Bali’s climate is definitely bipolar.
Why?
The tiny island operates at the emotional extremes of weather. You will either become a soggy fur ball (as my co-workers tend to be in the rainy season), or you will emerge from your Bali cocoon a Greek god, spitting fire and glistening bronze.
AS SUCH, you will want to know the best time to visit Bali, as I’m sure you would rather your trip here be better described by “tropical island paradise” than “ah we fucked another holiday” (even though there are awesome things to do all year round).
To help you get the most out of your time here, I’ve put together this super handy mega-guide that will give you all the info you need for a wicked trip. I’ve got your back, and if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments!
Lets get stuck in!
Best Time to Visit Bali – April to October
Best Time to Visit for Festivals and Parties – August to October (high season)
Best Time to Visit for Surfing – May to September (best surf)
Cheapest Time to Visit Bali – November to March (avoid school holidays)
Best Time to Visit for Sightseeing – February, September to November
Best Time to Visit for diving – April or October
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When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?
Visiting Bali in the dry season, April-October, is usually considered the best time to visit.
As a connoisseur, the best months to visit Bali are May, June and October. Not only will you benefit from the sunny weather of Bali’s dry season, but you’ll avoid the bulk of tourists – meaning less crowded beaches, and lower hotel prices. Most backpackers visit Bali between April and October. From immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the place to visiting beautiful sites, and celebrating vibrant festivals, there’s something for everyone!
In other words- playing with the shoulder seasons is a good idea here. You really get the best of both worlds!
There are two seasons worth knowing about:
The dry season runs from April – October and is when you would want to holiday here. Temperatures remain hot and sunny skies are the norm. To avoid crowded beaches and peak tourism, don’t visit in July, August, or the easter holidays. Places to stay in Bali can be 30-50% cheaper outside these periods, but it is perfect weather for outdoor activities!
The rainy season strikes (deluges?) November – March, and is much quieter than Bali’s dry season. Although there is more rain, there are a good number of sunny days too, and it is much easier to meet long-term or semi-permanent residents. Bali’s top tier hostels are up for bargain prices during this period too!
Cheapest Time to Visit Bali
If you’re looking for a cheap trip, you’ll find the most down-to-earth prices during the rainy season (November to March). Bali has a high cost of living by SE Asia standards, so it is worth shopping around for some low prices.
To entice visitors, hotels often drop their prices and offer great value deals and packages. If you’re prepared to hold out for some last-minute deals, you can sometimes save significantly on accommodation at this time.
While Bali can be expensive depending on your style of travelling, there are always ways to cut costs.
When to Visit Bali – Weather By Month
There’s never a bad time to visit Bali, as temperatures remain hot year-round. However, if you want to avoid crowded beaches, but keep the sunny days, it’s worth knowing more about each month.
Check out our month-by-month breakdown for the conditions that each month can offer in terms of climate, crowds, and costs.
January in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26°C, 78°F
- Rainfall: 27 days, rainy season
January in Bali sees many of the Christmas and New Year tourists departing, ending the high season and leaving the island less crowded. It’s the rainiest month of the year, and if you’re heading inland to the highlands and mountains, things get torrential.
After around the first week, shoulder season conditions return, meaning fewer tourists and cheaper hotel prices.
February in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26°C, 78°F
- Rainfall: 22 days, rainy season
It’s still pretty wet in Bali over February with high temperatures and humidity – much like January. Rain showers followed by the sun are common, and the temperatures are much as they were in January.
As things head towards the low season, tourist numbers dwindle and the island feels less inundated. This also means that you are likely to pick up some really good deals on where to stay.
March in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26.5°C, 79°F
- Rainfall: 20 days, rainy season
The rains start to dissipate and the humidity comes down in March, It is hot and sunny, and as the month wears on the chance of rain lowers.
This is the start of the low season, so you can enjoy blissfully relaxed and crowd-free conditions on the island. Flights and accommodation are much cheaper now so, if you’re travelling on a budget, this is your time.
April in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 27°C, 80°F
- Rainfall: 9 days, dry/shoulder season
The weather is far more pleasant in April with humidity at its lowest. Temperatures are a little higher, but without the humidity so much more bearable. There’s little chance of rain but it’s not impossible! If it does rain, it’s unlikely to disrupt travel plans and activities.
There are slightly more tourists arriving in April, most of them likely to attend the Bali Spirit Festival, but prices remain low. This is a good time to do yoga in Bali.
