Let’s figure out the best time to visit Bali, one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia, also known as the “Islands of the Gods.” We’ll look at the weather, seasons, things to do, and what to pack for each time of year.
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About Bali’s Seasons
You can visit Bali anytime, and there’s not a single month without interesting places to visit and great activities to do. But your experience will be different depending on when you go, as different seasons suit different travelers. Which season do you prefer: the wet season or the dry season? Let’s find out.
The wet season in Bali lasts from November to March, bringing heavy rain and high humidity. During this time, there are fewer tourists, and some activities might be affected by the weather. Great news for you: enjoy lower prices, the best deals on accommodations, and, of course, fewer crowds. Even with the rains, the temperatures remain stable, staying between 23°C and 32°C throughout the year, with the hottest months from April to October.
The dry season in Bali runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is warmer and sunnier with little rain. It’s the busiest time for tourists, so places can be crowded, and prices for hotels and flights tend to increase. Since the weather is more reliable, it’s the best time for outdoor activities like sightseeing and going to the beach.
What is the weather like during Bali’s dry season?
The dry season lasts from April to October, and it coincides with the high tourist season. During this period, rainfall is low and the days are sunny with clear skies. Humidity also tends to be lower, making the weather all the more pleasant. The temperature is hot, but manageable, staying between 25°C and 30°C. Only in the mountain areas are the nights a bit colder.
July and August are considered high season due to holidays in Europe and Australia, and you’ll see a lot of tourists. This also means that the prices will be higher. If you want to avoid the crowds and save a bit of money, travel in May, June, or September. Some travelers even call them the best time of the year to visit Bali.
Top activities and events to enjoy in Bali’s dry season
The weather is perfect, there’s not a single cloud in the sky, and you’re looking for the adventure of your life! You can enjoy the best time to visit Bali by visiting its beautiful beaches! In places like Nusa Penida and Amed, you can spend the day in the warm sand, relaxing, or rent snorkel equipment and explore the clear waters. There are lots of fish and coral reefs, so you’ll have a blast. If you’re interested in surfing, the best waves in Bali are in Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Canggu. Or you can take an Island-Hopping excursion and visit nearby islands without worrying about strong waves and high winds.
You can also take advantage of the excellent weather to explore on land. Try hiking Mount Batur or Mount Agung if you’re feeling brave. If you have a great physical shape and enjoy a challenge, try Mount Agung. It’s a steeper and longer hike, but it’s so worth it. Mount Agung, on the other hand, is not a walk in the park, but is more manageable for most people.
Cultural travelers will love to take part in cultural festivals such as Galungan and Kuningan to learn more about the rich Balinese tradition, as it marks the time when ancestral spirits visit the earth. And, if it coincides with your visit, enjoy the Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Seni Bali), an annual event that celebrates Balinese art with music, dance, and art exhibitions.
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Essentials to bring for Bali’s dry season
Even if the heat is not as intense as in other tropical lands at this time of year, pack lightweight clothing like t-shirts, shorts, and dresses, which are perfect for the warm weather. Remember that you’ll spend a lot of time on the beach, so bring several swimsuits or shorts to enjoy the beaches, along with a sarong. Sandals or flip-flops are ideal for walking on the beach or exploring tourist areas, while comfortable shoes will be useful for short walks.
What is the weather like during Bali’s wet season?
After the gentle warmth and sunny weather of October, the humidity begins to increase, and by the time November arrives, the wet season has started in Bali. With the wet season comes the rains, but the temperatures do not drop. January is the wettest month, with the rainfall averaging 234 to 287 mm, and sometimes reaching up to 350 mm. For travelers out there, don’t worry - the rain is not continuous. It usually comes in short bursts, so you’ll have plenty of sunny periods for activities.
Humidity levels are consistently high, often exceeding 80%, with January getting the highest humidity, at 85%. If you’ve ever traveled to a humid region, you’ll know the feeling on your skin. Outdoor activities can be uncomfortable even when the temperatures are between 22°C and 33°C.
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Top activities and events to enjoy in Bali’s wet season
The wet season might not be the best time to visit Bali, but it has a lot to offer. Outdoor activities can be a bit uncomfortable, but not impossible. However, if you prefer to spend some time indoors, there are plenty of options available.
You can check out the water parks! There are a few highly recommended places, such as Waterbom Bali, where you can have fun on exciting water slides. It’s also perfect for kids, with plenty of safe areas. If you enjoy water sports, you can also try Bali Wake Park, where you can try wakeboarding and other water activities.
But let’s check out a bit more of the indoor activities you can try in Bali during the wet season. After so many adventures, you can unwind with spa treatments at places like The Samaya in Seminyak, and enjoy relaxing views of the Indian Ocean. If you’re into wellness, consider joining yoga classes or spending time at retreats like Gaia Retreat Center in Ubud, which offers a peaceful escape.
For a more hands-on experience, you can try making traditional Balinese jewelry or learn wood carving at local workshops in Mas Village. And finally, if you’re a foodie, take cooking classes in Ubud or Seminyak to learn how to prepare authentic Balinese dishes and discover the secrets of local flavors.
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Essential items to bring for Bali’s wet season
When visiting Bali during the wet season, it’s essential to pack wisely. Bring clothes that are comfortable, breathable, and fast-drying. If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, don’t forget your water-resistant shoes for exploring, and sandals for the beaches and touristic areas.
Sun protection is also important, even during the rainy season, so don’t forget to pack hats, sunglasses, and waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. For the rain, pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, a waterproof bag to protect your electronics, and a compact sunshade. Other accessories to consider include insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, universal adapters (types C & F), and a portable charger.
Travel tips for visiting Bali any time of year
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What is the best time to visit Bali for surfing?
If you’re a big fan of surfing, you’ll love this island and its wavy beaches. The best time to visit Bali for surfers is during the dry season. The east-southeast wind creates strong, consistent waves on the west coast, making it perfect for experienced surfers. We recommend spots like Uluwatu for long tube waves, Padang Padang for fast waves suitable for advanced surfers, and Bingin for more accessible waves.
During the wet season, the winds shift east, making the east coast more popular. For example, Keramas is ideal for intermediate surfers due to its fast and consistent waves. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) have a mix of sunny and rainy days, making them perfect if you want to avoid crowds and still catch good waves.
