downpours, averaging 16 rainy days, moderate rainfall

The sea in Bali is noticeably rougher during November, which is not good for water activities , though rainfall doesn't reach high amounts yet, so you might still get a day's hiking in carrying waterproofs.

November is definitely in the off season, but there are still plenty of things that you can do.

Bali in December: Rainy Season in Full Swing

• Weather : hot/warm, some downpours, averaging 22 rainy days, high rainfall

Although the wet season means some things like diving and mountain hikes are off the cards, you could still dodge the rain for sunny spells on the beach and yoga in the jungle. Enjoy delicious Balinese food indoors and its cultural attractions while you wait for the rain to stop.

Further north in SE Asia, the weather is much better. See The Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia .

Though low season, some tourists still come to Bali, particularly in late December as there are Christmas and southern hemisphere summer holidays, bringing up prices a little.

Plan Your Bali Vacation with Us

Discover Bali through our unique tours, with award-winning guides and with 1:1 help from a dedicated Bali expert every step of the way.

Tell us your interests and needs , and we will create a wonderful trip for you. We are ready to show you the authentic and blissful highlights of Bali, whatever time you visit.

Here are some itineraries you might like to start from:

• 7-Day Private Bali Natural & Cultural Immersion
• 12-Day Romantic Bali & Java Honeymoon
• 13-Day Private Singapore and Bali Journey of Discovery

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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The Best Time to Visit Bali for Every Activity

Bali seasons, explained — these are the best times to visit the island, whether you're coming for the beaches, hiking, or festivals.

Bali is a magical destination with so much to offer, from the jungle surrounding Ubud (largely considered Bali's cultural center) to the beaches lining its southern shore.

You can make your Bali vacation whatever you want it to be — a tour of the island's many temples, a spiritual journey to learn more about Hinduism, a yoga retreat, a luxury hotel immersion, a hiking adventure, or a stop on a longer trip around Indonesia. You might even want to visit Bali specifically for one of the many festivals or spiritual celebrations hosted each year.

Bali has a tropical climate with average temperatures hovering between around 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Its two seasons are defined as dry (April to October) and wet (November to March). Here's a general breakdown of Bali's tourist seasons:

• High Seasons:  June to August and November to December
• Shoulder Seasons:  April to May and September to October
• Low Season:  January to March

Below, we've mapped out the best times to go to Bali, depending on how you want to spend your vacation.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Best Times to Visit Bali for Smaller Crowds

January to March is Bali's true off-season. These months can be humid and rainy, which means you won't find crowds in search of perfect beach weather and diving conditions. And because you'll also be avoiding the biggest holiday months (November and December), you'll find the island to be calm and populated by locals and expats.

While the rain brings mosquitos and may take activities like diving and surfing off the table, it's not a deal-breaker if you're in Bali to tour temples, practice yoga, and find pure relaxation. In fact, you might find that the peaceful rain in the Ubud forest adds to the overall serenity of your experience. The jungle and rice paddies thrive in this season — and the magnificent green color and sprouting vegetation are worth seeing.

Best Times to Visit Bali for Good Weather

Sunseekers should time their trip with Bali's dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, humidity and rain decrease, creating ideal conditions for visiting beaches, surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. It still rains during these months, especially in April, May, and October, but showers are usually short and followed by clear skies. May is one of the hottest months, with an average high of 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

For the best weather, visit during July and August, the peak of the dry season. With less humidity, these months feel cooler, with an average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so they're perfect for enjoying a mix of active adventures and beach time. Those coming to Bali to catch some legendary waves should also aim to visit during the dry season, with June to August bringing larger swells to the main surf spots along the southwest coast.

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Bali for Lower Prices

The busiest and most expensive time in Bali is during the dry season, with hotel prices peaking between June and September. Tourism also sees a boost during the holidays, so you can expect higher hotel prices in November and December.

The most affordable time to visit Bali is from January through March, the rainy-season months that fall outside of the festive season. Hotel prices during this time tend to be lower due to the lack of demand, making it possible to score ocean-view rooms or multi-bedroom villas for a fraction of the price you would pay during the dry season. You may also find deals during the quiet shoulder season months, April and October.

Best Months for Hiking in Bali

If you're traveling to Bali specifically to hike, visiting between April and October is ideal, as the rainy season can cause trails to be muddy and slippery. For those planning to do some waterfall hikes, the best time to visit Bali is in April, May, and June, when the cascades are strong following the wet season, and the days are more likely to be sunny. Hikers who rent motorbikes will also have an easier time zipping around the island during the dry season since the roads can become treacherous in the rain.

Best Time to Hike Mount Batur

Mount Batur is perhaps the most iconic Bali hike. Typically, you'll book through a tour company that will pick you up from your hotel at about 2 a.m. for the 1,717-meter (5,633-foot) trek. You'll summit the active volcano as the sun rises, and depending on your guide, you may even be treated to eggs boiled in the volcanic steam at the top of Mount Batur. The two-hour hike to the summit is best done between May and September to ensure dry weather and clear views.

Best Times to Visit Bali for Festivals

One of the most iconic annual events in Bali is the Bali Arts Festival, which occurs in June and July. Indonesian Independence Day (or Hari Merdeka) falls on August 17 and is commemorated with parades and outdoor celebrations. Keep in mind that if you're traveling for a Hindu celebration, Balinese Hindus often celebrate different holidays than Hindus in India. Galungan, for example, is an important 10-day celebration of the triumph of good over evil (dharma over adharma) that occurs every 210 days according to the Balinese Pawukon calendar. Nyepi, a day of silence, fasting, and meditation before the New Year, typically takes place in March.

Best Months to Visit the Beach in Bali

May to September is the best time to visit Bali for a classic beach vacation. Days tend to be hot, sunny, and dry, creating ideal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. However, the drawback of visiting Bali during this period is that most of these months fall within the peak season. The temples, beaches, hotels, and yoga classes will be crowded, so it's likely you won't have as many opportunities to soak up that sweet Balinese serenity you're treated to in the low season.

Worst Times to Visit Bali

Of course, those looking for a quintessential Bali vacation with plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities will want to avoid the rainy season (especially during the wettest months, December and January). At this time of year, it's common to experience choppy seas, muddy trails, and afternoon storms, which can quite literally put a damper on your plans. However, travelers looking to spend their days practicing yoga, visiting temples, or enjoying cultural experiences indoors may prefer the quieter atmosphere.

Due to higher levels of precipitation, mosquitos can be particularly prolific in the rainy season and the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses (like dengue fever) increases accordingly. If you do plan to visit during the wet season, bug repellant is a must-have on your pack list — especially when hiking in the jungle. Some locals also drink lemongrass tea, which is believed to be a natural insect repellent.

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The Best & Worst Time To Travel To Bali

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What is the best and the worst time to travel to Bali ? Does it make a difference when you visit?

If these are questions you’re curious about, then you’re in the right place!

Bali is a tropical island in Indonesia and a great travel destination at any time of the year. That being said, some months are better than others for a Bali vacation.

Bali has gorgeous surf beaches, stunning waterfalls, lush green vegetation, and beautiful temples. There’s also delicious food, fabulous cafes, trendy beach clubs, and luxurious spas.

To really maximize your time and enjoy these offerings to the fullest, you’ll want to choose the best time to holiday in Bali. This is especially true as the island has distinct seasons.

So, what is the best and worst time to travel to Bali? Keep reading for help deciding when to go!

⏳ Short on time? Here are some helpful tips for visiting Bali: 💸 Save Money: Klook Pass , which helps you save up to 45% while getting access to up to 40 activities with this one pass 🗺️ Tours: Klook (very popular in Asia), GetYourGuide , and Viator 📍 Top-Rated Excursions: – Design Your Own Private Tour of Bali – Monkey Forest, Temple, Waterfall, Rice Terrace & Art Villages – Mount Batur Volcano Sunrise Trekking Tour with Breakfast – Bali ATV Quad Bike Through Tunnel, Waterfall & White Water Rafting – Experience Bali Village Life & Traditional Farming 🥘 Cooking Class: EatWith ☂️ Safety: While Bali is safe for travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🚗 Getting Around: You can book airport transfers and rides between cities on Booking.com 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (robust) 📞 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Where Is Bali?

Before we get into when to go to Bali, let’s discuss its location. Bali is an island located in Indonesia , Southeast Asia ‘s largest country.

According to Britannica , Indonesia features 17,500 islands — with over 7,000 of these being uninhabited. The largest islands are New Guinea, Borneo, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Java.

Amongst these islands, Bali sits 1 mile east of Java and is the most visited spot in Indonesia by tourists. That being said, it’s worth adding on some of the other islands if you have time in your itinerary.

Best Time To Travel To Bali

If you are wondering “When is the best time to go to Bali?”

Bali’s best season to visit is the dry season from May to October. The most popular months are July and August, with the latter being the driest month of the year.

This is the high season when the weather is warm, dry, and sunny — helping to make it the best time to travel to Bali for a beach holiday and outdoor activities.

If you’d like to take advantage of the great weather while escaping the crowds and finding travel deals, consider visiting during May and June, Bali’s shoulder season. Actually, May is considered the best month to go to Bali!

Worst Time To Travel To Bali

What about when not to go to Bali?

The rainy season and the months of December, January, and February are generally considered the worst time to visit Bali. There are more rainy days and higher humidity at this time of year and the weather is not ideal for visiting the beach.

That being said, Bali really is a year-round destination. There’s no bad time of year to visit and there are some advantages to traveling to Bali in January , the wettest month of the year.

Let me explain: July and August are the busiest time to visit Bali. It’s peak tourism season, as these months coincide with holiday periods in the USA, Europe, Australia, and Indonesia.

Popular venues and tourist attractions can be crowded at this time. Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and the beaches of the west coast are at their busiest and it’s a more expensive time to visit Bali.

On the other hand, visiting Bali during the rainy season means fewer crowds and better deals. Plus, the landscapes look extra lush and vibrant from the rain.

And if you’d prefer to stay inside, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy.

Cheapest Time to Visit Bali

The cheapest time to go to Bali is during the rainy season from November to April. It’s the low season, so you’ll find:

• fewer visitors
• less demand for flights
• lower hotel prices fall

In particular, many of the larger hotels and resorts offer discounted rates at this time of year, so make sure to check their websites.

Least Busy Time to Visit Bali

January and February are the least busy months to visit Bali. It’s the height of the rainy season and the weather tends to be hot and stormy with high humidity.

While December is also a rainy month in Bali, the Christmas holiday draws a larger number of visitors. So, the best time to visit Bali in the low season if you want to avoid the crowds is in January and February.

Bali Weather By Month

To help you better understand the best and worst time to visit Bali, let’s look at what the weather is like month by month.

Bali’s Rainy Season

Bali’s rainy season is often considered the worst time to go to Bali. That being said, you shouldn’t discount this period completely. Here is what you need to know:

Weather in Bali in November

In November, the rainy season in Bali begins and the weather is typically very hot and muggy with some sunny days. Average temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) to 31°C (88°F) and November brings afternoon showers and storms around 50% of the time. Pack an umbrella and wet weather gear if you’re going out.

Weather in Bali in December

The weather in December in Bali is even wetter with an average of 358mm this month; but, there’s still quite a lot of sun. Average temperatures are warm with lows of 23°C (73°F) and highs of 31°C (88°F).

Weather in Bali in January

Bali in January is warm, humid, and often sunny; but, it’s the wettest month of the year. Storms and showers are common, especially in the afternoon, and it’s considered one of the worst times to visit Bali for a beach vacation. There’s still lots of sun in January and average temperatures range from lows of 23°C (73°F) to highs of 31°C (88°F).

Weather in Bali in February

Bali in February is the rainy season and tends to be wet — although there’s usually slightly less rain than in January, and lots of sun between the rain showers. The weather is hot and humid with average temperatures ranging from lows of 23°C (73°F) to highs of 31°C (88°F).

Weather in Bali in March

March in Bali is hot, rainy, and humid. Afternoon showers bring some respite from the heat, but overall temperatures are warm throughout March with lows of 23°C (73°F) to highs of 31°C (88°F). Additionally, there’s a 77% chance of clouds in the sky.

Weather in Bali in April

April is the beginning of the dry season and there’s less rain than in the previous months. Average temperatures are slightly cooler with highs of 29°C (84°F) and lows of 23°C (73°F).

Bali’s Dry Season

Bali’s dry season is typically considered the best time to go to Bali. Here is what you need to know to plan your trip:

Weather in Bali in May

In my opinion, this is the best month to visit Bali, along with June, as it’s the shoulder season. With around 8 hours of sunshine every day, the weather in Bali in May is perfect for the beach. Although there is a possibility of some light rain, maximum temperatures are warm with highs of 29°C (84°F) and lows of 23°C (73°F).

Weather in Bali in June

June in Bali brings more great beach weather with sunny skies and low rainfall. Average maximum temperatures reach 30°C (86°F) and lows of 22°C (72°F). June is a beautiful time in Bali. It’s slightly cooler and there’s less humidity.

Weather in Bali in July

Now let’s discuss visiting Bali in July . July is high season and one of the best months to visit Bali for warm, sunny beach weather and clear skies. There’s very little rain in July and temperatures are a little cooler, ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 29°C (84°F).

Weather in Bali in August

August in Bali brings warm, sunny days and low rainfall. It’s ideal beach weather with even less rainfall than July and similar temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 29°C (84°F).

Weather in Bali in September

September in Bali brings slightly warmer, sunny weather with the possibility of light showers. Average temperatures in September range from lows of 22°C (72°F) to highs of 30°C (86°F).

Weather in Bali in October

The weather in Bali in October tends to be a bit wetter than in September with more afternoon showers. Temperatures are slightly higher from 23°C (73°F) to 31°C (88°F) and there’s more humidity in the air.

Visiting Bali During The Dry Season

From May to October is Bali’s dry season. Temperatures are slightly cooler, and the weather is typically warm and sunny with little rain.

The dry season is the best time to visit Bali for a beach holiday and for outdoor activities like diving, surfing, and hiking; but, it’s the worst time to travel to Bali if you want to avoid the crowds or you’re on a budget.

Bali dry season: pros

• The weather is at its best during the dry season and it’s perfect beach weather.  There’s little rain and slightly cooler temperatures with less humidity.
• Seas are calmer and water visibility is good for snorkeling and diving.
• Dry weather is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities . It’s the perfect time to explore the island on a motorbike.
• The dry season is the “on season” for surfing , with good swells and the best conditions. This is also a great time to book a Bali yoga surf retreat , a popular experience blending outdoor adventure with wellness.

Bali dry season: cons

• July and August are the high season and crowds of tourists flock to Bali’s beaches. Cafés, pubs, and tourist attractions can be very busy.
• Accommodation, flights, and tours are often more expensive at this time of year.

Places to go during Bali’s dry season

Ubud and Bali’s west coast beaches tend to be crowded in the drier months. It’s the peak season for tourists and it’s a good time to escape to the mountains and to less visited parts of the island like Lovina, Amed , Tirta Gangga , and Sideman.

The dry season is the best time for visiting the islands near Bali like Nusa Lembongan , Nusa Penida, Lombok , and the lovely Gili Islands . The sea is calmer at this time of year and it’s a safer and more comfortable time to travel by ferry.

Things to do during Bali’s dry season

• Enjoy Bali’s beautiful beaches with swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
• The dry season brings calm clear water with good visibility for diving and snorkeling.
• Hike to the top of Mount Agung or Mount Batur at sunrise for spectacular views of the active volcano and its surroundings. If you have at least 7 days in Bali , this is a must, though if doing Mount Agung you should allot more like 2 weeks in Bali to allow for a few additional recovery days (since it’s the island’s highest peak).
• Bali’s many beautiful waterfalls are fun to visit at any time of year. If you enjoy hiking, here are some of the top waterfall trails .
• Ride a motorbike or a scooter to get around.
• Temple visits are a great introduction to Bali’s rich local culture at any time of year.
• Enjoy Bali’s famous cafes and beach clubs and beach sunsets.
• Attend seasonal annual events like the Bali Arts Festival in June/July, the Nusa Dua Light Festival in July, and the Bali Arts Festival in July to October.

Things to pack for Bali’s dry season

For Bali in the dry season, pack lightweight cotton clothes, shorts, and a swimsuit. A long-sleeved shirt, sarong, and sandals are a good idea for visiting temples and long pants will offer some protection on a motorbike.

Balinese people dress modestly, so it’s best to cover your shoulders and knees, especially if you’re visiting less touristy parts of the island. Shorts, swimwear, and tank tops are fine to wear on the beach.

Bali is too hot for jeans so it’s best to leave them at home.

Visiting Bali During The Rainy Season: Pros & Cons

The wet season, from November to April, is still a good time to visit Bali if you don’t mind some rain.

Although there’s more wet weather at this time of year, the sun still shines quite a lot, and the rain tends to come in afternoon showers and storms that feel refreshing in the hot weather.

The wet season is a time when the island is lush, green, and less crowded. It’s also a cheaper time to visit, and you can take advantage of the many fun things to do in Bali besides hanging out on the beach.  

In the rainy season, the worst month to visit Bali is December. Not only is December one of the wettest months, but it’s also very popular with visitors over the Christmas holidays — making it a busier and more expensive time to travel to Bali.

Personally, I went to Bali in January and had a great time with minimal disruption from the weather. And, even at the height of the wet season, I found plenty of fun things to do when the weather wasn’t perfect.

And if you wonder “When is the best time to travel to Bali during the rainy season?” April is usually good, especially towards the end of the month.

Bali rainy season: pros           

• Bali is lush and green at this time of year and the rice terraces are beautiful.
• Bali’s many waterfalls are spectacular in the wet season, particularly the waterfalls in Ubud . Here is a list of beautiful waterfall trails if you enjoy hiking — just make sure to bring a raincoat and waterproof backpack!
• There are fewer tourists , meaning it’s quieter on the beaches and entrance queues are shorter or non-existent at temples and attractions.
• Accommodation is cheaper . Some of the larger hotels and resorts offer discounted rates in the low season.
• Airfares are lower at this time of the year. This makes it especially popular for backpackers and those traveling solo in Bali who don’t have others to split the costs with.

Bali rainy season: cons

• Unpredictable weather can make it hard to plan your daily itinerary. You’ll definitely want to have a backup plan for outdoor activities.
• There is more rain, and afternoon showers and storms are common.
• The weather is hot and the humidity is high.
• The rainy season is the worst time to visit Bali for outdoor activities like hiking and it’s no fun being caught in a storm when riding a motorbike.
• Seas are choppy and long ferry trips are best avoided.
• Stormy weather causes poorer water visibility for snorkeling and diving.
• Beaches can be dirtier , as more garbage washes up on the shore at this time of year.

Places to go in Bali’s rainy season

The wet season is the best time to visit the popular west coast beach areas like Kuta , Seminyak , and Canggu if you want to avoid the crowds in the busier months.

It’s also the best time to holiday in Ubud for the same reason. Yoga classes, cafes, and restaurants are less crowded, and Bali’s luxurious spa s sometimes offer discounts at this time of year.

Things to do in Bali’s rainy season

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Bali if the weather isn’t perfect. Here are some suggestions. Just always make sure to check the weather forecast before leaving your hotel room!

• Chasing waterfalls is one of the best things to do in the rainy season. Bali’s many waterfalls are spectacular at this time of year and it’s the best time to visit Munduk’ s stunning Banyu Wana and Banyumala Twin Falls . You can swim in the gorgeous plunge pool at the base of these incredible waterfalls.
• Stroll through the verdant green fields at Tegallalang Rice Terrace near Ubud or the UNESCO world heritage listed Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in Central Bali.
• Visit Bali’s sacred water temples and discover the fascinating spiritual side of Balinese culture. Take a cleansing bath in the Holy Springs at Tirta Empul Temple and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery of the popular Tanah Lot and Uluwatu Temples .
• Watch a gorgeous sunset at Kuta Beach. The dramatic skies of the rainy season make stunning sunsets and Bali’s west coast is the perfect place to relax on the beach and watch the sunset over the water.
• Enjoy a cocktail at Azul Bali — Legian’s leading beach club — or Finns in Canggu. There are many popular beach clubs to choose from.
• Indulge in a luxurious massage and a Bali flower bath at one of the island’s many spas. 
• Take a cooking class and immerse yourself in the local cuisine. Learn how to make delicious sate skewers and traditional peanut sauce.
• Wind down with yoga and meditation at one of Bali’s many yoga schools. The Yoga Barn in Ubud is one of the best known; but there are yoga classes, retreats, and teacher training courses all over the island. Here is a list of top-rated Bali yoga retreats .

Things to pack for Bali in the rainy season

Pack an umbrella — like this compact windproof one — and wet weather gear for visiting Bali in the rainy season in case it downpours when you’re out or riding a motorbike.

Just note that the weather is still warm, so to stay dry you’ll want a raincoat that is breathable — like this lightweight option that comes in numerous colors and patterns.

You might also consider investing in a waterproof backpack, like this one , or lining your backpack with heavy-duty garbage bags to protect your gear while you’re out exploring. This is especially helpful if you’ll be bringing a camera.

Travel Insurance For Bali

No matter when you visit Bali, it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Best Tours In Bali

After deciding on the best time of year for Bali for your itinerary, one of your next steps is choosing your tours and activities. A few top-rated options include:

• Full Day Tour to Nusa Penida and Snorkeling with Manta Rays from Kota Denpasar
• Best of Ubud: Monkey Forest, Temple, Waterfall, Rice Terrace & Art Villages from Ubud
• Bali ATV Ride & White Water Rafting from Badung Regency
• ️Bali Instagram Tour: The Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive) from Tanjung Benoa
• Bali Full-Day Water Temples and UNESCO Rice Terraces Tour from Denpasar

Click here for a full list of Bali tours .

Where To Stay In Bali

Looking for a place to stay in Bali? Some of the most popular places to book a hotel include Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta, among others.

Click here for a full list of top-rated hotels in Bali!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays. It’s set to Ubud, but you can easily change the specific location to fit where you’d like to base:

Best & Worst Time To Travel To Bali: FAQ

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about when to visit Bali:

Q) When should you not go to Bali?

While Bali is a year-round destination, December is typically the worst time to visit Indonesia, including Bali. It’s the rainy season but is still crowded due to people visiting for the holiday season.

Q) Is December a good time to visit Bali?

If you can avoid visiting Bali in December, it’s better to go during other times of year. May through October is Bali’s dry season, though even visiting during January in the rainy season will allow you to enjoy fewer crowds and better deals than in December.

Q) When is the best time to visit Bali for the weather?

May through October is Bali’s dry season, with August tending to be the driest month of the year. That being said, May and June include Bali’s shoulder season, so you can avoid the crowds and find better deals. In my opinion, this is the best time of the year to go to Bali.

Q) When is the best time to fly to Bali?

The cheapest time to fly to Bali is usually November.

Best & Worst Time To Travel To Bali: Final Thoughts

So, what are the best and worst months to go to Bali?

July and August are the most popular months; but, the very best time for a Bali vacation is in May and June, during the shoulder season. The weather is warm, there’s less rain, and you’ll experience fewer crowds. Coming out of the rainy season, the island is lush and green and the waterfalls are flowing.

The worst month to travel to Bali is December. It’s the height of the rainy season and December brings crowds of visitors over the Christmas holiday period.  

This all being said, Bali is beautiful throughout the year and there’s really no bad time to go. The best and worst time to travel to Bali depends on your priorities and on what activities you have planned.

Keep this in mind as you plan your trip to Bali! No matter when you go, you’ll very likely still have a memorable and enjoyable trip!

To help you further plan your trip to Bali, check out:

• Perfect 3-Day Ubud Itinerary (With Map!)
• 15 Best Waterfalls Near Ubud
• Ultimate 2-Week Bali Itinerary (Super Detailed!)
• 15 Best Places To Stay In Ubud For Solo Travelers
• Ultimate Bali Solo Travel Guide

In your opinion, when is the best and worst time to visit Bali?

Enjoyed this guide to when to visit Bali ? Pin this article on the best time of year to visit Bali for later!

Related posts:

About Linda Stacy

Linda is a travel blogger and teacher from Australia. She loves to travel solo and over the years has visited around 50 countries. Linda is happiest when she’s exploring new places, climbing mountains, and writing about her adventures on Muy Linda Travels . She has a particular interest in Asia travel - including Bali.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Bali?

• May 15, 2024

Travelling to Bali is at the top of people’s bucket lists worldwide , and I’m pretty confident that not one of those people dreams of their trip being full of rainy days and sodden sandals. I speak from experience when I say motorbikes and tropical rainstorms – not fun .

