Bali is one of those rare places that feels like it’s always “in season.” You can sip a fresh coconut on a sunny beach in August… or watch dramatic rain clouds roll over emerald rice terraces in January and still think, Yep—this was the right choice.
That said, different months do come with different trade-offs: sunshine vs. savings, surf vs. visibility, festivals vs. crowds. This guide breaks down Bali’s seasons (without the doom-and-gloom), so you can pick the timing that fits your travel style.
Quick take: when is the best time to visit Bali?
- Best overall weather: May, June, September
- Best for fewer crowds + great weather: May, early June, September
- Best for lower prices: February, March (outside major holidays), November
- Best for diving visibility (generally): Dry season (roughly April–October)
- Best chance to spot mola mola (ocean sunfish) near Nusa Penida: July–October
- Best time to avoid a major “shutdown day”: Plan around Nyepi (March 19, 2026) if you don’t want a full island pause
Bali’s two main seasons (and what they really feel like)
Dry Season (roughly April to October)
If your dream Bali trip includes beach days, sunset cocktails, boat excursions, and lots of outdoor exploring, this is your sweet spot.
What to expect
- Warm, beach-friendly days (often mid-80s °F / ~29 °C)
- Lower humidity than the wet season
- More consistent sunshine (but not “guaranteed perfect” every day)
Why people love it
- Easier island-hopping and boat days (Nusa Penida trips tend to be smoother)
- Great conditions for hiking and sightseeing
- More comfortable evenings—especially in Ubud and the central highlands
The trade-off
- Higher prices and more visitors, especially in July and August
- Popular villas and boutique resorts can book up early
Rainy Season (roughly November to March)
Ignore the dramatic “monsoon every day” headlines. Bali’s wet season is usually more like: bright mornings, a downpour (or two), and then everything looks freshly washed and intensely green.
What to expect
- Short bursts of heavy rain—often afternoon or evening
- Higher humidity (the real “gotcha”)
- Occasional storms that can affect boat crossings
Why it can be amazing
- Better deals on accommodations (and more availability)
- Lush landscapes, full waterfalls, moody skies—photographers love it
- Ubud feels especially cozy and magical when it rains
The trade-off
- Humidity can feel like wearing a warm blanket
- Some beach days get interrupted
- More mosquitoes are possible—pack repellent and be smart about bites
Month-by-month Bali guide (what each season is best for)
January–February
Vibe: Tropical, green, steamy, quieter
Great for travelers who prioritize relaxation, villas, spas, food, culture, and better pricing—and don’t mind building flexibility into beach plans.
March
Vibe: Transitioning (still wet, but improving), culturally significant
March is a fascinating month culturally, but keep one major date in mind: Nyepi (more on that below). It’s also a month where you can still find strong value, depending on holiday timing.
April
Vibe: A turning point—more sun, less rain
April is when Bali starts feeling like it’s “opening up” into the dry season. Outdoor adventures get easier, and it’s a strong shoulder-season choice.
May
Vibe: The goldilocks month
Sunny, comfortable, and not as packed as peak summer. If you can only choose one month on “best balance,” May is a top contender.
June
Vibe: Dry season confidence (without peak crowds yet)
Excellent for beach time, day trips, and diving. Late June begins leaning busier—especially as school holidays approach.
July–August
Vibe: Peak season, peak energy
This is Bali at its most social: packed beach clubs, busy streets in hotspots, and the highest competition for the most in-demand stays.
If you come in July/August, you’ll have a blast—just plan ahead:
- Book accommodations earlier
- Expect more traffic in popular areas
- Consider splitting your stay (example: a few nights beach + a few nights Ubud)
September
Vibe: Shoulder-season perfection
Still gorgeous weather, usually fewer crowds than July/August, and a calmer pace. Another top pick.
October
Vibe: Warm, slightly quieter, early wet-season hints
October often stays very pleasant. You may start seeing more showers later in the month, but it can be a fantastic “value + sunshine” compromise.
November
Vibe: Wetter, quieter, deals return
If you love a slower Bali—great restaurants with easier reservations, more villa availability—November can be a smart pick.
