Best time to visit Bali
Like any tropical paradise worth its (sea) salt, Bali is a fantastic destination all year round. But the best time to travel there depends on your own priorities.
OVERVIEW - WHEN SHOULD I HEAD TO BALI?
There are four key factors to consider when deciding on the best time to visit Bali. The main factor to consider for most visitors is weather. The other three factors are crowds, prices and activities. Of course, the weighting of each factor largely depends on your personal situation and preferences.
1. Weather
Weather is a primary consideration when planning a trip to Bali, because it directly affects the types of activities you can engage in and the overall enjoyment of your visit.
The good news is that Bali is warm and humid throughout the year - no matter what time you travel. However, Bali's tropical climate has a distinct wet and dry season, each offering unique advantages.
Dry Season
During the dry season, which spans from May to October, the weather tends to be clear and sunny, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like sunbathing, hiking, and exploring the island.
Wet Season
The wet season, from November to April, brings higher rainfall, creating a lush and vibrant landscape. While it may be hotter, rainier, and more humid during the wet season, it’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in spa retreats, or witness breathtaking waterfalls amidst the lush greenery.
2. Crowds
Crowds are another crucial consideration when planning a trip to Bali, as they significantly impact the level of tranquility, accessibility to attractions, and overall atmosphere to expect during your stay. Bali's calendar in terms of tourist numbers is split into high season, low season and shoulder seasons.
High Season
Bali tends to be more crowded, and therefore pricier, in the peak tourist seasons from June to July and later in the year around Christmas and New Year. Avoid these periods, or book well in advance, if you want fewer crowds or to get the best deals on flights and accommodation.
Shoulder Seasons
The shoulder seasons fall on either side of high season, from April-June and September-October. These months are an excellent time to travel for great weather, fewer crowds and better prices.
Low Season
Low season in Bali lasts from November to March, excluding the busy Christmas/New Year period. While the weather is slightly more unpredictable in this period, with occasional showers and storms, temperatures are still warm and it's an excellent opportunity to get lower rates on flights and accommodation.
3. Prices
For most travellers to Bali, accommodation prices is an important consideration when planning a trip. Besides choosing accommodation that matches your budget, the period in which you choose to visit Bali usually has a significant impact on the overall affordability of your trip.
The best time to visit Bali for lower prices is during the low season (November-March), because there are fewer people competing for accommodation. The next best time is during the shoulder seasons (April-June, September-October), while the most expensive time is during the high season (June/July, Xmas/New Year).
4. Itinerary
Bali is an incredible destination when it comes to a variety of things to see and do - from snorkelling and diving, to yoga and wellness retreats, to parties and nightlife.
Plan your trip accordingly if you have particular activities or attractions in mind, as conditions are usually more favourable in certain periods rather than others. For example, conditions for watersports and outdoor activities are usually better during the dry season (May-October), rather than the wet season (November to April). Additionally, some attractions are at their best in particular times of year. For example, Ubud's rice fields are at their most lush during the wet season, whilst it's best to hike Mt Batur during the dry season for optimal visibility and safety.
Bali is host to a range of events and retreats throughout the year, so be sure to check out the calendar in advance.
Introduction to the Full Guide
No matter the type of trip you’re planning, our ultimate guide to the best times to visit Bali has everything you need to plan and get the most out of your trip. We deep-dive into each of the factors listed above, and include additional information on the the best time to visit Bali based on who you are travelling with, which area of Bali you choose to stay in and which locations you head to.
Read on!
Photo by Alessio Roversi on Unsplash
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
- Weather
- Crowds
- High season
- Shoulder seasons
- Best time to avoid crowds
- Best time for activities
- Best time for special occasions
- Best time for low prices
- Best time for towns
- Best time for locations
- Worst time to visit Bali
- Best time to visit Bali overall
Weather in Bali
Bali weather and climate
Bali has a tropical climate, with year-round warm and humid weather, with temperatures staying consistently between 20°C and 32°C throughout the year. This makes Bali an excellent holiday destination no matter when you visit.
