Bali – famously referred to as the ‘island of the gods’ – has long been one of the top tropical holiday destinations for Australian travellers wanting to experience the perfect combination of beautiful landscapes, a rich culture and a mix of adventurous and relaxing activities.
Given it is one of the most popular holiday destinations from Australia, it makes sense that many will ask “when is the best time to travel to Bali?” (And maybe even “is there a worst time?”)
Overall, the best time to visit Bali is May to June and September to October when the weather is good, it’s not as crowded as the peak travel seasons, and there are often cheaper prices on flight fares and accommodation.
But the best time really depends on what you want from your Bali holiday. Do you want to spend your time at one of Bali’s famous beach clubs? Do you want to snorkel in the clear, blue waters or hike your way up the mountain peaks? Are you looking for the best month to go on your honeymoon or book a yoga retreat?
Certain times of the year are better for some activities than others – plus, it’s always a good idea to factor in your preference for weather, costs and crowds.
For example, in Bali’s dry season from May to October, the weather is generally sunnier and clearer than the wet season (November to April), which makes it a preferred time to travel for those who want the best weather. However, July and August are high season in Bali, when tourist numbers are at their peak, which makes the rainy season a better time to travel for budget conscious travellers looking for off-peak pricing. Personal preferences and priorities play a crucial role in timing your ideal trip.
In this article, we explore the optimal times of year to visit Bali based on a wide range of factors, from weather, activities and events to crowds, prices and locations. So whether you're planning a secluded honeymoon in Uluwatu, a family holiday full of activities in Seminyak, a rejuvenating solo retreat in Ubud, or an affordable mates trip spent partying in Kuta, we have got you covered!
For those who want to skip the details, here is a summary of the best times to visit Bali for the top considerations:
- For weather: May to October
- For fewer crowds: Oct-Nov, Feb-March
- For cheap prices: Oct, Nov, Feb, March
- For surfing: April to October
- For diving: May to November
- For snorkelling: May to September
- For partying: July, August, December
- For a family holiday: July and August
- For a honeymoon: May to October
For more detailed info, read on!
Weather
Bali weather and climate
Bali has a tropical climate, with year-round warm and humid weather, with average temperatures between 20°C and 32°C throughout the year. This makes Bali an excellent holiday destination no matter when you visit.
The main factor which determines Bali’s weather – including rainfall, sunshine and humidity – is whether it is wet or dry season.
Bali wet season
Bali’s wet season runs from November to April, and the weather tends to be rainy, hot and muggy, with higher humidity, fewer sunshine hours and temperatures that range between 22°C – 33°C.
There is a higher chance of rain during this period, especially in December and January which are Bali’s wettest months. Nevertheless, showers usually pass quickly.
The advantage of travelling in Bali's wet season is that there are fewer crowds, lower prices and the island is at its lushest and greenest.
Bali dry season
Bali's dry season runs from May to October according to Australia's Bureau of Meteorology. The weather during Bali’s dry season is typically warm, sunny and clear. The humidity is slightly lower and temperatures range comfortably between 20°C – 31°C.
Whilst there is much less rain compared to the wet season, it's important to understand that it still rains at times during the dry season, sometimes even for a few days straight.
Given the weather is so pleasant, it tends to be more crowded and expensive during Bali’s dry season – especially in July and August which are the peak tourist months.
The advantage of travelling Bali’s dry season is that the weather is at it’s best, making it an ideal tropical vacation destination for outdoor activities like swimming hiking, surfing, snorkelling and diving.
Best time to visit Bali for weather
The best time to visit Bali is from May to October, which is the dry season. Expect mostly clear and sunny weather with occasional rain and temperatures ranging between 21-32°C. Note that July and August are peak tourist seasons, resulting in higher prices and larger crowds at that time.
Crowds
While Bali is a popular destination year-round, some times of the year are noticeably busier than others. If you're someone who prefers fewer crowds or wants to avoid peak travel costs, it’s worth knowing when Bali’s high and low seasons fall.