So, when is the best time to visit Bali?

Between the dry, rainy, high and low seasons, it can get confusing to know which months are the ideal time to commit to your once-in-a-lifetime vacation.

Don’t worry, I am here to help. I am going to break down the best months for travelling to the island, along with weather guidelines, to assist you in narrowing down when to go to Bali for an adventure in paradise.

Weather in Bali

Thanks to its location below the equator, Bali doesn’t experience a big surge, or drop, in temperatures throughout the year. It does, however, have a dry season and a rainy season.

A good place to start when planning your trip to Bali is to consider the weather and identify what kind of trip you are hoping to have. Are you looking to have the tropical beach getaway of your dreams? Or, are you happy to spend some reflective time indoors, watching rain spatter onto the luscious gardens on a calm getaway?

Through April to October, Bali has what is considered the ‘dry season’. Between these months you can – pretty much – guarantee bright shining sun all day, every day. With high temperatures and climbing UV indexes, it is the perfect time for heat lovers – pack your SPF50!

If you are hoping to enjoy long days relaxing on the best beaches in Bali and refreshing in the ocean, the dry season is the best time to visit Bali. It is also the most popular time for tourists.

For the rest of the year, between October and March, the island is drenched with intense tropical downpours. You can see that life for the locals is slower during this period. With less tourists, the businesses are quieter and streets are calmer. Personally, it is my favourite time of year in Bali – I love rain and tropical storms. The island feels so peaceful when everyone is hiding from the showers.

Despite being called ‘rainy season’ it is very rare for a whole day to be taken up by grey cloudy skies and rain. The island’s humidity soars, plant-life thrives, and you can witness just how swiftly the atmosphere changes as the dark clouds turn into shining sun rays. For those who don’t love the burning sun, and enjoy the soothing sound of rain pitter-pattering on the roof, rainy season is the time for you.

What To Do During Dry Season

The Bali dry season is also the high season for tourism. The island is packed full of adventures and tours, beaches and pool clubs, jungles and cliff sides to be explored.

Here are some of the best things to do in Bali during dry season –

• Spend a day in the sun around your Bali villa pool, enjoying the heat and cooling off in the refreshing water
• Head to one of the popular beach clubs where you can tan, snack, drink and relax in luxury with a pool and the ocean just steps away – Finn’s Beach Club (Berawa), KU DE TA (Seminyak), Potato Head (Seminyak), Sundays Beach Club (Uluwatu), COMO Beach Club (Canggu), Tropicola (Seminyak)
• Explore! Venture out on fun tours around Bali with an experienced local driver who can take you to Ubud, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Singaraja, Candidasa for days trips and short staycations
• Have fun with your family and friends at a waterpark – Waterbom (Kuta), Finn’s Splash Water park (Canggu), Taman Segara Madu Water park (Canggu)
• Wander the local markets to find handmade wares from clothing to accessories to home decor – treat yourself or get souvenirs to take home to your loved ones
• Shop til you drop at the sprawling shopping centres in Bali – Seminyak Square, Beachwalk Shopping Centre (Kuta), Discovery Mall (Kuta), Mal Bali Galeria (Kuta)
• Enjoy cool smoothie bowl creations for a frozen breakfast, lunch or dinner! – Nalu Bowls (Seminyak & Canggu)
• Dine on the sand at sunset over delicious, ultra-fresh seafood in Jimbaran – Menega Cafe, Jimbaran Beach Cafe, Jimbaran Seafood Dinner, Sunset Dinner Beach
• Relax for the day at a beach bar with rentable sunbeds and ice-cold beverages until the sunsets – Seminyak Beach, Berawa Beach, Batu Bolong Beach, Petitenget Beach
• Take a surfing lesson from one of the famous surf schools with friendly professional instructors – Wave House (Canggu), Bali Green Surf School (Seminyak), Odyssey’s Surf School (Kuta), UP2U Surf School Bali (Uluwatu)

What To Do During Rainy Season

The Bali rainy season is the low season for tourism. The streets are more peaceful and accommodation is cheaper, but it is harder to find things to do when a rainstorm comes.

Here is a list of my favourite things to do in Bali during rainy season –

• Have a spa day at one of the best spas in Bali with your loved ones – escaping the rain doesn’t need to be boring, you can be pampered and buffed to your heart’s content as the rain pours outside
• Take a yoga class – stretch and breathe your way to a zen mood with the rumbling of thunder far off in the background
• Tuck in to a delicious local meal – find a nearby local warung and select from the most delicious dishes that’ll make your taste buds happy. A little sambal will warm you up after getting caught in the rain!
• Head to the mall – much like escaping the heat, you can also escape the rain in one of the huge shopping malls – Seminyak Square, Beachwalk Shopping Centre (Kuta), Discovery Mall (Kuta), Mal Bali Galeria (Kuta)
• Watch a movie at one of the cinemas in Bali – catch up on the latest releases and pick at some popcorn until the rain dies down – Cinema XXI (Beachwalk, Kuta), Galeria Cinema XXI (Mal Galeria, Kuta), Cinema XXI Premiere (Level 21, Kuta)
• Relax for the day around your accommodation – this is perfect if you are staying in a private villa, but even to explore your hotel and take advantage of the on-site amenities is a great way to pass some rainy time
• Read your favourite book by the pool – this is one of my go-tos. Let the world stop for a moment and get lost in your book
• Get cuddly at the cat cafe – there are a few spots around the island where you can get cosy with a feline friend. What’s better than escaping the cool rain with a purring furball to comfort you? – The Odd Cat Cafe (Kerobokan), Cat Cafe Sanur, Al-cat-raz Cat Cafe (Sanur), Cat Cafe Ubud

Month-to-Month Breakdown

I want to make your decision of when to go to Bali as easy as possible, so I have broken down the weather for each month on the island as well as the must-know calendar highlights. From high-high’s, to not very low-low’s you can see the average temperatures, humidity and also consider costs and the amount of tourists. Here we go!

Visiting Bali in January – The Wettest Month

Weather in January

Right in the midst of the rainy season, January is known to be the wettest month on the island. It is also the coldest, with temperatures dropping to 26℃ – basically summer in the UK. The weather in Bali during January is unpredictable with rain storms starting before you even noticed the clouds have turned grey.

If you are travelling around by motorbike be sure to have a rain jacket on hand at all times! It is very common for big streets to flood briefly during a heavy rain shower, keep this in mind for any long trips during the month.

What’s Going on in January

The number of tourists visiting Bali at the start of January is slightly high as many people come to celebrate Christmas and New Years on the island. Along with the increase in visitors comes price inflation for accommodation and flights. Considered a ‘mini-high season’ if you want to travel to Bali in January, wait until the end of the month, or booking in advance is highly recommended!

Visiting Bali in February – Cheapest Time to Visit Bali

Weather in February 

A very humid and mildly wet month, February doesn’t attract very many tourists. If you are looking to spend a peaceful escape away from crowds, this could be a great month for you. With an average of 15 days rain you can hide away in your accommodation with a cool breeze, and explore the island on the dry days.

What’s Going on in February

The best spots for surfing during February are around Nusa Dua where the waves can reach up to 10 ft high – not for the beginner! Due to the minimal amount of tourists stopping by, you can find amazing deals on accommodation, tours and attractions throughout the island. It is by far one of the cheapest times to visit Bali.

Visiting Bali in March – Here Comes the Sun

Weather in March

Bringing the rainy season to a close, March offers a more sunny and bright outlook. The temperatures start to creep up and the rainy days begin to lessen. You can spend some warmer afternoons enjoying the beach, and cool evenings watching beautiful sunsets. There will still be the occasional rain shower, but noticeably less often and not as heavy.

What’s Going on in March

With March comes one of the most famous and strict of the Balinese ceremonies – Nyepi or Silent Day. Always in March – but never on the same date – Nyepi is a time of meditation , silence and fasting for the local Hindu’s. The island falls into complete stillness, as no electricity, sound or light is allowed to be used. You are not allowed to leave your residence, even the international airport closes for the day! Everyone on the island is expected to respect the rules of the holiday that are enforced by the local Pecalang or security patrol.

I highly recommend visiting Bali in March, not only is the weather better, you get to experience one of the most unique holy days in the world.

Visiting Bali in April – No More April Showers

Weather in April

April promises sunshine and more predictable weather as the dry season begins. The drop in humidity and return of the famous Bali heat surprisingly doesn’t have the tourists immediately queueing for flights. The island is still peaceful and calm, ideal for those looking to get a good deal on accommodation.

What’s Going on in April

As the dry season starts, the best surfing beaches transfer over to the West coast of the island. The Uluwatu breaks are a professional surfers dream, while Kuta and Seminyak are perfect for beginners. Answering the age old question when to go to Bali surfing – anytime from April through to October is the best time for surfers. Make sure to pack your sunscreen, with highs up to 33℃ , you never know what the April sun will bring.

April is also the month where creatives and planners come together to create the Ubud Food Festival. A three-day event where you can chomp your way around endless stalls and workshops learning about different cuisines and traditional ways to make your favourites dishes.

Visiting Bali in May – One of the Hottest Months

Weather in May

With the rainy season truly behind us, May honours the island with some of the hottest days of the year. Cool rain is a thing of the past as is humidity allowing the full wrath of Bali heat to strike. If you enjoy the heat, it is the perfect time to enjoy the calm quiet beaches before the throngs of tourists arrive in the following months.

What’s Going on in May

This is the time when expats and locals will be getting their air-conditioners serviced ready for long hot stints through the night. Goodbye measuring rainfall, hello UV index. From here we are in for a hot summer!

Visiting Bali in June – The Month of Arts

Weather in June

Very similar to May, June continues with high temperatures, low humidity and a very low chance of rain – although not completely zero. As with all countries around the world, weather is getting more and more unpredictable , so never discount the chance of the odd tropical shower here and there.

What’s Going on in June

As schools begin closing up for summer holidays in the Western world, high season starts in Bali. An influx of tourists to the island starts in June and leads on throughout the summer months into September. During this time you can expect to see more people on the beaches, busier restaurants and more crowded roads. June is also when prices for places to stay start to creep up as the demand intensifies.

It isn’t all negative though, with the swarms of tourists comes better festivals, more restaurant deals, bigger events and more live music gigs!

Let’s not forget that June is when the Bali Arts Festival is held. You can learn more about the Balinese culture through dance performances, traditional barong dancing and creative showcases.

Visiting Bali in July – The Best Month to Visit

Weather in July

The weather in Bali in July is the best throughout the year. You are guaranteed shining sun every day, all day. Humidity remains low and chances of rain are minuscule, in July Bali is at its very best!

What’s Going on in July

July is the busiest month with tourists from all over the world flying in to experience the stunning beaches, tropical jungles and beautiful landscapes. With the crowds comes longer travelling times and fewer ‘peaceful’ spots, but it is also the best month to visit Bali. Everything is in full swing from bars to restaurants, tourist attractions to hotels, you can’t go wrong no matter what kind of holiday you are looking to have!

Kite flying is a competitive sport on the island, with young children – and adults – taking part in competitions where the winner is the one who wraps their string around the other kite first. So it goes without saying that the Bali Kite Festival is one of the biggest highlights of the year. Through July you will see thousands of kites taking to the sky, and being transported around the island ready for war!

There are a load of festivals in Bali during July that will make your trip that extra little bit special.

Visiting Bali in August – Mid High Season

Weather in August

The weather in August is very similar to July with clear skies, bright sun and close to no chance of rain! A summer island dream. Temperatures will soar up to 29℃ , just slightly lower than the 30℃ that can be reached in July.

What’s Going on in August

If you thought that July was busy, wait till you see August.. Families, friends and tour groups from every corner of the world venture each inch of the island to take in every drop of paradise they can get. If you want to escape the crowds then I recommend heading up to the very North of the island. Surrounded by luscious jungles and black sand beaches, you can catch a moment of peace.

August 17th hails as Independence Day for Indonesia . A public holiday that is celebrated nation-wide, you will see thousands of flags decorating homes, offices and buildings across the island. Locals hold street parties to celebrate their independence, and enjoy some quality time with their families.

Visiting Bali in September – After the Crowds

Weather in September

Not much changes weatherwise from August to September. Bali is still a sunny tropical getaway where you can enjoy bright blue skies and moderate humidity. The waves are great for surfing, sunsets are magical each night and the evenings are cool enough to enjoy a night of dancing and eating with your loved ones.

What’s Going on in September

September is when the Bali high season begins to come to an end. Tourists are heading home, and fewer are stopping by for the vacation of their dreams. The atmosphere of the island is still on a high after a successful busy season where businesses thrived and locals had steady jobs. It is a great time to visit Bali to catch the summer feeling before the rain begins.

Visiting Bali in October – Here Comes the Rain

Weather in October

We are about to come back full circle into the rainy season with October bringing wetter days. Not quite into the throws of the big storms, it is still a good time to visit Bali since the crowds are gone, but don’t expect endless sunshine.

What’s Going on in October

October is the best time to visit Ubud as it hosts a whole range of festivals and events. The Bali Vegan Festival and the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival use the cultural centre of the island as its home. Filled with tasty snacks, interesting workshops, lectures and celebrations, it lures people from around the island to its luscious landscape.

Visiting Bali in November – A Quiet Month

Weather in November

The weather in Bali in November is wet in true rainy season style. Although you don’t need to worry about showers every day, it’s smart to always be prepared with a raincoat just in case – a sunny morning doesn’t mean a dry day.. Humidity charges back up into the 80%s making it one of the stickiest month’s on the island. Don’t be packing any puffer-jackets.

What’s Going on in November

November is a quiet month in terms of visitors. There aren’t many tourists and no big festivals, but you can feel the build up to December where we get another mini-high season over Christmas.

Visiting Bali in December – Mini-High Season

Weather in December

Bali in December is not for the sun-seekers. With mostly grey days, the peaks of sun are greatly appreciated for some much needed Vitamin D. In the prime of the Bali rainy season there is an average of 13 wet days throughout the month, not bad if you are looking for a Christmas getaway .

What’s Going on in December

If you thought Bali is quiet over the holidays, you are sadly mistaken. Bali in December reaches another peak of incoming tourists who are looking to celebrate Christmas and New Years in the tropics. I suggest booking far in advance for flights and accommodation as the prices jump to great heights for the special end-of-year celebrations.

Final Thoughts

As a self-proclaimed Bali lover, I worship the island all times of year – through low season Bali to high season Bali, every drop of rain and every bead of sweat, I can’t stop falling in love with the tropical paradise.

For a family wanting to take a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, July is the best time to go to Bali.

For a surfer looking to catch some incredible waves, April is when you can battle with your board for some memorable surfing moments.

And, for the digital nomad wanting to spend some time on the island grinding away on their laptop, it’s never a bad time to visit Bali.

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The best times to visit Bali based on your travel goals

Oct 30, 2023 • 4 min read

In Bali, the weather is warm and the hammocks are comfortable year-round © anyaberkut / Getty Images

With awe-inspiring scenery, dense layers of culture, plenty of sun, surf and sand, and balmy temperatures year-round, Bali calls out like a beacon to adventurers, sun-seekers and travelers who like to truly immerse themselves in the countries they visit. Whatever your travel tastes, you'll find rewarding things to see and do in Bali at any time of year.

The dry season, from April to September, is the most enjoyable time of the year for outdoor activities, including basking on beaches, hiking, surfing, sailing, diving and canyoning. Visit during the wet season (November to March), and you'll experience frequent downpours, but there's good surf on the east coast, and you can still enjoy the outdoors, especially in drier areas in the east and north of the island. Temperatures in Bali don’t vary much from season to season, hovering between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F) year-round, though it's often cooler in mountain areas. Whatever you're looking for in Bali, here are the best times to come.

The high season (July–August and December) is the best time for festivals and partying

The high season in Bali coincides with the traditional summer vacation season in Europe, America, and Australia in July and August. It's the height of the dry season and the peak time for surfing on the west coast at the breaks around Canggu and Seminyak . Bali's original beach hub, Kuta , can be mobbed at this time of year, as many travelers come here specifically for the party season. 

Most parts of Bali are inundated with visitors in summer, as tourists come to sample the island’s many delights and enjoy some of its most colorful festivals. Indonesia celebrates its independence from colonial powers on August 17 with plenty of pomp and fanfare. Expect entertaining parades and street parties in the bigger towns. 

The period around Christmas and New Year also sees a large influx of travelers seeking a reprieve from cold northern winters. Many hotels, restaurants and other venues organize special dinners and entertainment to mark the festive season. New Year’s Eve is particularly memorable, with spectacular fireworks at midnight to help you rock in the new year in style. Key events to look out for are the Pemuteran Bay Festival, Penglipuran Village Festival and, of course, New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

High season means high prices and pressing hordes in tightly-packed tourist areas; for a quieter experience, seek out more remote spots such as Nusa Penida and Pemuteran .

The shoulder season (April–June and September–October) is best for adventurous travelers

The shoulder season in Bali falls at either end of the dry season, when the weather is either improving after the rains or getting slowly wetter after the dry months. Things are quieter without the summertime crowds, and the weather is normally still dry enough for outdoor activities. However, the two-week Easter spring break can get very busy in tourist areas such as Kuta and Legian .

May marks the surfing season in full swing on the west and south coasts, and rafting, trekking and spelunking beckon adventure sports fans.

As rain showers in October are more frequent than in the dry summer months, plan to spend some time indoors visiting temples, museums and cultural institutions in Ubud , Denpasar , and other centers for Balinese culture. Top international events in October include the  Ubud Village Jazz Festival  and the  Ubud Writers and Readers Festival . 

The low season (January–March and November) is best for budget travelers

Bali’s low season coincides with the rainiest months of the year, and this can be an unpredictable time for outdoor activities. The crowds have decamped back home, and the island is returning to a more relaxed vibe, but there's still decent surf on the east coast at such legendary locations as Padang Padang, and the weather is still warm. Accommodation prices fall considerably, which is great news for budget travelers.

At the end of January or the start of February, Chinese New Year celebrations feature typical Balinese elements such as traditional percussion bands and dancers dressed as the mythological lion-like creature Barong. 

The festival of Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, moves with the lunar calendar but frequently falls in March. This is a culturally fascinating time to visit Bali, but after the colorful parades of ogoh-ogoh puppets the night before the festival, the Day of Silence itself can be a tricky time for visitors as everything closes, transport ceases, and nobody is allowed out on the streets.

Understanding the Balinese calendar

Note that religious festivals such as Galungan and Kuningan are scheduled according to the Balinese 210-day pawukon calendar. This means they happen roughly every seven months, according to the Western calendar. Dates for village festivals are not always set in stone either, and the timing of the Nyepi festival is dictated by the lunar saka calendar, meaning the date changes every year. If you’re planning a trip around a festival or event, check the precise dates before you book your flights.

This article was first published Dec 3, 2021 and updated Oct 30, 2023.

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Best Time to Visit Bali – When to Travel to Bali?

Home | Travel | Asia | Indonesia | Bali | Best Time to Visit Bali – When to Travel to Bali?

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . You can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

It is very important to know the  best time to visit Bali  if you want to explore the island under the best conditions. However, keep in mind that you can generally visit Bali at any time of year and not be disappointed.

Even so, if you’re planning your Bali trip and are flexible about the dates, I recommend you try to avoid the rainy season or monsoon in Bali , as it might be difficult to do some excursions and visit some places.

In this article, we will delve deeper into  which is the best time to visit Bali,  depending on whether you are looking for green rice fields, diving, surfing, or just having good weather during your trip. In addition, we ‘ll see what the  average temperature of Bali by month is, when the rainy season in Bali is, and what is considered the high season in Bali.

Bali Weather

The  weather in Bali  is the common type of weather found in any tropical climate. Throughout the year, the  average temperature in Bali is  78ºF, reaching its maximum at noon and decreasing slightly during the nights.

In the mountainous areas surrounding the Bali volcanoes, such as, for example, the area of Kintamani, the climate is somewhat colder, with temperatures that can drop to 64ºF. You can download the geographical map of Bali here to see where the mountains are located.

As Bali is very close to the equator, the sunrise and sunset times remain virtually constant throughout the year, with dawn around 6 a.m. and dusk around 6 p.m. Because of this, it ‘s highly recommended that you get used to waking up early if you want to make the most of the daylight hours.

Although there is no summer and winter, at least in comparison to the seasons we experience in Europe or North America, there are two very different periods every year: the rainy season and the dry season. In general,  the best time to visit Bali is during the dry season.

The Monsoon season in Bali

The  monsoon usually passes through Bali from the end of October to April. But if your trip falls during those dates, don’t worry; even with the rain, there are plenty of attractions in Bali.

The Bali monsoon is quite weak compared to the ones in other Southeast Asian countries . That said, although during the Bali rainy season there are frequent rainfalls, strong rainstorms are not common and it will be sunny during the most of the day.

This time is also associated with the highest temperatures in Bali, so try to dress in light and breathable clothes and flip-flops. However, bringing an umbrella or raincoat is unnecessary; you can buy these useful items in Bali for very little money once you’re there.

The dry season in Bali

The dry season in Bali lasts from April to November.  During this period, the rains are almost non-existent and the temperatures are milder. However, you should take special care in the sun, since the skies are usually clear and you can easily get sunburned.

Since it doesn’t rain, there is much less humidity than during the rest of the year and because of this,  it is the best time to visit Bali.  Although it will still be hot, remember to wear a sweater or lightweight jacket for the nights and Bali Tours to the highest and mountainous areas.

When is the best time to visit Bali?

Given the above information,  the best time to visit Bali is during the dry season.  However, if, in addition to wanting pleasant weather during your trip, you’re planning to do some specific activities, it might be more convenient for you to visit during the monsoon.

Below, we’ll talk about the best time to visit Bali if you want to see green rice fields, dive, surf, or even visit Ubud.

When is the best time to see Green Rice Terraces in Bali?

The rice paddies are the best of Bali. The best time to see green rice fields in Bali coincides with the end of the rainy season, that is, from January to March. Also, if you want to see them at their best, choose a sunny day.

However, don’t worry if you travel at any other time. You will find green areas in the rice fields in Bali throughout the year, so you won’t be disappointed.

When is the best time to dive in Bali?

Diving and snorkeling are some of the most popular things to do in Bali.

Although you can do it throughout the year, the  best time to dive in Bali  is generally from April to October, right during the dry season. During these months, the visibility is greater, although the water will be at a temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF compared to the warmer 80ºF during the monsoon.

Manta rays can be seen throughout the year, but if you want to see the Mola Mola giant fish, these species prefer colder waters, so July, August, and September would be the best months.

We snorkeled on Gili Trawangan , the largest island of the three that make up the Gili Islands, and the water temperature was great!

When is the best time to surf in Bali?

Although there are surfers catching waves all year round, July is considered the best month to surf in Bali.

On the west coast (Kuta & Canggu) the best months are from May to September, while on the East Coast (Sanur), the best time for surfing is from mid-November to early March.

When is the best time to do rafting in Bali?

You can go rafting in Bali throughout the year. If you travel during the monsoon season, you should know that the Ayung River will be full of water, with a possible rafting level IV during this time.

However, if you travel during Bali’s dry season, the rafting will be level II. Here you can book this  tour with a discount.

When to visit Bali to climb the Batur Volcano?

The trek to the summit of Mt. Batur can be done all year round, although it is best to do it during the dry season to enjoy stunning views.

If you like adventure and supernatural landscapes you should not miss this tour that includes pick-up from hotels in Bali.

When is Bali’s high season?

There are two periods that are considered  the high season in Bali:  Christmas, when the island is visited mainly by Australians and New Zealanders, and July and August, which is the European summertime.

During these dates, the prices of accommodation in Bali skyrocket and the main places to visit in Bali will be overcrowded.

If you have the opportunity to avoid these dates, do it! Tourism in Bali has grown considerably in recent years, so I recommend, if possible, not choosing the high season. For instance, April falls under the dry season; the rice fields will still be green and there will not be as many tourists, so you’ll be able to book some of the best luxury villas in Bali for a very little price.

Bali climate: average temperature & precipitation

If you want to know the  Bali average weather by month,   you can check it out here. This will help you choose the best month to go to Bali according to your preferences. This data has been extracted from Holiday Weather .

Bali Temperature month by month

This is the maximum and minimum temperature in Bali month by month:

As you can see, May is the hottest month in Bali, with maximum temperatures of 91ºF.

How much does it rain in Bali?

