Best Time to Visit Bali: Weather, Seasons, and Local Secrets for Every Traveler

Few places capture the world’s imagination quite like Bali. With its surf-ready beaches, vibrant rice terraces, and Hindu temples perched on cliff edges, Bali has become a dream destination for millions. But choosing when to go can make or break your trip.

Whether you're planning a honeymoon, a family holiday, or a backpacking adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know about the best time to visit Bali — month-by-month weather, festivals, costs, and insider tips.

Bali’s Two Main Seasons: Dry vs. Wet

Bali has a tropical climate with two primary seasons:

- Dry Season (April to October): Less rain, sunny skies, ideal for beach trips, hiking, and outdoor activities.
- Wet Season (November to March): Frequent tropical downpours, higher humidity, but lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

Best Time to Visit Bali by Travel Style

For Beach Lovers: May to September
If you’re chasing sun and surf, the dry season is ideal. May through September offers sunny skies, low humidity, and great conditions for swimming, diving, and surfing.

For Budget Travelers: February and March
These shoulder months fall within the wet season but often include breaks in the rain. Hotel prices drop, crowds thin, and you can experience Bali without the typical tourist crush.

For Cultural Travelers: March, June, and September
Bali’s spiritual calendar is packed with colorful ceremonies and processions.

Visiting Bali in the Wet Season (Nov–Mar): Worth It?

Yes — if you know what to expect.

Rainy season in Bali doesn’t mean non-stop rain. It often comes as intense showers for an hour or two in the afternoon, followed by sunshine. Nature is at its greenest, waterfalls are full, and the island feels quieter.

Bali Month-by-Month: Weather, Prices, and Events

| Month | Avg Temp (°F) | Rainfall | Events & Notes |
|-------|---------------|----------|----------------|
| January | 81 | High | Wettest month. Great for spa/yoga retreats |
| February | 81 | High | Still rainy, but fewer crowds. Romantic getaways |
| March | 82 | Medium | Nyepi Day (island-wide silence) |
| April | 83 | Lower | Start of dry season. Ideal time to visit |
| May | 84 | Low | Perfect beach weather, less crowded |
| June | 82 | Low | Bali Arts Festival, cooler evenings |
| July | 81 | Very Low | Peak season, book early |
| August | 81 | Very Low | Festivals and beach parties |
| September | 82 | Low | Fewer tourists, sunny weather |
| October | 83 | Rising | End of dry season, lush greenery |
| November | 83 | High | Rain returns, deals on hotels |
| December | 82 | High | Holiday crowds, but warm and festive |

Best Areas to Stay Based on the Season

- Ubud: Best year-round. Cooler, cultural, yoga haven.
- Canggu: Great during dry season (May–Oct) for surf and coworking.
- Uluwatu: Perfect for sunsets and beaches, especially May–Sept.
- Sidemen or Munduk: Quiet mountain retreats, ideal in wet season.

When Are Flights to Bali the Cheapest?

- Cheapest months: February, March, and early May
- Most expensive: July–August and December holidays

Insider Travel Tips for Picking the Best Time

1. Avoid Major Australian School Holidays (late Dec & mid-July)
2. Check lunar calendars for Balinese ceremonies
3. Mosquito season is highest in the wet months

Bonus: Best Activities by Season

Dry Season (Apr–Oct): Surfing, snorkeling, beach clubs, hiking, temple tours
Wet Season (Nov–Mar): Waterfalls, rice terraces, spa days, Ubud cafes, cooking classes

Final Thoughts: When Should You Go?

- Want sun, waves, and nightlife? Go June–August
- Crave peace, wellness, and culture? Try March or September
- Traveling on a shoestring? Aim for February or November

There’s no bad time — just different versions of Bali waiting to be explored.