When is Bali's high season?
The high season in Bali – sometimes referred to as Bali's 'peak' season' or 'peak tourist season' – is the period of year when the most tourists visit the island. Bali’s high season typically lasts from July to August, which corresponds with Australian winter and mid-year school holidays. There is a second high season at the end of the year, when tourist numbers peak around Christmas and New Year.
When is Bali's low season?
Bali's low season refers to the time of year when there are the least amounts of tourists in Bali, meaning that prices for accommodation and airfares are generally cheaper. The low season usually falls from October-November and from February-March. These months typically see fewer tourists because they coincide with the island’s wetter, more humid weather. While that means more chance of rain, the advantage of travelling during Bali's low season is that there are fewer crowds and prices are lower.
Best time to visit Bali for fewer crowds
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back Bali experience, book during the low season — typically October to November or February to March. While you might encounter some rain, you'll enjoy quieter beaches, shorter queues, and better deals on flights and accommodation.
Prices
When is the cheapest time to visit Bali?
The cheapest time to travel to Bali is generally in the off-peak months of October, November, February and March. There is often less demand during these months due to the rain, which means that you are likely to get better rates on accommodation, tours and even flights to Bali.
When is the best time to book flights to Bali?
The best time to book a flight to Bali is from 6 weeks to 8 months in advance of your trip, because flight tickets are cheaper the earlier you book. For those who plan to visit Bali during the high season months of July, August, January or December, it's recommended to book your flights even earlier. By booking early, you give yourself the best chance of securing a great price on a flight to Bali. Considering time of day, time of year, and time of booking is important when looking for flights to Bali. Another tip for booking affordable flights to Bali isto keep an eye out for sales and special promotions.
Best time to visit Bali for cheap prices
For a more budget-friendly Bali escape, aim to travel during the off-peak months of October, November, February or March. These months offer affordable accommodation, cheaper flights and discounted tours, making them ideal for cost-conscious travellers who don’t mind a bit of rain in exchange for serious savings.
Activities
Bali is known for its incredible outdoor experiences — from swimming and surfing to hiking, snorkelling and diving. But with many of these activities dependent on the weather, timing your trip can make a big difference.
Below is a breakdown of the best time to visit for each activity.
When is the best time to surf in Bali?
With its tropical climate and year-round warm water temperatures (26 – 30°C), Bali is an excellent surfing destination any time of year. That said, the best time to surf in Bali is from April to October, according to Bali's top surf schools. In these months, strong offshore winds create large swells on Bali’s west coast beaches like Padang Padang, Echo Beach and Bingin Beach.
The wet season (November-April) still offers great surfing conditions, especially on east-coast breaks like Nusa Dua, Serangan and Sanur. This is because the offshore winds change direction during the wet season months, creating big swells in those areas. As there are fewer tourists visiting Bali in the wet season, it's a great option for a quieter surfing trip with fewer crowds around.
For beginners wanting to take a surfing lesson in Bali, we recommend doing so during the dry season (April to October) when the weather is more predictable and waves are generally smaller and more manageable.
When is the best time to dive in Bali?
Thanks to warm ocean temperatures ranging between 26°C and 30°C year-round, Bali is a popular diving destination no matter the season. However, underwater visibility drops in Bali's wet season, when increased rainfall and rougher seas contribute to murky waters. The best time to dive in Bali is between May and November when the waters are calm, visibility is high and there's optimal conditions for witnessing Bali's coral and marine life. For the highest likelihood of seeing Manta Rays, plan your Bali dive in October, but to witness Mola Mola, we recommend diving between August and October.
Here are the ideal times to dive in Bali to see other types of marine life:
- Manta Rays: October
- Molta Mola (Oceanic Sunfish): August to October
- Seahorses: July to November
- Whitetip and Blacktip reef sharks: July to November
- Hawksbill turtle: April to September
Sea creatures aside, there are more than 400 species of coral and a host of shipwrecks to explore when diving in Bali – so check out Bali’s famous diving spots around Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Padangbai. Just keep in mind, these areas get quite busy during Bali’s peak holiday period of July and August, so some of the lesser-known Bali diving spots are your best bet if you want to avoid crowds.
