What's the best time to visit Bali?
The best time to visit Bali is between April and June, during the shoulder season before the summer crowds arrive, offering warm, dry weather and lower hotel prices, with a 30-50% discount. This period features less humidity, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s, and May shines as the ideal month for its hot, sunny days, cooler evenings, and fewer tourists, making travel and accommodation more affordable.
Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” is actually a beautiful cluster of islands near the equator on the Bali Sea and Indian Ocean. Known for the incredible tropical scenery and warm, moderate climate year-round, this is a favorite destination for international travelers seeking a sunny getaway on distant shores.
Bali is the kind of place truly worth writing home about. The natural beauty here draws more than 6 million visitors from around the world each year.
Soft, white-sand beaches, lush greenery all around, tranquil lakes and rushing waterfalls, majestic mountains, volcanoes, and deep canyons make up the stunning Bali landscape. The jungle-like rainforests of Bali are filled with wildlife and tropical plants.
Spot Sumatran tigers, black apes, orangutans, monkeys, komodo dragons, toucans, parrots, and more in the rainforests here. But while this storied tropical paradise has much to see and do, when is the best time to visit Bali? Here’s our take.
The Best Time to Visit Bali in 2024
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The overall best time to visit Bali is anytime between April to June. This is the shoulder season before Bali’s high summer season when the most tourists and visitors arrive – especially in July and August.
It’s also the start of Bali’s dry season (April-October) when the island receives little rainfall or severe weather. Temperatures in the 80s and 90s are the norm and it’s a little less humid if you go during April-June.
Take advantage of extra savings by booking in the early part of the high season (April, May, and early June), when hotel prices drop 30-50%.
The crowds are growing, but not yet at their peak in April-June. By the time July and August roll around, Bali is in full swing with the highest number of visitors arriving (and higher rates/booked-up hotels as a result).
If you really want the ideal Bali experience, go during May. This is typically the hottest month in Bali with average temperatures around 82°F.
It’s dry, sunny, and breezy in the evenings to keep things comfortable whether you’re on the beach, climbing mountains, or exploring the rainforest. Fewer visitors during May means easier booking and lower prices on flights and hotels, too.
- April-June is the best time to visit overall
- Ideal weather; little rain and warm temps
- Avoid peak crowds by going in April-May
Cheapest Time to Visit Bali
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All things considered the cheapest time to visit Bali is in mid-January-February, April, and October-November.
Avoiding the holiday crowds in December and early January, March, and the height of peak season (July-August) means cheaper rates for a Bali visit.
Visiting during January-February will make your trip a lot rainier, but slightly cooler temperatures around 78F can make it worthwhile for those who want to beat the heat and get amazing deals. The seas are a bit rougher this time of year and you may see a lot of debris washed up on the shores at this time
If clear water, warm weather, and less rainfall is better for your stay, go in April. It’s one of the cheaper months to visit Bali, though it’s not quite as cheap as January-February and October-November.
You’ll run into more visitors at this time, but nothing like the height of peak season in July and August. Visiting in October and November puts you back into the rainy season with temperatures in the low 80s.
Strong winds, increased rainfall (though less than January and February), and rougher seas should be kept in mind. You’ll get some of the cheapest rates of the year on flights during October, and it’s less rainy than November.
- January-February, April, October-November are the cheapest times to visit
- Cheapest dates mostly during rainy season (November-March)
- Fewer tourists, cooler temps, and amazing deals
Least Busy Time to Visit Bali
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The least busy time to visit Bali is from mid-January to June. After the holiday crowds thin out in mid-January, Bali is calmer and more serene with fewer tourists arriving until peak season really picks up in July.
Mid-January to June has generally mild weather (though January-March is quite rainy). For the best weather while the crowds are low, visit during mid-to-late March, April, or May.
Crowds begin to thicken in June as Bali enters the summer high season, but things don’t really take off until July and August. By visiting in the first half of the year, you’ll deal with fewer tourists and reduced rates on flights and hotels as a result.
This is a great time of year to find package deals and discounts on stays at all-inclusive resorts. Since it’s Bali’s low season, the hotels and tourist attractions drop their prices to entice visitors to come.
You’ll get the best experience – few crowds, lower prices, and good weather – by visiting from mid-March to late May. The tradeoff for visiting in the earlier part of the year is the rainy season and less ideal weather.
The sea is rough with debris on the shores until March, when the currents begin to shift. Rainfall is an almost-daily occurrence from January-March, though the rains here are usually brief showers with sunshine afterward.
- January-June see the fewest tourists in Bali
- Cheaper prices on flights and hotels
- Best weather in spring and early summer
Worst Time to Visit Bali
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The worst time to visit Bali is from July-August and December, which are the busiest months for tourism. In July and August (during the dry season), summer tourists flock to the island for a taste of the tropical.
In December, holiday tourists arrive in throngs and drive prices up on flights and hotels. July and August are the heart of Bali’s peak summer season. With kids out of school and excellent, dry weather on the island, it quickly gets crowded here.
You’ll have trouble booking hotels and resorts last-minute at this time of year. And when you do nab a vacant room, you’ll pay 30-50% more for it during this time.
December – especially the middle and end of the month – see another wave of tourists arrive, this time for the holidays. Crowds hang around until early January, after the new year.
December is the 2nd rainiest month in Bali (only January sees more rainy days), so it’s really one of the worst times to visit. This is especially true if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors during your stay.
