Best times to visit Bali
"Most people prefer to visit Bali from April to October, when the weather is typically warm, clear and sunny. Visit outside of July and August for cheaper prices and fewer crowds."
Bali is a tropical paradise that has long been a favourite destination for travellers seeking to experience its unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture and ancient traditions. Since the easing of Covid-19 restrictions in March 2022, Bali's tourism industry has bounced back, with more than two million visitors travelling to Bali last year, according to Bali’s Central Bureau of Statistics. With so many people travelling to Bali, the question that's top of mind for many visitors is, when is the ideal time to travel to “the Island of the Gods” these days?
Of course, personal preferences and priorities play a crucial role in planning the ultimate Bali holiday, but timing is equally important. Are you hoping to come when the weather is at its best for the perfect honeymoon? Are you planning an action-packed family holiday at the peak of the surfing and diving season? Or perhaps you are a solo traveller, looking for the cheapest times to visit Bali on a shoestring budget?
in this article, we explore the best time to visit Bali from every vantage point. We provide recommendations for the best weather conditions, the best time to plan a special occasion like a honeymoon or family holiday, the best time for activities such as surfing, diving and snorkelling, the best time to go specific towns like Ubud and Seminyak, the best times to visit locations like rice terraces and mountains, as well as Bali's most popular events and festivals. In short, we cover it all!
For those who want to skip the details, here is a list of the best times to visit Bali for the top considerations.
- For weather: April to October
- To avoid crowds: April to June, September - November
- For surfing: May to September
- For diving: May to November
- For snorkelling: April to September
- For partying: July, August, December
- For a honeymoon: April to October
- For a family holiday: July and August
- For cheap prices: October, November, February, March
For more info, 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
Weather
Bali weather and climate
Bali has a tropical climate, with year-round warm and humid weather. This makes Bali an excellent holiday destination no matter when you visit. Nevertheless, understanding the island's weather patterns is important if you want the best chance of consistently great weather.
Regardless of when you visit Bali, it’s usually warm, with temperatures staying consistently between 21°C and 35°C throughout the year. The humidity, however, usually remains above 80% year-round, and the moisture in the air can make it feel hotter at times.
It's worth noting that Bali has two distinct seasons: the wet season (November – March) and the dry season (April – October).
Wet season (November to March)
Bali’s wet season, also known as the "rainy season", is the annual period of higher rainfall in Bali. The weather tends to be hot and muggy in this half of the year, with higher humidity, fewer sunshine hours and temperatures that range between 22°C – 33°C. Expect a higher chance of rain, especially in December and January when rainfall is highest, keeping in mind that showers are infrequent and usually pass fairly 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. However, there can be prolonged periods of rain at certain times – sometimes for days, causing flooding. It's important to check the forecast in advance and be prepared for rain if you are travelling in this time. Lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibers and a rain jacket or umbrella are recommended.
Dry season (April to October)
Bali's dry season is the annual period of lower rainfall in Bali. During this half of the year, the weather tends to be warm and sunny, with lower humidity, more sunshine hours per day and temperatures ranging between 22°C – 32°C. The advantage of visiting in Bali's dry season is that the weather is more consistently dry, sunny and clear, with cool trade winds blowing from the east to offset the heat. This period is perfect for a tropical vacation as well as outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, snorkelling and diving. On the downside, it does tend to be more crowded and expensive as it's the most popular time of year to visit Bali. Bali's weather is unpredictable, so there is still a chance of rain even during the dry season. Lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibers, plenty of sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.
Best time to visit Bali for weather
Most people prefer to visit Bali during the dry season months from April to October, when the weather is consistently warm, clear and sunny – ideal for water activities and exploring the island. Visit outside of July and August for cheaper prices and fewer crowds.
Come in the shoulder months of April, May, September and October if you don't mind a slight chance of rain, as these months offer a good balance of lower prices and fewer crowds.
Photo by Sergey Chuprin on Unsplash
crowds
Bali is a very popular destination for travel, and it can get quite crowded and expensive during peak season.