When is the best time to snorkel in Bali?
With an abundance of colourful marine life and year-round warm ocean temperatures, Bali offers great snorkelling opportunities no matter when you plan to visit. However, snorkelling conditions during Bali's wet season are often challenging due to strong currents and low visibility. The best time to snorkel in Bali is from May to September, when the weather is typically warm, the ocean is calm and clear, and marine life is particularly active. Many of Bali's most incredible sea creatures, like Sea Turtles and Mola Mola (Oceanic Sunfish), come out to play in this period.
For the calmest waters, plan your snorkelling trip for early in morning or later in the evening.
When is the best time to party in Bali?
Bali boasts a lively nightlife scene every day of the year – with the exception of the religious holiday of Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, when all venues are closed and festivities pause. While there’s always a party happening somewhere, the best time to party in Bali is usually during the months of July, August and December. During this time, tourists flock to Bali, creating an electric atmosphere in Bali's bars, beach clubs and nightclubs that often lasts until the early hours of the morning.
Bali is also the kind of place where the party can start well before sunset — especially at iconic beach clubs like Potato Head, Café del Mar, and Ku De Ta. Nightlife typically kicks off late, with most clubs opening after midnight, but the energy lasts all night, seven days a week. Whether it’s a Tuesday or a Saturday, Bali’s party scene stays buzzing, attracting a mix of backpackers, holidaymakers, and locals.
For those interested in live performances or music festivals in Bali, it’s worth checking the schedule ahead of your trip. Bali has hosted a growing number of international music events in recent years. Past lineups have included Joyland Festival, with acts like M.I.A., Phoenix, and Sigrid, and Dream Machine, featuring Boy & Bear, Client Liaison, Girl Talk, and Peking Duk.
When is the best time to fish in Bali?
Bali’s warm waters create ideal conditions for fish like tuna and barracuda to thrive, making it a great destination for fishing enthusiasts year-round. However, the best time for fishing in Bali is typically March to May and September to November, when water conditions are at their calmest and a wider variety of fish species, including mahi-mahi, cobia and tuna, are more commonly found in Bali’s best fishing spots.
Here are the ideal times to fish in Bali according to different species:
- Mahi-Mahi: June to October
- Coba: July and August
- Tuna: May to December
- Grouper: June to November
- Barracuda: All year round
Early mornings are considered the optimal time of day for fishing in Bali, when the water is calmest.
When is the best time to kitesurf in bali?
While Bali is famous for great surf throughout the year, kitesurfing conditions can be a little trickier due to less predictable wind patterns. That said, the best time to kitesurf or kiteboard in Bali is typically from June to August, when peak wind speeds average between 12-13 km/h. May and September can also offer decent conditions for those with a bit more kitesurfing experience.
Keep in mind that July and August are peak holiday months in Bali, so local kitesurfing schools and beaches may be more crowded during this time.
When is the best time to go whitewater rafting in Bali?
Whitewater rafting in Bali is possible year-round, but the best time depends on your abilities and the kind of experience you're after. For beginners or families, the dry season from May to October offers calmer, more manageable waters. On the other hand, if you're chasing more intense rapids and are experience, the wet season (November to April) is ideal, as heavy rains increase water flow and ramp up the adrenaline.
When is the best time to hike in Bali?
While Bali is often associated with water activities like swimming and surfing, it's an excellent place to trek as well. The best time to hike in Bali is between May and September, which are the dry season months. This period offers fantastic weather conditions and clear views when climbing popular Bali mountains like Mt Batur and Mt Agung. The wet season months from November to April are not as ideal for hiking in Bali, when frequent rain makes trails muddy and there is a higher risk of slipping on rocks or surfaces.
When is the best time to visit Bali's rice terraces?