On this graph, you can see the number of days that rain in Bali per month and the millimeters of water that fall. As you can see, July and August are the months with the least rainy days in Bali.

Finally, if you are going to rent a scooter in Bali and need an updated weather forecast, I recommend checking this website to know the weather in Bali now.

When to visit Bali

I hope that, with this information, you feel more certain about when to visit Bali. If you have total freedom in choosing the dates of your trip, I recommend that you first decide your Bali trip itinerary. Then come back here to finish defining the dates of your trip. In any case, whatever time of year you choose, I assure you that you won’t regret it.

If you can’t travel exactly when you want to, don’t stress too much. As we said at the beginning of the article, the Bali monsoon is very mild, and you can do practically the same activities whether you travel in the dry season or not.

Before you go, I’ll leave you with the essentials for your trip to Bali:

Essentials to save on your trip to Bali

Check the best no-foreign transaction fee credit cards .

Find the BEST DEALS for the top accommodation options in Bali .

Get a 5% discount on your travel insurance for Bali .

Check the best tours in Bali to make the most of your time HERE and HERE .

CHEAP FERRIES from Bali (hotel pick-up not included).

Bali   Travel Guide

Best Times To Visit Bali

The best time to visit Bali is between April and October, during the dry season, when you can expect warm, sunny days and low humidity. The offseason (from November to March) can be a great time to travel if you want to escape the crowds; downpours are often heavy but short-lived. Thanks to Bali's location close to the equator, in the southern hemisphere, daytime temperatures hover around the low 80s year-round, with only humidity and precipitation patterns changing. The lack of rain during the summer season makes Bali more comfortable for beachgoers.

Weather in Bali

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Bali

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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The Best Times to Visit Bali

Bali  is one of those glorious destinations that is generally great to visit at any time of the year. One of  Indonesia ’s 17,000  islands , Bali is just eight degrees south of the equator, with a tropical, hot, and humid climate much of the time. The island is small—just 95 miles wide and 70 miles long—and the temperature is fairly consistent, averaging at about 86°F throughout the year.

When is the best time to go to Bali?

The low season is what any traveler should aim for. Visit Bali in April, May, September, or October, and the island can be appreciated at its best. Some of  Bali's best hotels  can be snapped up at reduced rates, and of course, airfares are much cheaper. And having fewer people around means you get the island to yourself—with less crowded beaches , temples, and roads. Easy to get a sunbed at a beach club or a turmeric latte at a Canggu brunch shack; easy to get a spot on that  Eat Pray Love-style  yoga mat.

When is Bali's rainy season—and should I avoid it?

Of course, there are slight weather patterns. Rainy season is officially October to March when you can encounter tropical rains that are heavy but brief. The rains don’t tend to last all day, and during these months it’s possible to enjoy a row of sunny days with bright blue skies. The dry season is April to September when the humidity is low and average rainfall decreases, although showers do also occur during these months.

What time of year is cheapest in Bali?

Generally speaking, Bali is considered to be a year-round destination, so there's not necessarily a ‘cheaper time’ to visit. However, there are certainly months when Bali becomes busier. When choosing the best time to visit Bali, the consistently good weather means that this is not so much the deciding factor. Instead, you might want to time your trip to avoid peak season, which is July to August, Christmas and Easter , when families descend on Bali during the school holidays.

As Bali is so small it can easily feel very crowded. Expect to wait around two hours in long queues on arrival at immigration at Denpasar airport; any road journey can quickly become a bore with heavy traffic filling narrow roads.

What if I go to Bali in peak season?

If you are in Bali during peak season, however, there are plenty of low-key destinations to avoid crowds. For example, head up the west coast to Balian, an understated village favored by  surfers  and best known for its beautiful black volcanic sandy beaches. For those feeling more adventurous, it’s a short flight to Labuan Bajo, the launching point for the magnificent Komodo National Park. August is a great time to go diving here.

Where should I stay in Bali?

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether you want to be surrounded by rice paddies in Ubud, cliffside in Uluwatu or by the coast in Seminyak, there are thousands of Bali hotels and villas that are truly breathtaking. For something very special,  Bulgari Bali  is as splendid as you could expect from a brand known for its diamonds and gold; the cliffside resort is a wonderfully private option.

Capella Ubud

Or, Capella Ubud , a luxe tented camp 20 minutes north of Ubud, is a whimsical base camp on a sloping patch of jungle where 22 one-bedroom suites (with sprawling outdoor decks and private plunge pools), reception desk and fitness centre each take over their own tents.

FELLA Villa in Bali

Should you wish to rent a villa—as many do—a boho bolthole just minutes from Canggu's surf breaks instantly makes you feel like one of those sun-kissed and salty-haired Canggu cool kids – if only for a weekend. Haigha House, in Ubud , is a fresh departure from the traditional dwelling-style villas dotting the district. Instead of bamboo ceilings and ornamental wood carvings, this 3-bedroom hideaway has lofty interiors with hints of Tropical Modernism.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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Best Time to Visit Bali (2024 Guide)

10/04/2023 by Guest Blogger 1 Comment

This guest post is by Haley, a Bali-based travel blogger.

If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Bali, Indonesia, you’ve come to the right place. 

This tropical paradise offers something for everyone, no matter the season. But knowing when to go can make all the difference between a sun-soaked holiday and a rain-drenched adventure . 

As someone who lives in Bali year-round as a digital nomad, I’ve experienced every season this island has to offer. From the bustling beach clubs and ideal surfing conditions in the dry season to the serene rice terraces and rushing waterfalls in the rainy months, Bali never ceases to amaze. 

So, whether you’re a solo female traveler , planning a girls’ trip, or looking for a romantic getaway , this guide is your ultimate resource. We’ll dive into the best and worst months to visit Bali, the ideal times for various activities, and even break it down by destination. 

Let’s get started and find out the best time to go to Bali for you!

Table of Contents

When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?

When is the best time to go to Bali?  For the most consistently sunny weather and temperatures around 27-30°C (81-86°F), visit Bali between June and September. While the dry season technically runs from April to October, the shoulder months can bring a bit of variable weather, which may not be ideal for your first trip to the Island of Gods. 

For the last two Septembers, I’ve experienced cloudy mornings with sunny afternoons beginning in the middle of the month with some rain starting towards the end of September. So keep this in mind when planning your Bali trip .

During these best months to visit Bali, I spend my time sipping coconuts watching the sun go down in Canggu’s La Brisa, beach hopping in Uluwatu (my favourite is Bingin Beach!) and taking trips to the Gili and Nusa Islands since this is when the ferry crossing is the calmest.

If you are a surfer, like my husband, he loves the crystal clear waters and consistent waves that the dry season in Bali brings.

When is the Worst Time to Visit Bali?

Now, I wouldn’t say there’s a “worst” time to visit Bali, but if you’re not into rain and high humidity, you might want to steer clear of the rainy season, which runs from November to April. During these months, you can expect short but intense bursts of rain, usually in the late afternoon or evening. 

I remember one December, I was caught in a downpour so intense it felt like the sky had opened up. I was in Ubud with the family and we had to stand in 6 inches of water under a makeshift roof to wait it out until we could hop on our scooters again. 

But hey, the rain usually clears up quickly, and you’ll find fewer tourists around, which can be a plus.

So, if you’re planning your first trip and you want that idyllic Bali experience , maybe save it for the dry season. But if you’re an off-the-beaten-path kind of traveler, the rainy season has its own unique charm. I thoroughly enjoyed my cozy Sidemen Valley hotel retreat in the wet season while watching the rain over the lush rice terraces. Rain doesn’t put a damper on the beauty of Capella Ubud , either. You win some, you lose some.

Dry Season in Bali

The dry season in Bali, running from May to October, is the island at its best—think clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and a whole lot of outdoor activities to enjoy, like surfing and scuba diving. 

Whether you’re into beach bumming along Bali’s picturesque coastline, temple hopping in East Bali, or Canggu cafe crawling , this is the time to do it all.

This is also a great time to avoid soggy and muddy conditions in Ubud’s rice terraces, but try to time your visit around when the terraces will be at its peak greenness (either March or October). Otherwise, it will be short stubby dried-out rice fields for you.

Bali Dry Season Months at a Glance

May: Average Temp 28°C. May kicks off the dry season with minimal rain and lots of sun. It’s a great month to explore Bali’s cultural sites like Tanah Lot without the crowds. This is also the best time to see Manta Rays off Nusa Penida.

June: Average Temp 27°C. Virtually no rain and sun all day make June ideal for beach activities, surfing and scuba diving. It’s also the start of the high tourist season, so book accommodations in advance.

July: Average Temp 26°C. July is the sunniest month in Bali, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking Mount Batur. However, it’s also peak tourist season, so expect some crowds in major destinations like Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu and Ubud.

August: Average Temp 26°C. With minimal rain, August is great for surfing and other water sports. My husband loves the consistent easy to intermediate waves this month brings, especially in spots like Uluwatu.

September: Average Temp 27°C. September offers occasional rain but is still predominantly sunny. It’s a good time to visit Bali for those looking to avoid the peak season crowds but still enjoy great weather. Try to visit in the first half of the month.

October: Average Temp 28°C. October sees some rain, but it’s less crowded. If you’re into diving, this is a good month for it, as the waters are still clear.

Regardless of when you go, you’ll want to bring something for potential rain and warm temperatures. Here’s our perfect Bali packing list.

Best Things to Do in Bali During Dry Season

This is the time to live your best Bali life. Hit up the beach clubs in Seminyak, or take a day trip to the Nusa Islands . 

I personally love spending my dry season days in Uluwatu, beach hopping and catching those epic sunsets.

Try one of these fun organized day tours during Bali’s dry season:

• Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Experience
• Kecak Fire Dance in Uluwatu
• Uluwatu & Tanah Lot Sunset Tour
• Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest Tour
• Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida

My Experience during Dry Season in Bali

I’ve spent several dry seasons in Bali, and they all provide a consistently sunny experience. Of course, nothing is ever perfect and we have experienced a freak 5 days of solid rain in the middle of August one year, but this is pretty rare in the dry season.

Water conditions during the dry season are always more clear and pleasant, too. 

I base myself in Canggu, so spending dry season cafe hopping and enjoying sunset walks along Canggu Beach are my everyday activities. But, for something special, I will head to Nusa Lembongan for a weekend relaxation on Jungutbatu Beach. 

Or for something more adventurous, I’ll rent a scooter and visit all the top attractions on Nusa Penida like Diamond Beach, Angel’s Billabong and Kelingking (Dinosaur) Beach. 

If you are particularly interested in spotting manta rays off the island, the best months to visit Bali are between April and May.

Pros & Cons of Visiting Bali in Dry Season

1. Consistent Sunny Weather

2. Great for Outdoor Activities

3. Less Humidity

4. Vibrant Nightlife

5. Easier Travel Between Islands

1. More Expensive

2. Crowded Tourist Spots

3. Limited Availability for Accommodations

4. Higher UV Index

5. Some Beaches May Be Overcrowded

Rainy Season in Bali

Rainy season in Bali spans from November to April. While you might encounter more rain and humidity, don’t write off these months just yet. The island takes on a lush, almost mystical vibe, and you’ll find fewer crowds at popular tourist spots. 

This is when to visit Bali if you want a quintessential “Eat, Pray, Love” experience.

Bali Rainy Season Months at a Glance

November: Average Temp 32°C. November is the start of the rainy season, but the rain usually comes in short bursts, often at night with a clouds in the morning. It’s a good month for indoor activities like spa visits and cooking classes. 

November is also the hottest month in Bali with high humidity.

December: Average Temp 31°C. December sees more consistent rain, usually in the late afternoon or evening. It may not be an ideal month for a Bali Honeymoon , but I’ve found that mornings are often clear, making it a good time for early excursions like visiting the waterfalls around Ubud (watch out for muddy conditions). 

December is also the high season due to Christmas holidays, so expect a peak in hotel prices around this time. 

January: Average Temp 31°C. January is one of the wettest months with the heaviest rain, but don’t let that deter you. The island is lush and green, and the rice terraces in Ubud are at their peak.

February: Average Temp 31°C. Similar to January, expect frequent rain. However, it’s a great month for river rafting, as the water levels are high.

March: Average Temp 28°C. March sees a decrease in rain but still has its wet days. It’s a transitional month, so you’ll get a mix of both dry and wet days. Combined with February, March is one of the cheapest times to visit Bali.

April: Average Temp 28°C. April is the tail end of the rainy season, with fewer rainy days and more sun. It’s a good month for water activities as the sea conditions start to improve. This is also a great month to go to Bali if you want to visit the waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Bali During Rainy Season

Rainy season is the perfect time for indoor activities and exploring Bali’s lush landscapes. Think yoga retreats in Ubud, museum visits in Denpasar, or even taking a Balinese cooking class. 

I love hitting up the local markets during this time since fewer crowds mean a more authentic experience.

Ideal Bali Wet Season Activities:

• Ubud Palace Legong Danc e
• Ubud Silver Jewelry Making Class
• Ayung River Rafting
• Cooking Class in a Local Village

My Experience during Rainy Season in Bali

I’ve spent a few rainy seasons in Bali, and it’s a different kind of magic. Because of fewer crowds (except around Christmas), the island breathes out a sigh and becomes a more relaxed, lush oasis. 

Yes, you  will undoubtedly need a rain poncho and weather proof clothing and footwear during this time since rain can be expected every day. From experience, you can expect rain for a couple hours every afternoon with a mix of sun and cloud for the remainder of the day. 

Keep in mind that weather moves very quickly here, so it can be sunny one minute and absolutely downpouring the next. Always keep your rain poncho on you.

My favorite destination during the wet season in Bali is Sidemen Valley and the entire East Bali region. Perfect for spa days and sipping on a tea overlooking the lush rice terraces.

On the down side, this is when you will start to see garbage in the water and on the beaches, especially in south Bali, which can take away from that island paradise feel.

Pros & Cons of Visiting Bali in Rainy Season

1. Fewer Crowds

2. Lower Prices

3. Lush Scenery

4. Great for Indoor Activities

5. Authentic Local Experience

1. Unpredictable Weather

2. Limited Outdoor Activities

3. High Humidity

4. Muddy Conditions in Some Areas

5. Sea Conditions Not Ideal for Water Sports

Bali at Christmas

So, is Bali good at Christmas? That’s a hard question for me to answer. Coming from a magical white snowy Christmas in my home country of Canada, Bali just provides something completely different at this time of year. 

For those wanting to escape to a sunny destination, Bali is a great spot. Do expect higher tourist crowds and peak hotel prices during this time, though. Christmas activities are pretty minimal on the island during this time, with a few small christmas trees and decorations adorning cafes and some fireworks on New Years Eve.

How hot is Bali at Christmas? Well, you can expect high humidity, with average daily temperatures of 31°C. 

Best Time to Visit Bali by Destination

Bali is more than just a single experience; each destination on the island offers something unique. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit some of the most popular spots.

Best Time to Visit Ubud

Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, known for its lush rice terraces, yoga retreats and spiritual vibes. The best time to visit is during the dry season, especially if you’re keen on outdoor activities like hiking to waterfalls and visiting temples. 

For the greenest rice fields, visit Ubud between March and April at the tailend of Bali’s rainy season. 

Best Time to Visit Uluwatu

Uluwatu is all about the beaches and the cliffside temples. 

Dry season is prime time here, especially if you’re into surfing, with Uluwatu Beach and Padang Padang Beach being the epicenter of activity. 

But even if you’re not a surfer, the weather from June to September is ideal for beach visits for crystal clear conditions.

Best Time to Visit Canggu & Seminyak

Canggu and Seminyak are the go-to spots for beach clubs, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Dry season, particularly from June to September, is when these areas are at their liveliest. You can even dance on the beach into the wee hours of the morning at Sand Bar in Canggu. 

I love spending the sunset hours sipping a coconut at La Brisa in Canggu during these months or enjoying a beach walk.

Best Time to Visit the Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan

These smaller islands off the coast of Bali are best visited during the dry season. The sea conditions are calmer, making it a more pleasant crossing from Bali’s mainland to Nusa Penida and to hop between islands. 

I particularly love dry season (May-October) on the Nusa Islands for snorkelling in clear conditions and swimming with the manta rays.

Final Thoughts on the Best Time to Go to Bali

So, when is the best time to visit Bali, Indonesia? The answer really depends on what you’re looking for. If it’s sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, and outdoor adventures, then the dry season from May to October is your best bet. 

But if you’re into lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and a more laid-back vibe, the rainy season has its own unique charm.

In my years of living here, I’ve found that each season offers something special. Whether it’s beach hopping in Uluwatu during the dry months or enjoying the serene rice terraces in Ubud during the rainy season, Bali never disappoints.

Pack your bags and come find out for yourself. No matter when you decide to visit, Bali is always a good idea.

About the author: Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel . While based in Bali, she has travelled to 40+ countries across 5 continents. She loves to share in-depth travel guides and recommendations to help travellers get the most out of their vacation time, including her favourite boutique hotels, things to do and travel itineraries.

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Andres says

10/10/2023 at 11:40 pm

Hi. Nice learning about the seasonalities in Bali. It is good guideline. Are you currently in Bali It would be nice meeting you and enjoy a cup of coffee. I am in the north of Bali. A bit more peaceful then the south. Nice to hearing from you. Best. Andres

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The Best Time to Visit Bali

Gonzalo Azumendi/Getty Images

The best time to visit Bali is generally during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is driest and the days are sunny. Unfortunately, that's also when the island becomes the most crowded—you won't be the only one in search of surf, sand, and sun!

The opportunity to escape the Southern Hemisphere's winter months is just a little too tempting for tens of thousands of Australians who grab short, inexpensive flights up to Bali .

No matter the time of year, expect Bali to be bustling. The island only goes from busy to busier. In fact, a majority of travelers to Indonesia, the world's largest island nation and fourth most populous country, only visit Bali.

It's not for lack of choices in Indonesia . Bali is just one of more than 17,000 islands in the archipelago.

Peak Season in Bali

If you don't mind heavy traffic and sharing crowded beaches, go when the weather is best. July and August are often the driest months with pleasant temperatures.

A good compromise is to risk occasional rain showers in exchange for more peace. The shoulder months before and after the high season (particularly April, May, and September) are enjoyable and experience many sunny days.

The wettest months to visit Bali are from November to March. December, January, and February are extra rainy and a little hotter. These are the peak months in Thailand and countries north of Indonesia that are celebrating their dry seasons before the heat really moves in.

Despite the rain and slightly hotter temperatures in December, Bali still becomes busy with revelers during Christmas and the New Year holiday.

Weather in Bali

Although Bali is warm and comfortable throughout the year, the island has two distinct seasons: wet and dry.

Unsurprisingly, the number of visitors increases as sunny days increase. Everyone's favorite island activities, particularly sunbathing, trekking, and motorbiking, are far more enjoyable without monsoon rain.

Temperatures in Bali during July and August range from the 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), and December and January aren't too far off these balmy temperatures.

Bali is situated just eight degrees south of the equator and enjoys a tropical climate. Those factoids become a sweaty three-shower-a-day reality once you wander too far from the breezy coast. Humidity often hovers around 85 percent. One exception is the green Kintamani region north of Ubud in the interior. Mount Batur provides enough elevation to even make weather chilly and drizzly some days for travelers on a motorbike.

Traveling during the dry and high season doesn't guarantee all sunny days. Mother Nature keeps the island green throughout the year. Even during the dry season, you'll want to be prepared for brief pop-up storms.

Visiting Bali During the Low Season

Although rain doesn't exactly make for a nice day on the beach or exploring the island's interior, there are some advantages to visiting Bali during the "green" season.

You'll get better deals on accommodation and can upgrade to nicer rooms for the same price you would ordinarily pay for a budget guesthouse. With a few insider tricks, you can score great deals on hotels in Bali.

Plus, fewer tourists will be clogging popular hotspots such as Ubud. You may have attractions such as Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave ) to yourself. During high season, you may have to wait to go inside. Also, the air is cleaner. Less dust and particulate matter from fires hang in the air. And finally, interactions are sometimes friendlier when locals are not so overworked during peak season.

Of course, visiting during the low season has its downsides, too. Sometimes consistent downpours span for days while others dissipate within an hour. You never know. Plus, humidity is much higher, making the heat feel that much worse. Mosquitoes are much worse between rains, making dengue fever more of a threat on the island. Visibility at dive and snorkel sites is often worse because of sediment washed into the sea. Rougher seas may make boat trips less enjoyable.

The drawbacks sound less than appealing, but many travelers prefer to visit destinations only during the low seasons.

Why Is Bali So Popular?

Perhaps because Bali is predominantly Hindu rather than Muslim or Christian, it boasts a unique vibe that differs from surrounding islands. No matter the reason, Bali is always a top destination in Asia .

Bali has been a popular stop for backpackers on the Banana Pancake Trail for a long time. The island is also a famous surfing destination in Southeast Asia and a top honeymoon spot in Asia .

Elizabeth Gilbert really spread the word with her hit book Eat, Pray, Love . Julia Roberts starred in the 2010 movie of the same name, opening the floodgates to Ubud. Prior to 2010, Ubud was mostly quiet and attracted budget travelers interested in a healthy alternative to the raging parties in Kuta.

But Hollywood isn't as much to blame as geography. Backpacking students and Australian families—along with plenty of retired expats—choose to escape cooler weather in the Southern Hemisphere by grabbing cheap flights to Bali.

With many students out of school during the summer months, party epicenters such as Kuta become rowdy as young revelers come to enjoy the nightlife. The atmosphere along Jalan Legian resembles what you would expect at some American beaches during college spring break. Fortunately, there are plenty of lesser-known places along the coast: Amed, Lovina, and Padangbai still offer escape. And if things really get out of control, the nearby islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are tempting.

Spring brings rain to Bali in March and temperatures can be quite hot. However, wait a month and you'll find April to be much more comfortable, and the dry season begins in May. Spring is a popular time for surfing off the island.

Events to check out:

• Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, falls on the Hindu New Year and will certainly affect your trip—but the night before is a lot of fun. For a full 24 hours, tourists are expected to remain inside their hotels and no noise is permitted. The beaches and businesses close—even the international airport shuts down. Nyepi hits in March or April, depending upon the Hindu lunar calendar.
• The colorful festival of Holi is usually celebrated in late March.

What is summer for most Westerners is winter in Bali. It's also the best time to visit if you prefer warm and dry weather (although locals consider July and August "cold"). There are occasional rains, but nothing like monsoon season .

• Hari Merdeka ( Indonesia's Independence Day ) on August 31, may also affect travel to and from Bali. Indonesians also enjoy visiting Bali and come from as far as Sumatra and other places in the archipelago.
• The Bali Arts Festival is a long-running festival that is among the most popular in the country. The festival traditionally starts on the second Saturday of June and runs through mid-July.

While Indonesia as a whole doesn't truly have an autumnal season, the stretch of months from September through November begins with clear, dry weather (their spring). In November, there are fewer tourists but if you hope to swim, the seas can be rough at this time.

• The Nusa Dua Fiesta is a fun week of art exhibitions, cultural performances, and more along Bali's southeast coast. It's typically held in October or November.
• Among Bali's most popular events, the makepung (buffalo) races are held throughout the fall in Negara.

December kicks of Indonesia's summer season. Humidity is high and hours of thunderstorms aren't unheard of. Warm seas have rough waters, making swimming less than ideal, but February conditions are great for surfers.

• As with all popular destinations in Asia, Lunar New Year (dates change from year to year) draws a crowd, despite rainy weather in January and February.
• Galungan is the most important religious holiday in Bali. It marks the time when the ancestral spirits visit the Earth. There are two of celebrations throughout the year due to the Pawukon calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Bali is in the shoulder season, either in the early summer or fall when the weather is dryer and there are fewer tourists.

Bali's rainy season lasts from November to March with January and February being the hottest and rainiest months.

If you don't like large crowds of tourist, you should avoid visiting in Bali between June and July. Although, this is when the weather is most pleasant.

Britannica. "Indonesia." Retrieved February 12, 2021.

Embassy of Indonesia. "Facts & Figures - Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia." Retrieved February 12, 2021.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Denpasar, Indonesia, Year Round." Retrieved February 12, 2021.

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The best time to visit Bali

Bali  is one of those glorious  destinations  that is generally great to visit at any time of the year. One of  Indonesia ’s 17,000  islands , Bali is just eight degrees south of the equator, with a tropical, hot and humid climate much of the time. The island is small – just 95 miles wide and 70 miles long – and the temperature is fairly consistent, averaging at about 30°C throughout the year.

