Bali’s weather and crowd levels shift a lot across the year, and picking the right month can make or break your trip. Here’s what each season actually looks like on the ground, so you can plan around it instead of guessing.
Dry season: April to October
This is Bali’s most popular window — sunny days, low humidity, and calm seas, ideal for beaches, surfing, and hiking volcanoes like Batur. July and August are peak season: expect higher prices and busier temples and beaches, especially around Uluwatu and Ubud.
Shoulder months: May, June, September
These are arguably the best months to visit. You still get dry, sunny weather, but without the peak-season crowds or inflated prices. This is the sweet spot if flexibility allows it.
Wet season: November to March
Rain is common but usually comes in short, heavy bursts rather than all-day downpours, often leaving afternoons clear. Prices drop noticeably, and popular spots are far less crowded. January and February see the heaviest rainfall of the year.
Best month by what you want
- Best overall: May or June — dry, green, and not overcrowded.
- Best for surfing: July-August — biggest, most consistent swells.
- Best for budget travel: November or February — lower prices, fewer tourists.
- Avoid if possible: Late December to early January — peak holiday crowds and highest prices of the year.
There’s no truly bad time to visit Bali, but if you want the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds, aim for May, June, or September.