Known for their stunning beauty, Bali’s rice fields like Tegallalang Rice Terrace in Ubud or Jatiluwih in West Bali are favourite attractions for travellers to Bali.
The ideal time to visit Bali’s rice fields is from January to March and from August to September, as these are the periods just before the rice is harvested. The wet season months from November to April are generally an excellent time to visit Bali’s rice terraces, as the significant rainfall makes the paddies lush and green. Just keep in mind there might be a lot of mud as well.
Visit the rice paddies early in the morning or late in the afternoon if you want to avoid the heat and crowds. It usually takes about 30-90 minutes to explore the fields.
Special occasions
When is the best time to visit Bali for a family holiday?
The best time for a family holiday in Bali is between July and August, when weather conditions are perfect for family activities like swimming and snorkelling, visiting water parks, and exploring temples and rice terraces. These months also coincide with Australian winter school holidays, making it a great time to escape the cold for a tropical break while the kids are off school.
July and August offer Bali’s most reliable weather, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C, minimal rainfall, and up to 10 hours of sunshine per day — perfect for keeping kids entertained without interruption.
To make the most of a family getaway, it’s recommended to book accommodation at Bali's popular family-friendly resorts in areas like Ubud, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran and Sunar well in advance. Booking early not only secures your preferred resort but can also gives you a better chance to get a great deal on room rates.
December is another popular time to plan a family trip to Bali, with many taking advantage of the school holidays and office closures over the Christmas and New Year period. However, keep in mind that this is one of the busiest times to visit Bali. Despite the high chance of rain that comes in December, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to be enjoyed between intermittent showers, including Waterbom Bali, Bali Treetop Adventure Park, and the Bali Butterfly Park. There are numerous indoor activities that kids love even if it does rain, such as the Bali Museum, Upside-Down World Bali and Cinepolis cinema.
For families looking to avoid peak travel times, consider travelling in May, June, or September. These months offer plenty of sunshine, fewer crowds, and more competitive prices on flights and accommodation, making them great alternatives for families with flexible schedules.
When is the best time to honeymoon in Bali?
There is generally no bad time for newlyweds to holiday in Bali, but the very best time for a honeymoon in Bali is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is warm and tropical, and waters are crystal clear for activities like swimming and snorkelling. There’s minimal rainfall during this period, meaning there's lots for couples to do – from boat trips and hiking, to enjoying sunset dinner on the beach or lounging poolside at one of Bali’s best honeymoon resorts.
The best time to honeymoon in Bali for cheaper prices and good deals on flights and accommodation is typically any time outside of July, August or December (Bali’s peak tourist periods). February to June and September to November fall outside of Bali's peak tourist season, meaning you'll not only find some budget relief, but you’ll manage to escape the crowds, too.
Keep in mind, the weather in Bali is rainier during the wet season months from November to April. This means that there is typically more rain per day than during the dry season, and that the overall rainfall is greater as well. However, this by no means spoils a honeymoon trip to Bali - in fact places like Ubud are at their lushest during this time, creating a perfect situation for intimate indoor time, couples' massages, and exploring cultural sites together like temples and markets.
When is the best time for a Bali wedding?
When planning your big day, it’s understandable that you would want perfect weather and stunning scenery – which is why it's important to consider Bali’s seasonal weather patterns before locking in a date. The best time to get married in Bali is during the dry season, particularly between May and September, when there's minimal rainfall, lower humidity, and a higher chance of clear skies.
July and August are typically Bali's coolest and driest months, offering the most reliable weather and the best chance for sunshine and clear skies for an outdoor wedding. However, this also makes them the busiest and most expensive times for a wedding in Bali, so it’s recommended to book venues and packages well in advance if you're planning to marry during this peak period.
For couples looking for better value without compromising too much on weather, consider getting married in May, June or September. These shoulder months still offer great conditions but come with fewer crowds and more competitive rates for venues and accommodation.
For those planning an indoor wedding in Bali, the wet season from November to April is an excellent time to secure off-season prices on venues and accommodation. Just be mindful that heavier rain and higher humidity are more likely during these months.