When is the best time to go to Bali?

The low season is what any traveller should aim for. Visit Bali in April, May, September or October, and the island can be appreciated at its best. Some of  Bali's best hotels  and  villas  can be snapped up at reduced rates, and of course, airfares are much cheaper. And having fewer people around means you get the  island  to yourself – with less crowded beaches, temples and roads. Easy to get a sunbed at a beach club or a turmeric latte at a Canggu brunch shack; easy to get a spot on that  Eat Pray Love -style  yoga  mat.

When is Bali's rainy season – and should I avoid it?

Of course, there are slight weather patterns. Rainy season is officially  October  to March when you can encounter tropical rains that are heavy but brief. The rains don’t tend to last all day, and during these months it’s possible to enjoy a row of sunny days with bright blue skies. The dry season is  April  to  September  when the humidity is low and average rainfall decreases, although showers do also occur during these months.

What time of year is cheapest in Bali?

Generally speaking, Bali is considered to be a year-round destination, so there's not necessarily a ‘cheaper time’ to visit. However, there are certainly months when Bali becomes busier. When choosing the best time to visit Bali, the consistently good weather means that this is not so much the deciding factor. Instead, you might want to time your trip to avoid peak season, which is July to August, Christmas and Easter , when families descend on Bali during the school holidays.

As Bali is so small it can easily feel very crowded. Expect to wait around two hours in long queues on arrival at immigration at Denpasar airport; any road journey can quickly become a bore with heavy traffic filling narrow roads.

What if I go to Bali in peak season?

If you are in Bali during peak season, however, there are plenty of low-key destinations to avoid crowds. For example, head up the west coast to Balian, an understated village favoured by  surfers  and best known for its beautiful black volcanic sandy  beaches . For those feeling more adventurous, it’s a short flight to Labuan Bajo, the launching point for the magnificent Komodo National Park. August is a great time to go diving here.

Where should I stay in Bali?

Whether you want to be surrounded by rice paddies in Ubud, cliffside in Uluwatu or by the coast in Seminyak, there are thousands of Bali hotels and villas that are truly breathtaking. For something very special,  Bulgari Bali  is as splendid as you could expect from a brand known for its diamonds and gold; the cliffside resort is a wonderfully private option.

Capella Ubud

Or, Capella Ubud , a luxe tented camp 20 minutes north of Ubud, is a whimsical base camp on a sloping patch of jungle where 22 one-bedroom suites (with sprawling outdoor decks and private plunge pools), reception desk and fitness centre each take over their own tents.

FELLA Villa Canggu

Should you wish to rent a villa – as many do – a boho bolthole just minutes from  Canggu's  surf breaks instantly makes you feel like one of those sun-kissed and salty-haired Canggu cool kids – if only for a weekend. Haigha House, in Ubud , is a fresh departure from the traditional dwelling-style villas dotting the district. Instead of bamboo ceilings and ornamental wood carvings, this 3-bedroom hideaway has lofty interiors with hints of Tropical Modernism.

The best time to visit Bali

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written by Ties Lagraauw

updated 11.06.2024

From its beautiful beaches  and soul-stirring  temples , Bali is a diverse and richly rewarding destination for all kinds of travellers. But in order to make the most of your trip, you’ll want to wise-up on the best  travel tips for Bali, and decide when to go. On that subject, read on to find out when's the best time to visit Bali, courtesy of our overview of the island’s seasonal shifts, and run-down of what to expect during different months of the year.

• Best time to visit Bali at a glance
• Best time to visit Bali is May to October (with July and August as peak season) when temperatures hover around 27°C to 28°C. Dry, sunny days ideal for beach and outdoor activities.
• Avoid December to March , when heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities.
• For the best views of rice fields , visit from April to June, when fields are lush and green after the rainy season, perfect for photography.
• When's the best time to visit Bali?

What are the tourist seasons in Bali?

When is high season in bali, when is the rainy season in bali, bali month-by-month, best time to visit rice fields, when's the best time to visit bali.

The best time to travel to Bali is May to October , with July and August being the busiest months. And although you can visit Bali all year round,  the dry season is logically more fun to travel than the rainy season. The rainy season runs from November to April, with January being the wettest month .

Tropical Bali has fairly constant year-round temperatures. These average 27°C in Bali’s coastal areas and the hills around Ubud , and 22C in the central volcanoes like Agung and Batur.  

When considering that all-important question — what's the best time to visit Bali? — bear in mind that Bali experiences an annual monsoon season. This brings rain, wind and intense humidity from November through to April. 

If you’re coming to Bali to enjoy adventure activities, note that mountain-climbing is unrewarding and dangerous during monsoon time. You’ll also be unable to access volcano hikes. 

Tips from Theresa

Indonesia Travel Expert

"Aim for the months of April, May, or June. During these months, you'll enjoy the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry season".

Wondering when's the best time to visit Bali? Bear in mind Ubud sees rain year-round © Pelikh Alexey/Shutterstock

When pondering when’s the best time to visit Bali, you should also be aware of the different tourist seasons. Resorts and guest houses become packed to the brim between mid-June and mid-September, over the Christmas–New Year period, and lso at Idul Fitry (Eid al-Fitri, usually May–June). 

• Dry season (May to October) : The dry season is considered the best time to travel to Bali. April to October are the best months to travel here, especially April, May and September as that is when most of the holidays are over.
• High season (July & August) : July and August are the busiest months in Bali. You notice that in everything. Not only in terms of crowds at sights in Bali, but also in terms of prices. Airline ticket prices are shockingly high and accommodation is also more expensive.
• Low season (November to April) : Low season is actually not the right word as it is never really quiet in Bali. The months of November to March are the rainy season, which means there are fewer travelers. Advantage: cheaper and quieter!

Travel tip : want to avoid well-walked paths and sky-high prices? Arrange an itinerary during the shoulder months of May, June and September for largely-clear days that are lighter on rain, and your pocket.

You might also want to read up on incredible places in Indonesia beyond the Bali tourist trail .

Wondering what's the best time to visit Bali to hike? Avoid monsoon season © Shutterstock

In general, Bali's high season peak falls between June and August, coinciding with the super-sunny, sunny, super-warm, super-dry (you’ve guessed it...) dry season.  

Given that Bali — along with Lombok , and the gorgeous Gili Islands — is an Indonesian tourist hotspot at this time of year, you’ll want to weigh up the pros and cons of visiting Bali during peak season. 

• Opportunities for livelier socialising with more fellow travellers.
• Maximum access to tours and trips.
• Better conditions for hiking, diving, surfing and sun-lounging.  
• Higher prices.
• Needing to book further in advance. 
• Bigger crowds might spoil your idea of an idyllic island break.

Need help planning your trip? Find inspiration in our guide to the best Bali tours , or contact our local experts .

Kuta, Bali, Indonesia © Netfalls Remy Musser/Shutterstock

Bali’s wet monsoon season typically lasts from November to March . At this time, you can expect high humidity and heavy rainfall, particularly in December and January. 

As a result, it’s easy to find good deals when visiting Bali — and Indonesia more generally — in the rainy season.  

For example, from October to March/April, you can travel with little advance booking and low prices.  

While you can expect frequent, heavy downpours, temperatures remain around 30 degrees. 

While it’s not wise to visit Bail in the rainy season if you want to hike, or spend a lot of time chilling out on the beach, it could be an option if you’re planning to focus on visiting temples, for example.

Already planning your trip to Bali? Read up on Bali visas .

Gorgeous Gili Nanggu island, Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock

Don't know yet when exactly you will visit Bali? Make sure to check our month-to-month breakdown of the best time to visit Bali.

January is one of the wettest months in Bali, and brings heavy rainfall and high humidity.  

As a result, outdoor activities like trekking and volcano hikes are difficult. That said, experienced surfers and rafters might relish the extra thrills of wilder waves and waters. 

In addition, visiting Bali in January means you could experience Chinese New Year celebrations, though this sometimes falls in February.

Though February is still rainy season in Bali, it sees, on average, less rain than January.

As a result of the wind and waves, south-west destinations like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu can be great for experienced surfers and paragliders. 

Come March, rainfall decreases more noticeably, and Bali's weather becomes more moderate, though temperatures remain warm, with average highs of 30 degrees Celsius.  

However, the weather can still be unpredictable, so expect occasional showers. 

March is a great time for culture vultures to visit Bali, with Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, kicking off at the end of March or in early April.

Ready to explore Bali? Plan your transportation with our in-depth guide .

Balinese dancer © Shutterstock

All change! As Bali transitions between the wet and dry seasons, April sees the island experience around a third of the rainfall as March.

This makes April a great time to visit Bali to appreciate the island’s natural attractions at their lushest. 

While Easter sees an influx of travellers, April remains a quieter month to visit than the upcoming summer peak.

May marks the end of the wet season in Bali. While temperatures can rise during this period — especially in urban areas — humidity levels are usually lower than those you’ll experience in the rainy season.  

May is an ideal time to dive in Bali, and also great for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Though Bali’s peak high season is beckoning, it’s not fully in swing in June. As for the weather, expect little rain, clear skies, and super-sunny days. That's why this is the best time to visit Bali.

With consistent surf, June is also the ideal time for water-sports’ lovers to visit Bali. 

If that wasn’t enough temptation, Bali Arts Festival runs from June to mid-July.

Rough Guide tip: The journey only begins when you reach your destination. Find out how to get to Indonesia .

Mushroom bay, Nusa Lembongan, Bali © Shutterstock

With consistently warm, sunny weather, July heralds Bali’s peak high season. 

Along with soaring visitor numbers (and prices!), be aware that temperatures can also soar in July, especially in urban areas. 

If you’ve come to party, though, July might be the best month for you to visit Bali. This month also sees the opening of the Bali Kite Festival. 

Love diving? Between July and October, the waters around Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida offer the best chance most people will ever have of spotting a mola mola (oceanic sunfish), one of the world's most elusive and startling underwater creatures.

Certainly the busiest month to visit Bali, August sees beach party action ramp up further, and a flurry of festivals.

These include Indonesia’s independence day, which is celebrated on 17th August.  

Love exploring rural locations and local culture? August kicks off clove harvest season, so you might get to see death-defying pickers on rickety ladders plucking buds before they flower.

September is one of the best months to visit Bali. Post peak-season bustle, but still largely dry and sunny, there’s arguably no better time to enjoy Bali’s beautiful outdoors. 

September also sees Bali host the Taman Ujung Festival, and the Lovina Festival.

Taman Ayun Temple - Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock

Though the start of the rainy season, October offers cheaper accommodation and sees fewer crowds, while being outside peak downpour time.

Just be prepared to have back-up ideas for your beach day plans.  

October also sees Bali host a number of festivals, among them the Nusa Penida Festival, Uluwatu Festival and Nusa Dua Festival.

As Bali truly transitions between the dry and wet seasons, November brings increased rainfall, cooler temperatures, and volcano trekking is likely to be off the table. 

As a result, November is a good time to visit Bali to relax, visit museums and enjoy rock bottom room rates. 

With Tumpek Wayan celebrated in November, it’s also a top time to take-in the island’s culture. This scared Hindu festival sees puppeteers come to together to perform purification rites.

In addition, the Pemuteran Bay festival is due to be held on 11th-13th November 2023.

At once rainy season, and a mini high season, December sees Bali visited by torrents of rain and visitors.  

As for some of the big events held in December, the week-long Pandawa Beach Festival is usually held in Kutuh Village in mid-December.

Meanwhile, New Year’s Eve sees remarkable firework displays all over the island.

Note that poor visibility sees dive centres wind down activities from December to March.

Rough Guides tip: To have a chance to explore everything that you are interested in in Bali also read our guide on how many days are best to spend here .

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Bali is known for its beautiful rice fields, and you probably want to see them when they are at their best.

The best time to see rice fields is at the end of the rainy season around February and March.

In the dry season, the rice fields are not always green, and they are also harvested then.

However, the time when rice fields can only be seen in one season is over. The rice fields are a huge attraction, so there is always a green rice field to be found, even if you don't travel in the ideal months.

The best rice fields are found in and around:

• Tegallalang

Consdering exploring beyond Bali? Read up on the best time to go to Indonesia , and browse our customisable itineraries for inspiration.

From basking in the beauty of Bail and Gili's beaches , to island-hopping Indonesia , they'll give you plenty of food for thought.

If you're already planning your trip, get The Rough Guide to Bali and Lombok to enhance every step of your journey.

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BaliDave.com

Best time to visit bali.

Bali Hotels › When To Go Updated: July 10, 2023

My Favorite Hotels in Bali

• Ubud: Four Seasons • Viceroy • Nusa Dua: St. Regis • Jimbaran: Four Seasons • Seminyak: W Bali • Legian: Padma Resort • Kuta: Hard Rock • Sanur: Tandjung Sari • Best New Hotel: Raffles Bali

• Best Places to Stay in Bali
• Best Hotels in Bali
• Best Bali Resorts for Families
• Best Bali Beaches

When to Go to Bali April to October is the best time to visit Bali , when there is little rain, low humidity, and lots of sun. Bali is a good year-round destination . There is a wet season but it can still be a fine time to visit Bali. If you want to save money the best months are February, March, April (but not around Easter), October, and November. Surfing is possible year-round but the best months are from April to early October. The best months for a Bali honeymoon are May, June, and September. The best months for diving are April to June (good), September to November (best). Swimming is good all year, but driest from May to September. Nightlife is good all year round, but driest for outdoor events from May to September.

When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?

• Bali Hotel Maps

Bali is a good year-round destination for tourists but the months of April to October generally have the best weather.

The best time to visit Bali, Indonesia, depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Bali has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

The dry season runs from April to October, with July and August being the most popular months to visit . During this time, the weather is typically sunny and dry, with temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 88°F (31°C). The humidity is lower, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, beach visits, and water sports. The dry season is an excellent time to explore Bali’s landscapes, cultural sites, and participate in various festivals.

The wet season runs from November to March, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring between December to February. Although the wet season is characterized by higher humidity and more frequent rainfall, the rain is often intermittent, and there are still plenty of sunny periods. The wet season is generally less crowded (though the weeks surrounding Christmas and New Years sees a spike in foreign visitors), which means lower prices for accommodations and fewer tourists at popular attractions. However, some outdoor activities may be limited due to weather conditions.

The shoulder seasons, which occur between the wet and dry seasons (April, May, and September to mid-December), can also be a good time to visit Bali. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and tourist numbers are lower than during the peak season. Prices for accommodations and activities may be more affordable, and there is still plenty of opportunity for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

• Best Time for Good Weather in Bali : April to October. During the dry season, the weather is often perfect: warm, without being too hot, and not nearly as rainy and humid as the wet season (November to March), when showers and storms may sometimes affect travel plans.
• Best Time for Beaches, Swimming, and Suntanning in Bali : April to October. Days are warm and sunny, humidity is low, and occasional rain falls in the late afternoon or overnight. But you can get good beach weather any month of the year.
• Best Time for Sightseeing in Bali : May, June, September, and October. The dry season (April to October) is ideal, but the island’s many attractions get particularly busy around Easter and from mid-July to the end of August. Also, research the optimal times to witness and attend ceremonies and festivals (see later).
• Best Time to Visit Southern Bali : May, June, September, and October. These months are the dry season without the peak times of July and August and the Australian school holidays around Easter.
• Best Time to Visit Ubud : April to October. Be prepared for large crowds and cool days in July and August, might need a jacket after dark.
• Best Time to Visit the East Coast of Bali : March to November. In the rain shadow of the Agung volcano, the east coast (especially around Amed) receives far less rain than Kuta, Sanur, or Ubud.
• Best Time to Visit the North Coast of Bali : March to November. Around tourist areas like Lovina, it rains considerably less than along the southern beaches – and this coast never gets busy.
• Best Time for Saving Money in Bali : February to April (except for two weeks around Easter), October, and November. These are outside the peak travel times, and hotels and resorts are often considerably cheaper. There is no off-season when things close down.
• Best Time for Avoiding Crowds in Bali : Same months listed above for Saving Money. While it may rain for several hours on most days during the wet season (November to March), crowd numbers will be lower, hotels cheaper, and activities easier to arrange.
• Best Time for Cultural Experience in Bali : Dependant on dates and not the weather. Religious or cultural event dates will usually change yearly according to the shorter lunar or Balinese calendars (see later).
• Best Time for a Romantic Holiday or Wedding in Bali : May, June, September, and October. This factors in the best possible weather and avoids peak times of Easter, July, and August.
• Best Time for Outdoor Activities in Bali : May to September. Prime time for hiking, mountain-biking but it can get surprisingly chilly in the highlands (including Ubud), especially after dark. Water sports are great any time of the year, although more enjoyable when driest (May to September).
• Best Time for White-Water Rafting in Bali : February to April. Water levels are generally highest in February, March, and April, and crowd numbers are lowest.
• Best Time for Diving in Bali : September to November. Diving is decent anytime during the dry season (April to October) but is particularly good in November. Dive centers arrange trips to various places according to the weather around the island.
• Best Time for Surfing in Bali : West Coast – April to October, ideal waves at Kuta, Seminyak, and Padang Padang beaches. East Coast – November to March at Nusa Lembongan and Sanur beaches. Note : July and August are peak times for everything on the island.

Bali Travel Seasons

• High Season (July, August, and mid-December to late January) : Visits to Bali are especially popular in two phases: (1) July and August, as Europeans flock in large numbers; and (2) when Australian schools close for about six weeks before and after Christmas. During these months, streets along the southern beaches and in Ubud are packed, hotels and resorts must be booked months in advance, and flights will be more expensive.
• Shoulder Season (April to June and September to mid-December) : This includes part of the dry season but before the wet season. The weather should be great most of the time but without the crowds. Still plenty of nightlife, religious ceremonies, and cultural events. Look for special deals on hotels if booked early. (Note: it is peak time again for two weeks around Easter.)
• Low Season (February and March) : Crowds drop markedly in major tourist areas. It’s the wet season, so it’s the cheapest months for hotel rates and discounted flights. (Note: it is peak time again for two weeks around Easter.)

When to Visit Bali for Good Weather

Only a few degrees south of the equator, Bali is tropical, not monsoonal (like Singapore and India), and cyclones are almost unheard of. November to March is the wet season when it is slightly hotter and significantly more humid. Of course, the dry season (April to October) is much more pleasant. However, it may still rain during the “dry” and not rain for a week in the “wet” – and rain often only falls in short bursts, usually late afternoon or overnight.

The mountainous landscape ensures that weather is often localized. Ubud may get some light flooding while tourists in Sanur sunbathe. On the far east coast, Amed, in the rain shadow of Agung volcano, may only receive three inches of rain a year (not enough to grow anything.) While the central volcanic regions may receive 70 inches. The weather shouldn’t affect your travel plans, but the peak seasons probably will. (See earlier.)

Bali Temperature by Month (high in celsius)

Bali Rain by Month (mm)

• January Weather in Bali : The rainiest month of the year. Rain usually comes in the late afternoon or through the night, but expect some rainy days. The sun often returns shortly after. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Rainfall: 350mm. Days with Rain: 18)
• February Weather in Bali : Almost as rainy as January with the same bursts of rain followed by sun. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Rainfall: 310mm. Days with Rain: 18)
• March Weather in Bali : Still wet but typically plenty of sunshine for hitting the beach. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Rainfall: 210mm. Days with Rain: 20)
• April Weather in Bali : Start of the dry season, drier than previous months and decreased humidity but still expect some rain. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Rainfall: 90mm. Days with Rain: 12)
• May Weather in Bali : This is now entering the driest period of the year with an average of nine hours of sunshine per day. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Rainfall: 75mm. Days with Rain: 8)
• June Weather in Bali : Great beach weather with lots of sun, and humidity drops. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Rainfall: 70mm. Days with Rain: 5)
• July Weather in Bali : Great beach weather with ten hours of sunshine a day. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Rainfall: 60mm. Days with Rain: 3)
• August Weather in Bali : Great beach weather with lots of sun (10 hours a day.) Also the year’s lowest sea temperature of 27°C. (Average Max Temperature: 28°C. Average Rainfall: 30mm. Days with Rain: 3)
• September Weather in Bali : Great beach weather with lots of sun (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Rainfall: 40mm. Days with Rain: 3)
• October Weather in Bali : Great beach weather with lots of sun though the odd downpour becomes more common. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Rainfall: 60mm. Days with Rain: 8)
• November Weather in Bali : Getting rainier and seven hours of sun a day for hitting the beach and sitting by the pool. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Rainfall: 110mm. Days with Rain: 10)
• December Weather in Bali : One of the rainier months but rain storms are usually short lived and most days will still see seven hours of sun. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Rainfall: 290mm. Days with Rain: 16)

Bali Holidays, Events, and Festivals by Month

Confusingly, the Balinese people and government use three separate calendars – all different from the Western Gregorian year of 365/366 days:

• Balinese Calendar – Many religious and cultural festivals are based on Bali’s unique 210-day Wuku calendar. Two major festivals with moveable dates that work in tandem during this 210-day cycle are Galungan, with brightly decorated streets celebrating the triumph of good over evil with ten days of temple ceremonies, culminating in a day of prayers called Kuningan.
• Lunar Calendar – Many temple ceremonies follow the moon’s cycles with months of only 29 or 30 days. This calendar dictates Nyepi’s exact date in March or April (see below).
• Islamic Calendar – Some public holidays and most Islamic events throughout Indonesia use the Islamic Calendar of 354/355 days. This rarely affects Bali, but some government offices and banks will close on public holidays.

Find up-to-date event information on these websites

• Bali Plus – Useful little magazine now mostly digital.
• Bali.com – Loads of information with a focus on musical events.
• The Bali Bible – Very helpful, especially for expats and families.
• Bali Travel Hub – Goldmine of detailed information about just about everything.

Bali in January

• New Year’s Day (1st) – Everything is open, but don’t be surprised to see some tourists still wandering the streets of the southern beaches from the previous night.
• Chinese New Year (changeable, January/February) – Known as Imlek, Bali is a favorite holiday destination for Chinese New Year, where it’s celebrated at a few temples, mostly in Denpasar and Singaraja.

Bali in February

• Denpasar Anniversary (27th) – Competitions, parades, and displays around Puputan Square celebrate the (often gruesome) history of the island’s capital. Only in Denpasar.

Bali in March

• Singaraja Anniversary (30th) – Commemorates the founding of Bali’s second city along the north coast. Often ignored by visitors but bustling with colonial history. There are plenty of activities, almost entirely for Balinese people, but tourists are welcome.
• Nyepi (changeable, March or April) – Day of Silence and the start of the Balinese Hindu New Year. All of Bali shuts down – even the airport. Everyone, including tourists, are required by law to stay in their homes and hotels for 24 hours as evil spirits hover over the island, find it empty, assume it is “abandoned,” and then move on. Hotel staff will prepare meals for guests, but anyone seen wandering the streets may be arrested. While this may seem inconvenient, the days before and after are packed with loud and colorful festivities.

Bali in April

• Purnama Kedasa (30th) (changeable, after Nyepi) – The frequent full-moon celebrations are particularly vibrant and extensive after Nyepi (see above). Thousands arrive with abundant offerings at major temples like those at Besakih and Batur.
• Gianyar Festival (changeable, mid-April) – Displays of art, music, and food in the regional capital only a short drive from Ubud. Lasts for up to 10 days.
• Waisak (changeable, April/May) – Also known as Vesak, the holiest day of the year celebrated by Buddhists and many other Balinese honoring the birth of Buddha. Visits to temples. A national public holiday (when government offices and banks will close).

Bali in May

• Bali Spirit Festival (changeable, early May) – Four or five days with performances and workshops of yoga, dance, music, and so much more in the spiritual heartland of Ubud. Lots of fun for families. Book early and stay a while.

Bali in June

• Bali Arts Festival (changeable, mid-June to mid-July) – Huge month-long cultural event in the island’s capital, Denpasar. Plenty of art, music, dance, and a parade or two. Easy side-trip by taxi from the southern beaches.
• Bali Blues Festival (changeable) – Several days of live bands across interesting locations, mostly around the southern beaches and Denpasar.
• Ubud Food Festival (changeable, late June) – Chefs, foodies, and writers descend on Ubud for four days of tasting, cooking, and feasting. Showcasing cuisines across Indonesia during the day and live music at night. (May be held on different dates.)

