Bali, the tropical jewel of Indonesia, is a paradise where lush jungles meet pristine beaches, ancient temples rise against fiery sunsets, and the scent of incense lingers in the breeze. Whether you're chasing epic surf, exploring vibrant cultural festivals, or indulging in world-class cuisine, the island's tropical climate plays a huge role in shaping your experience. Knowing the best time to visit Bali can help you unlock its full magic!
Weather & Seasons in Bali
Bali is a tropical paradise located just south of the equator, which means warm temperatures year-round! The island has two main seasons: dry season (April to October) and rainy season (November to March). No winter chills or scorching summers here—just tropical vibes all year. Expect daily highs around 27-32°C (81-90°F) and humidity that can make it feel hotter.
☀️ Dry Season (April – October)
🌡️ Weather: Warm days, low humidity, and almost no rain. Temps range 27-31°C (81-88°F) with cool breezes, especially in Ubud and the highlands.
👕 What to Wear: Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and sunglasses. A light jacket for cooler nights in Ubud or Bedugul.
🏄 Best Activities:
- Surfing season is at its peak! The west coast (Uluwatu, Canggu) gets the best waves
- Hiking Mount Batur for sunrise—the clear skies make the view breathtaking
- Island hopping to Nusa Penida, Lembongan, or the Gilis
- Outdoor temple visits (Tanah Lot, Uluwatu) without worrying about rain
🎉 Events & Festivals:
- Bali Arts Festival (June-July) – A month-long showcase of Balinese culture
- Galungan & Kuningan (April/November) – A major Hindu celebration with colorful ceremonies
- Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (October) – A literary event that draws creative minds worldwide
🌧️ Rainy Season (November – March)
🌡️ Weather: Hot, humid, and frequent afternoon showers. Temps hover around 28-32°C (82-90°F). Expect short but heavy tropical downpours—especially in December and January.
👕 What to Wear: Quick-dry clothes, flip-flops, and a light rain jacket. Always carry an umbrella
🚣 Best Activities:
- Waterfalls are at their most powerful! Visit Tegenungan, Sekumpul, or Gitgit Falls
- Yoga & wellness retreats in Ubud – the lush greenery makes it even more relaxing
- Scuba diving in Amed or Tulamben – Rain doesn’t affect underwater visibility much
- Exploring local markets & museums (Pasar Badung, Blanco Museum) for indoor fun
🎊 Events & Festivals:
- Nyepi (March) – Bali’s unique Day of Silence, where the island shuts down for 24 hours
- Christmas & New Year – Bali gets busy with parties and fireworks, especially in Seminyak and Canggu
- Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb) – Temples light up with cultural performances
💡 Rainy Season Tip: The beaches can be littered with debris after storms, so stick to island getaways like Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands for cleaner sands.
Best Time to Visit Bali – Month-by-Month Guide
Bali’s weather stays warm and tropical all year, but the experience changes depending on when you visit. The dry season (April–October) is perfect for beach lovers, surfers, and outdoor adventurers, while the rainy season (November–March) brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great deals on hotels. Whether you're here for cultural festivals, luxury resorts, or adventure sports, there's a perfect month for every traveler!
Month | Temperature Range (°C/°F) | Rainfall Levels (mm/inches) | Traveler Insights |
January | 27-31°C (81-88°F) | 300mm (11.8in) | Expect humid days & frequent rain—great for waterfall hikes. Chinese New Year celebrations make some areas livelier. Hotels & flights are cheaper! |
February | 27-31°C (81-88°F) | 280mm (11in) | Rainy but warm—good for yoga retreats & indoor activities. Beaches can have debris from storms, so explore Ubud’s lush scenery instead. |
March | 27-32°C (81-90°F) | 200mm (7.9in) | Rain slows down, but humidity stays high. Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence, happens this month—expect a peaceful but total shutdown. |
April | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 140mm (5.5in) | Dry season starts! Perfect time for surfing & temple-hopping. Fewer crowds, cheaper hotels! |
May | 26-30°C (79-86°F) | 90mm (3.5in) | One of the best months for clear skies & fewer tourists! Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and exploring rice terraces . |
June | 25-30°C (77-86°F) | 70mm (2.7in) | Peak dry season! Bali Arts Festival brings amazing performances 🎭. Beaches and temples are crowded but stunning! |
July | 24-29°C (75-84°F) | 60mm (2.3in) | Bali at its best! Sunniest weather = great for beach clubs & island hopping. Book early—prices are higher 📈. |
August | 24-29°C (75-84°F) | 50mm (2in) | Bali’s busiest month! Expect big crowds & premium prices. Independence Day celebrations add a local touch 🇮🇩. |
September | 25-30°C (77-86°F) | 80mm (3.1in) | Great mix of good weather & fewer tourists! Perfect for couples & honeymooners looking for a balance of peace & activity. |
October | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 120mm (4.7in) | Start of transition to rainy season—still good for surfing & temples. Prices start dropping 📉. |
November | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 180mm (7in) | Rainy season begins—fewer crowds, lush landscapes. A good time for budget travelers & digital nomads. |
December | 27-32°C (81-90°F) | 250mm (9.8in) | Christmas & New Year rush! Expect high prices & packed beaches. Best for partygoers & festive vibes 🎆. |
Crowds, Costs & Festivals: Choosing the Right Time to Visit Bali
Peak Season (Busiest & Most Popular Months)
📅 Months: July - August, December - Early January
Bali is at its liveliest during these months! The dry season brings perfect beach weather, and with school holidays in full swing, expect tourists from all over the world. Christmas and New Year are especially crowded, with massive parties and fireworks in places like Seminyak and Canggu.
