Bali, a tropical paradise just south of the equator, enjoys warm weather all year round. The island has two main seasons—dry and wet—each offering a unique experience. Temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), with high humidity, especially during the rainy months.
Dry Season (May – October) 🏝️
Sunny days, little rain, and lower humidity make this the best time for outdoor fun. Expect temperatures between 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). Perfect for swimming, surfing, and trekking through Ubud’s lush rice terraces.
Don’t miss the Bali Arts Festival in June or the Nusa Dua Fiesta in October. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat!
Wet Season (November – April) 🌧️
Short, heavy rain showers (mostly in the afternoons) keep the island lush. Temperatures stay warm at 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), but humidity is high. Fewer crowds and lower hotel prices make this a great time to visit. Waterfalls are stunning, and it’s ideal for yoga retreats and cultural experiences.
Experience Nyepi, Bali’s unique silent day, in March. Bring a light rain jacket and breathable clothes.
Transition Months (April & November) 🌤️
A mix of both seasons—mostly sunny with occasional rain. Great for budget travelers wanting good weather without peak-season crowds. Beaches and attractions remain enjoyable, so pack for both sunshine and light 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.
Recommended Hotels in Bali
NO.1
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
No matter when you visit, Bali’s breathtaking beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture make it a dream destination year-round. But if you’re after the perfect mix of sunny skies, cultural festivals, and fewer crowds, April to June and September to November are your best bets.
Now that you know the best time to visit, it’s time to plan your trip! Looking for the perfect place to stay? Check out our Where to Stay in Bali guide for the best areas and accommodations. Ready to explore? Don’t miss our Top Things to Do in Bali for must-visit spots and hidden gems.
With the perfect timing in mind, all that’s left is to book your flights, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable Bali adventure! 🌴✨