December
Vibe: Holiday season rollercoaster
Early December can still offer value, but Christmas/New Year’s week is typically busy and more expensive—even if the weather is wet. If you want festive energy, you’ll get it. If you want calm and cheap, aim earlier.
Festivals and cultural moments to plan around (or plan for)
Bali isn’t a place where culture is scheduled neatly into a few weekends. Ceremonies can happen year-round, and you’ll often stumble into something beautiful—flower offerings, temple processions, gamelan music, or a village celebration.
That said, a few standout events can shape your trip:
Nyepi (Day of Silence) — March 19, 2026
Nyepi is one-of-a-kind: the island goes quiet. Roads empty. Businesses close. Even the airport shuts down for the day. It’s deeply meaningful—and it’s also something you want to know about before you arrive.
Some travelers avoid it because they want full freedom to explore. Others plan specifically for it because it’s peaceful, reflective, and unforgettable (think: a sky full of stars without the usual glow).
BaliSpirit Festival — April 15–19, 2026 (Ubud)
If you’re into yoga, movement, breathwork, dance, healing arts, and live music, this is a big one—and April weather usually plays nicely with it.
Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali) — typically mid-June to mid-July
A long-running celebration of Balinese arts and culture held in Denpasar. Dates can shift year to year, but if you’re visiting in late June/early July, it’s worth checking what’s on.
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival — October 21–25, 2026
Perfect timing if you want a Bali trip that mixes cafes, culture, talks, and art—right as the island starts easing into the wetter months.
Best time to dive (and how seasons change the ocean)
Bali diving is varied: shipwrecks, reef life, manta rays, dramatic drift dives, and seasonal surprises.
In general:
- Dry season often brings better visibility.
- Wet season can mean more runoff and particles in the water near some sites (visibility can vary a lot by location).
Nusa Penida highlights
- Manta rays: commonly described as year-round around Nusa Penida
- Mola mola (ocean sunfish): most often associated with July–October
If you’re planning boat trips (especially longer crossings), the calmer dry-season seas can make the whole day more comfortable—particularly if you’re prone to motion sickness.
How to choose the “right” Bali season for your trip
Choose dry season if you want:
- Beach-heavy days
- Easy island-hopping (Nusa Penida day trips)
- More predictable weather for activities and excursions
- Lower humidity
Choose rainy season if you want:
- Better deals and easier bookings
- A quieter, slower Bali
- Lush landscapes and rice terraces at their greenest
- A trip where you don’t mind swapping a beach afternoon for a massage, a long lunch, or a temple visit when rain rolls in
Packing tips by season (simple, but trip-saving)
Dry season essentials
- Light layers + sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- A reusable water bottle
- Something breathable for temples (modest shoulders/knees)
Rainy season essentials
- A compact rain jacket or poncho
- Sandals that handle puddles
- Mosquito repellent (and consider long sleeves at dusk)
Any season:
- Keep a little flexibility in your schedule. Bali rewards travelers who don’t try to force every day into a rigid plan.
Related questions (FAQ)
What is the cheapest time to go to Bali?
Often February, March, and November (outside major holiday periods) offer lower accommodation prices and better availability, because they fall in the wetter, quieter season.
What is the rainy season in Bali?
Commonly November through March, with higher humidity and more frequent rain showers. Rain is often heaviest in short bursts rather than nonstop all day.
What months are best for Bali if I hate crowds?
Try May, June (early), and September. You’ll usually get excellent weather without the peak-season crush.
What’s the best time to visit Bali for Ubud?
Ubud is great year-round, but many travelers love it in:
- April–June (comfortable, greener, less hectic)
- Rainy season if you want lush rice fields and cozy vibes (with a flexible itinerary)
Final thought
There really isn’t a “bad” time to visit Bali—just different versions of Bali. One month gives you bright-blue skies and smooth boat days. Another gives you quiet villas, dramatic rains, and landscapes that look freshly painted.
No matter when you go, the welcome tends to feel the same: warm, kind, and genuinely memorable.Bali is one of those rare places that feels like it’s always “in season.” You can sip a fresh coconut on a sunny beach in August… or watch dramatic rain clouds roll over emerald rice terraces in January and still think, Yep—this was the right choice.
