When's the Best Time to Visit Bali? Here's What You Need to Know

Bali, also known as the “Island of the Gods,” is a tropical paradise that draws millions of travelers each year. From its emerald-green rice terraces and mystical temples to its stunning beaches and world-class surf, Bali offers a diverse array of experiences for every kind of traveler. But when is the best time to visit Bali? This is a common question, as the island’s tropical climate, characterized by wet and dry seasons, significantly impacts your experience.

Choosing the ideal time to visit depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. In this detailed guide, we'll break down Bali’s climate and provide a month-by-month overview to help you plan the perfect trip.

Bali's Climate: Wet and Dry Seasons

Bali enjoys a tropical climate with consistent warmth throughout the year. Temperatures typically range from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C), and while Bali is warm year-round, the island experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

• Dry Season (April to October): This is Bali’s most popular time for tourism. The weather is warm and sunny, with minimal rainfall and low humidity. It’s the ideal season for beach lovers, surfers, hikers, and anyone looking to explore Bali’s many outdoor attractions.
• Wet Season (November to March): During the wet season, Bali experiences heavy but short-lived rain showers, typically in the afternoons. The island’s landscapes become lush and green, and while some outdoor activities may be limited, the wet season offers fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Now, let’s take a closer look at what each month in Bali offers.

January: A Peaceful Retreat in the Wet Season

• Weather: January is deep into the wet season, with frequent rainfall, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. Temperatures remain warm, usually between 77°F and 88°F (25°C and 31°C), making it comfortable despite the rain.
• Why Visit: If you don’t mind a bit of rain and are looking for a more peaceful and less touristy experience, January is a good time to visit. With fewer visitors, you can enjoy more intimate experiences at popular tourist spots, such as temples and beaches, without the crowds.
• Activities: The rain might limit outdoor activities like hiking or beach lounging, but it’s a great time to explore Bali’s rich cultural offerings. Visit the sacred Tirta Empul water temple in Ubud or take a cooking class to learn the secrets of traditional Balinese cuisine. The wet season also makes Bali’s famous rice terraces, like those in Tegallalang, exceptionally green and beautiful.

February: Romance in the Air

• Weather: February remains part of Bali’s wet season, with frequent showers but warm temperatures. Rainfall is similar to January, but it rarely lasts all day, allowing for some sunny breaks in between.
• Why Visit: Valentine’s Day in February makes Bali a popular romantic getaway for couples. The lush, rain-fed landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for romance, while the lower crowds allow for more privacy at resorts and beaches. Additionally, prices are more affordable during this off-peak season.
• Activities: February is perfect for indulging in Bali’s world-class spas or taking a romantic sunset cruise. Couples can enjoy beachside candlelit dinners, secluded villa stays, and private yoga sessions. For those wanting a deeper connection with nature, trekking through the misty jungles of Ubud or visiting the vibrant waterfalls like Gitgit will make for unforgettable memories.

March: Transitioning Out of the Wet Season

• Weather: March is a transitional month, with rains starting to taper off towards the end of the month. While still part of the wet season, there are more frequent sunny days, especially as you move into late March.
• Why Visit: March offers the best of both worlds: fewer crowds and improving weather. It’s a great time to take advantage of the end-of-wet-season discounts, especially for accommodations and flights. The landscapes remain lush and beautiful, and the beaches are quieter, making it easier to find a peaceful spot.
• Activities: March is an excellent time for nature lovers. Visit Bali’s famous waterfalls, like Tegenungan or Sekumpul, which are in full flow after the rainy season. The island’s hiking trails, such as the trek up Mount Batur for sunrise, become more accessible as the rains subside.

April: The Beginning of the Dry Season

• Weather: April marks the beginning of Bali’s dry season. The rain becomes less frequent, and the skies are mostly clear, making this a fantastic time to visit. The temperature remains warm, averaging around 82°F (28°C), but the humidity begins to drop, offering more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
• Why Visit: April is a sweet spot for travelers seeking great weather without the crowds of the high season. It’s a perfect time for outdoor adventures, beach relaxation, and cultural exploration. The sea conditions are ideal for surfing, diving, and snorkeling, with calm waters and excellent visibility.
• Activities: April is great for exploring Bali’s temples, such as Uluwatu Temple, which sits on a clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean. Take advantage of the clear skies to visit Bali’s Instagram-famous locations like the Handara Gate or the Gates of Heaven at Pura Lempuyang. Surfing conditions are optimal in April, especially at iconic spots like Uluwatu and Padang Padang Beach.

May: The Dry Season in Full Swing

• Weather: May is one of the best months to visit Bali, with clear skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall. The humidity is low, and the weather is perfect for both land and sea-based activities.
• Why Visit: The weather in May is ideal for a wide range of activities, from hiking and biking to beach lounging and water sports. The island isn’t as crowded as it gets in July and August, so you can enjoy the tourist hotspots without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
• Activities: Go diving or snorkeling at Nusa Penida or Menjangan Island, where the water is crystal clear, and you have a good chance of spotting manta rays or sunfish. May is also a great month for hiking Bali’s famous Mount Agung or the lesser-known but equally beautiful Mount Batukaru. For a more relaxed day, enjoy the beaches of Jimbaran or Seminyak, or spend a day at a beach club.

