Best time to visit Bali primarily relies on the climate and on high and low season, which affects the general cost for your accommodation in this island country. Bali's dry season is from April to September that presents warm temperatures without a lot of humidity and rainfall - perfect for outdoor fun such as cruising and sunbathing. In any case, this lovely climate means a lot of people on the beach and streets. The high season in Bali is in July and August months, i.e., during Easter Holidays, as well as in December to the first week of January, i.e., during Christmas/New Year. These months are the island's best season to visit Bali for holidays. Thus, are the peak tourist times in Bali.
Also, if you’re planning for the best month to visit Bali, you will observe a spike in room rates. So, it’s better to book your hotel or villa much before the time to evade the expensive rates. But you'll get a slight dip in the prices of hotels when you book other than the best time of year to visit Bali, which is just before or after the peak season.
Best Time for Honeymoon
Bali is a year-round destination to choose as a honeymoon destination. The dry season is no doubt the best time to visit Bali for honeymoon to acknowledge its natural charms, ideal climate, and relaxed setting. The crystal-clear beach water and the stunning panorama makes it one of the best romantic locations for a honeymoon. Take romantic walks on tranquil beaches with your better half and enjoy thrilling water rides as well as adventure sports. A short drive will take you to Jimbaran Bay where you can savor delectable seafood dinner in a cozy beachside restaurant. Also, go to Kuta beach, known as sunset beach, which is one of the best places to appreciate a picturesque romantic sunset in Bali during the dry season.
But in case you want a peaceful time together, the low season is also a great decision. Rains and breezy air will create a perfect romantic vibe. Additionally, you’ll find accommodations at a much lesser rate.
Also Read: Best Activities to Do in Bali While on Honeymoon
Best Time for Shopping
The markets in Bali give a good time to outsiders, and bargaining is normal. Most of the markets in Bali open from early morning at 8:00 am. It’s better to go early in the morning as most of the shoppers will readily sell to you at the lowest rates being their first customer. Also, there are several night markets that go from 6:00 pm to late at night.
Anyway, shopping in Bali is fantastically modern, especially in Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Ubud. Charming boutiques, top of the line homeware stores, silver jewelry, collectibles are all available in the markets. A considerable lot of things cost what they do back home, so look out for sale. Also, you can Drive out of Ubud to visit craftsmen's towns. Here locals from ages have brought their home-crafted sculptures, accessories, and textiles for the honorable and clerical class of this island.
Thus, the island has something for everybody, and the shops are open year-round, selling affordable items which make shopping in Bali a lot of fun for shopaholics.
Also Checkout: Best Places to Shop in Bali
Best Time for Enjoying the Beaches
Beaches in Bali are enjoyable throughout the year as well. As there’s a lot to indulge around its picturesque beaches. Shorelines in Bali welcome visitors with open arms to revel in a beach paradise with elegant hotels and world-class amenities. Even in the rainiest season, the Bali beaches get far less shower, with a maximum of it pouring down in the middays and evenings. Thus, you can spend the mornings while hiking along any of the hiking trails, unwind at one of the seashores or enjoy pleasant diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Southern Bali is the island's one of the most favorite spots for beach lovers, all for a good reason. There you’ll discover the wonderful beach resorts that the region is famous for. Beaches in Bali vary from the cliff-guarded ‘hidden’ shores of Uluwatu, Bingin, and Padang Padang to palm-lined white-sand shorelines on the south of the island namely Nusa Dua, Kuta, and Sanur.
Bali beaches further feature some stunning black sands on the western and northern seas. You can also relish romantic beachside dinner with your better half. Apart from their sheer beauty, the beaches are also renowned for their surfing, swimming, or bodyboard along its shores accessible year-round.
Read More: Best Beaches in Bali
Best Time for Sightseeing
The island's dry season is the best time to visit Bali for sightseeing purposes, between April to October. This time of the island gives warm temperatures without an excessive amount of rain and humidity – perfect for sightseeing. One of the reasons these months are the peak tourism season in Bali. This place is abundant in natural charm during high season with sights for every kind of traveler.
The island, in fact, becomes the playground of backpackers, beach bums, and adults from throughout the world. Bali's rich culture, several astonishing sights, and really nice people take Bali's pure delight to another level.
In Bali, you can lose yourself in the sensual pleasures of Kerobokan and Seminyak and chaos of Kuta and roam around Nusa Lembongan. People on a family tour can hang out in Sanur or enjoy a sumptuous escapade on the Bukit Peninsula. Further, Ubud is Bali's heart, where the culture of Bali is accessible the most. It also features the ancient monuments in the east and west Bali.
