Are you dreaming of an enchanting tropical getaway to the exotic island paradise of Bali, but aren’t sure when to go? Here, we help you figure out the best time to visit Bali.
As one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, Bali offers a year-round warm and humid climate that ensures a pretty delightful experience regardless of when you plan your visit. However, if you want to make the most of your vacation and ensure perfect weather for your preferred activities, whatever they may be, it’s essential to consider the best time to visit Bali.
When is the Best Time to Visit Bali? The question of the best time to visit Bali is a common one, and we have the answer… or, at least, a lot of helpful information to help you make an informed and intelligent decision.
For many, the best time for your Bali adventure is during the dry season, which extends from May to October; this period boasts clear skies, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall, providing an ideal setting for various outdoor activities and exploration of the island’s breathtaking landscapes. However, this is also Bali’s high season, which means more expensive accommodation, flights, and fun…
Bali’s Weather and Climate: While Bali boasts a tropical climate — ensuring warm temperatures throughout the year, ranging between 20°C to 32°C — it’s prone to pretty significant seasonal variations that include monsoon winds and large-scale weather patterns. Understanding Bali’s climate patterns is crucial to help you plan your trip and ensure you get the most pleasant weather possible.
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Short For Time? Here Are The Quick Facts & Key Takeaways
| Months | Weather | Average Temperature | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | Warm with occasional rain | 28°C | Fewer crowds, great deals |
| April – June | Warm and dry | 33°C | Shoulder season, good weather |
| July – September | Warm and dry | 27°C | High season, crowded |
| October – December | Warm with occasional rain | 33°C | Shoulder season, good weather |
Key Takeaways
- Best Time to Visit Bali: May to October (dry season) is ideal, offering warm and dry weather for outdoor activities.
- Weather: Bali has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C year-round.
- Crowds: High season is July to August, with more visitors and higher prices.
- Water Activities: Surfing, diving, and snorkelling are excellent throughout the year, with peak surf season from May to September.
- Whitewater Rafting: Best in May to October for beginners and November to April for advanced rafters.
- Party Scene: July, August, and December are the peak months for lively nightlife and parties.
- Family Vacations: July and August are perfect for family holidays with warm weather and school holidays.
- Cultural Festivals: Experience Bali’s arts and culture during the Bali Arts Festival from mid-June to mid-July.
- Budget Travel: October, November, February, and March offer cheaper rates and fewer crowds.
Month-by-Month Guide
To make your holiday planning even easier, we’ve put together a month-by-month guide highlighting the weather, crowds, and activities during each period. While we break it down in full below, here are some top-level thoughts…
- May to October: Experience Bali at its finest during the dry season, with clear skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall. This period is perfect for surfing, diving, snorkelling, and outdoor adventures.
- November: Witness the transition from the wet to the dry season. While there might still be occasional rainfall, November offers fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for various activities and cultural festivals.
- December: Embrace the holiday spirit in Bali, despite being part of the wet season. Experience Bali’s unique New Year celebrations, beach parties, and a vibrant nightlife.
Whether you seek pristine beaches, adventurous water sports, cultural experiences, or simply wish to unwind in the lap of luxury, Bali offers something special for everyone. Join us as we explore the best time to visit Bali and plan your dream vacation to this tropical paradise.
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January
Weather
January falls within Bali’s wet season, characterized by rainy, hot, and muggy weather. Humidity is higher, and temperatures range between 22°C to 32°C. Showers are more common during this month, but are infrequent and usually pass quickly, and there are at least 5 sunshine hours per day.
Crowds
January can still be busy due to the holiday season, especially at the front end around Christmas and New Year.
Activities
- Hiking: Explore Bali’s lush landscapes and beautiful nature trails during the wet season. Places like Munduk, Sekumpul Waterfalls, and Campuhan Ridge Walk offer picturesque hiking opportunities amidst greenery and flowing waterfalls.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Bali’s rich culture by visiting temples and attending traditional dance performances. January is a great time to witness the local customs and vibrant festivals.
- Spa and Wellness: Bali’s wellness industry is thriving, and you can pamper yourself with relaxing spa treatments and yoga retreats, especially during rainy days.
February
Weather
Similar to January, February experiences wet and muggy weather, with occasional showers. However, as the month progresses, Bali begins to transition to the dry season, with the wet season’s intensity starting to wane.
Crowds
The crowd levels remain relatively high in February.
Activities
- Cycling Tours: Explore Bali’s countryside on a bicycle and discover the island’s scenic rice terraces and charming villages.
- Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Balinese dishes by joining a cooking class and gaining insights into the local culinary culture.
