Weather and Climate in Bali

The weather in Bali is always warm and humid, just as you would expect from a tropical island slightly south of the equator. Although destinations such as Ubud in the green interior may feel a bit cooler at night, temperatures consistently remain near the mid-80s F (29 degrees C). You’ll only feel chilly at higher elevations in the Kintamani region or when climbing Mount Batur before sunrise.

Like other islands in Southeast Asia, Bali essentially has two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season months (summer and fall) are the busiest time on the island as visitors come in record numbers to enjoy beautiful weather. Fortunately, there are lesser-visited regions to explore when the island feels too busy.

Rain in December, January, and February can be quite heavy. Rough seas certainly make diving and beach activities less enjoyable. No matter the season, the average number of daylight hours per day doesn’t vary much for Bali. You’ll always have around 12 hours per day for taking advantage of the many activities Bali has to offer!

Fast Climate Facts

• Hottest Month: May (88 F / 31 C)
• Coolest Month: August (86F / 30 C)
• Sunniest Month: August
• Wettest Month: January (13.6 inches / 345 mm)

Monsoon Season in Bali

Monsoon season in Bali typically stretches from November to April, but the timing has become less predictable in the past decade. The monsoon has been known to arrive a month or more later than usual.

December, January, and February are the rainiest months for visiting Bali. Although a rainy beach vacation doesn’t sound very appealing, there are still some sunny days to enjoy even during monsoon season. With fewer people visiting during the wet months, you’ll have a better chance for scoring deals on accommodation. Plus, traffic is (slightly) less frustrating during Bali’s low season.

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, becomes more of a problem during monsoon season. Also, beaches aren’t as clean due to the rough seas depositing rubbish faster than it can be cleaned up.

There is some good news: Bali may receive heavy rain during monsoon season, but the island isn’t plagued by potentially catastrophic typhoons such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and other places to the north.

Spring in Bali

April and May are often the hottest months in Bali—be ready. Monsoon season begins winding down in spring and should hopefully be over by late May. On average, two out of every three days in April should be dry enough to enjoy. Humidity usually hovers at suffocating levels during Nyepi (the Balinese Day of Silence), an important event that occurs in March or April.

Although hot, April is a “shoulder month” between seasons and one of the best times to visit Bali before the tourist stampede begins in summer. If you don’t prefer hot weather, consider spending more time in the island interior. You’ll have to forfeit access to the sea, but evenings in Ubud are more tolerable. Green areas such as peaceful Bedugul and the Kintamani region around Mount Batur are much cooler.

Surfing in Kuta, one of the most popular spots for beginners, is generally best from April to October when offshore winds are blowing.

What to Pack: With high humidity exasperating spring temperatures often in the 90s F (32 degrees C), expect to sweat excessively. You’ll want plenty of extra tops or plan to do laundry during your trip. Opt for colors that don’t show sweat. Consider bringing electrolyte mixes for adding to bottled water; you’ll be drinking a lot!

Summer in Bali

For the most part, expect perfect weather for Bali during summer, the busiest time of year on the island. Temperatures dip by a few degrees Fahrenheit but remain warm and humidity is at its lowest all year. Rain showers don’t last long in summer and won’t disrupt your plans.

Bali is always Indonesia’s most visited island of the more than 17,000 in the archipelago, but the number of tourist arrivals peaks in July and August. If beaches, roads, and sidewalks feel too jammed in July, consider popping over to nearby Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, Lombok, or one of the other neighboring islands with fewer tourists. July is considered to be the best month for surfing along the west coast.

What to Pack: Short-sleeved button-ups are daily attire in Bali, and flip-flops (or other easy-to-remove sandals) are the default footwear. Sarongs are used to cover up when coming off the beach and for entering sacred sites. Don’t worry if your wardrobe is lacking; you’ll find plenty of what you need while shopping locally.

Fall in Bali

Weather remains mostly pleasant in Bali throughout fall. The frequency of rainy afternoons increases in late November while tourist numbers begin to decline. Same as April, October and November are shoulder months for visiting Bali. You may get lucky with little rain and quieter beaches in November, especially if the monsoon is running late.

Heat and humidity begin to build again in October and November, signaling that rainy season is approaching. Historically, Bali averages 16 rainy days in November; however, the weather during shoulder months is increasingly unpredictable.

What to Pack: Wearing lightweight, cotton clothing is the best way to survive hot days in Bali, but no need to overthink and wind up overpacking. Along with bringing beachwear and casual clothing for evenings, keep in mind that some nightclubs may require long pants and proper shoes to enter. Government buildings and holy sites such as shrines and temples also require appropriate clothing.

Winter in Bali

Winter is rainy in Bali and considered the “low” season. Top destinations around the island will still have plenty of visitors however, fewer people will be competing for accommodation than in summer. Diving and snorkeling during the winter months is less ideal. The best months for surfing the east coast (more suitable for experts) are from November to March.

Historically, January averages 27 rainy days. There will still be periods of sunshine, but have a plan in mind for what to do when torrential showers pop up—especially if you’re exploring by scooter!

What to Pack: Have a good way to waterproof your money, passport, and electronics in case you are surprised by a downpour. Bring wet-weather gear or plan to buy a cheap poncho and umbrella locally. Pack your favorite mosquito repellent or try the local stuff; the biters thrive in wet weather.