When is the best time to visit Bali for events and festivals?
Bali has a diverse range of cultural and entertainment events that attract visitors from all over the world. The best time to visit Bali for events and festivals is June, July, and August, when the island comes alive with festivals celebrating music, dance, literature, and more.
Here are is a summary of the dates for some of Bali's best loved events and festivals - make sure to check for exact dates ahead of your trip!
- Joyland Festival (typically in March): A music and cultural festival at Peninsula Nusa Dua featuring performances by Indonesian and international musicians.
- BaliSpirit Festival (typically in early May): A celebration of yoga, dance, music and healing that takes place in Ubud and features over 100 workshops, performances, and other events.
- Ubud Food Festival (typically in late May to early June): An annual culinary event that features cooking demonstrations, food talks, workshops, and tastings, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia.
- Bali Arts Festival (typically from mid-June to mid-July): A month-long celebration of Bali's rich cultural heritage, with daily performances of music, dance, and theatre from across the island.
- Bali Kite Festival (typically in July): Colourful and exciting, this event kicks off the windy season with an opening ceremony at Sanur's Padang Galak Beach. Throughout Bali, locals and foreign teams compete against each other with large, intricately designed kites.
- Maybank Marathon (typically in August): A popular marathon race for local and international runners kicking off from the Bali Safari & Marine Park in Gianyar, Bali, with races from 10km to a full marathon.
- Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (typically in late October): A literary festival in the town of Ubud, featuring talks, workshops, performances, and other events.
Towns
Best time to visit Seminyak (May - October)
eminyak is a buzzing beach town on the west coast of Bali, known for its luxury accommodation, beautiful beaches, upscale restaurants, trendy shops and nightlife.
Seminyak has a tropical climate that’s hot all year–round, making it an ideal holiday destination any time of year. However, most consider May to October (Bali's dry season) to be the ideal time to visit Seminyak, because it’s hot (usually between 24°C – 32°C), there’s less chance of rain interrupting a day of activities, and the humidity is lower than the wet season. This is also an ideal time for divers and surfers to take advantage of the clear ocean water off beaches like Double Six and Seminyak Beach.
Seminyak is famous for its bustling nightlife, so if music and dancing is high on your list, you won’t be disappointed with the non-stop schedule of events and parties that take place in July, August, and December. The beach bars are a must-visit any time of year, too, but make sure to set yourself up at a table between 6pm and 7pm to watch the incredible sunset.
While there are plenty of things to do in Seminyak, it’s only about 15-minutes away from Kuta and Legian, and roughly 20-minutes from Canggu when the traffic is light.
Best time to visit Ubud (May - September)
Nestled in the heart of Bali, the town of Ubud is renowned for its sprawling rice paddies, lush rainforests, and rejuvenating yoga and wellness retreats.
The ideal time to come to Ubud is in the dry season, particularly between May and September, when the weather is hot and sunny during the day and cool at night. Temperatures typically range between 22°C and 31°C during this time, and it rains 3 days per month on average. These conditions are perfect to stroll through the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces, swim at the Tegenungan Waterfall or hike the Campuhan Ridge Walk.
Ubud tends to be quieter from January to April, making it a great time to see the likes of the The Ubud Palace and Tirta Empul temple with fewer crowds. Budget-conscious travellers should earmark a visit for February, when prices are often lowest with deals on accommodation.
Ubud’s most popular activities can be enjoyed even in the rain, which tends to be warm and seems to amplify the feeling of peace and tranquility that it's renowned for. The nearby rice terraces and waterfalls thrive in Ubud’s wet season and are usually at their lushest between January and March. Ubud’s famous yoga, wellness and spiritual retreats run all year long, and you can gain entry to Ubud’s temples daily throughout the year. There are plenty of things to do in Ubud even on rainy days, including relaxing in day spas, wandering through museums and visiting the local markets.
Best time to visit Canggu (May - October)
The laidback village of Canggu on Bali’s south coast is often described as a relaxed, bohemian paradise that offers some of the best food, beaches, nightlife and atmosphere in Bali.
