
Introduction to Bali
Bali sits just south of the equator, giving it a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The island has two main seasons—dry and wet—each offering a different travel experience. Expect temperatures between 26°C to 31°C , with high humidity, especially during the rainy months.
Dry Season (May – October)
Days are sunny with little rain, making it the best time for outdoor activities. Temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), with lower humidity. Beaches are perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Ubud’s rice terraces are lush and great for trekking. Festivals like Bali Arts Festival in June and Nusa Dua Fiesta in October add to the experience. Wear light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
Wet Season (November – April)
Heavy rain comes in short bursts, usually in the afternoons or evenings. Temperatures stay warm, around 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), but humidity is high. While some roads get flooded, it's a great time for fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. Waterfalls are at their best, and it’s an ideal season for yoga retreats and cultural experiences. Nyepi (Balinese New Year) in March is a must-experience for its unique silent day. A light rain jacket and breathable clothes will keep you comfortable.
Transition Months (April & November)
These months are a mix of both seasons, with occasional rain but mostly sunny days. They’re great for budget travelers looking for good weather without peak-season prices. Beaches and attractions are still enjoyable, but with fewer crowds. Pack for both sun and occasional showers.
Best Time to Visit Bali – Month-by-Month Guide

Bali’s weather stays warm year-round, but the experience varies depending on the season. The dry season (May–October) is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor adventures, while the wet season (November–April) offers fewer crowds and lush landscapes. Whether you’re chasing surf waves, cultural festivals, or budget-friendly deals, here’s a month-by-month guide to help you plan your trip.
Month | Temperature (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm/inches) | Traveler Insights |
January | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 325mm (12.8in) | Expect frequent tropical showers but also lush greenery. Great for spa retreats and cultural experiences. Avoid Uluwatu cliffs on stormy days. |
February | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 280mm (11in) | Rain starts easing, but humidity is still high. Fewer crowds make it ideal for budget travelers. Nyepi (Balinese New Year) may impact travel plans. |
March | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 215mm (8.5in) | Rain continues to decrease, and landscapes remain green. Nyepi brings a full day of silence and closed businesses. |
April | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 110mm (4.3in) | A transition month with mostly dry days. Perfect for diving in Amed or visiting waterfalls at their peak flow. |
May | 26-30°C (79-86°F) | 75mm (3in) | Start of the dry season with sunny days and pleasant nights. Great for beach activities and exploring Ubud without heavy rain. |
June | 25-30°C (77-86°F) | 60mm (2.4in) | Ideal for surfers as waves pick up. Bali Arts Festival begins, showcasing traditional dance and music. Hotels start filling up. |
July | 24-29°C (75-84°F) | 50mm (2in) | Peak tourist season with cooler breezes. Great for hiking Mount Batur at sunrise. Book accommodations early. |
August | 24-29°C (75-84°F) | 50mm (2in) | Busiest month with clear skies and perfect beach weather. Expect high prices and crowded hotspots like Seminyak and Uluwatu. |
September | 25-30°C (77-86°F) | 70mm (2.8in) | Fewer crowds after peak season. Great for honeymooners and laid-back travelers. Good deals on hotels start appearing. |
October | 26-30°C (79-86°F) | 90mm (3.5in) | Still mostly dry, but occasional rain showers return. Best time for exploring rice fields and cultural villages. |
November | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 150mm (5.9in) | Start of the wet season. Less crowded, making it great for yoga retreats and spa getaways. |
December | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 290mm (11.4in) | Rainy but festive, with Christmas and New Year celebrations. Beaches stay busy, and hotel prices rise. |
Crowds, Costs & Festivals: Choosing the Right Time to Visit Bali