That said, different months do come with different trade-offs: sunshine vs. savings, surf vs. visibility, festivals vs. crowds. This guide breaks down Bali’s seasons (without the doom-and-gloom), so you can pick the timing that fits your travel style.
Quick take: when is the best time to visit Bali?
- Best overall weather: May, June, September
- Best for fewer crowds + great weather: May, early June, September
- Best for lower prices: February, March (outside major holidays), November
- Best for diving visibility (generally): Dry season (roughly April–October)
- Best chance to spot mola mola (ocean sunfish) near Nusa Penida: July–October
- Best time to avoid a major “shutdown day”: Plan around Nyepi (March 19, 2026) if you don’t want a full island pause
Bali’s two main seasons (and what they really feel like)
Dry Season (roughly April to October)
If your dream Bali trip includes beach days, sunset cocktails, boat excursions, and lots of outdoor exploring, this is your sweet spot.
What to expect
- Warm, beach-friendly days (often mid-80s °F / ~29 °C)
- Lower humidity than the wet season
- More consistent sunshine (but not “guaranteed perfect” every day)
Why people love it
- Easier island-hopping and boat days (Nusa Penida trips tend to be smoother)
- Great conditions for hiking and sightseeing
- More comfortable evenings—especially in Ubud and the central highlands
The trade-off
- Higher prices and more visitors, especially in July and August
- Popular villas and boutique resorts can book up early
Rainy Season (roughly November to March)
Ignore the dramatic “monsoon every day” headlines. Bali’s wet season is usually more like: bright mornings, a downpour (or two), and then everything looks freshly washed and intensely green.
What to expect
- Short bursts of heavy rain—often afternoon or evening
- Higher humidity (the real “gotcha”)
- Occasional storms that can affect boat crossings
Why it can be amazing
- Better deals on accommodations (and more availability)
- Lush landscapes, full waterfalls, moody skies—photographers love it
- Ubud feels especially cozy and magical when it rains
The trade-off
- Humidity can feel like wearing a warm blanket
- Some beach days get interrupted
- More mosquitoes are possible—pack repellent and be smart about bites
Month-by-month Bali guide (what each season is best for)
January–February
Vibe: Tropical, green, steamy, quieter
Great for travelers who prioritize relaxation, villas, spas, food, culture, and better pricing—and don’t mind building flexibility into beach plans.
March
Vibe: Transitioning (still wet, but improving), culturally significant
March is a fascinating month culturally, but keep one major date in mind: Nyepi (more on that below). It’s also a month where you can still find strong value, depending on holiday timing.
April
Vibe: A turning point—more sun, less rain
April is when Bali starts feeling like it’s “opening up” into the dry season. Outdoor adventures get easier, and it’s a strong shoulder-season choice.
May
Vibe: The goldilocks month
Sunny, comfortable, and not as packed as peak summer. If you can only choose one month on “best balance,” May is a top contender.
June
Vibe: Dry season confidence (without peak crowds yet)
Excellent for beach time, day trips, and diving. Late June begins leaning busier—especially as school holidays approach.
July–August
Vibe: Peak season, peak energy
This is Bali at its most social: packed beach clubs, busy streets in hotspots, and the highest competition for the most in-demand stays.
If you come in July/August, you’ll have a blast—just plan ahead:
- Book accommodations earlier
- Expect more traffic in popular areas
- Consider splitting your stay (example: a few nights beach + a few nights Ubud)
September
Vibe: Shoulder-season perfection
Still gorgeous weather, usually fewer crowds than July/August, and a calmer pace. Another top pick.
October
Vibe: Warm, slightly quieter, early wet-season hints
October often stays very pleasant. You may start seeing more showers later in the month, but it can be a fantastic “value + sunshine” compromise.
November
Vibe: Wetter, quieter, deals return
If you love a slower Bali—great restaurants with easier reservations, more villa availability—November can be a smart pick.
December
Vibe: Holiday season rollercoaster
Early December can still offer value, but Christmas/New Year’s week is typically busy and more expensive—even if the weather is wet. If you want festive energy, you’ll get it. If you want calm and cheap, aim earlier.
Festivals and cultural moments to plan around (or plan for)
Bali isn’t a place where culture is scheduled neatly into a few weekends. Ceremonies can happen year-round, and you’ll often stumble into something beautiful—flower offerings, temple processions, gamelan music, or a village celebration.