- Shopping: February is a great time for shopping, with many boutiques and markets offering unique arts, crafts, and souvenirs.
March
Weather
March still falls within the wet season but starts to transition to the dry season, with rainfall decreasing. Humidity remains relatively high, but temperatures are pleasant.
Crowds
Crowd levels begin to decrease as the high season comes to an end.
Activities
- River Rafting: Take advantage of the rainy season’s increased water flow and enjoy thrilling river rafting adventures in Bali’s scenic rivers.
- Cultural Tours: March is an excellent time to explore Bali’s historical and cultural sites, such as ancient temples, royal palaces, and art galleries.
- Kitesurfing: With the peak wind speeds averaging between 12km/h and 13km/h, March is a great time for kitesurfing, especially for more advanced enthusiasts.
April
Weather
April marks the beginning of the shoulder season, with less rainfall and decreasing humidity. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit for many.
Crowds
As the peak season ends, crowds are much more manageable.
Activities
- Horse Riding: Experience Bali’s stunning landscapes on horseback by joining horse riding tours, which are significantly more enjoyable during the dry season.
- Golfing: Bali offers several excellent golf courses, and April provides comfortable weather for a round of golf amidst beautiful surroundings.
- Art and Craft Workshops: Engage in creative pursuits by joining art and craft workshops to learn traditional Balinese crafts like batik painting and wood carving.
May
Weather
May marks the official start of Bali’s dry season, offering warm, sunny, and clear weather. Humidity levels decrease, making it a comfortable time to visit.
Crowds
Crowd levels are relatively low in May, meaning cheaper accommodation and less packed sights — nice.
Activities
- Balinese Dance Classes: Embrace the local culture by participating in Balinese dance classes and learning the traditional dance forms.
- Yoga and Meditation Retreats: May is a popular time for yoga and meditation retreats, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating experience in Bali’s serene surroundings.
- Surfing: While the peak surfing season is still a few months away, May still provides some good swells on Bali’s east coast breaks like Nusa Dua, Serangan, and Sanur.
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June
Weather
June continues with dry and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.
Crowds
Crowd levels start to increase again as tourists arrive for the summer high season.
Activities
- Water Parks: Cool off and have fun with the family at Bali’s water parks, such as Waterbom Bali, offering a range of thrilling water slides.
- Cooking Retreats: Join a cooking retreat to learn more about Balinese cuisine and cooking techniques.
- Fishing: June is a great time for fishing in Bali, with the warm waters providing ideal conditions for various fish species.
July
Weather
July is the peak of Bali’s dry season, with warm and sunny weather. The humidity is relatively low, and rainfall is minimal.
Crowds
Given the great weather, you won’t be surprised to hear that July is one of the busiest months in Bali, attracting a large number of tourists.
Activities
- Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise along Bali’s coastline and witness the breathtaking sunset views over the ocean.
- Nature and Wildlife Tours: Explore Bali’s natural beauty by joining nature and wildlife tours, including bird-watching, jungle trekking, and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Music Festivals: Bali hosts music festivals during the peak season, featuring international and local artists.
August
Weather
August continues with dry and sunny weather, making it one of the best times to visit Bali for outdoor activities.
Crowds
Crowd levels remain high in August.
Activities
- Surfing: West coast breaks offer good surfing conditions in August. Surfing enthusiasts can experience some of the best swells during this month.
- White Water Rafting: Take advantage of the dry season and enjoy thrilling white water rafting adventures on Bali’s rivers.
- Diving and Snorkeling: Explore Bali’s vibrant underwater world during the dry season, with excellent visibility and warm waters.
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September
Weather
September marks the end of the dry season, with occasional rainfall. However, the rains are usually brief and followed by sunny weather.
Crowds
Crowd levels remain moderate, making it a good time to visit without facing the peak season crowds.
Activities
- Hiking: As in January, this is a perfect time of year to enjoy Bali’s gorgeous hiking trails, including Munduk, Sekumpul Waterfalls, and Campuhan Ridge Walk.
- Cultural Experiences: Have a nosey around local temples or check out traditional dance performances. September is a great time to get involved with local customs and vibrant festivals.
- Spa and Wellness: As mentioned earlier, Bali’s wellness industry is booming: take it easy with spa treatments or yoga classes, especially when the weather turns.
October
Weather
Similar to January, October falls within Bali’s wet season, characterized by rainy, hot, and muggy weather.
Crowds
The crowd levels remain pretty high in October.
Activities
- Shopping: Embrace the shopping delights of October in Bali, as charming boutiques and bustling markets beckon with a splendid array of one-of-a-kind arts, crafts, and souvenirs.
- Cycling Tours: Embark on cycling tours through Bali’s countryside, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the island.
- Cooking Classes: Get to know Bali’s culinary traditions and culture through cooking classes or, if you’re more about enjoying rather than crafting, check out the many restaurants.
November
Weather
November marks the transition from the wet season to the dry season in Bali. While there might still be some occasional rainfall, the weather becomes increasingly pleasant.
Crowds
November sees fewer crowds compared to the peak season months, making it a good time to visit Bali.
Activities
- Surfing: Bali’s west coast breaks start to pick up good swells in November.
- Hiking and Trekking: As the weather improves, November becomes an ideal time for hiking and trekking.
- Festivals and Events: Glimpse into Bali’s vibrant traditions and customs through the many festivals held at this time of year.
December
Weather
December falls within Bali’s wet season, with an increased chance of rainfall.
Crowds
December is one of the busiest months in Bali due to the Australian summer holiday season.
Activities
- Water Sports: Try water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides along Bali’s beautiful beaches.
- Beach Parties: Bali’s vibrant nightlife comes alive in December with parties and entertainment at various popular beach clubs.
- New Year Celebrations: Experience Bali’s unique New Year celebrations with traditional rituals and fireworks displays.
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Best Time To Visit Bali Overall
Overall, undeniably the best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which spans from May to October. During these months, Bali experiences warm, sunny weather with minimal rainfall. The humidity is relatively low, and temperatures range between 21°C to 32°C, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration of the island’s stunning landscapes.
If you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy better deals but still want the very best of Bali’s climate, consider visiting during the shoulder season months of April, May, June, September, and October.
Remember that no matter when you visit Bali, there’s plenty out there to enjoy. From water sports and adventure activities to cultural experiences and wellness retreats, Bali offers something for every traveller.
Best Time for Low Prices
Travelling to Bali on a budget is possible during the off-peak months, which include October, November, February, and March. Accommodation and flights are generally cheaper during these periods, and tour activities may offer better deals. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that prices can vary depending on specific events, holidays, and promotions.
Best Time to Book Flights to Bali
For the best flight fares to Bali, it’s recommended to book between six weeks and eight months in advance. For travel during peak seasons, like July, August, and December, booking even earlier is recommended to secure better rates. Airlines often release their seats and offer competitive prices in advance, especially for popular travel periods. Being flexible with travel dates can also lead to more affordable options.
Bali’s Public Holidays And The One Day You Must Avoid
Like anywhere else, Bali celebrates a number of public holidays, and it’s good to understand when these are so that you don’t unexpectedly encounter any closures of attractions, places of interest, or local businesses. We’ve out the full list for 2023 below.
The one day you must be aware of is the Nyepi festival, which means ‘Day of SIlence’ and is the Hindu New Year’s Day. This is a day of fasting, meditation, and silence for the Balinese. Basically, the island shuts down completely, so don’t be caught off guard. This year, it fell on 22nd March 2023 and next year will fall on 11th March 2024.
Here’s the full list of Bali’s public holidays for 2023, as detailed by The Honeycombers:
| Date(s) | Holiday |
| Sunday 1st January 2023 | New Year’s Day |
| Wednesday 4th & Saturday 14th January 2023 | Galungan & Kuningan, Bali’s Hindu celebration of the ancestors |
| Sunday 22nd January 2023 | Chinese New Year, Year of the Rabbit |
| Saturday 18th February 2023 | The Ascension of Prophet Muhammad |
| Wednesday 22nd March 2023 | Nyepi, Bali’s Hindu New Year |
| Friday 7th April 2023 | Good Friday |
| Sunday 9th April 2023 | Easter Sunday |
| Friday 21st – 26th April 2023 | Hari Raya Idul Fitri |
| Monday 1st May 2023 | Labour Day |
| Thursday 18th May 2023 | Ascension Day of Jesus Christ |
| Thursday 1st June 2023 | Pancasila Day |
| Sunday 4th June 2023 | Waisak Day |
| Thursday 29th June 2023 | Eid al Adha |
| Wednesday 19th July 2023 | Islamic New Year |
| Thursday 17th August 2023 | Indonesian Independence Day |
| Thursday 28th September 2023 | Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday |
| Sunday 12th November 2023 | Diwali |
| Sunday 24th December 2023 | Christmas Eve |
| Monday 25th December 2023 | Christmas Day |
| Tuesday 26th December 2023 | National Public Holiday (Cuti Bersama) |
| Sunday 31st December 2023 | New Year’s Eve |
Airlines that fly direct to Bali from Australia