Also Checkout: Best Places to Visit in Bali
Best Time for Watersports in Bali
In the months of November to April, Bali is defined by the monsoon. Thus, these months are the wettest seasons. So, for adventure freaks, these are the best time of year to visit Bali for a lot of water fun. You can take part in water sports like white water rafting, or canyoning. Inflatable rafts take you into the lush rainforests of the central Bali ridges. Also, the thrills throughout the route range from plunges down small waterfalls, dams, and crystal-clear pools. During this period, you can view rare flora and fauna as well, which isn’t evident in other seasons.
Sanur Beach and Tanjung Benoa beach are the right locations for other water sports. Tanjung Benoa Beach is the heart of marine tourism activities. The watersports companies here offer loads of alternatives to enjoy maritime activities, for instance, jet-skiing, parasailing, sea walking, turtle island tours, and snorkeling.
Also Read: Best Bali Watersports
Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in Bali
The waterfalls are seasonal destinations. So, if you are searching for the best month to visit Bali to hit its scenic waterfalls, no doubt rainy season is your best bet. So, to visit the waterfall in Bali when they are most powerful and most attractive is during the wettest months between November to March. During this time cascades will be flowing with full force. Thus, you will get an ideal setting to rejuvenate by taking a dip in them.
You can trek through the rough terrains or verdant greenery to reach the refreshing waterfalls of the island. It is the best season to visit Bali because there are a lot of cascades on the island where you can chill down in their freshwater. Some of them are Carat Waterfall, Blahmantung Waterfalls, Aling-Aling Waterfall, Gitgit Waterfalls, Jembong Waterfall, Melasti Waterfall, and others.
Must Checkout: Beautiful Waterfalls in Bali
Best Time for Surfing in Bali
Though surfing in Bali is incredible all year, some coastal areas perform better under various climatic conditions. Thus, the conditions vary with the seasons. Throughout the dry season, the easterly breezes generate perfect swells on the west coast of the island. And in the wet season, the shift in wind direction provides the east coast its turn.
So, ideally, the best time to visit Bali for surfing can be from April to October on the west coast, while the east coast has better weather conditions from November to March. No doubt, the dry season is most prominent for surfing but on the other hand, it is the most packed.
Whether you are a real skilled surfer or it is your first time; Bali beaches are ideal for surfing. Beginners can head to Kuta, and other locations such as Uluwatu or Canggu are perfect for the more skilled surfers. So, grab a board, get an instructor on the seaside, and you are good to sail along the surf!
Best Time for Visiting Central Bali and Mountains
The central Bali and mountains certainly receive more rain than the southern coast of the island. Heavy rainfall happens typically in the early afternoon in Bali. So, it’s suggested not to visit these areas during the wet season as the roads can easily flood. Thus, the best season to visit Bali Central area is in March when nature blooms. The mountains can undergo a temperature of 15°C. The rich tropical forest blows the steam out, and the rice terraces seem greener than ever. So, it is an ideal time to wander around the central highlands.
But don't forget to pack your wet weather gear, to be safe from sudden rainfall. Bright days with the clear blue sky will greet you in March. Showers can still happen as it's the last month of the wet season in Bali, yet the sunshine will be invaluable to trek on mountains.
For a mountain person, the central Bali mountains are the best choice. They are common destinations for mountain trekking, climbing, and viewing volcano eruptions. Mount Batur is one of the famous spots for early morning treks where one can see the sunrise from the ranges of this Bali volcano. You will also appreciate the view from the summit, stroll around beautiful villages and lakes during this time of the year.
Section B - Best Season to Visit Bali
High Season
High season is the busiest but the best time of year to visit Bali. It is the most favourite among tourists to visit Bali. Also, called peak season – July and August along with the end of December and the beginning of January are included in this season. December ordinarily has a significant amount of booking due to the 'Christmas season.' Hotel and villas are at the highest costs this time. You can also likely be paying more for your flights when planning a tour during these months. So, remember to book your flights and hotels early, or you will be paying more.
Low Season
The low season in Bali is generally the first and last quarters of the year. It begins after the New Year celebrations, i.e., between January to March and the last quarter, i.e., between October to November months. The low season is with regards to hotels price and lesser tourists. Due to the wet weather conditions, it’s not considered the best season to visit Bali. Hotel prices are much-reduced but inclusive of a wide range of amenities as usual. Since most of the places will be less crowded during this time of the year those people who need a peaceful getaway can choose this season.