That said, a few standout events can shape your trip:
Nyepi (Day of Silence) — March 19, 2026
Nyepi is one-of-a-kind: the island goes quiet. Roads empty. Businesses close. Even the airport shuts down for the day. It’s deeply meaningful—and it’s also something you want to know about before you arrive.
Some travelers avoid it because they want full freedom to explore. Others plan specifically for it because it’s peaceful, reflective, and unforgettable (think: a sky full of stars without the usual glow).
BaliSpirit Festival — April 15–19, 2026 (Ubud)
If you’re into yoga, movement, breathwork, dance, healing arts, and live music, this is a big one—and April weather usually plays nicely with it.
Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali) — typically mid-June to mid-July
A long-running celebration of Balinese arts and culture held in Denpasar. Dates can shift year to year, but if you’re visiting in late June/early July, it’s worth checking what’s on.
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival — October 21–25, 2026
Perfect timing if you want a Bali trip that mixes cafes, culture, talks, and art—right as the island starts easing into the wetter months.
Best time to dive (and how seasons change the ocean)
Bali diving is varied: shipwrecks, reef life, manta rays, dramatic drift dives, and seasonal surprises.
In general:
- Dry season often brings better visibility.
- Wet season can mean more runoff and particles in the water near some sites (visibility can vary a lot by location).
Nusa Penida highlights
- Manta rays: commonly described as year-round around Nusa Penida
- Mola mola (ocean sunfish): most often associated with July–October
If you’re planning boat trips (especially longer crossings), the calmer dry-season seas can make the whole day more comfortable—particularly if you’re prone to motion sickness.
How to choose the “right” Bali season for your trip
Choose dry season if you want:
- Beach-heavy days
- Easy island-hopping (Nusa Penida day trips)
- More predictable weather for activities and excursions
- Lower humidity
Choose rainy season if you want:
- Better deals and easier bookings
- A quieter, slower Bali
- Lush landscapes and rice terraces at their greenest
- A trip where you don’t mind swapping a beach afternoon for a massage, a long lunch, or a temple visit when rain rolls in
Packing tips by season (simple, but trip-saving)
Dry season essentials
- Light layers + sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- A reusable water bottle
- Something breathable for temples (modest shoulders/knees)
Rainy season essentials
- A compact rain jacket or poncho
- Sandals that handle puddles
- Mosquito repellent (and consider long sleeves at dusk)
Any season:
- Keep a little flexibility in your schedule. Bali rewards travelers who don’t try to force every day into a rigid plan.
Related questions (FAQ)
What is the cheapest time to go to Bali?
Often February, March, and November (outside major holiday periods) offer lower accommodation prices and better availability, because they fall in the wetter, quieter season.
What is the rainy season in Bali?
Commonly November through March, with higher humidity and more frequent rain showers. Rain is often heaviest in short bursts rather than nonstop all day.
What months are best for Bali if I hate crowds?
Try May, June (early), and September. You’ll usually get excellent weather without the peak-season crush.
What’s the best time to visit Bali for Ubud?
Ubud is great year-round, but many travelers love it in:
- April–June (comfortable, greener, less hectic)
- Rainy season if you want lush rice fields and cozy vibes (with a flexible itinerary)
Final thought
There really isn’t a “bad” time to visit Bali—just different versions of Bali. One month gives you bright-blue skies and smooth boat days. Another gives you quiet villas, dramatic rains, and landscapes that look freshly painted.
No matter when you go, the welcome tends to feel the same: warm, kind, and genuinely memorable.
Helpful Links:
Nusa Penida diving season notes: PADI notes manta rays can be seen regularly and mola mola are mainly July–October. padi.com
BaliSpirit Festival is active and lists dates April 15–19, 2026 in Ubud. BaliSpirit Festival
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is active and lists dates October 21–25, 2026. uwf
Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali / PKB) is an ongoing annual event; the Bali provincial government lists PKB 2025 (June 21–July 19, 2025) at the Bali Art Centre, showing the festival is continuing. perwakilan.baliprov.go.id
Nyepi 2026 is listed as Thursday, March 19, 2026. Time and Date