🚶♂️ Crowds & Costs:
- Beaches, temples, and tourist spots are packed.
- Prices skyrocket for flights, hotels, and tours.
- Expect long queues at attractions and restaurants.
✅ Pros:
- Best weather for beach hopping and outdoor adventures.
- Major festivals like Bali Arts Festival (June-July) and New Year’s Eve parties.
- Great waves for surfing, especially in Uluwatu and Canggu.
❌ Cons:
- Overcrowded beaches and attractions.
- Expensive hotels with limited availability.
🎯 Smart Travel Hacks:
- Book flights and accommodations at least 3-6 months in advance.
- Visit temples early in the morning to beat the crowds.
- Hire a private driver to explore hidden gems away from tourist hotspots.
Shoulder Season (Balanced Months for Weather & Crowds)
📅 Months: April - June, September - October
This is my favorite time to visit Bali! The crowds have thinned out, and the weather is still great for beach days and outdoor adventures. You’ll get a good balance of affordability and experience. 😊
🚶♂️ Crowds & Costs:
- Fewer tourists compared to peak season, but still lively.
- Hotels and flights are more affordable, with occasional discounts.
- Easier to book last-minute activities and dining spots.
✅ Pros:
- Pleasant weather, with occasional short rains.
- Great time for trekking Mount Batur and exploring waterfalls.
- Less waiting time at Bali’s top restaurants and cafes.
❌ Cons:
- Some unpredictable rain showers, especially in June.
- Fewer major events compared to peak season.
🎯 Smart Travel Hacks:
- September is the best time for surfing without the peak season crowds.
- Explore Ubud’s rice terraces before the rainy season starts.
- Book spa and wellness retreats at lower rates before high season surcharges.
Off-Peak Season (Least Crowded & Most Budget-Friendly Time)
📅 Months: January - March, November
If you’re on a budget and don’t mind a bit of rain, this is the best time for you! Bali’s wet season means lush green landscapes and lower prices for everything. 🌿
🚶♂️ Cost & Crowd Levels:
- Fewer tourists, so beaches and attractions are quieter.
- Cheapest time for hotels, flights, and tours.
- Rainy season means occasional heavy downpours, but they usually don’t last all day.
✅ Pros:
- Peaceful atmosphere, perfect for yoga retreats and relaxation.
- Best hotel deals and discounted luxury stays.
- Some great surf spots, especially on the east coast (Sanur, Nusa Dua).
❌ Cons:
- Some outdoor activities like volcano hikes may be limited.
- Roads can get flooded, making travel a bit tricky.
🎯 Smart Travel Hacks:
- Mornings usually have clearer skies, so plan outdoor activities early.
- Visit cultural sites like Uluwatu Temple and Tirta Empul when it’s cloudy.
- Shop in Bali’s markets, as vendors offer better deals during low season.
Major Festivals & Events That Impact Travel
Bali has exciting festivals year-round! Here are some that might affect your travel plans:
- Nyepi (March) – The Balinese Day of Silence. Everything shuts down for 24 hours, including the airport!
- Galungan & Kuningan (Every 210 days) – Balinese Hindus celebrate with temple ceremonies and traditional offerings.
- Bali Arts Festival (June - July) – A month-long showcase of Balinese culture, music, and dance.
- New Year’s Eve (December 31st) – Beach parties, fireworks, and massive celebrations in Seminyak and Ubud.
Best Time to Visit Bali: Based on Your Travel Style
1. Budget Travelers 💰
If you're all about snagging the best deals, the cheapest months to visit Bali are February, March, and November. These are the sweet spots between peak tourist seasons, so flights from Manila and Cebu tend to be cheaper, and hotels slash their rates. Plus, you’ll get great deals on tours and activities since there's less competition from other travelers.
💡 Money-saving tip: Book flights at least 2-3 months in advance and set fare alerts. For accommodations, opt for guesthouses in Ubud or homestays near Canggu you'll get a more local experience for half the price of resorts!