Shoulder Season
The shoulder season is the long periods of February, May, June, September, October, November, and the onset of December. These are usually regarded as the best time to visit Bali in terms of a more moderate range of holidays. So, you also get the chance to appreciate the island’s climate and sights at a relatively lesser cost than high season. The boulevards are still quite busy these months; however, not very stuffed as compared to the high season to make your vacation a congested one. Apart from reasonable deals, the highlight of visiting Bali during this time is that you get excellent views and landscapes to be bewitched.
Best time to visit Bali by Month
January
The wettest month of the year. Downpour more often happens during the afternoon and night, which can last for up to 30 minutes. But as soon as the rainfall stops, the sun frequently returns. The average temperature is 30°C and an average rainfall of 340mm in January.
With a significant part of the island drenched in this month, there are not several spots to visit or will be pleasant. You will get the cheapest deals on hotel booking during this season, so it is a perfect time for budget travelers. The southern coast is moderately dry as opposed to inland regions like Ubud. So, in case you totally want to visit Bali during January, invest in a luxury hotel or resort to get away from the worst of the outside and enjoy fully within the property itself.
February
The climatic conditions of February continue as it is in January with a slight increase in the average temperature. The humidity and warmth lead to regular blowouts of the downpour. The average temperature will be 30°C, and the average rainfall is 310mm in February.
The northern coast is one of the better alternatives during this month. You can visit the Agung Rai Museum of Art and Tanah Lot to enjoy your trip this month. Also, a visit to waterfalls is ideal in the wet season. Else stay in a hotel and enjoy its luxuries. Since it is the low season on the island, you can grab amazing deals on hotels and villas. Also, roads and beaches are less crowded during this time.
March
Somewhat drier than January and February still it isn’t totally apt month to visit Bali. The humidity and warmth cause regular outbursts of rain that occurs forcefully and instantly. This month has an average temperature of 30°C and an average rainfall of 210mm.
It rains, but you will witness plenty of sunshine as well. The northern coast is one of the better alternatives to visit during this month as other parts of the island are bathed in miserably wet conditions. You can visit Lovina which has somewhat less downpour than southern regions such as Kuta or Seminyak. You can additionally enjoy at local villages and rice fields in this month. Accommodations are still affordable in the month of March; thus, you can plan a budget-friendly vacation.
April
April is typically known as the hottest period in Bali and one of the high seasons too in terms of tourism. With an average rainfall of 70 mm and a temperature of 27 °C, Bali gets sunshine for around 9 hrs. daily in April.
Since the dry season is considered ideal in Bali, during your visit this month, you can appreciate the sand and the sun on its numerous shorelines. Plus, one can witness some wildlife in The Bali Bird Park and get relief from the hot days at the waterpark called Waterbom Bali. It is likewise the best month to visit Bali for investing time in the Ubud Food Festival, which is a three-day culinary occasion. The festival glorifies the local produce and the Indonesian food with Bali's best chefs.
May
With May coming in, the wet season ultimately concludes and the driest periods of Bali begins. The average temperature of the island is recorded 29°C with an average rainfall of 80mm.
May counts as the best time of year to visit Bali. The black lava beach - Jemeluk Beach is one of the best beaches to visit in May. Here the waters are shallow and ideal for swimming. Also, the Bingin beach - the white-sand shoreline is suitable for surfing in this month. For something different, one can visit the Kuda stables for a horse-riding delight and the Tirta Empul temple. Being the high season, accommodation will be available on high rates, better book early.
June
June starts with the clear skies and a low possibility of the downpour. The most scorching days of the year have now gone, though there is no reduction in sunlight. The average temperature is 29°C and the average rainfall 70mm.
Again, one more month for an extraordinary beach climate with plenty of sunlight. Though roads begin to get crowded, it's still not even close to the peak summertime of July and August. June is a decent time to linger on the several well-known west coast shorelines. Apparently, the best places to sojourn in Bali, with a beautiful climate to chill down before the enormous crowds begin to hit in the upcoming month.
July
The high season officially begins with July; thus, the best month to visit Bali. The climate usually is amazing, and the island is loaded with vacationers. The average temperature measures to 28°C, and the average rainfall is 60mm.
