Bali International Travel

The Best Time to Visit Bali: Seasonal Insights for Travelers

Best time to visit Bali
Best time to visit Bali
Written by Just Wravel

Before planning for some destination, the first thing you should check is the local weather during your travel dates to make the most of your trip. Traveling to Indonesia is the perfect choice to indulge in the many wonders of the country. Bali, as one of the most popular destinations, is famous for its breathtaking beaches and cultural wonders. Bali is such a place whose weather is characterized as tropical with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The best time to visit Bali is between April to October which is also the dry season of the island. 

So, if you are planning to visit Bali for your next adventure, then knowing about its weather will help you to plan your holiday smartly. 

Weather Of Bali

aerial view of Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple at sunrise, Bali
Aerial view of Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple at sunrise, Bali

Bali is located near the equator approx 8 kilometers south of it. That’s why Bali experiences two main seasons: Dry Season and Wet Season. The dry season usually lies between April to October, while the wet or rainy season comes around November to March. Both seasons have their own beauty, which depends on your interests. The high season of Bali is from the months of July to August because Indonesia has its national school holidays. However, December to January are the months when international travelers flock to the beaches of Bali to celebrate Christmas and New Year with exciting beach parties. 

Season Month Best For
Dry SeasonApril To OctoberIdeal for outdoor and water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, trekking, beach parties and more. 
Wet SeasonNovember to MarchEnjoy the green rice terraces and the beauty of nature that surrounds Bali. You can also go canoeing and rafting. 

Let’s discuss these two seasons in detail to understand what places are suitable in which best season to visit Bali. 

Dry Season Of Bali ( April To October)

Broken Beach in Nusa Penida Island, Bali
Broken Beach in Nusa Penida Island, Bali

The dry season in Bali is the time of the year when the island experiences less rain than the rest of the year. The weather conditions make it ideal for exploring beaches and other outdoor attractions. This time of the year is also the peak season for tourists to flock to the lap of Bali’s nature. However, in the end months of the season, like September and October, you can experience occasional rain showers and cool breezes, making it more special. 

However, you should book early to secure your bookings, especially during the months of July to September, which are the peak tourist months of this season. During this season, the temperature ranges from 27°C to 32°C. July and August are the busiest months due to school holidays and winter in Australia and New Zealand and the peak holiday season for European and American travelers. 

If you are planning to visit during the dry season, then you should pack comfortable clothing for the tropical climate, like loose, breathing clothing. It is recommended to carry swimwear, a hat, sunglasses and sun protection if you are a beach lover. If you are adding hiking or trekking volcanoes to your itinerary, then pack good hiking shoes to truly embrace the charm of the dry season in Bali. 

Is Dry Season A Good Time To Visit Bali?

best time to visit Bali
Gunung Agung Volcano, Bali

Yes, weather-wise, it is a good time to visit Bali. It is the best Bali season to visit because the island shows its magic through breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. Also, this season is perfect for many cultural festivals like the annual Kite Flying Festival, Ubud Food Festival, Independence Day of Bali and many other beach activities. The seas are calm, the waters are clear, and waterfalls are refreshing, and hiking volcanoes are comfortable and breathtaking. During this time, Bali’s nightlife in places like Kuta, Seminyak and Sanur also flourishes with cooler evening temperatures. 

Activities To Enjoy During Dry Season

Blue Lagoon in Nusa Ceningan Island, Bali
Blue Lagoon in Nusa Ceningan Island, Bali

The best activities to enjoy the dry season of Bali are mostly outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, surfing, diving, hiking, partying and whatnot! The sunny days of this season are perfect for cycling through the hillside villages with rice terraces, hiking Mount Batur Mount Agung or soaking under refreshing waterfalls like Sekumpul, Gitgit and Tegenungan. This is the best time to visit Bali for beach lovers, as you can enjoy swimming or simply lazing on the soft sandy beaches of Kuta, Jimbaran and Nusa Dua. The water enthusiasts don’t get disappointed as you can enjoy surfing in Uluwatu, Padang Padang or Canggu and snorkeling in the clear waters of the Nusa Penida, Lombok and more. 

When we talk about exploring Bali, how can we forget about its amazing cultural experiences? The weather during the dry season also lets you explore the various temples comfortably. You can also sip your Pina Colada while enjoying the sunset from any hillside or beachside restaurant. You just name it, and Bali’s dry season allows you to do it all. 

Is There Any Disadvantage Of Visiting Bali in Dry Season?

Best time to visit Bali
Beach area of Kuta, Bali

The only hurdle you can face while planning your trip to Bali during the dry season is that it is the peak tourist season, which makes it busiest and pricey. During this time, accommodation and flights are at a premium. Beaches and outdoor leisure activities get overcrowded, and you can experience traffic around popular tourist places like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud and more. So, it is highly recommended to book your activities, hotels, and airfare well in advance to enjoy your holiday without worrying about the budget. 