‼️Peak Season (July – August, December – Early January)
These months bring the most tourists due to perfect beach weather and holiday seasons. July and August have sunny days with little rain, making them ideal for surfing and sightseeing. December sees a surge in visitors for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Crowds & Costs: Hotels book out fast, flights are expensive, and beaches are packed. Expect long waits at popular attractions.
Pros: Best weather, great surf, lively nightlife, and major events like New Year's Eve fireworks.
Cons: High prices, crowded streets, and fully booked hotels.
Smart Travel Hacks: Book hotels and flights at least 3–6 months in advance. Visit attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds. Stay in less touristy areas like Canggu or Sanur.
‼️Shoulder Season (April – June, September – October)
This is the sweet spot between peak and off-peak seasons. April and May still have good weather, while September and October bring smaller crowds with warm temperatures.
Who Should Visit: Budget-conscious travelers who want good weather without the crowds. Great for couples, solo travelers, and culture lovers.
What to Expect: Lower hotel rates, fewer tourists, and pleasant temperatures. Great for sightseeing, yoga retreats, and exploring rice terraces.
Best Experiences: Surfing in Uluwatu, visiting Ubud’s temples, and enjoying beach clubs without long waits.
‼️Off-Peak Season (November – March)
This is Bali’s rainy season, with heavy showers and high humidity. However, it’s the best time for budget travelers looking for great deals.
Cost & Crowd Levels: Flights and hotels are cheapest. Beaches and temples are less crowded, but some boat tours may be affected by rain.
Advantages: Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and amazing spa deals. Ideal for wellness retreats, food lovers, and digital nomads.
Downsides: Frequent rain showers, high humidity, and rough seas in some areas. Some outdoor activities may be affected.
‼️Major Festivals & Events That Impact Travel
- Nyepi (March/April) – Bali’s Day of Silence. No flights, no lights, no internet—everything shuts down for 24 hours.
- Bali Arts Festival (June – July) – A month-long celebration of Balinese culture with dance, music, and performances.
- Galungan & Kuningan (Every 210 days) – A Hindu festival with temple ceremonies and decorated streets.
- Christmas & New Year (December – Early January) – One of the busiest and most expensive times to visit. Beaches and clubs are packed.
Best Time to Visit Bali Based on Your Travel Style

1️⃣Budget Travelers
The cheapest time to visit Bali is during the rainy season, from November to March. Flights and hotels drop in price, and you can find great deals on resorts and villas. Tourist spots are less crowded, and restaurants offer discounts.
Book flights at least two months in advance for the best prices. Staying in Ubud or Canggu offers affordable accommodations with beautiful surroundings. Avoid Christmas and New Year, as prices spike during that period.
2️⃣Luxury Travelers
For a high-end experience, visit between June and September or in December. The weather is dry and sunny, perfect for luxury beach resorts, fine dining, and private yacht charters.
Book your stay at top resorts in Nusa Dua, Seminyak, or Uluwatu. Michelin-starred dining and exclusive beach clubs are at their best during peak season. Plan bookings early to secure VIP experiences.
3️⃣Adventure Seekers
The best time for outdoor activities is from May to October. Surfing in Uluwatu and Canggu is excellent, with consistent waves. Hiking Mount Batur is best before sunrise, with clear skies and cool air.
Diving is at its peak in July and August when visibility is best. For off-the-beaten-path adventures, visit the waterfalls in Munduk or take a trip to Nusa Penida for cliff-jumping and snorkeling.
4️⃣Cultural Enthusiasts
Visit in March or April to experience Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence, or in June and July for the Bali Arts Festival. These months offer a deep dive into Balinese traditions, temple ceremonies, and cultural performances.
Galungan and Kuningan, held every 210 days, bring colorful offerings and celebrations. Ubud is the best place to witness these cultural events while exploring temples and traditional crafts.
5️⃣Family Travelers
June, July, and September are the best months for families. The weather is dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities like visiting Bali Safari Park, Waterbom Bali, and kid-friendly beaches in Nusa Dua.
Avoid school holiday crowds in December, as prices go up and attractions get packed. Visiting in September means fewer crowds while still enjoying great weather. Look for family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs and activities.
Final Tips for Planning Your Trip to Bali

For the best weather and fewer crowds, visit Bali between April and June or September. If you love festivals, March’s Nyepi (Balinese New Year) is a unique experience, while July and August bring lively beach parties and perfect surf conditions. Budget travelers will find the best deals from January to March.
Now that you know the best time to go, it’s time to plan your adventure. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls in Ubud, surfing in Uluwatu, or indulging in a beachfront villa, Bali has something for everyone. Get ready to book your trip and enjoy the island’s magic!