Bali Weather Guide: Best Time to Visit

Bali’s Two Seasons

Bali has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. Unlike some parts of Asia, both seasons have their appeal — and Bali’s “rainy season” is often misunderstood.

Dry Season (April–October)

The classic Bali travel season. Less rain, lower humidity, clearer skies, calmer seas. The best time for:

• Beach holidays and water sports
• Snorkeling and diving (best visibility)
• Outdoor activities and trekking
• Boat trips to Nusa Penida and Lombok

Peak season: July–August — prices are highest, accommodation books out fast, popular spots are crowded. Book 3–6 months ahead.

Shoulder season: April–June and September–October — excellent weather with fewer tourists and lower prices. The best overall time to visit.

Wet Season (November–March)

Rain falls in intense afternoon bursts rather than all day — mornings are often clear and beautiful. The advantages:

• Dramatically lower prices (30–50% cheaper accommodation)
• Fewer tourists at popular sites
• Lush, intensely green landscapes — the rice terraces are at their most beautiful
• More dramatic clouds for photography

The disadvantages: some boat trips to islands are cancelled (rough seas), occasional flooding in low-lying areas, and outdoor activities can be disrupted.

Month by Month

January–February: Peak rainy season, but less crowded. Good if budget is priority. Nyepi (Day of Silence) falls in March — Bali shuts down completely for 24 hours.

March–April: Transitional — rains decreasing, decent weather, good prices.

May–June: Excellent — dry weather, no crowds, good prices. One of the best times to visit.

July–August: Peak season — best weather but most crowded and expensive.

September–October: Another excellent window — dry, cooling slightly, crowds thinning after school holidays.

November–December: Rains return but Christmas/New Year is peak season — prices spike in late December.

Temperature

Bali is hot year-round — 27–33°C in coastal areas. Ubud and highland areas are 5–8°C cooler. Humidity is high year-round.