Planning to travel to Bali and wondering when to go? The best time to travel to Bali depends on what you prioritize: sunshine, surf, fewer crowds, or lower prices.
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season (May to October) when rainfall is low, humidity is lower, and outdoor activities are ideal. For fewer crowds and better hotel deals, May, June, and September offer the best balance of weather and value.
Our Weather & Climate Guides help you choose the best time to visit destinations around the world based on rainfall, temperature, humidity, crowd levels, and seasonal pricing.
Whether you’re looking for sunny beach weather, shoulder-season savings, or the best surf conditions, these detailed guides provide month-by-month breakdowns so you can plan smarter.
Bali Weather Overview
Bali has a tropical climate with two main seasons:
- Dry Season: May–October
- Wet Season: November–April
Temperatures stay warm year-round, averaging:
- Daytime: 80–90°F (27–32°C)
- Evenings: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
Humidity is the biggest difference between seasons.
Dry Season in Bali (May–October)
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Why It’s the Best Time for Most Travelers
- Low rainfall
- Sunny skies
- Comfortable humidity
- Ideal for hiking & waterfalls
- Best diving visibility
Peak Months
- July & August → Highest crowds
- Popular with European and Australian travelers
- Higher hotel and tour prices
Best Dry Season Months
- May
- June
- September
These months offer:
✔ Excellent weather
✔ Lower hotel prices
✔ Fewer tourists
If you’re planning your budget around seasonal pricing, see our full Bali Travel Cost Guide.
Wet Season in Bali (November–April)
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The wet season doesn’t mean nonstop rain. Most rainfall comes in short, heavy afternoon or evening showers.
Advantages of Visiting During Wet Season
- Fewer tourists
- Cheaper hotels
- Greener rice terraces
- Easier restaurant reservations
Downsides
- Higher humidity
- Some rough sea conditions
- Occasional flooding in low areas
Best wet season months:
- February
- March
- November (before holiday surge)
Cheapest Time to Travel to Bali
If price is your priority, travel during:
- February
- March
- November
Avoid:
- Late December (holiday surge)
- July–August (peak season)
Flights and accommodation can drop 20–40% outside peak periods.
Bali by Month (Quick Breakdown)
| Month | Season | Rainfall | Crowds | Prices | Good For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Wet | High | Low | Low | Budget trips |
| Feb | Wet | High | Low | Lowest | Cheapest travel |
| Mar | Wet | Medium | Low | Low | Budget travel |
| Apr | Transition | Medium | Medium | Medium | Shoulder season |
| May | Dry | Low | Medium | Medium | Best value |
| Jun | Dry | Low | High | High | Great weather |
| Jul | Dry | Very Low | Very High | High | Peak season |
| Aug | Dry | Very Low | Very High | High | Surf & beaches |
| Sep | Dry | Low | Medium | Medium | Best balance |
| Oct | Transition | Medium | Medium | Medium | Shoulder |
| Nov | Wet | Medium | Low | Low | Quiet travel |
| Dec | Wet | High | High (holidays) | High | Festive season |
Best Time for Surfing in Bali
Bali is world-famous for surf breaks.
- West Coast (Canggu, Uluwatu): Best May–September
- East Coast: Better during wet season
Beginners can find surf schools year-round.
Best Time for Honeymooners
May, June, and September are ideal for couples:
- Romantic sunsets
- Lower resort occupancy
- Better villa pricing
For romantic area recommendations, see Where to Stay in Bali.
Best Time for Digital Nomads
Remote workers often prefer:
- May–June
- September–October
Good weather + manageable crowds + lower long-term rental costs.
When Should You Avoid Bali?
Consider avoiding:
- Late December to early January (extremely crowded)
- Mid-July to mid-August (traffic & higher prices)
- Peak rainy weeks if you dislike humidity
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the absolute best month to visit Bali?
May and September offer the best combination of weather, pricing, and manageable crowds.
Is Bali too rainy in January?
January is one of the wettest months, but rainfall usually comes in short bursts rather than all-day storms.
Is Bali cheaper during rainy season?
Yes. Hotel prices and tour costs are generally lower from November to March (excluding Christmas/New Year).
How many days do you need in Bali?
Most travelers need 7–10 days. Follow our complete 7-Day Bali Itinerary for planning.
Final Verdict: When Is the Best Time to Travel to Bali?
For most travelers:
🏆 Best Overall: May, June, September
💰 Cheapest Months: February & March
🌊 Best for Surf: June–August
🌴 Best for Honeymoon: May or September
Timing your visit can significantly impact your budget, experience, and crowd levels.
If you’re planning your full trip, start with our complete Travel to Bali guide to organize your itinerary, budget, and entry requirements.
