Quick Answer: Best Time to Visit Bali
The best time to visit Bali is May, June, and September. These months offer dry weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices than peak season.
The cheapest months are February, March, and November.
The busiest months are July, August, and late December.
The rainiest months are January and February.
Bali is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want from your trip. Some months have perfect beach weather. Others are better for saving money, avoiding crowds, or joining yoga retreats.
This guide explains the best and worst times to visit Bali based on weather, prices, crowds, and activities. Whether you are planning a beach holiday, a surf trip, or a yoga retreat, this will help you choose the right time to go.
Last updated for 2026 travel planning.
Quick Answer: When Is the Best Time to Visit Bali?
If you want a simple answer, these are the best choices for most travelers.
- Best overall months: May, June, and September
- Cheapest months: February, March, and November
- Busiest months: July, August, and late December
- Rainiest months: January and February
- Best months for yoga retreats: April to October
Bali has warm weather all year, but prices, crowds, and rainfall change a lot depending on the month. Choosing the right season can make your trip more comfortable and more affordable.
Looking for more than just a vacation? Join a yoga retreat in Bali during the best months for wellness and relaxation!
Bali Climate Overview: What to Expect Year-Round
Bali has a tropical climate, which means warm temperatures all year and two main seasons. These are the dry season and the wet season.
Temperatures usually stay between 26°C and 32°C (79°F to 89°F). Even during the rainy season, Bali is still warm and green. Rain often falls in short bursts, not all day.
Here are the key climate facts to know before you plan your trip:
- Dry season: April to September with more sun and lower humidity
- Wet season: October to March with higher humidity and more rain
- Cooler months: July and August, especially in Ubud and the highlands
- Warmest months: March, April, and October
- Rainiest months: December, January, and February
Weather can also change by location. Coastal areas are usually hotter and drier. Central and northern Bali are cooler and get more rain because of higher elevation.
Bali Seasons Explained (Dry, Wet, and Shoulder Seasons)
Bali has two main seasons, plus short transition periods called shoulder seasons. Each season offers a different travel experience. The best time for you depends on weather, budget, and how busy you want Bali to feel.
Dry Season (April to September)
The dry season is the most popular time to visit Bali. Rainfall is low, humidity is lighter, and days are mostly sunny. This is the easiest time to travel around the island and enjoy outdoor activities.
This season is best for beaches, sightseeing, and first-time visitors. Surf conditions are strong on the west coast, and hiking trails are safer and clearer.
Best for:
- Beach holidays and island hopping
- Surfing on the west coast like Canggu and Uluwatu
- Hiking Mount Batur and visiting waterfalls
- Cultural festivals and outdoor events
Things to keep in mind:
- July and August are the busiest months
- Flights and hotels cost more
- Popular areas like Ubud and Canggu can feel crowded
If you want great weather and do not mind crowds, this is the best season to visit Bali.
Wet Season (October to March)
The wet season brings higher humidity and more rain, especially from December to February. Rain usually comes in short, heavy showers, often in the afternoon or evening.
This season is quieter and more affordable. Nature looks its best, with green rice fields and full waterfalls. Many travelers enjoy the slower pace and lower prices.
Best for:
- Budget travelers looking for cheaper flights and hotels
- Yoga and wellness retreats in Ubud and Sidemen
- Scuba diving in Amed, Tulamben, and Menjangan
- Waterfalls and jungle landscapes
Things to keep in mind:
- January and February have the most rain
- Flooding can happen in low areas after heavy storms
- Some outdoor plans may change due to weather
If you are flexible and want fewer crowds, the wet season can be a great time to visit.
Shoulder Seasons (March to April and September to October)
The shoulder seasons are often the best balance for most travelers. These months sit between the dry and wet seasons and offer good weather with fewer tourists.
Rainfall is lower than the wet season, and prices are usually cheaper than peak months. The island feels calmer, but most activities are still available.
Best for:
- Travelers who want good weather without big crowds
- Couples and long-stay visitors
- Surfers looking for consistent waves
- Yoga retreats and wellness travel
Shoulder season months are often the best value. You get comfortable weather, better prices, and a more relaxed Bali experience.
Best Time to Visit Bali by Month
Bali can be visited any month of the year, but each month offers a slightly different experience. This month-by-month guide helps you choose the best time based on weather, crowds, and activities.
January
January is part of the wet season. Expect high humidity and frequent rain.
Best for yoga retreats, spa days, and cultural visits. Not ideal for beach plans.
February
February is similar to January but slightly quieter.
Best for budget travelers and waterfall visits. Rain is still common.
March
March marks the end of the wet season.
Best for travelers who want fewer crowds and lower prices. Nyepi, the Day of Silence, often happens this month.
April
April is one of the best months to visit Bali.
Best for yoga, diving, trekking, and outdoor activities. Weather improves and crowds stay moderate.
May
May brings dry, sunny days and comfortable temperatures.
Best for beaches, surfing, and long stays. A favorite month for digital nomads.
June
June is peak dry season with great weather.
Best for sightseeing, cultural festivals, and adventure travel. Prices start to rise.
July
July is busy and lively.
Best for families, festivals, and beach holidays. Expect crowds and higher prices.
August
August has excellent weather but heavy crowds.
Best for honeymooners and beach lovers who do not mind busy areas.
September
September is a shoulder season favorite.
Best for couples, yoga retreats, and relaxed travel with good weather.
October
October is warm and slightly humid.
Best for budget travelers and surfers as waves shift to the east coast.
November
November marks the start of the wet season.
Best for cheaper stays and fewer tourists. Weather is mixed but manageable.
December
December is rainy but festive.
Best for luxury travel and holiday celebrations. Prices rise near Christmas and New Year.