Bali in July

• Makepung (Negara) Bull Races (the month of July, and November) – Now a major tourist attraction on the far west coast. Farmers become jockeys and race on brightly-decorated chariots along various tracks throughout the area. Usually every Sunday in July, with finals in November. Ask a local for more information about dates and locations. Can be part of a day trip from the southern beaches or Ubud.
• Bali Kite Festival – Mainly July and August, but often lasts until October. The location can change, most recently in Sanur. Lessons and serious competitions among passionate locals.
• Bali International Choir Festival (changeable, late July) – Five days of performances, competitions, and workshops.
• Tenganan Perang Pandan (changeable) – Traditional historical “war” reenactment. In the ancient Bali Aga village of Tenganan (near Candidasa) in eastern Bali.

Bali in August

• Sanur Village Festival (changeable) – Five days of culture, arts, and music celebrating Bali’s history and heritage. Also, water sports, yoga, and triathlon. With more side events added each year, it is loads of fun.
• Indonesian Independence Day (17th) – School parades and red-and-white flags adorn some streets, but low-key compared to other parts of Indonesia, Most obvious in the capital, Denpasar. A public holiday so government offices and banks close.
• Ubud Village Jazz Festival (changeable) – Two days of toe-tapping fun featuring Indonesian and international performers. Also, workshops for fans.

Bali in September

• Persona Nusa Dua Fiesta (changeable, September/October) – Up to seven days of music, dance, sports, arts, and crafts celebrating the best of Bali and Indonesia. Lots of food – even competitions in cocktail-making for bartenders.
• Lovina Festival (changeable) – Not to be outdone by festivals in other tourist regions, Lovina (more specifically, the village of Kalibukbuk) hosts three days of arts, crafts, and live music – even bull races. As much for locals as tourists and much more authentic.
• Bali International Film Festival (changeable) – Known as Balinale, a celebrated gathering of filmmakers and enthusiasts with a diverse range of films and documentaries.

Bali in October

• Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (changeable, late October) – Long-established and internationally-renowned, with many visiting speakers, discussions about global issues, workshops, and book launches. Popular and enlightening four days across Ubud.
• Kuta Karnival (changeable) Balinese cultural displays, movies, and food stalls. Sand sculptures and kite-flying for the young ones.

Bali in November

• Legian Beach Festival (changeable) – All sorts of displays and stalls selling locally-made products, as well as traditional music and dance performances for a week or so. Popular and extensive.

Bali in December

• Christmas Day (25th) – National public holiday, but everything stays open on Bali (except government offices and banks). Plenty of activities and events offered by hotels and shops throughout December.
• New Year’s Eve (31st) – Like Christmas Day, everything stays open because it’s peak tourism season. Major hotels and resorts normally offer special events for guests and the public.
• Bali Hotel Maps
• Best Luxury Hotels in Bali
• Best Family Hotels in Bali
• Where to Stay in Bali
• Best Beaches in Bali

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Do you think January is a good time to visit? You talk about the rain but trying to get a feel for just how much rain and whether we can still have a good trip. Looking to relax by the pool and explore the island. This would be a last minute visit for early.

I think January is a fine time to visit. Yes, you need to be mentally prepared for a little rain, but the rain is usually short lived (duck into a cafe for a beer or two then the skies clear and it’s perfect again, albeit pretty humid). This is especially true if you’re a pool-person. There can be issues with the seas being rough and the beaches being littered with ocean debris in the wet season but the pool is, obviously, always clean and relaxing.

We’re deciding between late August and late September for a Bali trip. Is there any preference between the two? Just looking for good beach weather and cheap hotel rates.

Both have great weather but late September is quieter than late August, and thus hotels will be a little cheaper and easier to book (not a huge difference but enough to notice).

Hello Dave We will be in Bali from 14 February till 17 February. We prefer calm and clean beaches, need your recommendations. At the same time , I would like to buy some wholesales silver jewelry to see in my country as most of the time I will get it in Bangkok. Can you suggest any town or particular area I can shop for that. Thanks Dave ! Cheers Gwen

Nusa Dua will have the calmest cleanest beaches. For buying silver, look in Seminyak and Sanur – lots of silver shops, they should be able to help.

Hi. I’m thinking of visiting the Gili Islands, mainly Trawangan, in August. Are you able to recommend the best way to book transport over to there and/or any hotels on the island. Thanks. Leigh

About 10 boat companies offer “fast boats” or “speed boats” to the Gilis from Bali – mostly directly to Gili Trawangan. Prices have been fixed at about US$50 one-way by all companies for years, but there is some genuine competition these days. If price is not important, where the boat leaves and departs might be: a boat from Padangbai will mean less boat time, but involves two hours one-way in a minibus from Kuta. The best way to compare (and book online) is to check out this website . As for hotels, on Gili T (as it’s known) try places like Rumah Purnama or Gili Nyepi for a small, quiet and family-run budget hotel. For something more luxurious try Villa Nero or Gili Teak Resort . By the way, Gili T will be very busy in August – most hotels will be full (so book far ahead) and prices will double. Otherwise, try the other two islands (Gili Air and Gili Meno), which are less busy – or if you just want an “island holiday” try Nusa Lembongan (which has the added benefit of being a shorter boat trip from Bali).

Having a hard time figuring out where and when to surf on Bali. Looks like some great spots but they peak at different times of the year? Correct? But it’s based on the monsoon? I’m a mid to advanced surfer that would love to hit 3 or 4 different spots. Also have a girlfriends who’s a novice (beginner plus) and she would likely surf a day or two as well. We’re very flexible on when we can visit – really, anytime over the next year. When and where should we go? Thanks. Brent

Surfers first ‘discovered’ Bali in the 1960s and have been coming back ever since. Bali doesn’t have monsoons, but does have tropical weather. Overall, the best time to visit for all tourists is the dry season (April to September), which is, happily, also the best time for surfing. Almost all surf is along the southern coasts and affected by the Indian Ocean, so the best months to surf are generally the same. Many people surf in Kuta or Legian, where the waves are milder, the beaches are within walking distance of hundreds of hotels, and plenty of places offer lessons, as well as board rentals and repairs. But the more adventurous and experienced flock to spots along the southern Bukit Peninsula, such as Padang-Padang and Ulu Watu, or to Medewi along the south-western coast. To reach these places you will need your own transport or hire a taxi, but they all offer accommodation from which you can walk to the beach. Another place that offers surf, as well as other appealing attractions, is Nusa Lembongan island, with villages and mangroves to explore – but waves are 200m off-shore and accessible by chartered boat.

We’re planning a trip for Bali in December but are a little concerned about the weather. We plan to spend 1 week in Nusa Dua and 1 week in Ubud. Does the weather vary much from one area to the next? How much rain should we expect and do you think we’ll still have plenty of beach time? Thanks. Lafayette

Bali and the surrounding islands in Indonesia are tropical, which means there are two seasons: hot and dry (April to October) and hot and wet (November to March), although locals say that the wet season isn’t starting these days until late November or December. But Bali is not monsoonal like India, where the rains last weeks and floods are frequent; nor is Bali cyclonic, like the Philippines, where storms and cyclones often cause damage, injury and death. Bali is small enough that most places on the island are affected by the same weather patterns. But with several lofty volcanoes, some places along the volcanic slopes (eg Candikuning) are often cold, wet, and foggy, whereas it’s dry and sunny elsewhere. Ubud is a little cooler (especially at night) and less humid than beach regions like Nusa Dua, but the humidity along the coast can be countered by sea breezes. Across Bali, it may not rain for a week in the ‘wet season’ but rain for several consecutive days during the ‘dry season’. And rain often falls in short bursts and in the late afternoon and overnight. In short, the weather shouldn’t affect your decision about when to travel to Bali and it is unlikely to greatly affect your trip while there. However, remember that December is the peak season, when thousands of Australians visit during the school holidays and Europeans flock to escape their winter for Christmas/New Year. So, from about 15 December to 25 January hotel prices can double and bookings in advance is essential.

We’d like to visit Bali for swimming and beach time. When should we come, September or August? Is there any difference between these two months for crowds, weather, or number of hours of sun?

The dry season in Bali is between April and October, although the wet season seems to start later these days. So, there is no difference between August and September with regards to the weather: it should be mostly hot, dry, and sunny every day in the beach resort areas. However, August can be a very busy time on Bali as many Europeans arrive for their annual holidays. In some areas, hotel prices will increase and bookings are recommended, and tourist sights can seem very crowded. If possible, come to Bali in September to avoid the crowds and higher prices, and before the Australian school holidays start in early October.

Looking to go to Indonesia for 14-17 days. I would love to spend at least one week on the beach, if not more. I am also interested in having access to day trips. It would be two adults and two teens. I would love clean, white sandy beaches with crystal blue water. If possible, we would prefer to be close to restaurants. Do you have any recommendations? Thank you very much for any information you would provide. Vanessa

Bali is compact, so much of the island can be explored on daytrips from one place. It’s easy to organise a comfortable air-conditioned 5-6 seat car with a driver for about US$50 per day (10 hours). Never drive yourself as the traffic and roads can be very difficult. An ideal base from which to take daytrips around the island is the central town of Ubud, which has many attractions itself, such as art museums, rice-field walks and temples. Of course, wherever there are ‘clean, white sandy beaches and crystal blue water’ there are plenty of tourists, which means no shortage of hotels and restaurants! But each beach resort area on Bali offers different things to different people, so it does pay to think about what suits you best. Even, perhaps consider basing yourself in 2-3 different areas during the 14-17 days? Some suggestions for beach resort areas (1) Kuta/Legian/Seminyak – The best shops and nightclubs, and great surf, but also plenty of crowds and noise. (2) Sanur – Quieter, more relaxed beach, with no surf but a lovely promenade for walking and cycling. (3) Jimbaran – Arguably the nicest beach resort region on Bali, with a perfect ‘white sandy beach’, but not much to do beside swim, relax, and eat. (4) Nusa Lembongan island – Only 30-40 minutes by fastboat from Bali, a lovely island with appealing beaches (some dangerous for swimming) and plenty to see and do for adventurous teens. (5) Gili Islands – Probably the best and most accessible place in Indonesia for beaches with ‘crystal blue water’, ideal for lazing and snorkelling; about 2 hours by fastboat from Bali. (6) Kuta Beach, Lombok – Far quieter than Kuta on Bali, this beach and others nearby offer crescents of perfect sand and water with almost no tourists; accessible by fastboat and bus from Bali.

We are a family of 3 trying to plan a trip to Bali. The big question for us is deciding between July or August for a visit. Is one month better for weather, crowds, or events? Thanks much.

The dry season in Bali is between April and October, so July and August are ideal times to visit with regards to the weather: every day will be hot and sunny with (almost) no rain. Events on Bali are often based on the lunar calendar (i.e. full moon) and the unique Hindu 210-day calendar, but the Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar from mid-June to mid-July is worth visiting. However, July and August are very busy times in Bali. The Australian school holidays are staggered across the states from 2 to 24 July, when Aussie families flock to the island to escape the winter down under. August is also very busy as Europeans come to Bali to seek their little slice of paradise. In these two months, hotels in the southern resort regions such as Sanur, Kuta/Legian and Nusa Dua, as well as the Gili Islands (2 hours by fastboat from Bali), can be heavily booked and prices can rise. And, of course, beaches and tourist sights are crowded. If you must travel at this time, make sure you book your hotels as far in advance as possible. Otherwise, try staying in areas that don’t attract so many tourists, e.g. Lovina, on the north coast with an unappealing beach but a lovely village vibe; Candidasa, without much of a beach but good-value hotels and an ideal base to explore the east coast; or Padangbai, a lovely village with charming beaches and also a perfect base for the east coast.

We are in the early process of planning a trip to Bali for Christmas, New Years, and the first week of January. Any advice? Is the period around Christmas and New Years a good time to visit Bali? We like visiting places that are busy and festive, will Bali have a fun and lively atmosphere during the holidays? Patrick

The single busiest tourist period on Bali is between late December and early January. This is the height of the Australian school holidays, when some businesses and offices down under close for 10-15 days and families flock to the island. It is also when Europeans fly to Bali for that short period. So, many decent hotels and resorts in the more appealing beach regions like Kuta/Legian, Nusa Dua, and Sanur, as well as Ubud and the very popular Gili Islands (2 hours by fast boat from Bali), will be heavily booked and prices can double. In fact, you are urged to book your hotels in those areas for that period now. To avoid the crowds and high prices, however, try staying at low key resort regions to the east and north like Candidasa, Padangbai, Lovina, and Amed. Popular events in Bali, such as traditional ceremonies and religious festivals, are almost always based on the lunar calendar (e.g. during full moon) or use the unique Hindu 210-day Wuku calendar, so they are not linked to any tourist season or holidays. And, sadly, the two major Balinese festivals of Galungan and Kuningan fall in February and September. To be honest, don’t expect much in the way of Christmas festivities on the island. For most tourists this period is about surf, sea, sunsets, and shopping, and for almost all Balinese (who are not Christians) it is just another time to work hard and earn money. Other than a few token strands of tinsel in a souvenir shop or a plastic tree in the reception of a resort, there will be very few signs of Christmas anywhere across the island.

Hi Dave, My friend and I – two single women will be visiting Bali for around 10 days in June. We plan to stay for some days in Ubud, some days in Seminyak, one night in Gili Trawangan, and one or two nights in Jimbaran. From which of these places should we visit Pura Ulun Danu Bratan at Bedugul? Also, is there anything else to see in or around Bedugul? Also, we are both vegetarians. So should we opt for the sunset dinner at the Jimbaran beachfront restaurant? I believe the place is known more for seafood. Though I’d like to go for the ambience – the whole setting of having dinner by the seaside, but am a bit confused about it. Sonali Agarwal

Bali is compact so it is tempting to base yourself in several places, but perhaps with only 10 days it’s better to stay in only two places to avoid too much travelling between busy resort regions and inconvenient 10am check-outs and 2pm check-ins. While Gili Trawangan and the other two Gili islands are understandably popular, it may not be worth going there for just one night. The quickest and, therefore the most expensive (up to US$100 return), way to reach Gili T will take about 4 hours by bus/boat with pickups, transfers, waiting to board, the trip etc – and another 4 hours back. Perhaps, come back to Bali another time and spend some quality time exploring all three of the glorious Gilis. With 10 days, maybe base yourself somewhere in the countryside for landscapes, natural attractions, and culture, such as Ubud, and somewhere by the beach for relaxation, sunsets, and shopping, such as Seminyak. Ubud is oozing with culture (eg traditional dances and art museums) as well as other attractions (eg markets and the monkey forest), and an ideal base for exploration by car/driver to spectacular sights, such as the Gunung Kawi rock sculptures and Tirta Empul sacred springs and temple. Ubud is also a perfect location for a full daytrip to Bedugul (more properly known as Candikuning). As well as the delightful lakeside Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple (best before 10am and after 4pm to avoid tourist crowds), Candikuning boasts the appealing Botanical Gardens; a vibrant produce and souvenir market; and the recreation area known as Bedugul, built for, and almost entirely used by, Indonesian tourists. With almost no westerner in sight, you can take a boat trip around Lake Bratan, try some watersports, hike along volcanic slopes, and have a vegetarian lunch at a lakeside café. Your other possible base, Seminyak, is a more classy and relaxed alternative beach resort region to the fairly crowded and noisy Kuta/Legian area. Seminyak beach is lined with cafés and bars offering genuine beachfront settings, vegetarian food, and the same renowned sunsets as Jimbaran. Late afternoon the white sands of Seminyak are strewn with beanbags on which you can relish the sunset with a cocktail and, later, enjoy live music. The main attraction of a sunset dinner at Jimbaran is the fresh seafood, so if you don’t eat fish then perhaps avoid Jimbaran altogether (and the traffic getting there and back). Instead, eat, drink, and revel in the glorious sunsets at Seminyak.

Hi Dave, First time in Bali. Travelling Solo. I’m planning a trip to Bali in April. It will be my first visit and I plan to stay for about 12 days splitting my time between the beach and Ubud. I’d like a week in a very low key beach resort for total relaxation (no tourists, noisy clubs/bars) and reading your many responses, cannot decide between Canggu, Sanur, or Jimbaran. Would prefer a boutique hotel rather than a 5* Four Seasons, St. Regis for under $100 per night. Will do day trips, local markets, yoga (for beginners), and some horse riding if available. Help please, Thanks, Sharon

Bali is a wonderful place and first-time visitors on their own should feel at ease. And it’s ideal that you’re dividing your time between the countryside at Ubud and a beach resort. Perhaps not surprisingly with 3-4 million visitors a year, it’s impossible to find a beach resort – however low key – with no tourists. Sanur is certainly quieter than the fairly frenetic Kuta/Legian area, and it doesn’t have surfer bars, nightclubs, and malls, but Sanur still has plenty of tourists. Canggu is north of Seminyak and where many expats have now moved in order to avoid the tourists scene in Seminyak and Kuta/Legian. The beaches along Canggu have unappealing grey volcanic sand, while the few resorts are difficult to access because there are no beachside roads. Jimbaran is a surprisingly low-key resort region with a glorious crescent of white sand, but by 4pm every day many parts of the beach become choked with tables of diners relishing the sunset and seafood (a great beach scene if you’re looking for activity, not so great if you’re looking for quiet and seclusion). If you really want a low key beach resort with fewer tourists, but don’t mind a couple of hours travelling by boat, chartered car/driver, or Perama shuttle bus, maybe try these three options. 1) Lovina on the north coast is very laidback, with little nightlife and even less in the way of shopping. The beach is disappointingly scruffy, but the sea-views, breezes and sunsets are superb, and it’s an ideal base to explore Bali’s second city of Singaraja and the springs and monastery at Banjar. Recommended places to stay include Rambutan Boutique Hotel and Padmasari Resort . 2) Gili Meno is the least visited of the three glorious droplets of golden sands and turquoise waters known as the Gili Islands, about 2 hours by boat from Bali. There is little to do but snorkel or snooze, but for many that’s just perfect. Try: Mahamaya Resort or Seri Resort . 3) Nusa Lembongan – only 30-40 minutes by boat from Bali, this island is increasingly popular but still nowhere near as developed as the party island of Gili Trawangan. There are hikes, snorkelling, villages and mangroves, and secluded beaches like Sunset Beach and Dream Beach. Try: Indiana Kenanga Villas or Dream Beach Huts . The best place to organise yoga is at Ubud, while horse riding can be arranged at Gili Trawangan (10 minutes by boat from Gili Meno) and at places north of Seminyak. Recommended boutique-style hotels in Ubud include the traditional Puri Saraswati Bungalows at the back of the palace; the exquisite ARMA Resort in the museum grounds; or Ubud Art Villa for seclusion and views.

Hi Dave, Your site and articles are great, thanks! I’m planning a trip to Indonesia from the UK for a couple of weeks with my partner. Swaying between Bali and Lombok (we love snorkelling, diving, walking/trekking and relaxing). I thought I was sold on Bali, but now I’ve seen a lot of articles saying that it has a serious rubbish problem and the sea water and beaches are badly littered. Is this the case, do you know? Is it really that bad? In terms of coastal destinations, we are thinking of going to Nusa Lembongan, Amed and also Gili Meno. But if it is really that bad, I might have to consider Lombok again. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Judy

With some 3-4 million visitors a year (mostly westerners demanding bottled water and canned beer) it’s perhaps not surprising that Bali, like other resort islands such as Phuket and Fiji, has problems with litter and waste disposal. But the Balinese authorities realise that clean beaches mean happy tourists. So, armies of cleaners sweep all the main beach resort regions every day and some private beaches ‘owned’ by upmarket hotels in places such as Nusa Dua are spotless enough to eat off (well, almost). Exceptions to this are more remote resort regions like Lovina, which is a bit scruffy, admitttedly. And if there is a big storm the rough seas can litter the beaches with trash until workers can get out to clean up. But in short, don’t let this negative and unwarranted publicity dampen your enthusiasm for Bali. Lombok is less developed and the beaches more pristine, but that island still suffers from litter and waste disposal – just like every island resort region in south-east Asia.

Nusa Lembongan is a lovely, tranquil island with zero shops and even less nightlife, so it suits many but bores the pants off some others. Amed is a strip of remote coastline that stretches some 10kms with a few budget homestays and family-run cafes dotted along the rugged coastline. Transport there is limited to the Perama shuttle bus and transport around is by rented or chartered motorbike. Amed is really only suitable for those who really, really want to get away from the touristy resort regions and love diving/snorkelling. Gili Meno is the sleepy sister of the three Gili Islands, with nothing much to offer except snorkelling, snoozing, strolling and sunbathing – but for many that sounds just about perfect!

Hi, I am planning for my honeymoon trip in Bali, in the beginning of November this year. Planning for a 5 to 6 days stay. I prefer a calm place to stay and enjoy my time around sandy beaches. Looking to do cycling, snorkeling, and Scuba diving. Please recommend some nice places so that we can have a memorable visit. Thanks in advance. Dineshbabu

Bali is an ideal choice for your honeymoon. If you want somewhere ‘calm’ that rules out the Kuta/Legian/Seminyak stretch, which is anything but peaceful and not really romantic – though it does have fun nightlife, which might be appealing. With your interests in cycling, snorkelling, diving and sandy beaches, you may consider these options: 1) Nusa Dua – a very tranquil complex of 4-5 star resorts, with plenty of space, green lawns and perfect beaches. Almost all resorts have Honeymoon Suites, and would offer Honeymoon Packages that include champagne on arrival, romantic beach-side dinner etc. There is also a cycling path that stretches about 7km along Nusa Dua and adjoining Tanjung Benoa, but for snorkelling and diving you would need to go on day-trips to places like Padangbai or Candidasa about 2 hours away 2) the Gili Islands – these three droplets of bleached-white beaches surrounded by turquoise waters are off the coast of Lombok but easily accessible by speedboat from Bali. None of the islands have vehicles so the only way around is on foot, by bicycle or the rather romantic horse and cart. And, best of all, the snorkelling and scuba diving is world class and virtually outside the front door of your resort. The middle island, Gili Meno, is the most romantic and tranquil of the three, and at times you may have a beach to yourself all day. 3) Nusa Lembongan – often ignored by those who rush to the Gilis, this island is quicker and cheaper to reach than the Gilis. Again, there are no vehicles (only motorbikes) so it’s ideal for cycling, including some challenging hilly areas, and the underwater delights are as impressive as the Gilis. The best beach for swimming is Mushroom Bay, where there are several 2-3 star resorts, while Dream Beach and Sunset Beach are romantic places to stay but dangerous for swimming.

Hello, I am planning for a trip to bali in last week of October. Can you help me that is it fine to go that in that month? As I am hearing that it might not be a good choice to go in that month. Roma Laiwala

October is one of the best months to visit Bali. Good weather and not terribly busy so good deals on hotels.

Hi Dave, I’m on overload with how many questions I have! My friends and I (8 guys and gals all between 25 and 29 years old) are going to Bali for the last week and a half or so of October this year. We want this trip to be the stuff of movies with equal parts partying, immersion into Indonesian food, and culture and adventure (outdoor activities). What areas do you recommend we stay in based on the time of the year we’re going, our age, and what we’re looking to do? -Jess

You’re travelling in a big group so it pays to find a base that suits everyone, and to book ahead for accommodation. And if booking 3 or more rooms for several days it is certainly worth booking directly with the hotel and asking for a substantial discount rather than booking through a hotel booking site – especially as you’re going there in the off-season. Your description certainly excludes the more family-orientated areas of Nusa Dua and Sanur and the quieter resort regions along the east or north coast, which leaves the following places: 1) Kuta/Legian/Seminyak (maybe 6 nights) – this stretch of beach is certainly Party Central, although Seminyak is quieter and more classier. From any of these places, it’s easy enough to charter a car and driver through your hotel and explore the countryside during the day and party at night. And with literally hundreds (if not thousands?) of restaurants to choose from, you’ll find excellent Indonesian food – although it can often be blandly modified for western tastes. 2) Ubud (maybe 4 nights) – this is the renowned spiritual and cultural heart of the island. It is an ideal base from which to explore the island, soak up the culture, and binge out on real Indonesian food, including Balinese food, such as ‘babi guling’ (roast pig). Ubud also has a surprisingly vibrant nightlife, with 6-7 bars and cafés all close by offering live music nightly. Quite tame compared to Kuta, which is more about DJs, while Ubud has pretty decent live bands. Ubud is also the best place to arrange, and reach, a multitude of outdoor activities like cycling down the volcano slopes, river rafting, elephants rides, hiking etc

Hi Dave, I would like to visit for photography of rice paddies. Which is the best month when rice fields are at their greenest? Dinesh Pancholi

Rice fields are planted by rotation and there is no “best time” for seeing the rice fields. Any time of year you’ll be able to see beautiful rice fields.