If you can avoid it, don’t visit Bali during July, August, or December. You’re better off staying in late March, April, or May for great weather, moderate prices, and fewer crowds.
- July-August and December are the worst times to go
- Peak tourism months with heavy crowding
- Rates increase as tourists arrive in droves
Bali by Month: Climate & Activities
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Still unsure about the best time to visit Bali? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:
January
In January, monsoon season begins, bringing heavy rain and temperatures ranging from 23-31°C (73-88°F). It’s a quieter time for tourism, ideal for spa retreats and cultural explorations.
February
Similar to January, February maintains monsoon conditions with temperatures between 23-31°C (73-88°F). Visitors can explore Bali’s temples and enjoy the lush, green landscapes.
March
As the wet season eases in Bali, March sees temperatures range from 23-31°C (73-88°F). March is perfect for cultural experiences, with fewer crowds at popular attractions.
April
Spring sees temperatures between 23-32°C (73-90°F). It’s a great month for water activities, beach days, and exploring Bali’s diverse landscapes.
May
In May, Bali experiences temperatures ranging from 24-32°C (75-90°F). It’s an ideal time for outdoor adventures, including trekking, surfing, and enjoying Bali’s vibrant nightlife.
June
Dry season begins with temperatures between 24-31°C (75-88°F). June is perfect for exploring rice terraces, attending cultural festivals, and enjoying the beaches.
July
July maintains dry conditions with temperatures from 23-30°C (73-86°F). It’s a peak month for tourism, attracting visitors for water sports, Balinese dance performances, and beach relaxation.
August
In August, temperatures in Bali range from 23-30°C (73-86°F). It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, visiting Bali’s temples, and experiencing the island’s rich cultural heritage.
September
As fall begins, temperatures range from 23-30°C (73-86°F). September offers a pleasant transition, with opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and exploring Bali’s markets.
October
October sees temperatures between 23-31°C (73-88°F). It’s an excellent month for hiking Mount Batur, attending traditional ceremonies, and enjoying Bali’s diverse cuisine.
November
In November, monsoon season returns to Bali with temperatures ranging from 23-31°C (73-88°F). November is a quieter month, ideal for spa retreats, cultural experiences, and exploring Bali’s lush interiors.
December
The wet season continues with temperatures between 23-31°C (73-88°F). December brings festive holiday celebrations, and despite occasional rain, visitors can enjoy Bali’s cultural offerings.
Things to Consider
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Now you know the best time to visit Bali – and the worst. What other Bali info should you bone up on before you book your stay? Glad you asked – here are helpful travel tips to make the most of your stay on the Island of the Gods.
- Bali is actually 4 islands. While the main island is by far the largest and most developed, Bali is also made up of the smaller islands Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. This cluster of 3 smaller islands (a 20-minute boat ride from Sanur port) is relatively untouched by modern tourism. Each of the smaller islands of Bali makes a great destination for those seeking a more secluded getaway.
- Know where to go for nightlife. If you’re planning to experience the party side of Bali and hit the clubs and bars during your stay, know that Kuta, Seminyak, and Legian are the hotspots. These regions are home to the most resorts, clubs, and bars for the after-dark crowd who wants to party ’til the sun comes up.
- Uncover the calm and serene spots. If you’re not about that nightlife life, opt to visit Nusa Dua, Sanur, or Ubud. These areas are filled with natural beauty and aren’t as bustling with activity as the tourist hotspots. Perfect for romantic getaways, serene retreats, and avoiding big crowds, anyone seeking a relaxing vacay will enjoy the natural beauty and landscapes found in Nusa Dua, Ubud, and Sanur.
- Spend some time on the beaches. The soft, white sand beaches are one of the most-enjoyed parts of Bali. The best beaches to visit are Sanur Beach (less crowded with calmer vibes), Seminyak Beach (very popular with tourists with tons of restaurants and shops), and Pasir Putih Beach (Bali’s best “secret” beach).
- Many locals speak English. Visiting a foreign country when you don’t speak the language can be challenging, but in Bali, many of the locals have adopted English as one of the unofficial languages. You may not run into a lot of fluency, but it’s helpful that many of the locals will be able to communicate with you effectively if you’re not planning to learn Bahasa Indonesian or Basa Balinese (the 2 official languages) before your visit.
- Don’t drink the tap water. Bali’s tap water has resulted in the dreaded “Bali Belly” for many an unsuspecting tourist. Bacteria in the water here is unfamiliar to your gut microbiome and can promptly lead to traveler’s diarrhea, cramping, nausea, and vomiting. Nothing ruins the beauty of Bali like being sick, so avoid the tap and drink bottled water only.
So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Bali?
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Since we’ve covered a lot of info in this guide, it’s helpful to sum it all up to keep it fresh in your mind. Overall, the best time to visit Bali is April-June. These 3 months make up the spring/summer shoulder season just before the high season.
It’s also dry season in Bali at this time of year, so the weather will be picture-perfect for your stay. Prices can be 30-50% cheaper than peak months July and August!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re going when the weather is ideal, the prices hit rock-bottom, or the tourists are far and few between, you’re going to fall in love with Bali.
You can plan your trip to take you into the flurry of activity of high season with the best weather and everything bustling around you. Or you can go for the alluring calm and serenity you’ll find on the relaxing beaches, dense rainforests, and ancient temples and ruins.
That’s what’s uniquely magnetic about Bali – it is what you want it to be. And armed with the info from this guide, you can plan your trip to meet all your vacation goals while avoiding the stuff you don’t want.