2. Luxury Travelers ✨
If you're after top-tier experiences, visit during May, June, or September. The weather is just right sunny but not scorching perfect for private villa stays, Michelin-star dining, and yacht trips around the Nusa islands. It’s also less crowded compared to July-August, so you get VIP treatment without the chaos.
💡 Luxury tip: Book your five-star villas in Seminyak or Uluwatu early, especially for exclusive resorts like The Mulia or Bulgari Resort Bali. For fine dining, reserve tables at Locavore or Apéritif a month in advance!
3. Adventure Seekers 🏄♂️
Bali’s thrill-seekers should plan their trips based on their preferred adventure.
🔥 Surfing? Hit the waves from April to October for perfect swells at Uluwatu and Canggu.
❄️ Hiking Mount Batur? The best time is May to September, when early morning treks offer stunning sunrises without rain.
🤿 Diving in Nusa Penida? Go from July to October to see the majestic Mola Mola (ocean sunfish)!
💡 Adventure tip: Try offbeat spots like Sidemen for jungle treks or Amed for underrated snorkeling spots less crowded, equally breathtaking!
4. Cultural Enthusiasts 🏮
If you want to dive deep into Bali’s rich traditions, time your visit around key festivals:
🎊 Nyepi (March) – Bali’s “Day of Silence” is a surreal experience where the entire island shuts down for 24 hours. The Ogoh-Ogoh parade the night before is a must-see!
🌸 Galungan & Kuningan (April & November) – Witness temples decorated with colorful penjors (bamboo poles) and locals dressed in their best traditional attire.
🔥 Bali Arts Festival (June-July) A month-long showcase of dance, music, and art in Denpasar.
💡 Culture tip: Visit Tirta Empul for a spiritual water blessing or watch the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple during sunset absolutely mesmerizing!
5. Family Travelers 👨👩👧👦
If you're traveling with kids, April, June, and September are ideal. The weather is comfortable, and it's not too crowded, so theme parks and beach clubs remain enjoyable.
🎢 Best activities:
- Splash around at Waterbom Bali (Asia’s #1 waterpark!)
- Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud
- Explore the Bali Safari & Marine Park
💡 Family-friendly tip: Stay in Nusa Dua or Sanur these areas have calm beaches, spacious resorts, and kid-friendly attractions. Book accommodations early if traveling during the June school break!
Final Tips for Planning Your Trip to Bali?
Bali is calling! 🌴 Whether you’re chasing the perfect waves in July, soaking up the festive vibes in March, or scoring budget-friendly deals in the shoulder months, there’s never a bad time to experience this tropical paradise. Book your flights to Bali now and start planning your dream getaway. Looking for the perfect stay? Find hotels in Bali that match your vibe, whether it’s a beachfront villa or a cozy jungle retreat.
With the best time in mind, all that’s left is to book your flight, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable escape. Need more travel options? Book your flights hassle-free and lock in the best deals. And when it comes to accommodations, book your hotels in advance for a worry-free holiday. See you in Bali! ✈️
Best Time to Visit Bali
How much should I budget per day?
A budget traveler can get by with PHP 1,500-2,000 (IDR 400,000-500,000) per day, covering cheap eats, hostel stays, and a few activities. If you want a mid-range experience with nice cafes, comfortable hotels, and tours, budget around PHP 3,500-5,000 (IDR 1M-1.5M) daily. Luxury travelers can easily spend PHP 10,000+ (IDR 3M+). To save money, eat at warungs (local eateries), book activities directly, and use ride-hailing apps instead of taxis.What’s a common tourist mistake in Bali?
Many tourists underestimate how big Bali is. Going from Ubud to Uluwatu takes over 2 hours, so don’t cram too many places into one day! Another mistake? Ignoring temple dress codes. Always bring a sarong when visiting temples—some places rent them, but it’s easier to have your own. Also, don’t expect white-sand beaches everywhere—some beaches in Bali have black volcanic sand!What’s the best way to get around Bali?
Getting around Bali can be tricky if you’re expecting public transport like in Manila. There’s no MRT or jeepneys here! Your best bet is renting a scooter if you’re comfortable driving—it’s the cheapest and most flexible way to explore. If not, use GoJek or Grab for affordable rides. For longer trips, hiring a private driver for the day (around IDR 600,000 or PHP 2,200) is convenient, especially if you’re visiting multiple spots.Do I need cash, or can I use a credit card everywhere?
Cash is king in Bali, especially for small warungs, market stalls, and scooter rentals. Bigger hotels, restaurants, and malls accept credit cards, but always have IDR cash on hand for transport and tips. ATMs are everywhere, but use the ones inside banks to avoid skimming scams.