May in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 28°C, 82°F
- Rainfall: 8 days, dry season
Visiting Bali during May is highly recommended from a weather perspective. It’s relatively dry, and the best time for trekking volcanos and hiking. The warm temperatures are the same as in April, with average temperature highs in the high 20s.
Tourist numbers are still low in May, but pick up slightly towards the end of the month as we head into the shoulder season of June. Prices are still reasonable and great deals can still be found.
June in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26.5°C, 79°F
- Rainfall: 6 days, dry season
June offers great beach weather; loads of sun, very few days of rain, and low humidity. Surfers and sun worshipers take advantage of these great conditions, and the reasonable prices, making the island busier than previous months. High temperatures are on the way!
As June comes to an end, the high season begins, so prices will start to rise. The Bali Art’s festival begins early in the month, attracting a large crowd too.
July in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26.5°C, 79°F
- Rainfall: 4 days, dry season
Perfect beach weather dominates the month of July with clear skies and minimal rain. Tourist season is in full swing with packed beaches, restaurants and hotels. The island will be buzzing with people. Sunny weather and mostly sunny days are characteristic of this busy month.
Accommodation won’t come cheap, and if you haven’t booked well in advance, options may be limited.
August in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26.5°C, 79°F
- Rainfall: 4 days, dry season
Glorious sunny days and fantastic beach conditions continue through August. Humidity and rain are at their lowest, and the occasional gentle breeze keeps things comfortable.
It’s still peak season, so accommodation prices will still be high, and the island is likely to feel crowded with tourists.
September in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26.5°C, 79°F
- Rainfall: 8 days, dry season
September is an ideal time to visit Bali. Most of the peak season tourists have departed, and the weather is still great for hitting the now less crowded beaches.
There’s a slight increase in the chance of rain, but nothing that will cause a significant impact on your stay. Accommodation will be easier to come by, and often at a more reasonable rate than during peak season.
October in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 27°C, 80°F
- Rainfall: 12 days, dry season
In October rainy season returns to the island, breaking up periods of great beach weather with the odd downpour. These passing showers tend to raise the humidity quite a bit, making the already warm temperatures feel unpleasant.
The crowds continue to decrease, and it’s now more likely that you’ll be able to pick up some great deals on accommodation.
November in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 27°C, 80°F
- Rainfall: 17, rainy season
The chance of rain increases in November, and the humidity continues its climb. While daily showers are now more common, they are still fairly brief and clear up nicely. They shouldn’t cause major disruption to your plans. Warm temperatures can make November feel very sticky, so jump in the shower when you can, or stick to the beach!
There are still times of lovely sunshine to enjoy at the beach or the pool. It’s fairly quiet in terms of tourists, and accommodation prices are at their cheapest.
December in Bali
- Average Max. Temperature: 26.5°C, 79°F
- Rainfall: 22 days, rainy season
The first half of the month is relatively quiet but, as the Christmas and New Year period approaches, visitor numbers increase significantly. Peak season conditions return – expect crowded restaurants, booked out hotels, and full beaches.
Rain is fairly common at this time, usually in the form of short showers.
Best Time to Visit Bali by Place
There are some unbelievable places to visit on this superb Island. Here’s a breakdown of when is best to visit each of them!
Best Time to Visit Canggu
Located about 20 minutes north of Seminyak, the hipster hub Canggu has seen a growth in popularity in recent years. This small seaside town is popular with expats who have relocated, but still features a strong traditional way of life, from the fisherman selling their catch on the beach to the quiet hillsides and rice paddies.
The beaches in Canggu have volcanic sand of dark grey or black, which often puts tourists off, but the surfing is great!
For great weather, visit Canggu between June and August, when humidity and rainfall are at their lowest. That said, this is the peak season, so you’ll be paying higher rates for everything.
Low season, between January and April, and October and November, is a good time to visit if you’re traveling on a budget. You’ll be able to pick up some great deals on flights and Canggu places to stay at this time. Bali weather won’t get in your way of Canggu activities.
The sweet spot for a visit to Canggu is during the shoulder seasons – May to June, September to October – when humidity and rainfall are lower and crowds are fewer. There are some good deals, and great value last-minute options for those able to travel on a whim.
Best Time to Visit Ubud
Ubud is located in the highlands of Bali, among terraced rice paddies and lush rainforests. This is the ideal place to explore many ancient temples, museums, and galleries, and other cultural landmarks.
