Ideal Times to Explore Bali Based on Your Travel Aspirations

With breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, abundant sunshine, and warm temperatures throughout the year, Bali beckons adventurers, sun-lovers, and those who enjoy deeply engaging with the destinations they visit. No matter your travel preferences, Bali offers rewarding experiences to enjoy any time of year.

The dry season, spanning April to September, is the prime time for outdoor activities such as sunbathing on beaches, hiking, surfing, sailing, diving, and canyoning. While the wet season (November to March) brings frequent rain, it also offers excellent surf on the east coast, and outdoor fun remains possible, especially in the drier regions of the east and north of the island. Temperatures in Bali remain fairly consistent, ranging from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F) all year, though cooler conditions can be found in the mountains. Whatever your interests, here are the best times to visit Bali.

The peak season (July–August and December) is ideal for festivals and celebrations

Bali's peak season aligns with the summer vacation period in Europe, the US, and Australia, specifically in July and August. This is the height of the dry season and the prime time for surfing the west coast, particularly at breaks around Canggu and Seminyak. The island’s original beach hotspot, Kuta, tends to be overcrowded as many travelers flock here for the party scene.

During summer, most areas of Bali are bustling with visitors eager to enjoy the island’s attractions and participate in its vibrant festivals. One notable event is Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17, celebrated with grand parades and lively street parties in larger towns.

The Christmas and New Year period also attracts a significant number of travelers looking to escape the chilly winters of the north. Many hotels and restaurants host special dinners and entertainment for the festive season. New Year’s Eve is particularly memorable, featuring dazzling fireworks at midnight to ring in the new year in style. Notable events include the Pemuteran Bay Festival, Penglipuran Village Festival, and the New Year’s Eve festivities.

Peak season brings higher prices and crowded tourist spots; for a more tranquil experience, consider exploring more secluded areas like Nusa Penida and Pemuteran.

The shoulder season (April–June and September–October) is ideal for adventurous souls

Bali's shoulder season occurs at both ends of the dry period, with weather either improving post-rains or gradually becoming wetter as the dry months conclude. It’s quieter without the summer crowds, and conditions are typically still favorable for outdoor pursuits. However, expect tourist hotspots like Kuta and Legian to be busier during the two-week Easter spring break.

May signals the peak of surfing on the west and south coasts, while activities like rafting, trekking, and spelunking call out to thrill-seekers.

With more frequent rain showers in October compared to the dry summer months, consider exploring indoor attractions like temples, museums, and cultural sites in Ubud, Denpasar, and other hubs of Balinese culture. Major international events in October include the Ubud Village Jazz Festival and the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival.

The low season (January–March and November) is ideal for travelers on a budget

Bali’s low season aligns with the wettest months of the year, making this an unpredictable time for outdoor activities. With crowds having dispersed, the island adopts a more laid-back atmosphere, yet there’s still good surf on the east coast at famed spots like Padang Padang, and the weather remains warm. Accommodation prices drop significantly, making it a great time for budget-conscious travelers.

At the end of January or the beginning of February, celebrations for the Chinese New Year feature classic Balinese elements, including traditional percussion ensembles and dancers adorned as the mythological lion-like figure, Barong. The festival of Nyepi, which marks the Balinese New Year, aligns with the lunar calendar and often occurs in March. This is a culturally rich time to explore Bali, but after the vibrant parades of ogoh-ogoh puppets the night prior, the Day of Silence can pose challenges for visitors, as everything shuts down, transportation halts, and no one is allowed on the streets.

A Guide to the Balinese Calendar

Keep in mind that religious festivals like Galungan and Kuningan are organized according to the Balinese 210-day pawukon calendar. This means they occur roughly every seven months in relation to the Western calendar. Additionally, dates for village festivals can be fluid, and the timing of the Nyepi festival is determined by the lunar saka calendar, causing the date to vary each year. If you're planning your trip around a specific festival or event, be sure to verify the exact dates before booking your flights.