Bali’s weather and climate is affected by a range of factors, from seasonality and large-scale weather patterns to climate change and monsoon winds. Understanding Bali’s climate is important if you want the best chance of consistently great weather.
The main factor which determines Bali’s weather – including rainfall, sunshine and humidity – is whether it is wet or dry season.
Wet season (November to April)
The weather during Bali’s wet season tends to be rainy, hot and muggy, with higher humidity, fewer sunshine hours and temperatures that range between 22°C – 32°C.
There is a higher chance of rain during this period, especially in December and January which are Bali’s wettest months. Nevertheless, showers are infrequent and usually pass quickly – and there are at least 5 sunshine hours per day in Bali.
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.
Lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibres and a rain jacket or umbrella are recommended.
Dry season (May to October)
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 still rains and sometimes storms during the dry season. Given the weather is so nice, 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 ideal for a tropical vacation filled with outdoor activities like swimming hiking, surfing, snorkelling and diving.
Lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibres, plenty of sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.
Best time to visit Bali for weather (May - October)
Most people prefer to visit Bali during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is typically warm and clear - perfect for water activities and exploring the island. Visit outside of July and August for cheaper prices and fewer tourists.
This year will be drier than previous years as La Niña has officially come to an end, which is an added bonus for those banking on clear and sunny weather.
Photo by Sergey Chuprin on Unsplash
crowds
Bali is a beloved tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the globe, and with popularity comes crowds. During the high season, Bali can become packed and costly, so it's important to plan your trip accordingly.
High season (July to August)
High season, also known as 'peak' season' or 'peak tourist season', refers to the period of a year which is most popular for tourists to visit a destination. Bali’s peak tourist season runs from July to August, corresponding with Australian winter and mid-year school holidays, though it’s also very busy from December to mid-January (due to the Christmas and New Year break).
Shoulder seasons (April - June, September - October)
The term 'shoulder seasons' refers to the period of the year between the high season and low season when it's less crowded and prices are generally lower. The shoulder seasons fall on either side of peak season and are typically characterised by good weather conditions and fewer tourists. As July and August are peak tourist season in Bali, the shoulder seasons are considered to be April-June and September-October,
Best time to avoid crowds in Bali (April - June, September - October)
To steer clear of tourists, the ideal time to visit Bali is during the shoulder seasons, which are April to June and September to October. These months falls in the dry season, meaning the weather is usually pleasant, but outside of peak tourist season - so there are fewer crowds at Bali's hotspots and major attractions. Additionally, weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends, so plan your activities accordingly.
Avoid crowds at Bali’s main tourist attractions by arriving early in the morning.
Photo by Made Caesario on Unsplash
activities
Best time to visit Bali for surfing (May - September)
Bali is an excellent surfing destination year-round. That being said, most experienced surfers prefer to surf in Bali from May to September, when clear water, strong offshore winds and large swells combine for perfect conditions on Bali’s west coast beaches. The wet season is still a great time to surf as well, especially on east coast breaks such as Nusa Dua, Serangan and Sanur. During the wet season months of November to April, the offshore winds change direction, meaning big swells without the surf crowds of peak season.
It’s recommended for beginners to learn to surf in the dry season – though expect bigger crowds in July and August when the larger, more consistent swells attract a lot of surfers. For proper guidance, seek out one of the many local surf instructors who can show you the best surf spots in Bali without the stress of figuring things out on your own.
Whether you come in the dry season or the wet season, ocean temperatures remain luxuriously warm at 26 – 30°C all year in Bali, meaning there is no truly bad time to surf – and you can leave your wetsuit at home!
Best surf spots during the dry season: Kuta, Canggu, Uluwatu, Pandang Pandang, Bingin, Dreamland.
Best surf spots during the wet season: Green Bowl, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Serangan, Keramas, Sri Lanka .