The recommended time to travel to Canggu is typically from May to October (Bali’s dry season) when the weather is hot (the temperature typically ranges from 25°C to 28°C) and rainfall is minimal. This weather is perfect for beach hopping, lounging in the sun, and for surfers looking to take advantage of clear weather and optimal ocean swell.
Weather conditions for Canggu’s outdoor activities are ideal in July and August, especially when it comes to surfing. Just keep in mind these months are the peak holiday season and generally the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
To avoid Canggu’s crowds but still take advantage of the dry season weather, plan to visit between May and June or between September and October.
Budget-conscious travellers will find lower prices for Canggu in November, February and March, as it’s the wet season and prices on flights and accommodation tend to drop. Keen surfers and swimmers are likely to be impacted by the rain, but there are still plenty of things to do in Canggu. The rain also brings a great opportunity to explore Canggu’s indoor attractions, like its trendy boutiques and spas.
Best time to visit Uluwatu (May - October)
Located on the south-west coast of Bali, Uluwatu is a coastal town famous for its dramatic clifftop-views and sacred Pura Luhur Uluwatu temples.
The optimal time to visit Uluwatu is usually from May to October (Bali’s dry season) when the average daily temperature typically ranges between 24°C – 29°C and there is minimal chance of rain to interrupt swimming, surfing, and outdoor activities. During Bali's dry season, there's still a low chance of infrequent and brief showers, but not enough to hamper a day of surfing, swimming, or taking in the panoramic views from the clifftops.
Uluwatu is often busiest in the peak holiday period from July to August, so avoid these months to steer clear of the crowds and expensive rates on hotels and accommodation.
Best time to visit Kuta (May - June, September - October)
Situated on Bali’s south coast and close to the airport, Kuta is famous for its beaches, surfing spots, lively nightlife, and shopping.
The ideal time to visit Kuta is from May to June and from September to October, which falls in the dry season when the weather is mostly hot with little rain and outside of peak season, so the area is less crowded.
During the dry season (May – October), expect average daily temperatures that typically fall between 24°C and 30°C, making it an ideal time for swimming and surfing at the famous Kuta Beach or visiting Waterbom water park.
Even in the wet season, there are still plenty of things to do in Kuta for the whole family, including attractions like the trampoline park at Bali Mall Galleria, Upside Down World and Armada Flow House, or the traditional Balinese magic show at Kuta Theatre.
When is the best time to visit islands near Bali?
Many visitors to Bali choose to explore the islands which surround Bali, including the Gili Islands and the Nusa Islands. The optimal time to visit the islands in and around Bali is during the dry season from May to October, when the frequently clear and sunny weather conditions are ideal for island hopping and water activities. Gili Trawangan, Nusa Penida, Komodo and Lombok are just some of the best islands around Bali. Check the tour schedules for these locations in advance to ensure the best timing for your trip.
Be careful if planning to island hop around the islands near Bali in the wet season (November to April), as the weather is sometimes poor in this period with higher rainfall and stronger winds. It's not uncommon that fastboats and ferries cancelled due to the occurrence of rough water conditions. Additionally, wet and windy weather impacts the quality of snorkelling and diving due to poor water visibility.
The best time to visit Komodo Island is from April to June, as this period is ideal for spotting the famous Komodo dragons, which are most active just after Bali’s rainy season.
When is the worst time to visit Bali?
For those who want to prioritise beach time and outdoor activities like hiking, swimming and snorkelling, the worst time to visit Bali is during the wet season from November to April, particularly January. This when Bali experiences higher overall precipitation and a greater number of rainy days compared to the dry season and could impact how you spend your time.
For travellers who prioritise quiet and solitude, the worst time to visit Bali would be from July to August and December to January, which are Bali’s peak tourist seasons and will be the most crowded. These would also be the most expensive times to visit Bali, so budget-conscious travellers should avoid travelling to Bali during these months, too.