Complete Travel Guide for the Best Time to Visit Bali

Planning a Bali holiday? This guide explains the best time to visit Bali, depending on what you want: sunny weather, fewer crowds, surfing, or culture. Learn about the best time of year to visit Bali, the best time to visit Bali for good weather, and the cheapest time to visit Bali if you’re looking to save. We cover what to pack, when to visit Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Penida, and the worst time to visit Bali if rain would spoil your trip. To stay connected, Jetpac offers the best eSIM for Bali and flexible international eSIM plans, making it easy to share every sunset in Bali and use maps or rides without roaming stress. Read this blog to plan your Bali trip with confidence and make your journey unforgettable.

You have been planning your Bali holiday for months, and now the tickets are finally booked. Bags are packed, excitement is high, and the only thing left is figuring out the details. Naturally, you start searching the internet: what is the best time to visit Bali, when is the best time to visit Bali for good weather, and what should I expect each season? If that sounds like you, you are in the right place.

In this complete travel guide, we will help you understand the best time of year to visit Bali, the months with the best weather, the cheapest time to visit Bali, when to avoid the crowds, and even the worst time to visit Bali if sunshine is a must. You’ll also find tips on what to pack, when to visit top places like Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Penida, as well as a month-by-month breakdown to make planning easier.

And yes, the most important thing many of us forget to plan for is connectivity. Don’t worry, we will keep you connected, making your journey even more unforgettable with Jetpac’s seamless connectivity, powered by the best eSIM for Bali and flexible international eSIM plans.

Best Time to Visit Bali (Quick Answer)

If you’re after clear skies, warm sun, and long beach days, the best time to visit Bali is the dry season, which runs from April to October. This is also the best time of year to visit Bali if you want to combine temple visits, rice terrace walks, and outdoor adventures without worrying about sudden downpours. Humidity is lower, evenings are cooler, and it is the season when Bali feels at its most comfortable.

From November to March, the island shifts into the rainy season. Showers are common, often heavy but usually short, and the humidity rises. While this may not be the best time to visit Bali for good weather, it can still be a good time to visit Bali if you prefer quieter temples, less crowded beaches, and better deals on hotels. Many budget travelers even consider this the cheapest time to visit Bali, as flights and stays drop in price compared to peak season.

So, when you ask “when is the best time to visit Bali?” the answer depends on what you’re looking for. For sunshine and outdoor fun, stick to April–October. For savings and a slower pace, November–March might surprise you.

Bali’s Seasons at a Glance

Bali has just two main seasons, dry and rainy, and each offers a very different travel experience. Knowing the difference will help you choose the best time to visit Bali based on your own travel goals.

Dry Season (April – October)

Weather: Sunny, warm, and less humid. Temperatures average 27–30°C.

Vibe: This is the best time of year to visit Bali for beaches, sightseeing, and festivals. It is also peak season, so expect more tourists.

Activities: Perfect for temple visits, outdoor treks like Mount Batur, diving, and enjoying the best beaches in Bali. Surfing is excellent on the west coast (Kuta, Uluwatu, Canggu).

Crowds & Prices: Busy and more expensive. Book hotels and tours early, especially in July and August.

Rainy Season (November – March)

Weather: Hotter and more humid with afternoon or evening showers. Lush greenery everywhere.

Vibe: Quieter and slower. This is considered the cheapest time to visit Bali since prices for hotels and flights drop.

Activities: A good time to visit Bali for yoga retreats, spa days, temple ceremonies, and exploring Ubud’s rice terraces. East coast surfing (Nusa Dua, Keramas) is better in these months.

Crowds & Prices: Fewer tourists, easier to find deals, and less crowded attractions.

So, if you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Bali, choose the dry season for classic holiday weather, and the rainy season for quieter, cheaper, but still rewarding experiences.

What to Pack by Season?

Packing for Bali depends on when you’re visiting. The island’s tropical climate means light clothing works year-round, but a few extras can make your trip smoother depending on the season.

Dry Season (April – October)

This is the best time to visit Bali for good weather, so pack for sunshine and outdoor days:

Light clothing: Cotton or linen tops, shorts, and dresses to stay cool.

Swimwear: You’ll likely spend plenty of time on Bali’s best beaches.

Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Comfortable shoes/sandals: For temple visits, beach walks, or rice terrace tours.

Sarong or shawl: Required at temples and useful for modesty.

Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated in the heat.

Rainy Season (November – March)

Rainy months are still a good time to visit Bali if you’re prepared:

Light rain jacket or poncho: Sudden showers are common.

Quick-dry clothing: Helps with the humidity and faster laundry turnaround.

Waterproof sandals or flip-flops: Easier for walking in wet conditions.

Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are more active in wetter months.

Dry bags: Protect phones and cameras when exploring outdoors.

Essentials Year-Round

Universal adapter: Bali uses European-style plugs (Type C/F).

Travel insurance documents: Especially for adventure sports or scooter rentals.

Connectivity: Staying online is key. Installing an eSIM Bali before you go means maps, bookings, and ride-hailing apps work instantly. Jetpac provides the best eSIM for Bali, offering clear pricing, hotspot sharing, and coverage across the island.

When planning your trip, remember: Bali is relaxed, casual, and practical. Pack light, bring only what you need, and save space for souvenirs.

