Bali 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 in 2022, 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?
Like any destination, Bali is subject to seasonality and patterns which affect what to expect when you travel. For example, in the dry season months from May to October, the weather is generally sunnier and clearer than the wet season, which makes it a preferred time to travel for those who want the best weather. However, the months of 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 off-peak pricing. Personal preferences and priorities play a crucial role in timing your ideal trip. Some visitors to Bali have specific activities in mind, like surfing, snorkelling or diving, which is why we have researched the best times to visit for these pursuits.
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 a honeymoon: May to October
- For cheap prices: Oct, Nov, Feb, March
- For fewer crowds: Oct-Nov, Nov-March
- For surfing: May to September
- For diving: May to November
- For snorkelling: May to September
- For partying: July, August, December
- For a family holiday: July and August
For more detailed info, read on!
Weather
Bali Weather & 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 is affected by a range of climate factors, which causes variations in rainfall and sunshine hours especially. Understanding Bali’s weather and 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.
Bali Wet Season
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.
Bali Dry Season
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 an ideal tropical vacation destination for 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 (May - October)
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.
The term "dry season" refers to a period of lower rainfall. Bali's dry season runs from May to October according to Australia's Bureau of Meteorology. The advantage of visiting Bali at this time is that the weather is best for outdoor activities and exploring its stunning landscapes. Whilst the term "dry season" implies clear weather and a lack of rain, it's important to understand that it still rains at times, sometimes even for a few days straight.
Crowds
When is Bali's High Season (Peak Tourist 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 lasts from July to August. This 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 are generally lower. The Low Season in Bali is from October-November and from Februrary-March. The advantage of travelling during Bali's Low Season is that there are fewer crowds and prices are lower, but on the downside the weather tends to be more muggy and rainy during these months.
Activities
Bali is famous for it's outdoor activities, like swimming, hiking, surfing, snorkelling and diving. Each of these activities relies on weather conditions, which determine the ideal time to do them in Bali.
Below is a breakdown of the best time to visit for each activity.
When is the Best Time to Surf in Bali?
Bali has a tropical climate with year-round warm (26 – 30°C) water temperatures, making Bali an excellent surfing destination anytime. That being said, the best time to surf in Bali is from April 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, 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. As the wet season is when there are fewer tourists around in Bali, its an ideal time to surf with fewer crowds around.
For those wanting to take a surf lesson in Bali, we recommend doing so during the dry season when the weather is more predictable and waves are generally smaller and more manageable.
When is the Best Time to Dive in Bali?
Bali is a popular place to dive throughout the year, given that ocean temperatures range between 26°C and 30°C all year round. However, underwater visibility tends to be poor in Bali's wet season, with rains and bad weather causing 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 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 its plethora of marine life and year-round ocean temperatures, Bali is a great place to snorkel any time of year. However, snorkelling conditions during Bali's wet season are often challening due to strong currents and low visiibility. The best time to snorkel in Bali is from May to September, when the outside weather is typically warm, the ocean is calm and clear, and marine life is thriving. Many of Bali's most incredible sea creatures, like Sea Turtles and Mola Mola (Oceanic Sunfish), come out to play in this period.
Early mornings or late evenings are considered the ideal time of day for a Bali snorkelling trip, when the water is calmest.
When is the Best Time to Party in Bali?
Bali boasts a lively nightlife scene every day of the year, except for the religious holiday of Nyepi when silence is observed and all venues are closed. That being said, the best time to party in Bali is 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 early hours of the morning.
For those who want to party for longer and enjoy live music, it's worth checking out the schedules for many of Bali's best international music festivals. Festivals this year have included 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.
Bali is the type of place where partying and drinking is even possible during the day, especially at many of the beach clubs like Potato Head, Café del Mar, and Ku De Ta. Most nightclubs in Bali open after midnight, and the festivities typically continue until the early hours of the morning, seven days a week. Weekdays be are just as lively as the weekends, attracting backpackers and locals alike.
When is the Best Time to Fish in Bali?
