If you plan a trip to the Island of the Gods, stay tuned for the following article. Find out what is the best time of the year to visit Bali Island in Indonesia based on the season, activities you can do, and what to pack. We also share tips on the worst weather to visit and the best conditions for surfing. Don’t miss out!
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Visit Bali Island in Indonesia during the best time of the year
You can visit Bali anytime, but your experience will be different depending on when you go. Bali has a tropical climate, so it stays warm throughout the year, with just two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season.
The wet season in Bali lasts from November to March and brings heavy rain and high humidity. During this time, there are fewer tourists, and some activities might be affected by the weather. However, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds. The temperature in Bali stays between 23°C and 32°C (73°F to 89°F) all year, with the hottest months being from April to October. The wet season is more humid, and although it rains frequently, the rain usually comes in short bursts rather than lasting all day.
The dry season in Bali runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is warmer and sunnier with little rain. It’s the busiest time for tourists, so places can be crowded and prices for hotels and flights can be higher. It’s the best time for outdoor activities like sightseeing and going to the beach because the weather is more reliable. In contrast, the wet season brings rain, but it usually doesn’t last long, though it can cause occasional disruptions.
Although there are cultural events and festivals throughout the year, the weather and crowds are important factors to consider when deciding the best time to visit Bali.
What is the weather like during Bali’s dry season?
The dry season comprises April, May, June, July, August, September and October. During this period, rainfall is low and days tend to be sunny with clear skies. Humidity also tends to be lower, making the weather more pleasant. Temperatures are warm, generally between 25°C and 30°C. However, in mountainous areas, nights can be cooler.
July and August are considered high season due to holidays in Europe and Australia, so there are more tourists and prices tend to be higher. To avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices, the best time of the year to visit Bali Island in Indonesia is in May, June, or September, during the dry season.
Top activities and events to enjoy in Bali’s dry season
Bali’s dry season has nice weather with less rain and clear skies, considered the best time of the year to visit Bali Island in Indonesia and fully enjoy all it has to offer. It’s perfect for activities like scuba diving and snorkeling, with calm, clear waters great for exploring coral reefs in places like Nusa Penida and Amed. If you like surfing, the best spots are Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Canggu.
You can also explore on land by hiking Mount Batur or Mount Agung or cycling on safe, mud-free trails. Take an Island-Hopping excursion and visit nearby islands without worrying about strong waves and high winds. Take part in cultural festivals such as Galungan and Kuningan to learn more about the rich Balinese tradition. If it coincides with your visit, enjoy the Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Seni Bali), an annual event that celebrates Balinese art with music, dance, and art exhibitions.
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Essential items to bring for Bali’s dry season
For your trip, pack lightweight clothing like t-shirts, shorts, and dresses, perfect for warm weather. Bring several swimming costumes or swimming shorts to enjoy the beaches, along with a sarong or light towel to use as a cover-up at the beach or when visiting temples. Sandals or flip-flops are ideal for walking on the beach or exploring tourist areas, while comfortable shoes will be useful for short walks.
Don’t forget sun protection, bring hats, sunglasses, and waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30+). For electronics, a universal adapter (types C & F) is essential, along with a portable battery and a waterproof camera. Other must-haves include a reusable water bottle, a basic first aid kit, and insect repellent.
What is the weather like during Bali’s wet season?
The wet season in Bali includes November, December, January, February, and March, bringing increased rainfall, higher humidity, and warm temperatures. January is typically the wettest month, with rainfall averaging between 234 to 287 mm, and sometimes reaching up to 350 mm. The rain usually comes in short bursts rather than continuous downpours, and there are often sunny periods in between.
Humidity levels are consistently high, often exceeding 80%, peaking at around 85% in January. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable due to the humid conditions. Daily temperatures generally range between 22°C and 33°C. The warmest months tend to be November and April, while January tends to be cooler with maximum temperatures around 26°C.
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Top activities and events to enjoy in Bali’s wet season
Even though it’s the wet season in Bali, there are still plenty of activities and events to enjoy, despite the rain. In fact, it can be one of the best times to visit Bali. You can check out water parks like Waterbom Bali, where you can have fun on exciting water slides and play in areas designed for kids. If you enjoy water sports, you can also try Bali Wake Park, where you can enjoy wakeboarding and other water activities. These attractions are perfect for making the most of your time in Bali, even when the weather isn’t ideal.
You can unwind with spa treatments at places like The Samaya in Seminyak, where you can enjoy relaxing views of the Indian Ocean. If you’re into wellness, join yoga classes or spend time at retreats like Gaia Retreat Center in Ubud, which offers a peaceful escape. For a more hands-on experience, you can try making traditional Balinese jewelry or learn wood carving at local workshops in Mas Village. If you’re a foodie, take cooking classes in Ubud or Seminyak to learn how to prepare authentic Balinese dishes and discover the secrets of local flavors.
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Visit museums like the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) to learn about Bali’s history and local art. If the weather isn’t too stormy, this is also a great time for surfing or snorkeling because the waves can be perfect due to the constant wind. After the rain, the landscapes are especially beautiful, with the lush greenery of plantations and waterfalls looking even more vibrant. Be sure to take some photos to capture the stunning scenery.
Essential items to bring for Bali’s wet season
When visiting Bali during the wet season, it’s essential to pack wisely. For clothing, bring T-shirts, shorts, and dresses for warm weather, along with several swimsuits or swimming shorts for enjoying the beaches. Sandals are ideal for walking on the beach or in tourist areas, while waterproof shoes are a must for rainy days. Sun protection is also important, so don’t forget hats, sunglasses, and waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30+). For the rain, pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, a waterproof bag to protect your electronics, and a compact sunshade. Other accessories to consider include insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, universal adapters (types C & F), and a portable charger.
Travel tips for visiting Bali any time of year
Stay connected with mobile data
When visiting Bali, it’s important to stay connected and informed. One way to easily access real-time local information and stay in touch with friends is by using a Yoho Mobile eSIM. With it, you won’t need Wi-Fi to keep up with updates and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
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Avoid traveling to Bali during the worst time to visit
Don’t visit Bali during the worst time which is the wet season, from November to April. During this period there is heavy rainfall, high humidity levels, and possible flooding or landslides. The wettest months are December and January, with an average of up to 350 mm and high humidity exceeding 80%. Although temperatures are warm, averaging between 24°C and 31°C, the humidity makes it feel more intense.
Heavy rains can disrupt activities like diving and surfing because of murky waters and strong currents. Natural tourist sites may be affected by temporary flooding and landslides. Despite the weather challenges, accommodation and activities are often cheaper and more accessible because of lower tourist traffic. The frequent rain also makes the green landscapes even more beautiful.
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What is the best time to visit Bali for surfing?
The best time of the year to visit Bali Island in Indonesia for surfing is during the dry season. The east-southeast wind creates strong, consistent waves on the west coast, making it perfect for experienced surfers. We recommend spots like Uluwatu for long tube waves, Padang Padang for fast waves suitable for advanced surfers, and Bingin for more accessible waves.
During the wet season, the winds shift east, making the east coast more popular. For example, Keramas is great for intermediate surfers because of its fast, consistent waves. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) have a mix of sunny and rainy days, making them perfect if you want to avoid crowds and still catch good waves. Balangan is a great spot for both beginners and experts, offering different types of waves.