July is, no doubt, a marvellous month to visit this island though traffic can get somewhat overpowering. The breeze is blowing with incredible energy and direction, which marks the island's kite festival. Aside from the shorelines, head to some thrilling activities in the Elephant Safari Park and the Munduk wilderness. Also, there are a lot of other events happening in and around the island to make the most of island vacation. So, if you want to witness Bali in its full swing without fretting about high costs, July is the right month for you.
August
August is also the busiest month in Bali with roads crowded with tourists since it’s the best time to visit Bali. Just like the previous month, the average temperature is 28°C and rainfall is 30mm in this month.
Being another best month to visit Bali, beaches are buzzing with tourists enjoying surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. This month is also ideal for heading to the north for those who are searching for off-the-beaten-track adventures. There you can see the verdant Balinese jungle as well as northern beaches. This month further hosts a few outstanding events. Additionally, August 17 is Indonesia Independence Day with Indonesian flags hoisted everywhere. So, do not miss to rejoice with locals, playing traditional local games and famous tunes.
September
September is also the best month to make a trip to Bali. Though rain starts to strike from the dry season lows, September is yet slightly dry month here. The average temperature is 29°C and an average rainfall of 40mm.
You won't be dissatisfied by lingering on the sunny shorelines of Bali. You will get the opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary climate, whether you accommodate at the family-friendly Sanur or more upscale Seminyak or Nusa Dua. Also, September is likewise a phenomenal time to visit ever-prominent Ubud to view Bali's most significant temples. It's additionally the fantastic month to go for scuba diving at Amed or Pemuteran as the ocean visibility is the best.
October
Incredible seaside climate with loads of daylight, however, the odd rainfall turns out to be increasingly normal. Particularly the month's end begins to see an increase in a downpour as the wet season is near. Temperatures stay hot during October while humidity sneaks up. The average temperature will be 29°C and the average rain measures to 60mm.
Many tourists still hit the shores of Bali with full enthusiasm. With the rise in rainfall, inland territories gradually turn out to be less enjoyable; thus, it’s not the best time to visit Bali. Better stay near the coastal regions to appreciate the last remnants of the dry season.
November
With the wet season currently at the peak, you can expect an extended level of rain in November, especially towards the month's end. Bright days are as yet expected, and temperatures stay warm at an average of 27°C.
Because of the wetter conditions, the island is considered offseason. Activities like trekking and hiking in mountainous regions such as Mount Batur is strictly not suggested in this month. But it can be the best season to visit Bali if you want to enjoy the lush environment and take part in local cultures and events. It’s one of the cheapest months of the year on the island. You'll witness the least crowded streets and huge discounts on hotels. It's right for those who want to enjoy a rainy climate and a calm stay around the island.
December
Usually, short-lived rainstorms occur in this month, and the majority of the day will still observe plenty of sunshine. The average temperature reaches 30°C, and the average rainfall is 250mm in December.
Although the rainy season, yet December is also the best season to visit Bali all because of Christmas and New Year occasion. Those who prefer the party scene, it is the time to be on this island. Several spots on the island get charged with parties. Also, this month you can enjoy the spectacular panorama of the island. Also, view the Tek Tok dance and the Denpasar festival that is a mix of all aspects of creativity with parades, masks, fashion shows, photo exhibitions, and much more.
Best time to visit Bali for Events and Festivals
Bali Arts Festival
June marks as that time on the island which is popular for its annual Bali Arts Festival. Its principal purpose is to protect Balinese cultural values by promoting them. Thus, it is probably the best occasion to view authentic Balinese performances and culture altogether. Every year it starts from the second Saturday of the month until the second Saturday of July.
This one-month long cultural expo takes place at Denpasar, Werdhi Budaya Culture Centre. You get to witness musical shows, dance performances, parades, and other sub-activities during this festival. Surely, a must-visit festival in Bali
Bali Kite Festival
The Bali Kite Festival is hosted in July, a yearly festival of one of the cultural symbols of the island - the legendary Balinese kite. The month of cooling winds starts from the east and the sky fills with colorful kites. Local people take out their kites and design Bali's sky with vivid hues and distinct shapes.
The festival gathers kite clubs from the local towns and highlights their giant and bizarre creations, in a blending contemporary and traditional design. Now, this seasonal festival has even become a big sporting event on this island. Also, during the entire event, a gamelan orchestra performs Bali's traditional music.