Best time for diving in Bali (May - November)
Bali is home to some of the most beautiful diving spots in the world, and if you pick the right time to visit, you’ll be rewarded with incredible underwater views. The most ideal conditions for diving in Bali are typically between May and November when the waters are calmer, visibility is high and there a greater chance to see Bali's coral and marine life, For the highest likelihood of seeing Manta Rays, plan your dive in October, but dive any time between August and October to see Mola Mola (Oceanic Sunfish). Bali’s water is always warm, hovering roughly between 26 – 30°C, so you only need to wear a wetsuit of 3mm.
Here are the prime times to visit Bali for other types of marine life:
-
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 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 you may want to consider some of the lesser-known (but equally beautiful) diving areas in Bali.
Bali is an extremely popular place to learn to dive, which is easily arranged through one of the many diving schools. It takes as little as two to four days to receive diving certification in Bali.
Best time for snorkelling in Bali (May - September)
Bali is known as a snorkelling paradise, owing to its plethora of marine life and year-round warm water temperatures. The optimal time to snorkel in Bali is during the dry season from May to September, when the outside weather is hot, the water is calm and clear, and marine life is thriving. Bali is host to an incredible array of sea creatures, from Manta Rays and Mola Mola to Clownfish and Sea Turtles.
Although the wet season does offer periods of sunshine, snorkelling conditions can be challenging with strong currents and low visibility. Some snorkelling trips can even be cancelled due to the poor weather and unsafe water conditions.
There are a host of excellent snorkelling destinations around Bali. Beaches such as Amed or the Blue Lagoon at Padang Bai are ideal for first timers, where you can snorkel off the shore. When planning a day trip for snorkelling, it's important to note that some of the best snorkelling spots in Bali are accessible by boat. Head to the Nusa Islands for a chance to see the elusive Mola Mola, and Gili Trawangan for an unforgettable experience snorkelling alongside turtles.
Early mornings or late evenings are considered the ideal time of day for a snorkelling trip, when the water is calmest.
Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash
Best time for partying in Bali (July, August and December)
Bali boasts a lively party scene, offering lots of options for dancing, drinking and socialising – from trendy bars and iconic beach clubs during the day, to nightclubs and live music events in the evening. Especially in areas like Kuta, Seminyak and the emerging party town of Canggu, you can enjoy a party every day of the week in Bali.
To experience the best of Bali’s party scene, it’s recommended to plan your trip during the months of July, August and December. During these months, Bali's party season is in full swing, drawing large crowds and creating an electric atmosphere that lasts until the early hours of the morning.
That being said, world-class DJs and international artists play Bali’s biggest clubs year-round and the top bars and clubs in Bali are always heaving, so there’s bound to be a good party happening whenever you visit.
Since the onset of the Covid pandemic, Bali’s annual festival scene has changed somewhat. Still, festival-goers can look forward to the Joyland Festival in March, featuring headliners such as M.I.A., Phoenix and Sigrid, and the Dream Machine festival in June, with performances from the likes of Boy & Bear, Client Liaison, Girl Talk, and Peking Duk.
For those who want to get the evening celebrations started early, Bali's sunset cocktail bars such as Potato Head, Café del Mar, and Ku De Ta are the perfect place to begin. Most clubs in Bali open after midnight, and the festivities typically continue until the early hours of the morning, seven days a week. Weekdays can be just as lively as the weekends, attracting backpackers and locals alike.
Best time for fishing in Bali (March - May, September - November)
Bali’s unique geography, including its shallow coral reefs and deep oceanic trenches, provides a diverse range of marine habitats that support a wide variety of fish species – including Mahi-Mahi, Dogtooth, and Tuna. Additionally, Bali’s warm water provide ideal conditions for fish to thrive, making it an excellent location for fishing enthusiasts. Bali is also an excellent location for big-game fishing and using a range of fishing techniques such as jigging, popping and trolling.
The ideal time for fishing in Bali is March to May and September to November. During these periods, the water conditions are optimal, and anglers can find a wide variety of fish species, including Mahi-Mahi, Cobia and Tuna, in Bali’s best fishing spots.
Here are the ideal times to visit Bali for certain types of fishing:
-
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 a fishing trip in Bali, when the water is calmest.
Full and half day fishing charters are available for booking and will give you the equipment and local knowledge you need to haul in the big one!