What is the weather like in May and is there much to do activities-wise for a family of 4 with 2 young children staying in Nusa Dua? Nicky

The dry season in Bali lasts from April to October, although there is no guarantee that it won’t rain during your time there – but any rain would be in short bursts. As well as great weather, May is an ideal time to visit because it’s not in the Australian school holidays and is before the European ‘invasion’ of July and August. Nusa Dua has many resorts that offer amazing facilities for children, such as Club Med, Nusa Beach Hotel, Westin and Grand Hyatt. They all offer supervised and secure Kids’ Clubs, with all sorts of wonderful activities, as well as water slides, playgrounds and kids’ pools. In fact, your children may not want to leave the grounds of your hotel during your entire holiday! Otherwise, there are a few things to see and do in Nusa Dua: the long beachside pathway is ideal for walking and cycling; a free shuttle bus links all resorts to the delightful Bali Collection outdoor mall, with plenty of shops and cafés; and the two headlands offer space, grass and views of crashing waves from lookouts. And within a 5-10 minute taxi ride is Tanjung Benoa, which is the main centre for all sorts of water sports.

Hello Dave, I am planning on visiting Bali with my girlfriend mid November. I would like to do some surfing whilst there but restricted to probably two days (I have surfed a lot in the past but have not in the last 3 years, so will need a relative easy place no more than 1 meter waves or so). Now I read that the winds change in November and make the east side of the south better as it will be offshore. But most of the ‘interesting/happening’ things are on the west coast. Will the beaches on the west be bad in November, or will there be some surf to be had in the mornings before wind picks up? Also, is it doable to stay in, lets say, Seminyak and go for surf on the east side (time/effort wise) if the surf is bad on the west side? Additionally, how would you compare Seminyak to Jimbaran? We would like to be in a nice place but not be excluded from nice restaurants and bars. Kuta sounds too much party to us, but we also do not like to be too secluded (if that makes any sense). Any suggestions? thanks so much for steering me in the right direction. Paul

The best place to surf does change from one coast to another according to the seasons, but Bali is compact and distances around the southern surfing regions are small, so it’s easy enough to stay overnight on one coast (eg Nusa Dua) while surfing at another during the day (eg Kuta). However, traffic can be diabolical around these regions and you could waste valuable time (and money) travelling between hotel and surf. The surf around most places on the Bukit Peninsula (eg Padang-Padang) is quite rough and more suitable for experienced surfers. Other popular places like Nusa Lembongan would involve several hours of travel, which is not ideal if you only have two days of surfing available, while places like Medewi are remote surfer hang outs, probably of minimal interest to your non-surfing girlfriend. If your major reason for visiting Bali is not surfing, then perhaps you should base yourself in Seminyak and surf there or at Kuta/Legian nearby for several reasons: (1) there is plenty of surf from the beach all year around in Seminyak/Legian/Kuta and the waves are easily accessible and mild; (2) you can rent a board from stalls along the beach (and even get lessons) at Kuta/Legian; (3) you could walk to the beach from your hotel in Seminyak or be in Kuta/Legian from Seminyak in minutes by taxi; (4) you can surf early or late and still have time to do other things during the day; and (5) your girlfriend wouldn’t get bored with all the shopping available in Seminyak! As you suggest, Kuta is ‘party central’ for many, and Seminyak is a quieter and more classy alternative, still within 10 minutes by taxi from Kuta. Jimbaran is less developed than Seminyak and surprisingly quiet in places, although there are plenty of shops and cafes. Jimbaran boasts a gorgeous beach, more appealingly white than Seminyak, and the seafood dinners on the beach at sunset would be a highlight of your visit. But Jimbaran is easy to reach by taxi from Seminyak. In short, you should base yourself entirely in Seminyak, which offers excellent surf, shopping, eating/drinking, as well as live music, in a comparatively quiet region, but close to the airport and the waves and malls of Kuta.

May I know if November is a good month to visit Bali? Suitable for water activity? Joey

The rainy season is just starting in November but there’s still lots of sun (usually after an afternoon downpour) and water is good for swimming (though there are always dangerous spots so enquire or pay attention to red flags). November is one of the cheapest months to visit for good hotel deals.

Hi Dave, Can you help me with the weather in Bali in mid-November. Is it usually rainy on all days or is there a fair chance of getting some sun. How is the night life in Kuta during that period. Is it very quiet and dull during that period in Kuta/Legian/Seminyak or can we hope to get some good crowds? Thanks Jay

November is on the edge of the dry season and wet season. You’ll likely get some clear sunny weather with maybe a big rain once or twice every day (but they dry up quickly). As long as you’re not expecting perfect weather I think you’ll have a great time. Nightlife in November is quieter but still plenty going on and you can find some big parties if you go looking.

Hi Dave, We are considering a trip to Bali middle of January. We are very nervous about the rainy season. We will have a three year old with us and we are considering Nusa Dua? Any advise? Jade

Bali has a dry season (April to October) and wet season (November to March). The island is tropical, but not monsoonal (like India), when sheets of rain can fall for weeks; nor does Bali suffer cyclones (like the Philippines). But it can rain for a few days straight in the ‘dry’ and not rain for a week or more in the ‘wet’. When it rains in the wet season, it is often only for an hour or two in the late afternoon; and there’s a 50% chance rain will fall between 7pm and 7am anyway. The volcanic landscape ensures that rain can be localized: eg it can be bucketing down in Ubud, while cloudless in Sanur, only 45 minutes away by car. In short, don’t let the chance of rain in the wet season affect your decision to travel to Bali. What you should consider is the peak season, when crowds in some places can be substantial. This includes from about 15 December to 25 January, so if you can travel later in January or in February, crowds will be significantly smaller and prices considerably lower. Most hotels in Nusa Dua have a kids’ club offering a wonderful selection of activities, as well as a children’s pool, waterslides, playground, kids’ menus etc – which is ideal if the weather isn’t that great for the beach or daytrips. Particularly good for families in Nusa Dua are the Novotel, Westin, Laguna and Grand Hyatt, but make sure they accept three year olds – some kids’ clubs cater only for 4-15 year olds.

Hi Dave, I’m a solo female traveller looking to take a last minute trip to Bali in late November. I’m looking for somewhere with nice, safe resorts, with quiet beaches, but that is also near accessible rice terraces and cultural spots. Where would you recommend? Thanks! Victoria

Hi Dave, I am planning my first solo trip which is to Bali in the last week of November. Does it rain a lot? will the weather be favourable for scuba diving? I am a traveller at heart and would like to include a little bit of all the varied aspects that Bali has to offer from scuba diving to mountain to partying one night. Can you recommend which areas should I visit? I have about 10-14 days….Are the hostels in Bali safe? Which is a good area to live in Bali where I can meet other travellers? Sonali

The rainy season more or less stretches from late October to March, but seems to be starting later and later in recent years. It may not rain in the ‘wet’ for a week or may pour down in the dry season (April to September). And if it does rain, downpours are often short and in the evenings/nighttime. In short, don’t let the weather affect your decision about when to travel to Bali. The rain won’t affect your diving much, if at all, but the winds may. The best time for scuba diving is the transition period between the two seasons, so October/November is an ideal time to relish the wonders underwater. Most solo young travelers, base themselves in two main areas: 1) Kuta/Legian – the place for nightclubs and shopping, and close to the airport, but the traffic and crowds can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. But November will be a quieter time to visit. 2) Ubud – an understandably popular base to experience Bali’s unique culture and to daytrip to extraordinary temples and landscapes, such as Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi and Goa Gajah To avoid the crowds, and for world-class diving, some head out to Amed along the remote east coast. It’s a laidback, chill-out area, but the beaches are poor and getting around can be difficult. For mountains and hiking, stay at Candikuning, home to a crater lake with water sports (but most travelers bypass this lovely area); or Toya Bungkah, on another crater lake (but, again, there will be very few other travelers in this remarkable place). So, with 10 days on a first visit, perhaps base yourself in (1) Legian (a quieter and less crowded version of Kuta, only 2kms north of Kuta), from where you can organize a scuba-diving day-trip; and (2) Ubud, from where you can join a hiking or bicycle tour down the volcanic slopes. If staying 14 days, perhaps also add in a few days in Amed – perfect for diving and meeting other young travelers. Accommodation is cheap in Bali: even in Kuta, a modest double room with pool, Wi-Fi, air-con, hot water, and cable TV can cost less than US$20 per night and rates are even cheaper in Ubud. So, there are almost no hostels in Bali. But a few basic hotels cater for backpackers, such as Captain Goose in Kuta.

Hi, I am going to Bali in December 16-19 for three days with my family including an infant aged 1.9 year old. Can you please suggest what is the best beach during these short three days? All I want is clean blue water not going to surf, no diving! Just swimming and enjoying time around the beach.

The Balinese people utterly adore all children, believing they are gifts from the gods, so your infant will be cuddled and stroked lovingly and constantly. If you don’t want surf, diving, or – presumably – nightclubs, then the two areas you should stay are Sanur or Nusa Dua. Both offer calm and shallow waters (protected by breakwaters and distant reefs), are close to the airport, and have considerably less noise, traffic and general hassles than resort regions like Kuta, Legian or Seminyak. Sanur has a wide range of accommodation for all budgets and a lovely pathway for walking and cycling that hugs the beach for more than 5km. Most hotels are away from the main road and there are no nightclubs blaring at night. Nusa Dua offers better beaches – all are wide and sandy – but in some places the ambience can be ruined sometimes with nearby jet-skis. But there is far more greenery and space than anywhere else in Bali. All hotels are in the 4 to 5-star range, with nothing more affordable, but almost all cater better than Sanur for families with a toddler’s pool, children’s menus and kid’s club (although most only cater for children at least 4-5 years old). And all offer child-minding services. As you may know, your visit coincides with the start of the Australian school holidays, so you should book your accommodation immediately.

Hi Dave I am taking my 2 kids to Bali 11-19 December. I was thinking of taking them to Lembongan for 2 nights but wondering how rough the seas will be as it is generally the rainy season? I have been to Bali many times but never in December and to Lembongan also but again never in December. Can you let me know by chance if you think it would be a better idea to avoid travelling over there at this time of the year as the kids want to go snorkeling with the Manta rays and an island snorkeling tour like I have done previously, in the dryer months? Thank you Temeka

December is at the start of the wet season, but generally, the winds and waves are no worse in the wet season than the dry. What makes the waves so high between the Bali mainland and Nusa Lembongan island (as well as the Gili Islands) are the currents and the swells caused by the extreme depth of the ocean. So, waves can be – and often are – high any time of the year. As you may know, boat trips can be quite unpleasant, with seasickness common, although the trip is only 30-45 minutes one-way. And there is no jetty at Sanur on Bali, from where most boats leave, and no jetty at all on Lembongan island, so passengers have to wade through waves (sometimes waist-high on adults) to get on/off the boat. An alternative is a day-trip from Bali to Lembongan on Bali Hai Cruises, a massive boat that won’t be affected by waves, that offers fabulous trips for the family, including snorkeling. Manta Rays are best seen around Nusa Penida, the larger island next to Nusa Lembongan. Penida is surprisingly undeveloped, with limited accommodation, and accessible by boat (again uncomfortable at times) from Sanur. Companies like Blue Season Bali offer trips to Nusa Penida, but they can’t control the waves! Otherwise, try snorkeling at places on the Bali mainland anytime of the year: Amed (a quiet place with excellent snorkeling within swimming distance of the beach); Tulamben (even quieter, with a WWII wreck to explore just off-shore); or Pemuteran (remote but world-class snorkeling in a pristine national marine park). Don’t let the weather affect your decision to travel to Bali – it can be dry all week in the wet season and rain for two days in the ‘dry’. Rain anytime during the year is often in short spells, and there’s more than a 50% chance rain will fall between 7pm and 7am anyway. But remember: 11-19 December is the start of the Australian school holidays so some parts of Bali will be busy.

Hi Dave! I am planning on taking my two children (aged 12 and 8) to Bali next February (booking early to save money on flights!). Where would you recommend staying for a majority quiet, beach holiday, but that is also in a good location to arrange a diving trip with my eldest, and to explore some interesting, child friendly sights and culture. Thanks! Vicki

Of the many resort regions across Bali, your best options would be Padangbai, along the east coast; Nusa Lembongan island; or Gili Air, which is actually part of neighboring Lombok but easily accessible from Bali. If you intend to go scuba-diving, you probably know that the minimum age among Bali diving agencies is 10 years, but the island offers some amazing snorkeling, often just off-shore, which can be enjoyed by anyone of any age. Padangbai is about two hours from the airport, but a world away from the hustle and bustle of regions like Kuta. It’s a charming, compact village with enough cafés, but minimal shops and nightclubs – which suits many. Scuba diving is easy to arrange and snorkeling gear can be hired for underwater exploration at the Crusoe-esque Blue Lagoon beach. It’s also a wonderful base to visit nearby attractions such as the ancient pre-Hindu village of Tenganan; arguably Bali’s best beach at Pasir Putih; and the eerie bat cave temple of Goa Lawah. (Many boats to Nusa Lembongan and Gili Air leave from and arrive at Padangbai.) Nusa Lembongan is only 30-45 minutes by speedboat from Bali. With no vehicles (only motorbikes), it’s tranquil and easy to explore mangroves, empty beaches and the village on foot or by pushbike. There are a couple of diving agencies, and the snorkeling is superb at Mushroom Bay and Mangrove Beach. Gili Air is one of the renowned triplet of Gili Islands, about 90 minutes by speedboat from Bali. It is quiet, with a likeable genuine village. Several agencies can arrange scuba-diving trips, while most also allow others to join and snorkel close to the boat as others plunge deeper. But please note: getting on and off speedboats to these islands usually involves wading through the water – ie there are often no jetties. And the waves and swell can make the trip uncomfortable at times.

Hi Dave, I just bought a pair of tickets to Bali yesterday. Traveling on the first week of November. Stumbled upon an article that says November is a bad time to Bali due to the rainy season and beaches are most likely to be dirty. Is that true? It’s an anniversary trip. We want to spend time on the beaches and dinner by the beach at night. Should I consider to change location? Melanie

The rains do pick up in November (often late November) but even when they do they’re usually short bursts of downpour followed by a quick clearing and beautiful blue skies (with a few puddles on the ground). If you want a 100% guarantee on great weather then yes, change your trip, but personally I’d be very comfortable booking a November visit.

Hi Dave! My Fiance and I have looked all over the world for the perfect place to honeymoon, and we are stuck between southern Portugal, Greece, and Bali. We would be traveling at the beginning of September. We are leaning toward Bali, and would be traveling 30+ hours from the USA. We are looking to stay half of the trip inland, and half on the beach. We have found a large number of resorts, but aren’t sure which to pick. We are looking for beautiful beaches and wonderful seafood. Can you suggest any particular beaches and/or resorts? Much appreciated! Thanks! Lacey

All of those destinations are awesome in September. Not peak season but still great weather. If it’s Bali, I’d recommend Ubud for an inland base, and Jimbaran for great seafood and a top notch beach (and Kuta/Seminyak are a short drive away for nightlife and shopping).

Hi, I’m going to Bali at the end of January/beginning of February for a week and wondered if you thought Nusa L was better/worse for diving than the Gilis (recognising that better isn’t defined!). I went to Bali a few years ago and went to the Gilis but think it might be a bit intense (I’m traveling alone this time) and is more of a trek to get to… What do you think of Jimbaran/Canggu for a few days, Ubud for a few days and Nusa L for the remaining? Do you think Jimbaran or Canggu would be better (again I know!) or do you have any other suggestions for combinations? I’m a keen diver and would also like to do a day hike/bike (either organised or just pootling) and looking to stay in places that are relaxing but possibly sociable too (tho not necessarily aggressively backpackery in terms of drinking!) Any tips very gratefully received! Rebecca

Although Bali is compact, and distances seem small, travelling around the island can be time-consuming, so don’t be tempted to stay in more than two (or possibly three) places if only visiting for a week. An ideal combination would be Jimbaran (for the beach); Ubud (for the landscape and outdoor activities); and Nusa Lembongan (for diving). One option is even staying the entire week in Sanur, a quieter beach area, with plenty of shops and cafés, but no malls and surf attracting the crowds, including backpackers. This gives you the obvious advantage of not wasting time moving hotels and possibly waiting for your room to become vacant. From Sanur, it’s easy to: 1) daytrip to Ubud, 45-60 minutes away by shuttle bus or chartered car, or join an organized cycling or hiking tour of the central mountains; 2) take a boat trip to Nusa Lembongan (30-45 minutes) for diving, exploring or relaxing 3) visit any other beach region in the south (eg Jimbaran or Tanjung Benoa for all types of water-sports) in 20-30 minute by taxi. The quality of diving on the GIlis and Nusa Lembongan is world class, but facilities are better and more extensive on the Gilis, particularly on Gili Trawangan, because these islands are far more popular. But there are 3 good reasons to consider diving this time at Nusa Lembongan: 1) travel by speedboat is quicker (and cheaper), so you would spend less of your precious time on boats and hanging around boat terminals/jetties 2) the Gilis is far busier, especially in January 3) you have been to the Gilis before. And Nusa Lembongan is delightfully laidback and virtually-traffic free, and there are other things to do, eg hiking, cycling and exploring the village, which can’t be done on the Gilis Canggu is a collective term for a vast area of land and beach between Seminyak and Tanah Lot. The beaches, such as Seseh and Berewa are scruffy, grey and, often, rocky – considerably more suitable for, and popular with, surfers than swimmers. And your accommodation in Canggu may be 10-15 minutes walk from any worthwhile cafés or shops, and taxis are uncommon. It would be far better to stay in Jimbaran, a gorgeous curved bay of golden sands and calm waters, and so much quieter than the frenetic Kuta/Legian region, which is only 10-15 minutes away by frequent taxi. And a highlight of any trip to Bali will be dinner at a café on Jimbaran beach during sunset, with fresh seafood, wandering musicians and fireworks. Jimbaran is also a genuine village with an ancient temple, sprawling produce market and an incredible fish market. The Australian school holidays are the busiest time on Bali and the Gilis. These end by 31 January, so you may wish to plan your trip accordingly.

Hi Dave By far your comments on the best time to visit Bali have been conclusive and concise as compared to other sites. However, i would like to know in terms of price, which is better, Early September Vs. Late September OR early October vs. Late October? I’m planning a trip for my husband and i and we would prefer to go when it’s cheaper. Thanks!

I’m pretty sure the later you visit in the fall (whether that’s September or October) will be cheaper (or the same). Of course, it’s easy to confirm by visiting a half-dozen hotels on Booking.com and comparing prices for the different dates.

Hi Dave, I’m planning my honeymoon for the second half of October. Many people told me that it would be wet season then and that there will be lots of rain and that it wouldn’t be the best time to go to Bali then. Need your recommendations on that please if it’s still going to be doable to go on my honeymoon there.

I’ve had good luck visiting in October and do not consider it rainy season. Every year is different though and the second half of October will get more rain than the first half. If it was me, I’d feel fine booking an October visit and expect good weather. But absolute certainty, of course, is not possible.

Hi Dave We are planning to travel to Bali in the first week of September. Please let us know if that is the correct time to visit Bali.

September is probably the single best month to visit Bali. Great weather but a little quieter than the peak tourist months.

Hi We are planning to visit 1st or 2nd week of October. Please suggest whether it’s a good time to visit Bali. Thanks

Early October typically has great weather, fewer visitors, and good hotel rates.

Hi Dave, We’re a couple in our 60’s who are planning a trip from the UK for a couple of weeks or so based mainly around snorkelling. We haven’t yet decided whether to have a ‘two center’ stay or just plonk ourselves down in one place for the duration. We’re looking for advice on the best offshore sites with walk in access without having to arrange boat trips. Our wish list also includes being in walking distance of bars and some casual eateries for veggie food. We’re thinking about November but wondering about underwater visibility. Can you advise us please? Many thanks Sue

Snorkeling is one of many attractions of visiting Bali, although swimming, scuba-diving, and surfing are also popular. Much of the coastline is not so appealing for snorkeling, because of ocean currents, which make places like Kuta more suitable for surfing than swimming, and certainly no good for snorkeling. Other major bases, such as Sanur and Nusa Dua, also offer nothing worthwhile underwater and within swimming distance. These places do offer decent snorkeling, and have the added advantages of being accessible by tourist shuttle bus and are developed enough to offer bars and restaurants with vegetarian options: 1) Padangbai – a likeable town with a genuine village vibe along the east coast. Easy to rent equipment and snorkel within a few metres offshore, particularly at the Blue Lagoon Beach. 2) Candidasa – further past Padangbai on the east coast. Not as easy to rent gear, but there are several snorkeling spots just offshore, or take a chartered boat. But the beaches are not nearly as pleasant as Padangbai. 3) Amed – even further along the east coast, but quite remote and with limited facilities and almost no beaches. Terrific snorkeling, but probably best to bring your own gear. 4) Nusa Lembongan – an island about 30 minutes off the coast of Sanur, with plenty of character and almost no traffic. Wonderful snorkeling at Mushroom Bay and Mangrove Beach. Normally, we would heartily recommend staying at the Gili Islands, a 90-minute trip from Bali, but all three have been seriously affected by recent earthquakes. Many hotels have been damaged, some beyond repair, and many facilities, such as shops and cafés, have probably closed. However by November, the tourist industry on the islands would probably be functioning to an acceptable degree (as long as there are no more earthquakes) and, certainly, you will get excellent rates on accommodation at that time. November is the start of the wet season, so some of your holiday plans on land may suffer from rain, but the weather won’t affect snorkeling just offshore.

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Bali Weather & Seasons

The climate in Bali, Indonesia is tropical , characterized by high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Bali is located near the equator (nearly 8 degrees south) and has two distinct seasons: the dry season , which runs from April to October and the wet or rainy season , which runs from November to March. 

Weather is an important factor when it comes to planning our holidays, particularly when coming to Bali.

We have gathered on this page all you need to know about the weather and climate:

• When is the Best Time to travel
• When is High & Peak Season
• When is Dry & Rainy Season
• The Highlands & Mountains
• Temperature & Rainfall Charts
• Weather each month in Bali
• Weather per Area in Bali

When is the best time to visit Bali?

The best time to visit Bali depends mainly on 2 factors,  of course the WEATHER (sunshine, rainfall, temperatures, sea conditions), and secondly, if you can travel during high and low season, which has an impact on prices for accommodation, airfares & flight tickets , and whether Bali is crowded or not.

Tip: Travel during MID-Season (Shoulder Season) – if you can

Mid-Season also known as Shoulder Season: For many reasons, the very best time to come to Bali are the months of May , June & September – while April & October are still good. Less crowded, still great weather conditions, and better prices.

Why visiting Bali during shoulder season is a smart choice?

It’s just before or after high Season, still dry season, it’s slightly less humid, and room prices and villa rentals can be 30-50% cheaper than during high season. Many shops offer sales and promotions, restaurants are less crowded in those mid-season months, and in general, Bali is a bit more relaxed. October is not too bad either, still much less rain than November (usually – check the rainfall chart).

• Room prices for these months 30-50% off high season rates
• Weather is still dry and less humid
• Not too crowded, everything is more relaxed, traffic not too crazy in the tourist areas
• Sea conditions excellent
• Airfares still reasonable
• Sales & Promotions in Shops & Restaurants

When is High / Peak Season in Bali?

These are Bali’s busiest times:

• July and August
• Christmas & New Year (Busiest)
• Chinese New Year
• End of Ramadan (Idul Fitri) 

Some visitors love it when it’s busy, when the streets are buzzing and could not imagine a holiday otherwise. If you like it quiet and more serene, then Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu during high season might not be your first and best choice.

Still, even during high season, there are plenty of destinations in Bali, that are quiet and away from the masses. 

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When is Dry and Rainy Season in Bali

Dry season in bali, april to october, less rain – cooler breezes.

What is dry season in Bali like? During the dry season, temperatures typically range between 80-90°F (27-32°C) and humidity is relatively low, while there is often a nice and cool breeze which is very pleasant. This is the most popular time for tourists to visit Bali, as the weather is sunny and dry with little chance of rain. Temperatures are pretty steady all year round but during dry season, the evenings can be pleasantly fresh with a cool breeze.

During Bali’s dry season, beaches are generally clean, and Bali shows its pretty side. One can still expect occasional rainfall. If you have a choice, then yes, better to avoid the traditionally rainy months to minimize the risk of bad weather and come to Bali during dry season.