Nyepi Eve
Nyepi is the Hindu festival and Balinese New Year, which occurs on Isakawarsa, i.e., according to Balinese Lunar calendar. It is a national holiday in the entire nation but Bali is the place where Nyepi festivities happen with a lot of pomp and show. This event is hosted for more than six days. There is a Day of Silence on its third day. The island stops that day with no flights scheduled, and nobody can leave or enter Bali.
During the celebration, the famous ogoh-ogoh parades are held in which Balinese boys and men carry scary-looking, enormous statues that are taken through the boulevards with full gamelan music and noise.
Galungan and Kuningan
Galungan signifies the triumph of good over evil. This festival is a grand, joyous celebration in which residents connect with God, dress up in traditional costumes, consume delicious Balinese cuisine and visit their families and temples.
Amongst the most significant religious celebrations on the island, this event offers the best chance to see the fascinating part of Bali’s different cultures. A tour to Bali during this festival will undoubtedly be a memorable encounter for everyone. The best time to visit Bali to witness this festival is from July to August.
Nusa Dua Fiesta
It is a lively carnival to acknowledge Bali’s culture. In October, the excellent shorelines of Nusa Dua become charged with breathtaking artwork, colourful carnivals, dance and music performances, and fun games on the the southern part of the island at Nusa Dua. The Nusa Dua Fiesta likewise has a lot of food trucks serving gourmet bites, a vigorous farmer's market, along with charity functions like fund-raising dinners and marathons.
The celebration closes with a meeting up of numerous individuals performing the Mentari Pulau Dewata. After this, visitors can enjoy DJs and live music show setting a vibrant nightlife scene at the venue.
Sanur Village Festival
Sanur Village Festival is a fun-filled event that holds on 21 - 25 August. It takes place in the coastal village of the island. The best part of this festival is that visitors can take part in a plethora of activities. It features the Sanur Run, watersport activities, creative expos, music, and art performances, along with the cultural street parade.
The Sanur Village Festival also includes diverse ecological preservation activities, for example, beach cleaning, coral planting, and turtle release program. The celebration would likewise incorporate a few golf competitions, photography displays, kite festivals, fishing competitions, and cycling tours. There’s so much to indulge in one festival.
Bali Spirit Festival
Bali Spirit Festival is amongst the most prominent yoga festivals on the planet. The best time to visit Bali for this festival is around March or April in Ubud. So, encounter one of the world's most inspirational yoga galas on this idyllic island of Bali. Celebrate the global community, well-being, and international music.
The event is divided into two sessions. The daytime location is placed at the Bhanuswari Resort. In the evening concerts occur at Arma, with a lovely center stage of sculpted stonework surrounded by the sacred trees.
Both venues are genuinely remarkable, beautifully decorated, and absolutely unique with the pictures of lush scenery that only Bali can offer to you. Yoga lovers must visit Bali during this fiesta.
Perang Pandan
Perang Pandan, otherwise called the war dance, is a bizarre kind of event that you have ever seen anywhere else. It’s a custom dance event that takes place in 7 - 8 June, dedicated to the Hindu God of War, Indra that symbolizes strength and power over foes. Perang Pandan is performed in the eastern Bali territory of Karangasem solely by the Bali Aga individuals of Tenganan Village.
The custom dance event includes adult men wearing conventional Balinese garments decked uniquely with a circular shield in one hand and a spiky pandan leaf on the other. In this event, you’ll watch that the men would begin fighting with each other with an endeavour to slash each other's backs with the pandan leaf's sharp edges.
Lively Legian Beach Festival
If you are staying in Legian around the month of August, attend its Lively Legian Beach Festival. Lively Legian Beach Festival is an open-air throughout the day and night mega celebration, arranged beside 700 m of Legian beachfront.
As the most envisioned festival of Legian, the party will carry you to a totally different world while on this island. The highlight of this festival is different games, competitions, bazaars, and exhibitions. Sports activities, for example, surfing and swimming, can also be enjoyed during the day. Further, there will be a wide array of global food stalls, dance, and music performances during the night time. The Festival occurs for four days and is perhaps one of the most fabulous events in Bali.
Ultra Beach Bali
Ultra Beach Bali is the beachfront Indonesian version of the incredibly famous Ultra Music Festival. The music festival combines apparently the greatest global artists as well as DJs. This music festival likewise features state-of-the-art stage production, including world-class lighting, visuals, fireworks, and so on.
The electronic music event takes place in September at the beachside venue of Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak. The beach club changes into this electronic enchantment during this festival. If you are the party animal, it is the best time of year to visit Bali for enjoying this different side of the island in full spirit.