Best time for kitesurfing in Bali (June - August)
While Bali is famous for its surfing, kitesurfing is also possible – though the wind conditions for kitesurfing are often not ideal. The most opportune time time for kitesurfing (or “kiteboarding”) in Bali is typically from June to August when peak wind speeds average between 12km/h and 13km/h. Kite surfers can also experience reasonable conditions any time from May to September.
Sanur is considered a great spot for beginner kite surfers, with lessons available through the local surf schools. For the more advanced, check out Canggu – just keep in mind that July and August are peak holiday months, and it may be crowded during this time.
Best time for whitewater rafting in Bali (May - October for beginners, November - April for advanced)
For those with a love for both natural beauty and thrilling adventure, whitewater rafting is the perfect activity – with excellent locations available in Bali like the Ayung River, the Telaga Waja River, and the Melangit River.
Whitewater rafting in Bali is excellent year-round, but the dry season months from May to October are better suited for beginners due to calmer waters. The wet season months from November to April are suited to advanced rafters as heavy rainfall and storms can increase the intensity of the rapids. That being said, it's important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, and conditions may vary depending on the day and location
Rafting is a great activity for groups of friends or a family holiday, and you can even book whitewater rafting tours with lunch included.
Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash
special occasions
Best time to visit Bali for a honeymoon (May - October)
With its relaxing tropical climate, breathtaking natural scenery, luxury accommodation and never-ending list of things to do, Bali is one of the romantic places for a getaway with your loved one.
There is generally no bad time to honeymoon in Bali, but many newlyweds choose to come in the dry season between May and October when the weather is warm and tropical, and waters are crystal clear. There’s minimal rainfall during this period, meaning there's lots for couples to do – from snorkelling and hiking, to enjoying sunset dinner on the beach or lounging poolside at one of Bali’s best honeymoon resorts.
Get the great deals on honeymoon packages and accommodation by booking outside of July and August. Not only could you score a luxury villa without blowing the budget, but it also means you’ll escape the crowds of peak season.
Honeymooners looking for great weather, fewer crowds and better deals on flights and accommodation should look to book in May, June or September. While there is always a chance of rain no matter what time you visit, that could be the perfect excuse for a couple’s massage!
Best time to visit Bali for a wedding (May - September)
When planning your perfect day, it’s understandable that you would want perfect weather and scenery as well – which is why many tourists choose to tie the knot in Bali. Individuals of any nationality can marry in Indonesia if they belong to one of the five recognised religions (Buddhism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Islam and Protestantism), according to the Australian Consulate-General in Bali. While marriages entered into under Indonesian Law are recognised in Australia, for ease and convenience many couples choose to conduct the legal side of their wedding in Australia.
The ideal time to plan a wedding in Bali is typically during the dry season, particularly from May to September when there are fewer days of rainfall and humidity is lower. This time of year is most likely to bring ideal weather conditions for your wedding day, and any rainfall is often light and brief.
To increase your chances of sunshine, clear skies, and pleasant weather, plan your Bali wedding in July and August, which are typically Bali’s coolest and driest months. This period tends to be the busiest and most expensive as well, so it’s recommended to book well in advance for Bali’s best wedding resorts and organise wedding packages as early as possible.
Couples looking to plan a wedding when Bali is not as crowded or expensive and still take advantage of Bali’s dry season weather should aim for a May, June or September wedding. These times often have better rates for venues and accommodation for smaller budget weddings, as there is less demand and fewer tourists during this time.
For those planning an indoor wedding, November to April – Bali's wet season – is an excellent time to book for off-season prices on venues and accommodation.
Photo by Darren Lawrence on Unsplash
Best time to visit Bali for family holidays (July - August)
Family holidays call for fun, adventure, entertainment and relaxation – and Bali offers no shortage of unforgettable experiences for parents and children alike.
For those planning a family vacation to Bali, the optimal time to visit is between July and August, when temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C, rainfall is minimal and there is up to 10 sunshine hours per day. These conditions are perfect for family activities like swimming and snorkelling, water park visits, and tours to temples and rice terraces. It's also Australian winter school holidays, making it a great time to escape the cold and take advantage of the kids’ time off school.
