When Is The Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali’s Seasons at a Glance

Bali has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

Dry Season (April – September)

Warm, sunny, low humidity.

Best for beaches, outdoor adventures, and sightseeing.

Also the busiest and most expensive period.

Rainy Season (October – March)

Hot, humid, with short but heavy showers.

Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices.

Ideal for cultural immersion, wellness retreats, and green countryside views.

Average temperatures range between 78–86°F (26–30°C) year-round, so you’ll never be too far from sunshine, even in the rainy season.

Month-by-Month Guide to Bali

Here’s a breakdown of what each month in Bali has to offer — from the weather to cultural events, surf conditions, and travel tips.

January: Lush and Rainy

Weather: Wettest month, average 79°F, humid with frequent downpours.

Why visit: Waterfalls at their fullest, hot springs, spa retreats.

Surfing: Good on the east coast.

Events: New Year’s celebrations, quieter tourist sites afterward.

Tip: Pack light rain gear and enjoy Bali’s wellness side.

February: Quiet and Cultural

Weather: Rainy, humid, warm seas.

Why visit: Less crowded beaches, Chinese New Year festivities.

Surfing: East coast swells still strong.

Events: Chinese New Year temple celebrations, lion dances, fireworks.

Tip: Ideal for budget travelers — hotel rates dip.

March: Nyepi and New Beginnings

Weather: Rain starts easing, temps around 80°F.

Why visit: Experience Nyepi (Silent Day) — a unique Balinese Hindu tradition where the island pauses for 24 hours.

Surfing: Conditions improve as dry season nears.

Events: Nyepi Eve processions (Ogoh-Ogoh parades).

Tip: Stock up on supplies before Nyepi as everything shuts down.

April: Shoulder Season Sweet Spot

Weather: Dry season begins, highs around 90°F.

Why visit: Great for diving and snorkeling — visibility improves.

Surfing: West coast waves start picking up.

Events: Bali Spirit Festival (yoga, dance, music).

Tip: Good balance of weather, crowds, and prices.

May: Hot and Sunny

Weather: Hottest month, averages 82°F, minimal rain.

Why visit: Fantastic for beach days, outdoor adventures, and nightlife.

Surfing: Consistent west coast waves.

Events: Local temple festivals.

Tip: Stay hydrated and plan hikes early morning or late afternoon.

June: Arts and Sunshine

Weather: Dry, sunny, low humidity, one of the best months.

Why visit: Perfect for sightseeing, quieter before peak season.

Surfing: Excellent conditions, especially Uluwatu.

Events: Bali Arts Festival (mid-June–July).

Tip: Ideal month for couples or honeymooners.

July: Peak Season Energy

Weather: Sunny, breezy, average 80°F.

Why visit: Family-friendly weather, vibrant cultural scene.

Surfing: Prime west coast conditions.

Events: Bali Kite Festival, Makepung Buffalo Races.

Tip: Book villas early — July is busy.

August: Sunniest Month

Weather: 10 hours of sunshine daily, low rain.

Why visit: Best beach month, perfect for Seminyak, Sanur, and Nusa Dua.

Surfing: Consistent big waves.

Events: Indonesia Independence Day celebrations.

Tip: Expect higher prices, but unbeatable conditions.

September: Best Balance

Weather: Warm, dry, fewer crowds.

Why visit: Great for outdoor adventures like rafting and hiking.

Surfing: Still strong waves before season shifts.

Events: Balinale International Film Festival.

Tip: One of the top months to visit Bali overall.

October: Green and Festive

Weather: Start of rainy season, short showers, still hot.

Why visit: Less crowded, lush landscapes.

Surfing: Transition — both coasts can work.

Events: Nusa Dua Fiesta, Ubud Writers & Readers Festival.

Tip: Carry an umbrella and enjoy fewer crowds.

November: Affordable and Authentic

Weather: Rain increases, average 82°F.

Why visit: Cheaper rates, great for cooking classes, cultural tours, and spa days.

Surfing: East coast begins to shine again.

Events: Local temple anniversaries.

Tip: Avoid mountain hikes due to slippery trails.

December: Festive and Busy

Weather: Rainy but warm, 80°F.

Why visit: Christmas and New Year celebrations, buzzing nightlife.

Surfing: East coast better during this time.

Events: Bali’s biggest party season.

Tip: Book accommodations well in advance for December holidays.

Best Time for Different Travelers

Families: July–August for great weather and family-friendly festivals.

Honeymooners: June or September for romance with fewer crowds.

Solo Travelers & Digital Nomads: November–March for lower costs and authentic experiences.

Wellness Seekers: April (Bali Spirit Festival) or the rainy season for yoga retreats.

Best Time by Activity

Surfing: April–October (west coast), November–March (east coast).

Diving & Snorkeling: April–November for clear waters.

Hiking: May–September for dry trails.

Cultural Festivals: March (Nyepi), June–July (Arts Festival), October (Ubud Writers Festival).

Food Lovers: Year-round, but rainy season offers authentic local dining with fewer crowds.

Beaches by Season

Dry Season: Seminyak, Kuta, Nusa Dua — best for sun and nightlife.

Rainy Season: Sanur and east coast beaches — calmer seas.

Hidden Gems: Amed (diving), Lovina (dolphins), Bingin (surf).

Island Hopping from Bali

Nusa Penida: Best April–September for smooth boat rides.

Gili Islands: Great year-round, but avoid peak rains (Dec–Feb).

Lombok: June–September for trekking Mount Rinjani.

FAQs About the Best Time to Visit Bali

1. What is the hottest month in Bali? May is the hottest month, with highs up to 91°F.

2. What is the cheapest month to visit Bali? February and November are budget-friendly due to rain and fewer tourists.

3. Can you swim in Bali year-round? Yes, sea temperatures stay around 80°F year-round.

4. When is Bali least crowded? November–March, except Christmas/New Year.

5. Is Bali worth visiting in the rainy season? Absolutely — it’s greener, cheaper, and less crowded.

6. When is the best time to surf in Bali? West coast: April–October. East coast: November–March.

7. When is the best time for diving in Bali? April–November for clear visibility and calm seas.

Where to Stay in Bali

Here at Top Villas, we offer a handpicked collection of luxury villas in Bali’s most sought-after locations like Seminyak, Ubud, and Uluwatu. With infinity pools, beachfront views, spacious living areas, and personalized concierge services, our villas make every Bali trip unforgettable.

Want to enhance your stay? Our Guest Experience team can arrange extras like private chefs, day trips, spa treatments, and car hire. Plus, our flexible payment plans make it easy to book your dream villa.

Browse our Bali Villas and start planning your trip today.

Final Thoughts

So, when’s the best time to visit Bali? It depends on what you’re looking for.

For sunshine and surf: June–September.

For fewer crowds and lower prices: April, October, November.

For culture and festivals: March, June, October.

The good news? Bali is always worth visiting. With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and world-class hospitality, every season offers something magical, so start planning your trip and book your dream Bali villa today.