The island of Bali in Indonesia basks in a year-round tropical climate, making it a paradise for beach lovers. However, contrary to popular belief, Bali weather isn’t always sunny days by the beach. It has two main seasons: wet and dry.
The weather in Bali is perfect for enjoying jungle swings: it’s hot enough for flowy summer clothes while still being breezy!
The dry season is Bali's busiest time, and for good reason: it has perfect weather! But that doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy the Island of the Gods during its wet season.
Each period has its perks, which all guarantee you memorable Bali experiences! Read on to learn more about the best time to visit Bali and how to navigate its two seasons.
But before we get to business, make sure to check out this Bali itinerary to map out the perfect holiday:
Dry Season in Bali
Summer in Bali is perfect for strolls at Nusa Penida! Credits: Wolf Götzke on Unsplash
Bali’s dry season spans from April to October, turning the island into a bright tropical paradise. Clear skies and warm days prevail in this period, making it the best time to visit Bali and its beautiful beaches.
But the sunny weather naturally attracts more visitors, with peak tourist season falling generally in July, August, and the Easter Holidays. Since it’s the busiest time in Bali, it's best to plan and book your accommodation and activities early before they sell out.
Waterbom Bali is a waterpark with slides and rides for all ages! Credits: @waterbombali on Instagram
We’ve got just the thing for booking your activities of choice— the Klook Bali Pass!
With this pass, you can bundle several outdoor activities and save up to 45% on admission fees. Hit the slides at the Waterbom, go white water rafting at Ayung River, hop on a Bali swing, and more!
Weather Conditions of Bali’s Dry Season
Summer in Bali is your chance to explore its gorgeous coastlines. Credits: visualsofdana on Unsplash
Bali's dry season sees an average temperature of 27-32°C. There may be occasional rainfall, but it’s rare enough not to dampen your holiday!
The summer season may be the best time to visit Bali if lounging around the island's stunning beaches is on your agenda. It’s also the perfect time to look for hidden gems in Bali. To help you out, here are the destinations you should visit:
Key Events during Bali’s Dry Season
Witness the creativity and artistry of the Balinese people during the Bali Arts Festival. Credits: @mikelam88 on Instagram
Another reason summer is the best time to visit Bali is the many festivals and events that occur during this period. One of the most popular is the Bali Arts Festival, held from June to July. This festival celebrates traditional Balinese art. Visitors are treated to handicrafts, puppetry, music, parades, and exciting showcases!
Another well-loved celebration during the peak season is the Ubud Food Festival held in April. Truly one for the foodies, this festival pays tribute to the diverse Indonesian cultures through its regional dishes.
The Bali Kite Festival in July is also one to look forward to. This festival takes advantage of the cool breeze during this month, as many villages would go out to fly Balinese kites.
Wet Season in Bali
Harvest season in Bali is from October to November. Credits: Radoslav Bali on Unsplash
Bali's wet season spans from November to March. These months mark only two peak seasons—Christmas and New Year—so if you’re not a fan of crowds, you might consider visiting during this time.
The Temperature of Bali’s Wet Season
Bali exploration after rain has its magic. Credits: Oliver Sjöström on Unsplash
Temperatures during the wet season can range from 26.5°C to 28°C, which doesn’t differ much from its sunnier counterpart. What sets the two periods apart is the amount of average rainfall.
Weather Conditions of Bali’s Wet Season
Rain means more giant waves, which is great for pro surfers. Credits: @wanderlust_abenteuer on Instagram
If you think the weather in Bali during the rainy season will stop you from enjoying this idyllic island, think again!
The winds may be more robust, but these bring in more giant waves, which are especially inviting for pro surfers. Although it rains more often, it usually only lasts a few hours before the sun shines again. Having days of continuous downpours is rare, so you’ll still have plenty of time to hit the beaches with the bonus of fewer people!
Key Events during Bali’s Wet Season
Marvel at the cultural performances illuminated by lanterns during the Nusa Dua Light Festival! Credits: @nusadualightfest on Instagram
An iconic celebration to look forward to during the rainy season in Bali is the Nusa Dua Light Festival, a lantern festival held from October to November. When the sun goes down, locals will treat you to a visual spectacle of life-sized lanterns and dazzling light shows, making great backdrops for your photos!
When Should I Visit Bali?
The best time to go to Bali is any time! Credits: Polina Kuzovkova on Unsplash
So when is the best time to visit Bali?
Each season has its own charm. The dry season is perfect for sunny beach stays, island hopping, and exciting outdoor activities. On the other hand, the wet season has fewer crowds and quieter beaches, allowing you to soak in the island's natural beauty.
If you want to make the most of your Bali holiday, try going during the shoulder season in May, June, and September. Not only is it less humid and crowded, but villa and hotel rates also tend to be more affordable around this time. You'll also get the best weather for water sports, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and more. Plus, you'll likely get a cheaper price for sightseeing tours and nature treks. Popular tourist destinations such as zoos and water parks will also have fewer guests.
Have you decided when you'll be going to Bali? Then it's time to get ready for your trip! To help you out, we've crafted a list of 10 best scenic tours in Bali for you:
