Best Time to Visit Bali: A Seasonal Travel Guide to the Island of the Gods

From sun-drenched beaches to terraced rice fields and vibrant festivals, Bali is a year-round destination. But when is the best time to visit Bali? That depends on what you're looking for—whether it’s surfing the waves, immersing yourself in local culture, or enjoying quiet hikes through lush jungle. In this Bali travel guide, we break down the island’s weather, seasonal highlights, and practical tips to help you plan the perfect tropical escape.

Bali’s Climate and Geography: What You Need to Know

Located just south of the equator, Bali boasts a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

• Dry Season (April to October): Sunny skies, low humidity, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

• Wet Season (November to March): Humid weather with afternoon rain showers, especially in inland and mountain areas.

Bali’s terrain is diverse—from white sand beaches in the south to volcanic highlands and rainforests in the center and north—so weather patterns can vary by region. Coastal areas like Seminyak, Uluwatu, and Nusa Dua remain popular year-round, while places like Ubud and Mount Batur may see more rainfall and cooler temperatures.

Bali Weather by Season: Month-by-Month Breakdown

Dry Season in Bali (April to October)

Best for: Beaches, diving, hiking, festivals

• April–June: Fewer crowds, lush landscapes after the rains

• July–August: Peak tourism months, especially during European summer holidays

• September–October: Pleasant weather with a slight dip in visitors

Wet Season in Bali (November to March)

Best for: Cultural experiences, fewer tourists, green scenery

• November–January: Rainy afternoons, ideal for indoor activities like spa visits or cooking classes

• February–March: Rain starts to taper off; festivals like Nyepi (Balinese New Year) occur

Feature	Dry Season (April-October)	Wet Season (November-March)
Weather	Sunny, low humidity, minimal rain	Humid, frequent afternoon rain, occasional storms
Best for	Beaches, surfing (west coast), hiking, festivals	Culture, indoor activities, photography, east coast surf
Crowds	High (especially July–August)	Lower, except during Christmas & New Year
Prices	Higher (peak season rates)	Lower (great for budget travelers)
Air quality	Clear skies	May be affected by humidity and haze
Landscape	Drier, golden tones in some regions	Lush, green and vibrant
Travel Tips	Book early, wear sun protection	Bring rain gear, check weather updates

Best Time to Visit Bali for Different Experiences

For Beach Lovers and Sunseekers

Best time to visit Bali:

May to September During these months, the weather is sunny and dry—perfect for lounging in Seminyak, snorkeling in Amed, or island-hopping to Nusa Penida.

For Surfers

Peak surfing season:

May to September (west coast), November to March (east coast) Experienced surfers flock to Uluwatu and Padang Padang during the dry season, while beginners may prefer the calmer breaks in the wet season.

For Festivals and Cultural Events

• Galungan and Kuningan: Spiritual holidays celebrated twice a year

  
  

• Nyepi (March): Balinese Day of Silence, a unique and introspective time to visit

  
  

• Bali Arts Festival (June–July): A month-long celebration of music, dance, and crafts

For Hiking and Nature

Climb Mount Batur at sunrise or trek through Jatiluwih rice terraces—dry season offers the safest and most scenic conditions.

When to Avoid Visiting Bali

Peak Tourism Times

• July–August: High prices and crowded attractions

• Christmas & New Year (late December–early January): Popular with international tourists; book accommodation well in advance

Rainy Season in Bali

While the rainy season can still be enjoyable, it’s best to prepare for:

• Afternoon downpours

• Possible flooding in some areas

• Humid conditions

Bali Travel Tips by Season

Dry Season Travel Tips

• Book hotels and flights early—this is peak travel time

  
  

• Bring sun protection: high UV index

  
  

• Great for road trips and exploring off-the-beaten-path areas

  
  

Wet Season Travel Tips

• Pack light rain gear and quick-dry clothing

  
  

• Take advantage of off-season discounts on accommodation

  
  

• Plan indoor activities like yoga, cooking classes, and temple visits

What Budget to Plan for Bali? (For UK & Ireland Travelers)

Bali is renowned for being an affordable paradise, especially when compared to holiday costs in Europe. Whether you’re a backpacker, a mid-range traveler, or seeking luxury, Bali offers great value for money.

Average Daily Budget in Bali (EUR & GBP)

Travel Style	Per Day (EUR)	Per Day (GBP)	What's Included
Budget	€30–€45	£25–£40	Hostel or guesthouse, local meals, scooter rental
Mid-range	€70–€120	£60–£100	Boutique hotel, dining out, day tours, transport
Luxury	€180+	£150+	Private villa, fine dining, spas, private driver/tours

Note: Flights from the UK or Ireland typically range from €700–€1050 (£600–£900) return, depending on season and layovers.

Seasonal Price Variations

• Dry Season (April–October): Prices for accommodation, activities, and flights tend to rise, especially in July and August.

  
  

• Wet Season (November–March): Excellent deals on hotels and excursions, particularly outside Christmas and New Year holidays.

Money Tips for Bali Travelers

• Cash is still king: Many small vendors accept only cash, especially in rural areas.

  
  

• ATMs are widely available, but check your bank’s foreign transaction fees.

  
  

• Haggle in markets and with drivers, but respectfully.

  
  

• Consider using eSIMs or local SIM cards for cheap data and ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Best Time to Visit Bali

Is Bali worth visiting in the rainy season?

Yes! The island is lush, prices are lower, and it’s less crowded. Just plan for some rain each day.

When is the cheapest time to go to Bali?

February and March often offer the best deals on flights and hotels.

What is Bali’s hottest month?

April and October are typically the hottest, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F).

Are there mosquitoes in Bali during the rainy season?

Yes—bring repellent, especially if you're traveling to jungle or rice field areas.

Final Thoughts: Plan According to Your Travel Style

The best time to visit Bali depends on your personal preferences. If you're chasing sunshine and surf, aim for the dry season. For a quieter, culturally immersive experience, the wet season can be surprisingly rewarding. Either way, Bali’s enchanting beauty and warm hospitality make it a destination worth exploring in any season.

Ready to plan your trip? Let the weather—and your wanderlust—be your guide.