It is in general the warmest time of the year, but the lower humidity makes it more comfortable than the rainy season. The skies are usually clear and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, water sports, trekking, and beach parties.

Rainy Season in Bali

November to march, more rain, hotter, much more quiet.

What is rainy season in Bali like? During the rainy season, Bali experiences more rainfall and higher humidity than during the dry season. The temperatures during this time of the year are still warm, typically ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C). The island receives most of its annual rainfall during this time, and it can be quite heavy at times, but usually, it does not rain all day, usually, there are short spells of rain that might last a couple of hours in the afternoon and during nights.

It’s still possible to enjoy many outdoor activities during this time of the year. The island’s lush tropical landscape is especially beautiful during the rainy season, with the vibrant green rice terraces and the jungle covered in mist. However, during rainy season Bali the beaches and sea in the south of Bali (Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu) can be quite dirty due to debris and trash washed onto the shore – during December, January and February particularly. That’s not a pretty sight!

Different areas in Bali - Different Climates

Central bali, volcanos and the mountains.

Bali’s central mountain area is typically cooler and get more rain than the lower coastal areas. Especially at night, temperatures can drop significantly in the highlands near the volcanoes.

The popular regions of UBUD, SIDEMEN and BATUKARU are situated at an altitude of around 600-900 meters (1,970-2,950 feet) above sea level. This altitude results in a cooler and more comfortable climate than the coastal areas of Bali, which can be quite hot and humid. The temperature in Ubud for example is typically around 75-85°F (24-29°C) throughout the year, which is cooler than the coast (Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu, Denpasar, Sanur, Bukit Peninsula, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Nusa Dua etc).

All of the volcanoes in Bali and Lombok are considered sacred by the local people, and they are often the sites of religious ceremonies and offerings. They are also popular tourist destinations and offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors should be aware that all of these volcanoes are active and that there may be restrictions on access during times of increased volcanic activity.

The Nusa Islands & Bukit

Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Penida and the most souther tip of Bali, Bikut (Nusa Dua, Pecatu, Ungasan, Uluwatu) are significantly dryer and sometimes therefore hotter than Bali’s main island. The land is less fertile and the areas can struggle with fresh water supply during the dry season months. 

Bali Climate Facts

Climate chart bali.

What is the climate like in Bali? Have a look at the climate table, which should give you a good idea about temperatures during the day and the expected rainfall during dry season and rainy season. Check our area map to see if your holiday area is located at the coast, or in highlands near volcanoes, or somewhere else.

Rainfall in Bali

Monthly Weather Statistics for Bali

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Ideal duration, starting from, http://balitourismboard.org/, ideal for friends, island tours, weather in bali.

Mon, Aug 26 2024

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Best Time To Visit Bali

Plan your trip during best season to experience the best of this stunning destination

The best time to visit Bali is the dry season, from the month of April to October. The weather in Bali enjoys consistent temperatures throughout the year- tropical, hot and humid. The best time to travel to Bali from India is from April to October when the humidity is relatively low, and it is easy for tourists to enjoy all the activities that the place has to offer.

The average temperature of Bali is 27°C to 28°C, and the average humidity is about 85% to 90%. The months of July and August fall within the peak season to visit Bali as these months receive the most number of tourists in Indonesia.

Located in Indonesia , Bali is a tropical island so, unlike other places in the world, Bali has only two seasons: dry and wet season. Winter season is the time when there is maximum precipitation. Given below is the necessary information about the climate of Bali throughout the year, so as to help tourists decide on the best month to visit Bali .

April - October ( 27°C to 29°C )

Clear skies and calm seas are the main highlight of the season. The temperature in Bali during these months remains comfortable for sightseeing and water sports. With a consistent sunny atmosphere, the weather in Bali in May makes for an excellent time to indulge in diving, mountain biking, and other activities. Hotel rates and other prices are also quite cheaper in the months of April-June and September-October.

November - March ( 28°C to 29°C )

The island of Bali received plenty of torrential rainfall during this season. The humidity levels are almost unbearable and the sight of a clear sky with sunny weather is rare. The average day temperature is well above 32 degrees which makes sightseeing and other activities unpleasant. During the rainfall, it is best not to opt for water sports in Bali. Moreover, the weather in Bali in December worsens with the highest chance of showers. And thus, it is recommended to avoid visiting here during this time of the year.

Festivals to Enjoy in Bali

If you want to enjoy the culture of Bali, try to attend some of its best events and festivals during your visit. In the duration of April to October, Ubud Food Festival, Bali Blues Festival, Nusa Dua Fiesta, and Bali International Choir Festivals are a must to attend. While, Tumpeng Wayang, New Year’s Eve, and Makepung Buffalo Races amongst some other Bali festivals can be enjoyed in between the months of November and March.

Climate in Bali

Summer season in bali.

The dry season or summers in Bali run from April to October. It is the season when humidity is the least, and there is little to no rain. It is the best weather in Bali and the peak tourist season. Bali weather in May is the hottest month, with temperatures rising up to 33°C. After this, the temperature starts to fall gradually. The weather in August is delightful and is the best time for the tourists to enjoy with almost no rainfall. It is the best time to visit Bali for honeymoon as the beaches to enjoy water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, rafting, sea walking, and the like. October marks the beginning of the wet season. The humidity level during this time of the year is 70% and the days are warm.

Monsoon Season in Bali

Bali receives the heaviest rainfall during the months of December and January. During this wet season in Bali , the average rainfall during these months is 300 milliliters. Despite the rain, tourists from all over the world come to Bali to celebrate Christmas and New Year. They also enjoy surfing towards the west of Bali, where the waves are ripe and the monsoon winds are stronger.

Due to different seasons throughout the year, Bali offers various times to indulge in its charm. The cheapest time to visit Bali apart from the wet season is just before and just after the high season, that is, in the months of March and November. During these periods, humidity is not too much, and water sports and other adventure activities can be enjoyed. Not being the peak season, the hotel and flight fares are also cheaper by 40% to 50% of the original rates. Weather in March is a transition between the wet and the dry season; therefore, the temperatures begin to rise. Apart from these seasons, Bali - an Indonesian island is the busiest during Christmas and New Year holidays. Though it is the wet season in Bali, people visit to enjoy the beaches, restaurants, clubs, spas, and others.

Winter Season in Bali

The island of Bali experiences high precipitation from October to March. January is the coldest and the most humid month when the temperature falls up to 25°C, and there is a lot of rainfall. The weather in Bali during this season is great for enjoying indoor activities. Bali tourism has a unique flavor during this season The hotels are available at discounted rates, and flight and ship fares also dip immensely, making it a pocket-friendly season to explore the beauty of the destination. Places are less crowded, and when there is no downpour, one can go out to have a stroll in the cool breeze and refreshing surroundings. Water sports and various other activities except volcano climbing and trekking in the highlands are allowed during this season. Festivities are best enjoyed during this season as Bali turns bright with Christmas and New Year celebrations.

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The Ultimate Bali Itinerary: How To Plan The Perfect Trip To Bali

Planning a trip to Indonesia and looking for the best Bali itinerary? Whether you’re only spending 5 days, one week, 10 days, or two full weeks, I guarantee this Bali trip travel guide will be extremely helpful!

Bali is truly one of my favorite destinations in the world and a place I’ve called home several times. But planning a trip to Bali can be a bit intimidating as there really are so many amazing places to explore!

There’s no need to wonder why Bali has become one of the world’s most visited and popular vacation hotspots. It has jaw-dropping landscapes, lush rice terraces, stunning beaches, serene temples, cute monkeys, scenic waterfalls, wild nightlife, and unforgettable sunsets.

Bali really does have a little something for everybody, and I guarantee that if you follow this Bali travel itinerary, you will fall in love with this island just as much as I have!

While tourism in Bali has exploded in recent years due to the popularity of Instagram, it definitely lives up to the hype because there is a LOT more to this island than what you see on social media. Don’t let the annoying Bali IG couples + IG influencers deter you from planning a trip here because it is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia!

Tip: Add something unique to your Bali travel plan by choosing to go glamping in Bali  instead of staying at a hotel.

Check out my Instagram page  for more holiday inspiration!

Whether you’re only spending a few days, two weeks, or even an entire month, this Bali Itinerary guide will go into loads of detail about what to expect about visiting this island, the best things to do, what to pack for Bali, when to go, insider travel tips, and loads more.  

So without further ado, let’s get started!

WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT BALI?

Bali is an incredible destination to visit year-round, and if you’ve only got limited time off work, I would say book that ticket no matter what! Being located in Southeast Asia, the weather in Bali is exceptionally tropical, so you can expect hot and humid temperatures pretty much every day, but there are two main seasons – the wet and dry months.

The rainy season in Bali is from October to April, and the dry season is between May – September.

That said, traveling to Bali during the rainy season is NOT an issue. I LIVED in Bali in December & January (known as the wettest months of the year), and I barely even noticed the rain.

Yes, some days were worse than others, but more often than not – every day was beautifully sunny blue skies and perfect beach weather.

According to Bali.com, “ The best time to come to Bali is April, May, June and September, just before and just after high season. It’s still the dry season, it’s slightly less humid, and room prices and villa rentals can be 30-50% cheaper than during high season. Many shops offer sales and promotions, restaurants are less crowded in those mid-season months, and in general, Bali is a bit more relaxed. October is not too bad either, still much less rain than November (usually, check the rainfall chart).”

I agree with that statement for sure, but traveling to Bali during Christmas time & New Year’s Eve can be an incredible experience. I spent Christmas Day lounging at a day club and absolutely loved it!  

IS BALI A DANGEROUS PLACE TO VISIT?

Absolutely not! Bali is completely safe to visit, and I’ve honestly never felt like I was in any danger while there. While just like a vacation to anywhere in the world, you want to make sure you’re traveling wisely and acting responsibly.

The only dangerous or unsafe behavior I’ve heard of is from “motorcycle thieves or purse-snatchers.” These are people that will try and grab purses or backpacks from people while riding on the back of a motorcycle. But as long as you pay attention to your belongings, nothing bad will happen.  

What I will  say in this section, though, is that you NEED to be extremely careful if you decide to rent a scooter in Bali. I’d say that’s actually the most dangerous thing on the island! I drive very cautiously when riding my moto , and I’ve never been in an accident (knock on wood), but I’ve had several friends end up in the hospital with serious injuries.

Nevertheless, I wouldn’t let that stop you from enjoying the feeling of exploring the island on two wheels. The scooter rides through rice terraces are one of my favorite things about living in Bali, and it’s a great, cheap, and efficient way to experience Bali. Just make sure the person driving is confident and skilled. You should also avoid driving during peak traffic hours.

Best Bali Trip Travel Insurance

I never travel anywhere without booking a travel insurance policy . This is essential for all Bali visitors!

So I’ll repeat…

Please, do NOT visit Bali WITHOUT Travel Insurance!

It’s unfortunately all too common that people come to Bali, get into a scooter accident, and end up needing a lot of medical attention. This, as you can imagine, is not cheap, and while the Bintangs and good vibes are, don’t expect medical treatment as a foreigner to also be of great value! These bills will add up, and sometimes they won’t even operate before they know you’re covered.

I’ve had at least 4 friends now get in serious accidents, but only half of them had travel insurance to cover their needs. Trust me – especially if you plan on driving or getting on the back of a moto (which you most likely will), you’ll want peace of mind to make sure you’re covered.

You also need to consider other issues that could arise, such as theft, boat sinking or water damage, or catching dengue. Trust me when I say these warnings aren’t to scare you, but real-life examples I’ve seen during my time in Bali.

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to its extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths. Their fair pricing and handy app allow you to manage any claims within the app and access free assistance online. This means you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill in Indonesia, where the charges are steep!

Nowadays, I would never travel without insurance again, especially after hearing so many of those (expensive and dangerous) horror stories from other travelers I’ve met. So, whether you need a single trip cover for two weeks in Bali or an affordable annual cover for multiple trips worldwide, be sure to buy your travel insurance before you travel, knowing that HeyMondo has your back.

Still, planning your trip? You can always get a no-commitment travel insurance quote now, so you know how much extra to budget for your vacation!

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR A TRIP TO BALI? A BASIC PACKING LIST

One of the things I love about Bali is that you really don’t need to bring all that much — especially if you’re just on a quick 10-day or two-week holiday. Also, shopping in Bali is fantastic. You’ll want to bring back a separate suitcase filled with souvenirs and clothing.

Here are a few items I think are essential for your travels to Bali!  

• Clothing: You’ll want a couple of pairs of shorts, swim trunks, t-shirts, sandals, and comfortable adventure shoes. Add one or two fancier outfits for dinners or nightlife too. Everyone will have different styles or preferences, but my main clothing tip would be to keep it light. Quick-drying clothes will be helpful, mainly because you will sweat up a storm.  
• Portable charger: Anker PowerCore Portable Charger  is one of the smallest and lightest power banks available. I carry this with me everywhere I go because I’m using my iPhone a bit more than I care to admit! Well, when you’re exploring Bali, you’ll definitely want a portable charger.
• Microfiber towel: This Rainleaf MicroFiber Towel  is budget-friendly and stylish. Plus, a quick-drying towel is a must for visiting Bali. You’ll find yourself hiking, sweating, and swimming often – and you’re really going to want one of these. I just bought one of these myself, and it’s the #1 best seller on Amazon!
• Quality sunscreen: The sun is super intense in Bali, and you’ll be out in the sun often during this Bali itinerary. So, make sure you buy some decent sunscreen before you get to Bali because it costs SO much more out there for some reason. I personally use this Neutrogena Lightweight & Water Resistant SPF,  and I love it!
• Mosquito repellent: Unfortunately, mosquitos are flying all over the place in Bali. And you really want to protect yourself when you go on long adventures. I recommend this Mosquito Repellent Bracelet . If you’re just shopping around Seminyak or chilling in Canggu, I wouldn’t worry too much, but if you’re out in nature, definitely put some on!  
• Go Pro: The GoPro Hero 11 is my favorite adventure camera, and I’m truly blown away by the hyper-smooth stability that the GoPro Hero 11 offers. You can take some epic images with this, and it’ll also be perfect for all the underwater or snorkeling shots you’ll want. For the aspiring content creators out there, combine it with a TELESIN Dome Port  for some unique, fun, and creative shots!
• Waterproof phone case: No matter what kind of phone you have, you really want to protect it during your trip. This itinerary is pretty active, and if you don’t have a supportive phone case, like the JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone , I bet you’ll be paying for some phone repairs!  
• Power adapter: Last but certainly not least, this Universal Power Adapter  is just a basic travel essential that you’ll want to pick up one of these before your trip to Bali. I personally love this one and would definitely recommend it!  

THE ULTIMATE BALI TRIP ITINERARY | PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI

Alright, let’s dive into my guide for my extensive Bali holiday itinerary!

10 DAYS & TWO-WEEKS IN BALI ITINERARY

The way I’ve set up this 10-day itinerary is that it’s all focused on Bali. But if you have a full two weeks, I’ve included a trip to the Gili Islands too.

I think it’s best to do it this way because when you book round-trip boat transfers to Gili Trawangan, you can have them drop you off directly at the airport, depending on your schedule. You can book day trips or rent scooters to explore nearby attractions when you’re based in one place for a bit longer.

One thing I think is important about traveling around Bali is avoiding checking in and out of hotels and Airbnb’s every couple of days. That’s why I’ve put at least 3+ nights in each place, and you’ll get a better feeling for the area.  

The full itinerary is below, but here’s an overview of my recommended route so you can start planning:

• Uluwatu (3 Nights)
• Canggu (3 Nights)
• Ubud (4 Nights)
• Gili Islands (3-4 Nights for Two-Week Itinerary)

You might not have the time, energy, or money to do everything on this Bali itinerary, but I wanted to include as much information as possible. So without further ado, let’s get down to the day-to-day itinerary activities!!

BEST PLACES TO STAY ON THIS ITINERARY FOR BALI

Bali is home to some of the world’s most gorgeous luxury resorts and private villas but also has an extensive variety of mid-range hotels and backpacker hostels. It depends on your budget and how much you want to spend. I’ve compiled a fun selection of my top recommended accommodation for each destination on my Bali itinerary. I know you’ll enjoy your stay at any of the options below:

WHERE TO STAY IN ULUWATU

Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu : Consistently reviewed as one of the best values in Bali, get treated like royalty here without breaking the bank. There’s a gorgeous sun terrace with a swimming pool, extremely clean and comfortable rooms, and impeccable service!  

Six Senses Uluwatu : This brand new 5-Star Luxury Resort in Uluwatu will certainly provide an unforgettable stay, but rooms here are costly. Its cliffside location, delicious cuisine, and immaculate attention would make for an exceptional first hotel on the island.    

Home-Bience  Hostel : If you’re a backpacker on a tight budget in Bali, look no further than staying here at Home-Bience Hostel. While it has a shared kitchen and barbeque facilities, you can also get a varied breakfast at an affordable rate too.

WHERE TO STAY IN CANGGU

Theanna Eco Villa and Spa : Top-notch luxury at bargain prices! Once you step foot inside this eco resort, you’ll fall into a state of complete tranquility. It’s consistently rated and reviewed as the best hotel and resort in Canggu, with excellent value for money and world-class service.

Kosone Hostel | Alternative Beach : I was living in Canggu when this opened (early 2019), and I’d say it’s the best hostel in Canggu! It’s got a fabulous pool with a swim-up bar, DJs spinning music all day, delicious food, comfortable beds, and rooftop jacuzzis. Do I need to say anymore? Trust me – if you’re a backpacker in Canggu, stay here!  

WHERE TO STAY IN UBUD

Hanging Gardens of Bali | Ubud’s Premiere Luxury Resort : This is the jungle resort of your dreams! “Located just 30-minute drive from the Ubud’s town center and nestled deep in the heart of Ubud’s rich rainforest preserve, this enchanting five-star luxury resort on 3.2 hectares has 44 private suites and individual villas.”  

Visesa Ubud Resort : This best-seller luxury resort has fantastic prices for the comfort you’ll receive. The villas are absolutely stunning, the staff goes above and beyond, and it has pretty much everything you look for in a resort in Ubud. Delicious food, gorgeous views, shuttle services to the center, and a full spa await you.

Wayan’s Family Hostel Ubud : If you’re looking for an excellent but cheap hostel in Ubud, look no money than this charming family-run guesthouse. It has a magnificent backpacker atmosphere, is a beautiful property, and you’ll fall in love with the staff!

WHERE TO STAY ON GILI TRAWANGAN

Pearl Of Trawangan Resort : There are tons of beautiful resorts on the Gili Islands, but this is easily my favorite! It has an unbeatable beachfront location near the main promenade. The stunning property would be an excellent pick for your time in paradise!!

Gili Castle (formerly known as Gili Backpackers) : This is where I worked when I lived on Gili T, and I’ve got nothing but fond memories of this backpacker hostel! They organize awesome parties and pub crawls, which make it easy to meet fellow travelers. There is a pool with a rock climbing wall, and all the facilities are comfortable. I’d highly recommend staying here for young travelers on a budget.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 1: INTRODUCTION TO BALI = ULUWATU BLISS (3+ NIGHTS)

Honestly, there is no better place to begin your Bali vacation than down in Uluwatu , which is at the southern tip of the island!

It’s my personal favorite area in Bali, world-famous for its surf competitions, has a really fun nightlife scene, and is undoubtedly the best part of the island for watching the sunset. Uluwatu is a place that will certainly leave an impression and will keep you coming back for more! Here you can spend your days relaxing on the beach, swimming in infinity pools, lounging at day clubs, surfing gnarly waves, or riding a scooter along epic coastlines.  

It also has a perfectly relaxed atmosphere that I absolutely love, and I could easily see myself living in Uluwatu for a couple of months sometime in the future. There really is no shortage of amazing things to do in Uluwatu , which I’ve discussed for day 2. Since it’s your first day on the island, take the evening to relax at your resort, enjoy a lovely evening meal, and hopefully conquer any jet lag you’re feeling.  

If you’re up for it, you could enjoy dinner and cocktails your first evening having dinner soaking up the vibe. I recommend one of Jimbaran Bay’s cliffside restaurants or candlelit dinners on Jimbaran Bay, about a 15-20 minute drive from Uluwatu.

“Perched atop distinctive rock formations along Jimbaran’s pristine sunset coast, Rock Bar Bali is widely respected as one of the globe’s most popular sunset, cocktail, and entertainment venues. Showcasing unparalleled views from 14 meters above the Indian Ocean, Rock Bar is accessible via AYANA’s dramatic cliffside inclinator. Featuring a glamorous sunset vibe, and a seductive after-dark ambiance, listen to premier international DJs as they heighten your experience from a custom DJ booth carved directly into the cliff face”.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 2: ULUWATU BEACH EXPLORATIONS & NIGHTLIFE

Everyone will be different, depending on how you want to spend your Bali vacation. Do you want to treat this as a relaxing holiday, or are you more adventurous? Do you want to be surrounded by people and experience luxurious beach clubs, or do you prefer solitude and exploring quieter areas?

No matter what kind of traveler you are, I’ve listed a few of my favorite activities in Uluwatu and the south coast of Bali, and I’m sure this will keep you super busy.

ULUWATU HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Visit the Uluwatu Temple: “This one of six key temples believed to be Bali’s spiritual pillars, and is renowned for its magnificent location, perched on top of a steep cliff approximately 70 meters above sea level.”  After your tour of the Uluwatu Temple, I’d also suggest checking out the Kecak Fire Dance if you’re there simultaneously. It’s a unique cultural fire and traditional Balinese dance show that is definitely a superb experience.
• Watch the professional surfers at Uluwatu Beach: There are tons of different bars and restaurants to choose from, but sit back, grab a Bintang (local beer), and watch from above while these pros amaze you with their skills.  
• Explore all the beautiful beaches around Uluwatu: You’re spoiled for choice here with beaches like Suluban Beach, Padang Padang, Dreamland Beach, Bingin Beach, Melasti Beach, Green Bowl Beach, and Pandawa Beach.
• Never miss a sunset. Uluwatu is home to the most magical sunsets practically every evening, so make sure you plan accordingly! Find an infinity pool, rooftop bar, or restaurant terrace, and soak it up!
• Check out a day club: Sundays Beach Club, Finns Beach Club, OMNIA, Karma Beach Club, etc. Honestly, there are tons of epic places to spend a day, but they can be a bit pricey if you’re a backpacker on a budget!  
• Sunday nights at Single Fin: This is one of the most legendary parties on the island, but they only really happen on Sunday night. Don’t get me wrong, Single Fin is an awesome bar & restaurant every night of the week, but definitely, don’t miss the Sunday night party.  
• Spend Saturday nights at Padang Padang Beach: There’s a really cool beach party every Saturday night with reggae and electronic music, lively crowds, and a unique location!  
• Rent a moto to explore it all easily: Uluwatu is one of the best areas on the island to adventure around on a moto! You can rent one for as little as $4 per day, the roads never seem too busy, and it’s just a great feeling!  
• Enjoy a meal at Cashew Tree: This will always be one of my favorite restaurants in all of Bali! They’ve got deliciously healthy smoothies, a large menu, and affordable prices. It’s a backpacker favorite as well, located nearby Bingin’ Beach.  

Check out my article about the best things to do in Uluwatu for more information. All I know is that it’s simply a breathtaking area of Bali, and it might just be hard to leave.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 3: NUSA ISLANDS DAY-TRIPPING

Located just a short 20-30 minute speedboat ride off the coast of Bali are three idyllic islands: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida.

They are all absolutely gorgeous and have unbelievable beaches, landscapes, and some of the best snorkeling or scuba-diving in the country. I’ll talk about this at the bottom of this article, but a substitution would be spending several days on one of these islands if you care a lot about these water activities.

I think it’s a really fun and fantastic day trip since it’s just off the coast, and you can see a lot and still make it back to Uluwatu for sunset cocktails — that is if you have the energy!

There are tons of options, but here are a few of the best sellers. It really just depends if you’re more into beaches, viewpoints, swimming, or snorkeling.

BEST OF NUSA PENIDA PRIVATE FULL-DAY TOUR

Review: “Climb aboard a fast boat at Sanur Beach and cross the sea to Toyapakeh on the small island of Nusa Penida. Meet your local host on arrival and begin your private day tour. Visit the famous Kelingking Beach for the chance to take photos of the most beautiful spot on the island. Marvel at the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, and then continue to Pasih Uug (Broken Beach) and the natural pool of Angel’s Billabong. Experience the peace and quiet of one of the less visited spots on Nusa Penida before going to the popular beach at Crystal Bay, known for its great diving and snorkeling opportunities.”  