For those who haven’t been to Bali before, July and August are Bali’s peak holiday seasons, which means that it tends to be busier and more expensive. It’s recommended to book well in advance into popular family-friendly resorts in areas like Ubud, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran and Sunar to secure good deals on your accommodation. Fortunately, Bali’s family-friendly resorts often cater to the needs of families with facilities like kids’ clubs, babysitting services, and children’s play areas.
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 that can be enjoyed between brief showers, including the Ubud Monkey Forest, the Bali Safari and Marine Park, and the Bali Butterfly Park. There are numerous indoor activities the kids will love, too, like the Bali Museum, Upside-Down World Bali, cinemas and arcades.
For families planning a holiday to Bali outside of the peak school holiday periods, consider booking your trip in May, June or September when there is still plenty of sunshine, as well as fewer crowds, and better deals on flights and accommodation.
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. Here are some of the most popular events in the Bali events calendar:
Joyland Festival (17 – 19 Mar 2023): A music and cultural festival in Jimbaran featuring performances by Indonesian and international musicians. This year Phoenix, Sigrid and M.I.A are headlining. Access their website for tickets and more information.
BaliSpirit Festival (May 4 – 7 2023): A celebration of yoga, dance, music and healing that takes place in Ubud and features over 100 workshops, performances, and other events. Get your tickets here.
Bali Arts Festival (Mid-Jun to mid-Jul 2023): A month-long celebration of Bali's rich cultural heritage, with daily performances of music, dance, and theatre from across the island.
Ubud Food Festival (30 Jun - 2 Jul 2023): An annual culinary event that features cooking demonstrations, food talks, workshops, and tastings, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia. Book tickets here.
Bali Kite Festival (August 2023): 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 (27 Aug 2023): 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. Stay up to date here.
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (18 – 22 Oct 2023): A literary festival in the town of Ubud, featuring talks, workshops, performances, and other events. Get more information here.
FHTBali – Food, Hotel & Tourism Bali (6 – 8 March 2024): An international exhibition showcasing the latest products and services in the food, hospitality, and tourism industries at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Centre in Denpasar. You can register here.
Photo by BaliSpirit Festival
BEST TIME FOR Low prices
Going to Bali on a low budget is definitely possible, especially if you're willing to be flexible and do some research. One of the smartest ways to save money is by traveling during the low season, which is typically from November to April (excluding Christmas and New Year holiday periods). Flights and accommodation are often significantly cheaper during this period, and you can take advantage of lower prices on tours and activities, too.
When is the cheapest time to visit Bali?
The cheapest time to travel to Bali is generally in the off-peak months of 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 accommodations in hotels, resorts, and villas, and find deals for cheap flights to Bali.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Bali?
The cheapest months to fly to Bali are generally November, February and March. Flights from Australia to Bali are often cheapest in February when demand is lower.
The most expensive months to fly to Bali tend to be January, April, June, July and December.
When is the best time to book flights to Bali?
To secure the best fares for flights to Bali, book between six weeks and eight months in advance of your trip. For travel to Bali during the high season months of July and August - as well as the busy December and early January period - it’s recommended to consider booking your flights even earlier.
Photo by Daryl Han on Unsplash
Towns
Best time to visit Seminyak (May - October)
Seminyak 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 watch the monkeys play at the Ubud Monkey Forest.
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 Monkey Forest and 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.
There are a host of events in Ubud throughout the year, so plan the timing of your visit accordingly. Foodies should visit in late June for the Ubud Food Festival, whereas lovers of yoga, dance, and music can check out the BaliSpirit festival in May.
Photo by Niklas Weiss on Unsplash
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 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.
Beyond Uluwatu's breathtaking clifftop views, world-class surf-breaks and exquisite beaches, one of the most popular things to do in Uluwatu is visit Pura Luhur Uluwatu (also known as the Uluwatu Temple), which is considered one of the most sacred spiritual places in Bali. The perfect time to visit the Uluwatu Temple is in the evening around 5pm to view the Kecak dance show and watch the sunset.