Best Time to Visit Bali for Your Travel Style
Different travelers enjoy Bali at different times of the year. Here is a quick guide based on travel goals.
Budget travelers
The best time is from November to March, except late December.
Flights and hotels are cheaper, and crowds are smaller.
Yoga and wellness travelers
April to October offers the most comfortable weather.
Ubud and Sidemen are popular for retreats and longer stays.
Families
June to August is best due to dry weather and school holidays.
Outdoor activities are easier and safer for children.
Digital nomads
May to September is ideal for stable weather and strong internet.
Coworking spaces and long-term rentals are easiest to find.
Surfers
April to October is best for west coast waves.
November to March is better for east coast spots like Nusa Dua and Keramas.
Month-by-Month Breakdown of Weather, Events, and Activities
| Month | Weather | Key Events & Festivals | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Wet season (humid, frequent rains) | New Year’s Eve Parties, Galungan (Balinese festival) | Yoga retreats, spa days, cultural experiences |
| February | Rainy but lush landscapes | Chinese New Year celebrations | Budget travelers, waterfall hikes, temple visits |
| March | End of wet season (hot & humid) | Nyepi (Balinese New Year) – Day of Silence | Quiet escapes, cultural experiences, fewer tourists |
| April | Start of dry season (warm, less rain) | Bali Spirit Festival (Yoga, Music & Wellness) | Yoga, trekking, diving season begins |
| May | Dry, sunny days | Vesak Day (Buddhist celebrations) | Surfing season begins, digital nomads arrive |
| June | Peak dry season (warm & breezy) | Bali Arts Festival (June–July) | Surfing, cultural festivals, waterfalls at best flow |
| July | Warm, little to no rain | Kite Festival, Ultra Beach Bali | Best beaches, family vacations, adventure sports |
| August | Peak season (busy but perfect weather) | Indonesian Independence Day (August 17) | Best time for honeymooners, diving & snorkeling |
| September | Start of shoulder season (less crowded) | Ubud Writers & Readers Festival | Best for couples, fewer tourists, mild temperatures |
| October | End of dry season (hot & humid) | Bali Vegan Festival, Ubud Food Festival | Foodies, budget travelers, surf season moves east |
| November | Start of wet season (rainy but warm) | Bali International Film Festival | Nature lovers, fewer crowds, rainforest hikes |
| December | Rainy but festive atmosphere | Christmas & New Year’s Celebrations | Luxury travelers, wellness retreats, indoor activities |
Regional Weather Differences in Bali
Bali’s weather changes depending on where you stay. Some regions are hotter and drier, while others are cooler and wetter.
South Bali (Seminyak, Canggu, Nusa Dua)
Hot and sunny most of the year.
Best from April to September for beaches, nightlife, and surfing.
Central Bali (Ubud, Sidemen)
Cooler with more rain due to higher elevation.
Best from May to August for yoga, culture, and nature.
Uluwatu and Bukit Peninsula
Dry and windy with strong ocean swells.
Best from June to September for advanced surfers and cliff views.
North Bali (Lovina, Munduk)
Cooler with higher rainfall.
Best from May to October for hiking, waterfalls, and quiet travel.
East Bali (Amed, Candidasa)
Drier and less humid than Ubud.
Best from May to October for diving, snorkeling, and relaxed coastal stays.
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Packing Tips for Bali by Season
Packing the right items makes a big difference in Bali. The weather is warm year-round, but rain and humidity change by season.
Packing Essentials for Bali’s Dry Season (April to September)
The dry season is sunny and warm, especially during the day.
What to bring:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing
- Swimwear for beaches and pools
- Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
- Reef-safe sunscreen with high SPF
- Comfortable sandals or flip-flops
- Hiking shoes for Mount Batur, rice terraces, and waterfalls
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings in Ubud or the highlands
- Mosquito repellent for evenings
Packing Essentials for Bali’s Wet Season (October to March)
The wet season is humid with sudden rain showers. Streets can flood after heavy rain.
What to bring:
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Quick-dry clothing
- Waterproof bag or dry bag for electronics
- Compact umbrella
- Strong mosquito repellent
- Light long sleeves for air-conditioned spaces
- Shoes with good grip for wet paths and jungle walks
- Easy-to-dry sandals instead of heavy shoes
Packing for Specific Activities in Bali
Some activities need extra planning. Packing with purpose keeps you comfortable.
Surfing
- Rash guard for sun protection
- Waterproof sunscreen
- Quick-dry board shorts or swimsuit
Yoga and wellness retreats
- Stretch-friendly yoga clothing
- Light layers for morning and evening practice
- Journal for reflection
- Travel yoga mat if you prefer your own
Adventure and hiking
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Sweat-wicking socks
- Small daypack for water and snacks
Visiting temples
- Sarong or long scarf
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
- Slip-on sandals for easy removal
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Time to Visit Bali
There is no single perfect time to visit Bali. The best time depends on your travel goals, budget, and comfort with crowds or rain.
If you want the best weather, visit during the dry season. If you want better prices and fewer people, the wet or shoulder seasons can be a great choice. Bali offers something special all year, from beaches and surf to culture, wellness, and nature.
With good planning and the right packing, you can enjoy Bali in any season and create a trip that fits your style perfectly.
FAQs: Best Time to Visit Bali
What is the best month to visit Bali?
May and September are often the best months because they have good weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.
What is the cheapest time to visit Bali?
February, March, and November are usually the cheapest months due to lower tourist demand.
What is the worst month to visit Bali?
January is often the least popular month because of heavy rain and high humidity.
Is Bali worth visiting during the rainy season?
Yes. Rain usually comes in short bursts, prices are lower, and the island is greener and quieter.
When is Bali most crowded?
July, August, and late December are the busiest months, especially in Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak.