June: Peak Tourist Season Begins

• Weather: June is the start of Bali’s peak season, thanks to its perfect weather. The island sees plenty of sunshine, clear skies, and little to no rainfall. Temperatures remain warm but not too hot, hovering around 86°F (30°C).
• Why Visit: June’s ideal weather conditions make it one of the most popular months for tourists. It’s a great time to explore all that Bali has to offer, from surfing and diving to exploring the cultural heartland of Ubud.
• Activities: June is perfect for exploring Bali’s rich marine life. Whether you’re diving in Nusa Penida or snorkeling in Amed, the visibility is excellent, and the seas are calm. You can also catch the Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar, where you can witness traditional dances, performances, and Balinese craftsmanship.

July: Sun, Surf, and Festivals

• Weather: July continues to offer some of the best weather conditions of the year. The island remains dry and sunny, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and festivals.
• Why Visit: July is peak tourist season, so expect more crowds, particularly at the major tourist attractions and beaches. However, this also means there’s a lively atmosphere with numerous events and festivals taking place across the island.
• Activities: Surf enthusiasts will find July to be one of the best months for catching waves at beaches like Uluwatu, Canggu, and Seminyak. Attend the annual Bali Kite Festival in Sanur, where giant, colorful kites fill the sky. In the evenings, head to Ubud for a traditional Kecak Fire Dance performance or visit one of Bali’s many beach clubs for sunset drinks.

August: Bali at Its Best

• Weather: August is one of the driest months in Bali, with virtually no rainfall and consistently warm temperatures. The weather is perfect for both beach days and exploring Bali’s cultural attractions.
• Why Visit: As the busiest month of the year, August sees a large influx of visitors, so it’s important to book accommodations and activities well in advance. The lively atmosphere, perfect weather, and plethora of things to do make it an excellent time to visit Bali.
• Activities: August is a great month for outdoor activities. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, trek Mount Batur for a stunning sunrise, or enjoy water sports in Nusa Dua. For a cultural experience, visit Pura Taman Ayun Temple or the Goa Gajah cave.

September: Perfect Weather with Fewer Crowds

• Weather: September remains dry, sunny, and warm, with little to no rainfall. The temperatures hover around 84°F (29°C), and the humidity remains low.
• Why Visit: While the weather in September is just as pleasant as July and August, the crowds start to thin out, making it an excellent time to visit Bali. You can enjoy the island’s attractions without the peak season rush, and prices for accommodation also begin to drop.
• Activities: September is an ideal month for exploring Bali’s quieter, more remote areas. Visit the less-touristed beaches of Amed or Lovina, or take a trip to the northern region of the island to explore the waterfalls at Munduk. You can also enjoy a dolphin-watching tour off the coast of Lovina.

October: The End of the Dry Season

• Weather: October is the last month of Bali’s dry season. The weather remains warm and mostly dry, although rainfall starts to increase slightly towards the end of the month.
• Why Visit: October is a great month for those who want to enjoy good weather with fewer tourists. Prices for accommodations and flights are also lower compared to the peak season months.
• Activities: Visit Bali’s cultural heart in Ubud, where you can explore the Ubud Monkey Forest, the Sacred Ubud Palace, and the nearby rice paddies. Head to the south coast for some last-minute surfing or beach relaxation before the rains start.

November: The Wet Season Begins

• Weather: November marks the start of the wet season in Bali. Rainfall becomes more frequent, particularly in the afternoons, but it’s still possible to enjoy sunny mornings and early afternoons.
• Why Visit: November offers fewer tourists and a more laid-back vibe. If you don’t mind occasional rain showers, you can take advantage of lower prices and enjoy a more peaceful Bali experience.
• Activities: This is a great time to immerse yourself in Bali’s cultural offerings, such as visiting temples, attending local ceremonies, or taking a Balinese cooking class. It’s also a good time to explore Bali’s lush jungles and rice terraces, which are beautifully green after the rains.

December: A Festive Island Escape

• Weather: December falls in the wet season, but the festive holiday season draws many visitors to Bali. Expect frequent rain showers, but also plenty of sunshine in between.
• Why Visit: Christmas and New Year’s Eve are popular times to visit Bali, as the island hosts vibrant beach parties, festive dinners, and fireworks displays. Despite the rain, the island’s atmosphere during the holiday season is lively and exciting.
• Activities: December is a great time to enjoy Bali’s luxury resorts and beach clubs. Visit Seminyak or Canggu for some of the best New Year’s Eve parties, or head to Ubud for a more relaxed and spiritual holiday experience. The rain also makes this a good time to visit Bali’s waterfalls, which are in full flow.

Bali offers something special for every traveler, no matter when you visit. During the dry season, the island is perfect for sun-seekers, surfers, and outdoor adventurers, with clear skies and calm seas providing ideal conditions for beach activities and cultural exploration. On the other hand, the wet season brings lush, green landscapes, quieter streets, and a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience the serene side of Bali. Carefully choosing when to visit Bali can help you align your trip with the experiences you want.