Choose the perfect season to enjoy the island’s beaches, hikes, or festivals.
Bali has something for everyone, from the lush jungles around Ubud (often called Bali’s cultural heart) to the stunning beaches along its southern coast. The ideal time to visit depends on what you want to do—whether it’s exploring ancient temples, joining a yoga retreat, or embarking on a hiking trip. You might even plan your trip around one of the island’s lively festivals.
Bali enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry (April to October) and wet (November to March). Temperatures stay warm year-round, averaging around 80°F. Here’s a quick look at Bali’s tourist seasons:
- High Seasons: June to August and November to December
- Shoulder Seasons: April to May and September to October
- Low Season: January to March
Below, we’ve outlined the best times to visit based on your travel plans.
Best Times to Visit Bali for Smaller Crowds
If you prefer a quieter experience, the off-season (January to March) is your best bet. These months are humid and rainy, so beachgoers and divers tend to stay away. Since you’ll also miss the holiday rush (November and December), the island feels more relaxed, with mostly locals and expats around.
While the rain brings mosquitos and can disrupt activities like diving and surfing, it’s not a problem if you’re here for temple tours, yoga, or just unwinding. In fact, the gentle rain in Ubud’s forests can make your stay even more peaceful. The jungles and rice fields flourish during this season, turning a vibrant green—worth seeing in person.
Best Times to Visit Bali for Great Weather
For sun lovers, Bali’s dry season (April to October) is perfect. Humidity and rainfall drop, making it ideal for beach trips, surfing, diving, and snorkeling. You might still get occasional rain, especially in April, May, and October, but showers pass quickly. May tends to be the hottest month, with highs around 82°F.
For the best weather, visit in July or August—the peak of the dry season. With lower humidity and average temps around 80°F, it’s great for both adventure and beach time. Surfers should also aim for these months, as June to August brings bigger waves to Bali’s southwest coast.
Best Times to Visit Bali for Lower Prices
Unsurprisingly, the dry season is also the busiest and priciest, with hotel rates highest between June and September. The holiday season (November and December) also sees a surge in prices.
For better deals, visit between October and March—the rainy months outside the festive season. With fewer tourists, you can snag ocean-view rooms or spacious villas for much less than in peak season. Shoulder months (April-May and September-October) may also have discounts.
Best Months for Hiking in Bali
If hiking is your goal, plan your trip between May and October. The rainy season can leave trails muddy and slippery. Mount Batur, Bali’s most famous hike, is best tackled from July to October for dry trails and clear views (the climb takes about two hours).
For waterfall hikes, May and June are ideal—the falls are powerful from the wet season, and sunny days are more likely. If you’re renting a motorbike, the dry season is safer, as roads get tricky when wet.
Best Times to Visit Bali for Festivals
One of Bali’s biggest events is the Bali Arts Festival (June-July). Indonesian Independence Day (August 17) is marked with parades and celebrations. Note that Balinese Hindus follow a different calendar—for example, Galungan (a 10-day celebration of good over evil) happens every 210 days, while Nyepi (a day of silence and meditation before the New Year) usually falls in March.
Best Months to Visit the Beach in Bali
April to October is prime time for beach lovers—sunny, dry, and perfect for snorkeling, diving, and water sports. The downside? These months are peak season, so temples, beaches, and hotels get crowded. You might miss out on Bali’s usual serenity.
Worst Times to Visit Bali
If you’re after sunshine and outdoor adventures, skip the rainy season (especially December and January). Expect choppy seas, muddy trails, and afternoon storms that can disrupt plans. That said, travelers focused on indoor cultural activities might enjoy the quieter vibe.
With more rain comes more mosquitos, raising the risk of illnesses like dengue fever. If visiting during the wet season, pack bug spray—especially for jungle hikes. Some locals swear by lemongrass tea as a natural repellent.