Bali’s warm water provide ideal conditions for fish like Tuna and Barracuda to thrive, making it an excellent location for fishing enthusiasts all year round. The best time for fishing in Bali is March to May and September to November, when water conditions are optimal and a wide variety of fish species, including Mahi-Mahi, Cobia and Tuna, are 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 through the yeah, kitesurfing conditions aren't as ideal as winds are not consistent. However, the most best time to kitesurf or kiteboard in Bali is typically from June to August, when peak wind speeds average between 12-13 km/h. The kitesurfing conditions in May and September are typically reasonable in Bali as well.
Just keep in mind that July and August are peak holiday months in Bali, and so it tends to get crowded at the local kitesurfing schools during this time.
When is the Best Time to Whitewater Raft in Bali?
Whitewater rafting in Bali is excellent year-round. However, the best time to whitewater raft for beginners is during the dry season from May to October, as the waters are calmer. For those seeking a more intense Bali whitewater rafting experence, the wet season months from November to April are are ideal as heavy rainfall and storms increase the intensity of the rapids. That being said, it's important to note that the weather are unpredictable, and conditions may vary depending on the day and location
Special occasions
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 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.
The best time to honeymoon in Bali for cheaper prices is any month outside of July, August or December. From February to June and September to November, it's possible to get great deals on honeymoon packages and accommodation, without blowing the budget. These months fall outside of Bali's peak tourist season, meaning you'll escape the crowds as well.
Just 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 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 marketsd.
When is the Best Time for a Bali 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. The best time for 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.
July and August are typically Bali's coolest and driest months, so aim for this time if you want to increase your chances of sunshine, clear skies, and pleasant weather on your wedding day. Just keep in mind that 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 get married in Bali when it's cheapest in Bali are advised to choose a date in May, June or September. These months often have better rates for wedding venues and accommodation, as there is less demand and fewer tourists during this time.
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 it rains more during these months.
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 conidtions are perfect for family activities like swimming and snorkelling, water park visits, and tours to temples and rice terraces. These months correlate with winter school holidays in Australia, making it a great time to escape the cold and take advantage of the kids' time off school.
Bali's weather is at it's best in July and August, which is ideal for families because there is less chance of rain showers interrupting activities. During July and August, temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C, rainfall is minimal and there is up to 10 sunshine hours per day.
It’s recommended to book well in advance into Bali's popular family-friendly resorts in areas like Ubud, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran and Sunar. By booking early, parents have a better chance to secure good deals on accommodation.
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 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.
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?
- Joyland Festival (1 – 3 Mar 2024): A music and cultural festival at Peninsula Nusa Dua featuring performances by Indonesian and international musicians.
- BaliSpirit Festival (May 1 – 5 2024): 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 (31 May - 2 June 2024): An annual culinary event that features cooking demonstrations, food talks, workshops, and tastings, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Indonesia.
- Bali Arts Festival (June 15 to July 13 2024): 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 (July 2024): 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 (August 2024): 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 (23 – 27 Oct 2024): A literary festival in the town of Ubud, featuring talks, workshops, performances, and other events.
Best time for low 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 flights to Bali.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Bali?
The cheapest month to fly to Bali is February, because demand is lower. Keep in mind that flying at this time means travelling to Bali during the wet season, when it's generally rainier. The most expensive months to fly to Bali tend to be January, April, June, July and December, due to the ideal weather conditions at this time which attract lots of flight bookings.
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 cheapest flights to Bali. Another tip for booking affordable flights to Bali is choosing a time when sales are on.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Popular Locations
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 most 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.
When is the Best Time to Visit Islands Near Bali?
Many visitors 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 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 Worst Time to Visit Bali?
Bali is a year-round destination, that rarely disappoints no matter when you visit. The worst time to visit Bali is during the wet season from November to April, when Bali experiences higher overall precipitation and a greater number of rainy days compared to the dry season. This hinders some outdoor activities like hiking and occasionally causes extreme weather events.
So, while most visitors find Bali is enjoyable year-round, it's best to plan your visit during the dry season if you prefer drier and sunnier weather.