The best time to visit Ubud is between June and October when the temperatures are mild and the humidity at its lowest. Because of the higher elevation, mornings and evenings can be cool, so it’s best to pack something warm to stave off the chill.
From November, temperatures increase, as does the humidity and rainfall. March is the hottest month of the year here, and is only compounded by the intense humidity. January is the wettest month, and heavy downpours and thunderstorms are common.
Temperatures in Ubud are fairly stable all year round, with average maximums in the high 20s (Celsius). During high season, I would book your Ubud accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Best Time to Visit Uluwatu
The popular surf spot of Uluwatu is a small clifftop town in the south-west of Bali. Offering exceptional beaches, dramatic views, and a relatively untouched feel, this idyllic corner of the island is a great year-round destination.
Between March and May, Uluwatu experiences its best weather. You can expect sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and loads of activities to enjoy. Consequently, this time of year is busiest, and prices of hotels can skyrocket. If you’re planning to visit at this time, it’s best to book well in advance.
Wind and rainfall pick up slightly between the September and February wet season, making this period less popular with tourists. However, it also means there are more travel deals to take advantage of.
It’s still lovely and hot for the most part, but the rain can be torrential at times. Uluwatu is relatively steep so driving a motorbike is more risky, and you can’t hang out on the stunning beaches. It may impact travel plans and can lead to water sports being cancelled. If you’re keen on a relaxing, laid-back stay in a villa, this is a great time to visit.
Between June and August, temperatures are mild and rainfall is infrequent. This is a great time to visit Uluwatu to avoid the large crowds and high prices of peak season while still enjoying good Bali weather.
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Best Time to Visit Bali for Parties and Festivals
The tourist high season (June-September) coincides with most of the major festivals and phat raves.
Experiencing some of the most vibrant Indonesian festivals and parties is something that everyone should do at some point. From traditional Balinese observances to top-rated DJs, there is something worth going to for every traveller.
Here are our top festivals!
- Nyepi: Nyepi, or Balinese New Year, falls sometime in March- street processions and a loud festive evening preceding a day of stillness and silence. Even the Airport closes! The Bali Spirit Festival is a seven-day wellness festival between April and March (think Yoga)
- Bali Spirit Festival: The Bali Spirit Festival is a seven-day wellness festival that takes place annually between April and March. Yoga lessons, dance, music, and arts are offered alongside holistic healing and spirituality workshops, attracting wellness tourists from around the world. Galungan and Kuningan: Galungan is a traditional Balinese festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. The festival follows the 210-day ‘pawukon’ calendar, and can sometimes occur twice a year.
- Ubud Food Festival: For seven days in April, the mountain town of Ubud is fragrant with spices and delicious aromas that celebrate traditional Indonesian cuisine. Local and international chefs host talks and workshops, and attendees can sample authentic Balinese and international dishes.
- Bali Arts Festival: From traditional theatre to painting, and dancing to cuisine, this vibrant event erupts in full sound and colour for a month between June and July each year. Street parades, performances, and exhibitions are held throughout the month. Locals take great pride in exhibiting their talent, and visitors can enjoy a complete immersion into local culture.
- Bali Kite Festival: Every year, between July and August, the skies above Bali’s southeast coast are dotted with colourful kites. These are not your average kites, they are enormous – some larger than 10m – ornate, and fly impressively high.
- Nusa Dua Festival: The biggest lantern lighting festival in Bali, it is spectacular to behold and attracts large crowds. Occurring sometime in July, the Nusa Dua festival is a fantastic thing to do in Bali.
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FAQs on the Best Time to Visit Bali
Here’s what we’re usually asked about the best times for visiting Bali.
Final Thoughts on the Best Time to Visit Bali
By now you’ve probably decided on the best time to visit Bali, most likely sometime in the Island’s dry season.
Whether you plan to lie on Seminyak beach, or by the pool, hike the volcanoes, or take to the ocean on a surfboard, Bali is the kind of destination that people return to time and time again. The thriving expat and digital nomad community are proof that Bali living is good living.
Make sure to plan well in advance if you’re headed to Bali during the peak season to avoid disappointment. If you’re making the most of the low season, you’ll likely find a host of very attractive last-minute deals on offer!
Whenever you choose to visit Bali, we’re certain you’ll fall in love with the warm hospitality, colourful culture, and incredible beauty of this island.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Bali is pretty much the number list of places to visit whenever i can , the beaches, the terain , waters look phenomenal . thanks for putting as the gives an insight of the ideal time for visiting Bali.