Wet Season of Bali ( November to March)

The wet or rainy season of Bali, which is from November to March, is characterized by more rainy days, increased rainfalls, and occasional thunderstorms. January is the wettest month of the year. The temperatures during the rainy season typically get higher than in dry seasons, ranging from 24°C to 29°C. However, this season might not seem ideal for outdoor or water activities but it’s actually a good time to immerse in the lush landscape of Bali. Then, what’s stored in the box of this Bali best time to visit? You can enjoy many indoor activities like spa treatments with local medicinal treatments, shopping sprees and many more. 

If you are planning to visit Bali during this time of the year, then you should pack loose, breathable clothing. Don’t forget to pack high-quality rain jackets and umbrellas to protect yourself from unexpected rain showers. Moreover, if there is any visit to paddy fields or jungles, then make sure that you pack long-sleeved tops and full length trousers to ward off mosquitoes. 

Is Wet Season A Good Time To Visit Bali?

If you are looking for budget-friendly travel, then yes, it is a good time to visit. As you know, Bali has a tropical climate which means that temperatures on the island remain constant throughout the year as there are no major changes. The major advantage of visiting Bali during this time is that you can enjoy the lush and vibrant landscapes, like famous waterfalls and rice terraces, without being overwhelmed by the large tourist crowds. Moreover, during this time, the rain rarely lasts for the whole day, and beaches become calm places to enjoy the sunshine. 

The rainy season provides a different backdrop in the ambiance of Bali related to activities like yoga, spa visits, meditation retreats, spiritual wellness programs and many more. Moreover, during the December month you can enjoy the New Year’s and Christmas celebrations with various beach parties in areas like Seminyak and Canggu. Bali during the wet season is more budget-friendly as you will get hotel airfare at discounted rates. Also keep in mind that the prices generally increase during the Christmas and New Year period as the demand increases. So, it is wise to plan everything in advance and enjoy the surreal beauty of Bali carefree.

Activities To Enjoy During Wet Season

Mostly during the wet season, the suitable choice for activities is indoors and the cultural side of Bali. An ideal wet season itinerary in Bali includes spending a day at a luxurious spa, joining a jewelry-making workshop or taking a traditional cooking class. You can also visit museums which provide great insights into the history and culture of the island. You can also book a yoga retreat for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of your life. 

Is There Any Disadvantage Of Visiting Bali in the Wet Season?

During the rainy season, the beaches of Bali and the south of Bali, like Kuta, Legian, Seminyak or Canggu, can be quite dirty due to the debris and trash washed out the shore because of high currents in the oceans. The Christmas and New Year’s beach parties leave the beaches dirty, which is not a pretty sight to witness. 

Best Time to Visit Bali As Per Activities

Tegenungan waterfall, Bali
Tegenungan waterfall, Bali

Bali is a famous tourist destination for its outdoor activities like swimming, surfing, hiking, snorkeling and many more. Each of these activities determines their own best time to visit Bali. So, here is a breakdown of the best time to visit for each activity: 

Name of the ActivityBest Time To Visit For That Activity
Surfing April to October as the strong offshore winds create large swells on west coast beaches of Bali like Padang Padang, Echo Beach and Bingin Beach.
November to April offer great surfing on east coast beaches like Nusa Dua, Serangan and Sanur
DivingThroughout the year, however, May and November are the best time as the waters are calm with clear visibility. 
SnorkelingMay to September, when the outside temperature is warm, and the ocean is calm and clear. Consider early mornings or late evenings. 
Partying The best months to party in Bali are July, August and December, as Bali’s bars, beach clubs, and nightclubs are open till late. 
Kite SurfingJune To August, when peak wind speeds average between 12-13 km/h. 
Whitewater RaftingDuring the dry season – May to October as the waters are calmer. Wet Season – November to April as the heavy rainfalls increase the intensity of the rapids. 

FAQs

What is the cheapest Bali season to visit?

The cheapest months to travel to Bali are October, November, February and March. There is often less demand during these months because of the rains, which means you get hotels, flights and activities at better rates. These months are also the best time to visit if you have a limited budget. 

What is the best time to hike in Bali?

The best time to hike in Bali is May and September, which are dry months on the island. This period offers ideal weather conditions and a clear sky when climbing the famous Mount Batur and Mount Agung. 

When is the worst time to visit Bali?

When we talk about Bali there is no season as the worst season because of its tropical climate. No matter which month you visit Bali, it will surprise you with its unbeatable beauty and cultural festivals. However, you have to be a little cautious during the wet months ( November to April) because of the unexpected rains and extreme weather conditions. Mostly, it is enjoyable throughout the year. 

When is the best time to visit Bali for a honeymoon?

The best time to visit Bali for a honeymoon is during the dry season from May to October, as it gives you more opportunities to explore its outdoors and beaches. Couples can also enjoy various activities like snorkeling, hiking, surfing, diving and many more. The perfect postcard sunsets let you enjoy your own time with deals like date nights and more. 

When is the best time to visit Bali for a family holiday?

The best time to visit Bali for a family holiday is between July and August, when the weather conditions are perfect for all age groups. This time correlates with the holiday season, which makes it ideal for you to enjoy quality time with your kids at theme parks and beaches. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book your ultimate Bali holiday with JustWravel as per your preferences and budget to have the best time of your life. 

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