Photo by V on Unsplash
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 fall 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.
For parents who want some alone time, book a babysitter and head to Kuta Beach to watch the sunset with a cocktail. Arrive between 6pm and 7pm for a postcard-perfect view.
Locations
Best time to visit Bali rice terraces (June - March, August - September)
Known for their stunning beauty, Bali’s rice fields (also known as rice terraces or “paddies”), allow tourists to experience the agricultural underpinning of traditional Bali life. Whilst many rice fields are located in Ubud, such as the very popular Tegallalang Rice Terrace, some of Bali’s best rice fields are located further afield – like Jatiluwih in West Bali and Rendang in East Bali.
The most ideal time to visit Bali’s rice fields is generally just before the rice is harvested, from January to March in the wet season and from August to September in the dry season. The wet season in general is 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!
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.
Best time to visit the islands near Bali (May - October)
If you're planning a trip to Bali, consider adding a visit to the smaller (but equally beautiful) surrounding islands near Bali to your itinerary. The most popular islands around Bali are the Gili Islands (Trawangan, Air, Meno), the Nusa Islands (Penida, Lembongan, Ceningan), Komodo, Lombok and Java. Each of these islands offer unique experiences that are perfect for day trips or longer stays.
The optimal time to visit the islands around Bali is typically during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is mostly sunny and hot with optimal water conditions for swimming, diving and snorkelling.
Avoid planning a trip to the islands near Bali during the wet season, particularly December and January when heavy rain and strong wind can impact visibility in the water for snorkelling and diving. It’s not uncommon that transport to the islands is cancelled during this time due to rough water conditions.
Plan a visit to Komodo from April to June if you want to spot the famous Komodo dragons, as they tend to be most active after Bali’s rainy season. The ideal time to spot them is usually during the daytime in a shady spot on a sunny day.
Gili Trawangan (also called “Gili T”) is famous for its turtles, which you can get up close and personal with all year round. You have the greatest chance to spot the turtles, and even swim alongside them, at high tide.
Best time to hike Bali mountains (May - September)
While Bali is often associated with its stunning beaches and lush rainforests, it’s also home to eleven impressive mountains including Mount Batur and Mount Agugung.
For optimal weather conditions and clearer views, hike Bali's mountains between May and September, which are dry season months. April and October are also good months to hike, but it's worth noting that there is a higher chance of rain at these times, which can make the trek slippery and muddy.
To avoid the peak holiday crowds, plan your hike to Mount Batur or Mount Agung in May, June, or September. It's recommended to arrive at Mount Batur two hours before sunrise to avoid crowds and experience cooler temperatures. The reward at the peak is an incredible view of the sunrise. Experienced hikers who want to witness the sunrise views from the summit of Mount Agung should start their trek around midnight. When hiking in Bali, it’s important to be prepared. Sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen and a wide-brim hat are recommended. A daypack that can carry water, snacks and a poncho would also be useful.
Avoid visiting Mount Batur and Mount Agung during the wet season, particularly in December and January, when the weather is often too unpredictable for a hike.
Photo by Hugo Villegas on Unsplash
Worst time to visit bali (November - April)
While Bali is a sought-after tourist destination throughout the entire year, there are certain periods that are less ideal for a visit if you have particular preferences such as lower prices, less rain or fewer crowds.
The wet season period from November to April is the worst time to visit Bali if you want to avoid rain, as the rainfall is highest during this time of the year. July and August are Bali’s peak months for tourists and should be avoided for those wanting to dodge crowds and high prices. December and early January are also busier and more expensive than other times of the year, with tourists visiting over the Christmas and New Year holiday period.
best time to visit bali overall (April - june, september - october)
The most ideal time to visit Bali depends on your preferences, budget, interests, and what you want to experience during your trip. For the perfect combination of great weather, lower prices and fewer crowds, come during the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-October. These months fall in the dry season but avoid the peak tourist months of July and August.