High season (July to August)
Peak season (or "high season") refers to the period of the year which is most popular for tourists to visit a destination. Bali’s peak season is between July and 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 to June, September - November)
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.
Best time to avoid crowds
To avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Bali is during the shoulder seasons, which are April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy the island's attractions without the crowds. 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
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 March, 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 the best results, 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 27°C – 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
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 best conditions for diving in Bali are typically between May and November when the waters are calmer, visibility is high and there is the best chance to see Bali's coral and marine life, For the highest likelihood of seeing Manta Rays, plan your dive in October, but if Mola Mola (Oceanic Sunfish) are your priority, you can dive any time between August and October. Bali’s water is always warm, hovering roughly between 27°C – 30°C, so you only need to wear a wetsuit of 3mm.
Here are the best times to visit Bali for other types of marine life:
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Seahorses: July to November
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Whitetip and Blacktip reef sharks: July to November
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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 best 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
Bali is known as a snorkelling paradise, owing to its plethora of marine life and year-round warm water temperatures. The best time to snorkel in Bali is during the dry season from April 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 Ocean Sunfish (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 best time of day for a snorkelling trip, when the water is calmest.
Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash
Best time for partying
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 best 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
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 best times to visit Bali for certain types of fishing:
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Mahi-Mahi: June to October
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Coba: July and August
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Tuna: May to December
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Grouper: June to November
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Barracuda: All year round
Early mornings are considered the best 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
While Bali is famous for its surfing, kitesurfing is also possible – though the wind conditions for kitesurfing are often not ideal. The best time for kitesurfing (or “kiteboarding”) in Bali is typically from June to August when peak wind speeds average between 12km/h and 15km/h. Kite surfers can also experience reasonable conditions any time from May to September.
Sanur is considered the best 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
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.
There are two main periods considered the best time for whitewater rafting in Bali: April to October in the dry season, and November to March in the wet season. It’s recommended for beginners to practice rafting during the dry season when the water tends to be calmer. During the wet season, heavy rainfall and storms can impact the intensity of the rapids, making it more suitable to advanced rafters.
Rafting is a great activity for groups of friends or a family holiday, and you can even book white water rafting tours with lunch included.
Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash
special occasions
Best time to visit Bali for a honeymoon
With its relaxing tropical climate, incredible natural scenery, luxury accommodation and never-ending list of things to do, Bali is one of the best places for a romantic getaway.
There is generally no bad time to honeymoon in Bali, but many newlyweds choose to come in the dry season between April 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 best 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
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 best 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.
For the very best chance 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 March – 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
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 22°C and 31°C, rainfall is minimal and there is an average of 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 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 best ways to save money is by traveling during the low season, which is typically from October to March (excluding Christmas and New Year). 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 from October to November and February to 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?
There are two main periods when its usually the cheapest time to fly to Bali – the first is from October to November, and the second is from February to 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
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 April to October (Bali’s dry season) to be the best time to visit Seminyak, because it’s hot (usually between 24°C – 30°C), there’s less chance of rain interrupting a day of activities, and the humidity is lower than the wet season. This is also the best 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
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 30°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
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 best time to travel to Canggu is typically from April 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 best 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 April 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
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 best time to visit Uluwatu is usually from April 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 best 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
Situated on Bali’s south coast and close to the airport, Kuta is famous for its beaches, surfing spots, lively nightlife, and shopping.
The best time to visit Kuta is in the dry season from April to June and from September to October, when the weather is mostly hot with little rain and the area is less crowded.
During the dry season (April – October), expect average daily temperatures that typically fall between 24°C to 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
Known for their breathtaking 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 best 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
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 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 best time to visit the islands around Bali is typically during the dry season from April 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. The best time to spot the turtles, and even swim alongside them, is typically at high tide.
Best time to hike Bali mountains
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, it's best to hike Bali's mountains between May and September, which are dry season months. April and October are also good months to hike, but as they fall during Bali's shoulder seasons, there is a higher chance of rain, 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.
It’s best to 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
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 March 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.