Price:   $33

Read Reviews & Check the Availability

FROM BALI: SNORKELING DAY TRIP TO NUSA LEMBONGAN

Review: “Discover an island paradise off the south coast of Bali and snorkel at 3 different spots around the islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida in the Indian Ocean. Marvel at the wide variety of tropical fish and live coral flora and fauna.”

Price:   $68

FULL-DAY SNORKELING TRIP TO NUSA PENIDA & MANTA POINT

Review: “Nusa Penida is a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life as you’ll see on this full-day trip. Spot the ocean sunfish, or mola mola and the great manta rays on some of the most amazing drift dives in Indonesia. Board the boat at Sanur Beach for the ride to Nusa Penida and your first snorkeling session of the day at Manta Point. Marvel at the majestic manta rays, which grow up to 6 meters in length. Take some time to enjoy a swim or to relax on the boat, before your second snorkeling session. Afterwards, savor a delicious lunch on the boat.”   

Price:  $132

Check out this epic YouTube Video about Nusa Penida for some travel inspiration!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 4: CANGGU CHILLIN & BAR HOPPING

In only a few short years, Canggu has quickly become popular and overthrown Seminyak as “the place to be”  in Bali. It’s changed drastically since my first visit in 2015. Since then, it has   become a digital nomad hotspot loaded with trendy cafes, co-working spaces, yoga studios, beach clubs, funky bars, surf camps, and thousands of people enjoying the Canggu lifestyle!   

I was fortunate to live in Canggu for a couple of months this year, and it really is a must-visit in Bali. Here’s what you should add to your Bali itinerary for 4 days.

CANGGU HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Eat at as many different cafes as possible: Canggu is easily one of the top “foodie hotspots” I’ve ever visited in my entire life. There are literally dozens of places you should try! A couple of my personal favorites are Milk & Madu, The Shady Shack, Motion Cafe, Peleton Supershop, Cinta Cafe, and Milu by Nook.
• Take a surfing lesson: If you’re new to the sport, Canggu can be an excellent place to learn the basics of surfing! While the waves can be a bit rough on some days, the surf camps are awesome in Canggu and will be a great way to spend a couple of hours. Take this tour  as an introduction to the sport.
• Watch the sunset every night on the beach: There are tons of different little local bars & restaurants along the beach, and they tend to put out bean bags and tables during the sunset. Grab a coconut and a beer, and watch the sky change colors to gorgeous orange and pink hues.
• Relax & swim at Alternative Beach Pool & Hostel: This venue is becoming super popular in Canggu. It’s got a perfect temperature pool, decent food options, and a nice sandy vibe hence the name.
• Spend a luxurious day at Finns Beach Club: If you’re not on the strictest budget, why not book a daybed at Finn’s for an easygoing day at a gorgeous venue?
• Stop by AMO Spa for one of their famous facials, relaxing massages, and an Epsom salt jacuzzi session: I’m sad I didn’t discover this place sooner because it ended up being one of my favorite spots in Canggu. The sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and cold plunge circuit are an outstanding endorphin rush!
• Go Canggu nightlife bar hopping: There are plenty of places to visit whether you go for drinks at Old Man’s, cocktails at La Brisa, or find your way to the hidden bar in the supermarket along the  “Canggu shortcut.”  Other really awesome bars I enjoy are The Lawn (awesome pool included), Pretty Poison, and Deus Ex Machina! You can check out this article about the best bars in Canggu for more information on the nightlife!

Check out this epic YouTube video for some more Canggu Travel Information & Inspiration!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 5: SURF, EAT, REPEAT & TANAH LOT TEMPLE SUNSET

Spend another day exploring everything (mainly the cafes) that Canggu has to offer. Do some yoga, surf, hit a co-working space, cross-fit, join a beach clean up, and more!

For sunset, I’d recommend renting a moto and driving down the road (only 20-25 minutes) to the Tanah Lot Temple . It’s one of Bali’s most important landmarks, famed for its unique offshore setting and sunset backdrops. It’s an ancient Hindu shrine perched on top of an outcrop amidst constantly crashing waves.

There’s a small entrance fee of 60,000 IDR ($4 USD), and you can easily spend an hour or two walking around the coastline and enjoying the scenic views.  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 6: SEMINYAK SHOPPING, DAY CLUBS & NIGHTLIFE

Continuing on with this Bali trip planning, I’d recommend making the short drive from Canggu down to Seminyak for a day of shopping and beach clubs. Seminyak is one of the fancier and more developed regions on the island and is full of awesome things to do, places to eat, and fantastic souvenir shopping!  

Now, on this itinerary, I’ve only listed one day in Seminyak because the last time I visited, I felt it was starting to get a bit too overcrowded. Still, you could easily stay here for several days and explore everything this place offers.

SEMINYAK HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Souvenir shop til’ you drop: For me, I think the Seminyak, Legian, and Kuta area is the best for buying all your souvenirs in Bali. Just remember to haggle, or the locals will take you for a ride. Most prices in all the souvenir stalls are negotiable!
• Visit Potato Head Beach Club: I’ve visited the world-famous Potato Head several times, and it remains one of my favorite spots in Seminyak! It’s a gorgeous beachfront property, has tons of fancy daybeds and loungers, and the food is absolutely delicious! While Potato Head Beach Club is a bit costly (for Bali standards), it’s worth stopping by for a swim, a meal, and a beer. There’s a lively atmosphere, and it can be a great place to meet people – especially around the swim-up bar.
• Relax on bean bags and under umbrellas at La Plancha Seminyak: One of the most colorful bars & restaurants on the beach you’ll ever see. During sunset, they’ve got a fun DJ spinning, decent prices, and an overall fantastic vibe you’re guaranteed to love!
• Pool party at Mrs. Sippy: This is the largest saltwater pool and one of the best pool party hotspots in Bali! Sippy regularly has international DJs come to perform (I saw Pete Tong there earlier this year), and you’ll love watching people jump from the high platform all day long.
• Grab a cup of coffee at Revolver: If you’re a coffee snob, you have to try a cup from Revolver, known to be the best coffee in Seminyak!
• Party it up at the Legendary Nightlife: Kuta & Seminyak are two areas that are quite popular for their bar and nightclub scene. Here are a few of my favorite spots: Motel Mexicola, SkyGarden, Ku De Ta, Cocoon, Woobar, and JENJA.

SEMINYAK TOURS

Seminyak balinese cooking class & market tour.

Review:   “Learn how to cook authentic Balinese dishes with your friendly and experienced local chefs in Seminyak. Join this fun cooking course and bring back some Balinese recipes and newly acquired skills from this 4.5-hour cooking class.”   

Price:   $35.00

Read Reviews & Check the Availability  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 7: UBUD CAFES, MONKEYS, TEMPLES, AND YOGA

Now that you’ve gotten plenty of time to explore Bali’s popular beach areas, the time has come to make the hour’s drive up to the cultural and spiritual capital of Bali.

Many people plan a trip to Bali and immediately add Ubud to their itinerary. That’s because there is truly something magical in the air at Ubud. The minute you step foot in this town, you will slowly start to feel your stress & worries float away.

Ubud is also a fantastic jumping-off point for adventuring around the rest of the island.

UBUD HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

For your first day in Ubud, though, here’s what I would suggest crossing off your bucket list!

• Try out trendy cafes, vegan eats & smoothie bowls: Ubud is another incredible destination for food, and you could easily spend 3 days here eating at as many places as possible and still only scratch the surface. A few of my favorites you MUST TRY are ZEST, Sayuri Healing Food, Alchemy, KAFE, and Clear Cafe.
• Get up close and personal with monkeys: Well, strolling through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is the best place to do it. Just be careful. The monkeys at this magical sanctuary  aren’t always as friendly as you’d hope! It’s centrally located in town, super cheap, and a super fun way to spend an hour.
• Legends of the Hidden Temples: Rent a moto, and explore as many of the beautiful temples in the Ubud area as possible. There are literally dozens, and all of them are gorgeous. A few top picks are Pura Tirta Empul, Pura Taman Saraswati, and Goa Gajah!
• Do some Y-O-G-A: There are some fantastic yoga studios in Ubud, and even if it’s not your thing, I’d recommend trying it out. My first experience with Bikram yoga was in Ubud, and it was a sweaty experience I’ll never forget.  
• Ubud Art Market and beyond: Strolling around downtown Ubud has some really fantastic shopping opportunities. You can find some awesome stuff from the traditional art market, souvenir stalls, and trendy fashion stalls here.

 UBUD TOURS

Ubud balinese cooking class at an organic farm.

Review: “Discover the culinary secrets of Bali at an exclusive cooking class at an organic farm in the lush tropics surrounding Ubud. Visit a local market and experience everyday life, before preparing a regular or vegetarian meal with the help of a chef.”  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 8: TEGALALANG RICE TERRACES, BALI SWING & CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK

Ubud still has so many places to teach you about Balinese culture and beauty, like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the famous swings that almost every influencer has taken pictures at while visiting Bali. These are all ideal for your second day here.

HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Visit the rice terraces: Located just a quick twenty-minute scooter ride from downtown Ubud is the Instagram-famous and undeniably gorgeous Tegalalang Rice Terraces . It’s one of the most stunning tourist destinations in Bali and will certainly impress you with its sprawling views of lush green valleys, rice paddies, and towering palm trees! It’s completely free to walk through, but I would bring money for any Bali swings you want to do, coconuts, cold drinks, meals, etc.

• Catch the rice terrace sunrises: If you’re willing to wake up early, watching the sunrise & witnessing the light rays shine through the palm trees is a sight you must see to believe! It’ll be one of the most peaceful ways to start your day, and then you can spend the next 3-4 hours exploring the area. If you head there around mid-day, though, expect big crowds and intense humidity (which can make for some sweaty explorations)!

When you’re done hiking around the rice terraces, I’d recommend picking one of the restaurants up at the top for a bite to eat! It’s a pretty epic place to enjoy a refreshing smoothie bowl & fresh coconut water!

• Terrace River Pool Swing: A few minutes from the main rice terraces is this super fun zip-lining and Bali Swing mini-amusement park called Terrace River Pool Swing . It’s also free to walk through and take photos, but you’ll have to pay if you want to do any of the activities. My friend Vanessa and I spent a good hour here and loved it!  

• Campuhan Ridge Walk: The Campuhan Ridge Walk is the best-known Ubud hiking trail and is a fantastic place to stroll during the sunset (or any time of the day, really). The sparse crowds and the aesthetically rich vistas will remind you why people worldwide come to Bali. The trail starts at the historical origin of Ubud, the confluence (or Campuhan) of the Wos Rivers. You’ll get some epic hilltop views as you stroll along the nice paved trail and will be surrounded by Ubud rice fields and a deep gorge with a river rushing through it. It’s only about 1.5 kilometers long, so it is popular as a place to work up a sweat. If you’re not too exhausted after exploring the rice terraces, I would say this is an absolute must-do in Ubud!  

Check out this video for a bit of travel inspiration and what to expect!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 9: MT. BATUR SUNRISE HIKE & SPA RELAXATION RECOVERY

Admire the panoramic view of the three volcanoes of Mt. Agung, Mt. Abang, and Mt. Rinjani in Lombok in the majestic sunrise over the clouds from the crater of Mt. Batur!

For adventure travelers, I’d highly recommend waking up super early and beginning the trek to the top of Mt. Batur to witness one of the most magnificent sunrises you will ever see!  

Fair warning, though, this hike is known to be a bit intense and is not for the faint-hearted. Unfortunately, this is one of the few main activities I haven’t gotten the chance to do myself yet, but everyone speaks so highly of it!

There are a few different tours to choose from, and it just depends on what piques your interest the most! Read through some of their itineraries, and browse through all their company reviews.  

• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek with Breakfast
• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek with Hidden Waterfall
• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek & Hot Springs

“Head up the mountain along a less-crowded hiking trail that follows the volcano’s eastern slope. During the ascent, you’ll trek along a 3-kilometer-long trail. The trail is of moderate difficulty, and passes through lush tropical jungles. On reaching the top you’ll enjoy breakfast cooked by steam from the volcano. Sip hot tea or coffee at leisure while watching the magical sunrise. Afterwards, your trek continues to the main crater rim of the volcano, at 1,717 meters above sea level. Take a different route down the mountain, starting from the southwestern crater rim. The journey ends with a chance to soak in the crystal-clear waters of a hot spring to soothe away any aches and pains you may have.”  

UBUD SPA RECOVERY HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

After an early morning wake-up and a long day of climbing up a volcano, you will be ready for a little bit of #self-care and pampering! Ubud was the first time I booked a full-day spa package, and the overall experience blew me away.

I only paid $120 USD, but I received a body scrub, 60-minute massage, herbal bath, healthy lunch, manicure, and pedicure!! It was called DIVINE PAMPERING!!

• Relax at Tasku Spa: Countless different spas in Ubud would be perfect, but I went to Taksu Spa | Ubud’s Premiere Wellness Center  for my spa treatment. They didn’t pay me to say this or anything. I just loved my experience and would highly recommend it to fellow travelers! If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, though, you can visit any of the smaller massage parlors spread around the town!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 10: HANDARA GATE, LAKE BATAN & ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE & SEKUMPUL WATERFALL

Next up on this ultimate Bali itinerary is to book a day trip, hire a private driver, or rent some scooters and explore north Bali! There’s quite a lot to see up there, and it will definitely be a pretty solid day of adventures.  

NORTH BALI HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Handara Gate : Make a quick stop over at this iconic “Bali Gate,” which is actually the entrance to a golf course. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and is a breathtaking view of green scenery and the gigantic exotic traditional Balinese gate as your backdrop.

• Lake Beratan: This is where you’ll visit the majestic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sitting on a small island on the lake, just as you’ve seen in the postcards and Instagram shots of Bali. This lakeside temple was constructed in honor of Dewi Danu, the lake goddess, formed by a volcanic eruption 30,000 years ago.

• Sekumpul Waterfall: Quite commonly called the best waterfall in Bali. It’s just a 40-minute drive from the lake and is the perfect place to spend a few hours! Just don’t forget your GoPro!  
• Banyumala Twin Waterfall: “This stunningly beautiful waterfall is perfect for a quiet and peaceful afternoon in the arms of Mother Nature. The natural pool is inviting with its translucent turquoise waters. Swim in tranquility, listen to the thunderous roar of cascading waters, and take in the sights of the vibrant greenery. Although no picture will ever do this natural wonder justice, that shouldn’t stop you from that perfect Instagram shot!”
• Rent a scooter: If you’re confident on a scooter, I would 100% recommend you explore by yourself. The roads are all really scenic, and I loved my experience just whippin’ around the North. It’s higher elevation, which means it’s less hot, and the way the clouds sit upon the hills is majestic!  

NORTH OF BALI TOURS

Northern charm: lake bratan, handara gate, waterfall & swing.

This tour company offers a trip that goes to most of these places and would be a great way to see everything with a professional guide. The price includes all entrance fees (which can actually add up) and has excellent reviews!  

HIRE A CAR WITH A PRIVATE DRIVER FOR 10 HOURS

I remember when I first visited Bali and discovered you could hire a car with a driver to take you anywhere you wanted to go for less than $50! It’s such a fantastic deal, especially if you’re traveling with a significant other or a group of friends!  

Price:   $45.00

BALI ITINERARY DAYS 11-14: EXPERIENCE PARADISE ON THE GILI ISLANDS

Now, if you’ve got more than 10 days in Bali, this is where I’d suggest sailing over to the Gili Islands — one of my favorite destinations in Indonesia! I actually spent a few months living on Gili Trawangan working at a party hostel back in 2015, and it was one of the highlights of my time backpacking through Southeast Asia.

A trip to the Gili Islands is a trip to paradise! The color of the water here will honestly leave you speechless, and I’m just obsessed with the fact that pretty much anytime you go snorkeling/ scuba-diving out there, you’ll be swimming with turtles. There is top-notch nightlife, incredible restaurants, a relaxed atmosphere, gorgeous villas, and the most jaw-dropping sunsets every night!!

Here is a quick breakdown of every island:

• Gili Trawangan = Party Island
• Gili Meno = Honeymoon Island
• Gili Air = Best of Both Worlds / Family Friendly

To get to the Gili Islands, you’ll need to talk to any travel agent in Ubud to organize the hotel pick-up and transfer schedule. You can pick various times, but I’d recommend doing the earliest one possible. It’s a couple hours’ drive to the port and then another couple of hours to the islands!

GILI ISLANDS HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Go snorkeling or scuba-diving every day: The water is crystal clear here, and you can see some pretty awesome marine life just off the shores of each of the three islands! For scuba divers, make sure you chat with some of the dive centers to discuss the best dive sites!
• Watch the sunset every night: Grab a cocktail or a coconut at one of the many beach bars, and watch while the sky dips beneath the horizon in the future and lights up the sky in pretty much every color of the rainbow.
• Party it up: Gili Trawangan is easily one of the best party islands in Southeast Asia , and you can find yourself bar hopping every night if you want to.
• Bike ride around the island: There are no cars on the Gili’s, so I’d recommend renting a bike for at least one day and riding all the way around the island!  
• Enjoy a psychedelic experience: You may or may not be interested in this, but you can buy magic mushrooms in Indonesia quite easily! They’re readily available at many beach bars and shops, and they’re a super fun way to spend a few hours!    

ARRIVAL AT BALI DENPASAR AIRPORT

Once you’ve landed in Bali, successfully made it through immigration and customs, and collected your bags – you’ll need to get your transportation sorted to your first hotel. I must warn you that Bali’s worst part is the Ngurah Rai International Airport !  

You will be harassed by countless people asking you for a taxi, which can be overwhelming after a long-haul flight. That’s why I’d strongly suggest booking a Bali Airport Private Transfer beforehand!   

There are tons of different Bali transfer companies, and most hotels will offer this service (but charge way too much), but I really love this one through Get Your Guide – Bali Airport Private Transfer ! I’ve personally used this service before, and for only $18, it’s a pretty fantastic deal!

It’s really nice to have this all handled before arriving at the airport because it makes for a stress-free arrival! Most Bali car drivers are super friendly and are happy to chat about their favorite things on the island, food, etc.

BEST ITINERARY FOR BALI SUBSTITUTIONS

Alright, so I know I just went over so much information, but now I’m offering up a few other possible Bali itinerary ideas! The truth is that every traveler is a bit different, and there is no right way to spend 10 days or two weeks exploring Bali!  

• Spend more time on the Nusa Islands: With fantastic marine biodiversity, rugged landscapes, and pristine beaches – taking the ferry over to the Nusa Islands and spending 3-4 days over here would be a great option.
• Book a few nights at Mt. Kintamani instead of Ubud: This is a really gorgeous part of Bali, and you wouldn’t believe some of the gorgeous resorts up there. It’ll also make the sunrise hike a lot easier, and you could even attempt to do it on your own to save money!

• Relax & slow down in Sanur: This sleepy coastal town was one of the very first places I visited in Bali, and I honestly loved it. While it may not have the gorgeous coastlines like in Uluwatu or the trendy cafes in Canggu, it’s definitely a comfortable spot with some lively resorts, beautiful white sand beaches, and a nice relaxing vibe. There’s great souvenir shopping, an awesome night market, and overall a solid place to spend a few days!  

BALI ITINERARY TRAVEL TIPS

Bring an international driver’s license.

Fair warning – there’s a good chance that you will get pulled over while driving around Bali! The local cops in Bali are, well… they can be rather CORRUPT. Not all of them, but there’s a huge issue with cops extorting cash from tourists!  

I’ve been harassed almost every time I drive around Bali (for longer-distance trips), but if you have the proper paperwork and an International Driver’s License , you shouldn’t have any problems. Most of the time, they are just security checkpoints on major roads.

If you do get pulled over and they are giving you a difficult time… just try and BRIBE THEM. Hand them over a 50,000 IDR bill, and then show them an empty wall! Simply drive off, and see if that works.

BE CAREFUL WITH THE MONEY EXCHANGE PLACES

They are notorious on the island for scamming tourists, so my recommendation would be to just use the ATMs to get your money. Also, make sure you bring a credit card with no international withdrawal fees! Most tour agencies, restaurants, and bars accept credit cards these days!

DON’T TRUST THE MONKEYS

If this is your first time traveling through Southeast Asia, you might not understand how evil monkeys can actually be! Don’t have any loose jewelry around them, don’t smile at them, don’t look at them directly in the eyes, etc. Just be super cautious with them!  

Check out these YouTube videos below for First Time Travelers to Bali!

HOW TO GET AROUND IN BALI

Use a rideshare app.

There are three main Rideshare apps in Bali: UBER, GOJEK, and GRAB! Download all three of these before landing, and you’ll always be able to find a ride. I’ve never had any issues using any of these platforms, and it is definitely the easiest way to get around. You can even call a MOTO GoJek, and they’ll offer you a helmet, and you sit behind them!  

RENT A SCOOTER

Scooters are an extremely popular way for travelers in Bali to explore the island. Especially around Canggu, Uluwatu, and Ubud – it makes a huge difference if you have your own moto !  

HIRE A PRIVATE DRIVER

For $40-$60 per day, you can Hire a Private Driver (depending on how long you hire for)! For example, if you’re booking a taxi from Uluwatu to Canggu, why not just hire the driver for the entire day, and go explore as much as possible? It really just depends on how you want to spend your days!  

INTERESTED IN SCUBA DIVING?

If you’ve found yourself with some more time to gallivant around Indonesia, I’d highly recommend booking a flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo. So you can visit the wondrous Komodo National Park  and experience some of the world’s most unbelievable marine biodiversity and scuba-diving.  

I’ve now visited Komodo two different times, and it is a remarkable destination that deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list! Komodo National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve!  

The color and clarity of the water are stunning, the landscape is completely gorgeous, and getting up close and personal with Komodo Dragons is an experience you’ll never forget. But the real magic begins when you strap on your fins and snorkel mask and start exploring the underwater scenery!

It really is the best snorkeling and scuba-diving I’ve witnessed in my life! It’s also one of the best places to do a liveaboard in Southeast Asia, as the prices are relatively affordable (compared to other popular scuba destinations).  

Check out these Komodo National Park liveaboards to view dates, prices, and availability to see if you can squeeze one into your Bali itinerary!

• Adelaar Liveaboard (Bali – Komodo)
• Moana Liveaboard
• Indo Aggressor (Komodo National Park)

PURCHASE THE BALI LONELY PLANET & POCKETBOOK

No matter how long your Bali vacation is, I’d also recommend picking up one of the Bali Lonely Planet Travel Guide Books ! They are honestly loaded with insider tips, restaurant recommendations, and fun day ideas! I know I’ve gone into a  lot of detail in this post (so maybe you should bookmark this for your trip), but these are always handy!  

PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI, INDONESIA & SOUTHEAST ASIA?

I’ve spent a lot of time backpacking around this marvelous region of the world, and I’ve written a rather large amount to help you figure out your ideal upcoming vacation! Look through some of my favorite articles below, and feel free to contact me if you have any questions about my Bali itinerary travel guide!

Further Reading:

• The Ultimate Ubud Itinerary | 3 Days In Bali’s Hidden Paradise
• Top 12 Music Festivals In Bali To Experience This Year
• The Ultimate Backpackers Guide to Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
• 17 Amazing Things To Do On Gili Trawangan
• The 7 Best Places to Eat on Gili Trawangan
• Komodo Island Trip Review | Sailing from Lombok to Flores
• The 5 Best Places to Trip on Magic Mushrooms in Southeast Asia
• The 15 Best Places to Party in Southeast Asia
• 20 Best Beaches In Malaysia | Beach Resorts & Islands
• The 20 Best Beaches In Vietnam | Epic Islands, Beach Resorts + Hotels
• The 20 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
• Thailand Itinerary | 10 Days In The Land Of Smiles

THANKS FOR READING MY BALI ITINERARY TRAVEL GUIDE!!

Share this bali trip planner with your squad.

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Looking for sample itinerary on your trip to Bali? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ox35Xqg55OI&t=755s

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Hi! This guide has been really useful. But I would love some advice on how to book some of the hotels, trips etc, And can I do this with a flight included? I am a 53 year old female who will be travelling alone and as you may have guessed I have only ever been on package holidays before but would love to do Bali on a multi hotel basis to ensure I see as much as possible in either 2 or 3 weeks. Look forward to some replies – all advice welcomed xx

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