Best Time to Visit Bali by Trip Goal

Everyone heads to Bali for different reasons: sunshine, surfing, festivals, or simply a quiet escape. Here’s when to go, depending on what you want most out of your trip.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Fewer Crowds

April, May, and September
These shoulder months are a sweet spot: the weather is still dry and sunny, but without the peak-season rush of July and August. You’ll enjoy popular spots like Uluwatu and Seminyak with less traffic and shorter wait times.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Good Weather

June, July, and August
This is the best time of year to visit Bali if you want guaranteed blue skies and little to no rain. It’s also the best time to visit Bali for good weather for outdoor activities like trekking Mount Batur or lounging on Bali’s best beaches.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Lower Prices

November to March
The rainy season doubles as the cheapest time to visit Bali. Hotels slash rates, flights are more affordable, and restaurants are less crowded. If you don’t mind occasional showers, this is a budget traveler’s best pick.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Water Activities

April to October
Snorkeling and diving conditions are at their best during the dry season, with calmer seas and clear visibility. Nusa Penida, Menjangan, and Amed are especially beautiful at this time.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Surfing

Dry season (April–October): The West Coast (Kuta, Uluwatu, Canggu) has the best waves.

Rainy season (November–March): East coast (Nusa Dua, Keramas) shines when winds shift.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Adventure

May to September
Dry paths make hiking and exploring waterfalls safer. This is the best time to trek Mount Batur at sunrise or explore Bali’s hidden canyons.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Festivals & Culture

March: Nyepi, Bali’s unique “Day of Silence,” where the island shuts down for 24 hours.

June–July: Bali Arts Festival, showcasing music, dance, and traditional performances.

August: Indonesian Independence Day celebrations bring parades and local joy.

Month-by-Month Guide to Bali

When to Visit Bali’s Popular Places?

Different parts of Bali shine at different times of the year. If you’re asking when is the best time to visit Bali for Ubud, Uluwatu, or Nusa Penida, here’s what to know:

Uluwatu (Cliffs, Temples, and Sunsets)

Best Months: May to September (dry season)

Why: Clear skies make the sunset in Bali at Uluwatu Temple even more spectacular. The west coast beaches, like Padang Padang and Dreamland, are at their best.

Tip: Visit early evening to catch both the views and the famous Kecak fire dance.

Ubud (Rice Terraces and Temples)

Best Months: April to October (dry season)

Why: Paths to Tegallalang Rice Terraces and waterfalls are safer and less muddy. Temples like Tirta Empul and Goa Gajah are easier to explore without heavy rains.

Alternative: If you come in the rainy season, the terraces and jungles are at their greenest and most photogenic, just pack a poncho.

Nusa Penida (Beaches and Cliffs)

Best Months: April to October (calm seas, dry skies)

Why: Ferries are smoother, and spots like Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay are safer to access. Diving and snorkeling visibility is excellent.

Caution: From November to March, seas can be rough and ferries less reliable.

Seminyak and Canggu (Trendy Beaches)

Best Months: May to August

Why: Dry skies make it ideal for beach clubs, surf lessons, and sunsets.

Good to Know: Rainy season still works if you’re more into cafés and nightlife than sunbathing.

Mount Batur (Volcano Treks)

Best Months: June to September

Why: Clear, cool mornings make for safe and rewarding sunrise hikes. During the rainy months, the trail gets slippery and visibility drops.

Worst Time to Visit Bali

Bali is a year-round destination, but there are times when travel can be less enjoyable depending on what you want from your trip.

January and February: Heavy Rains and Humidity

These months fall deep in the rainy season. Expect frequent downpours, high humidity, and occasional flooding in low-lying areas. Beaches can look less inviting, water clarity for snorkeling and diving is poor, and trekking paths like Mount Batur can be slippery. This is often called the worst time to visit Bali if your goal is sunshine and outdoor activities.

Late December: Busy and Expensive

While December is part of the rainy season, the Christmas and New Year period is also peak holiday time. Crowds surge, hotel prices spike, and traffic can be frustrating, especially around Seminyak and Ubud. If you’re asking when the worst time to visit Bali is, the last two weeks of December are worth avoiding unless you specifically want the festive atmosphere.

When Rainy Season Still Works

That said, the rainy months (November–March) can still be a good time to visit Bali if you’re more focused on yoga retreats, spa days, and exploring culture in Ubud. Hotels and flights are cheaper, and the landscapes are at their greenest.

So, while the best time of year to visit Bali is usually April–October, the worst time to visit Bali for most tourists is January–February and late December, unless you’re chasing deals or don’t mind the rain.

10 Practical and Safety Tips for Visiting Bali

Bali is one of the most traveler-friendly destinations in Asia, but keeping these 10 tips in mind will make your trip safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.

Always wear a helmet when riding scooters – traffic can be unpredictable.

Avoid riding scooters at night in unfamiliar areas.

Swim only in designated safe areas – Bali’s beaches often have strong currents.

Stick to bottled or filtered water – tap water is not safe to drink.

Pack a sarong or cover-up for temple visits – modest dress is expected.

Respect Nyepi, the Day of Silence – the entire island, including the airport, shuts down.

Book hotels early in the dry season – this is peak tourist time.

Carry a rain poncho or umbrella in the rainy season – showers are frequent.

Wear waterproof sandals during rain – easier for walking on wet streets.

Stay connected with an eSIM Bali – Jetpac offers the best eSIM for Bali, with clear pricing, multi-network coverage, and free access to apps like WhatsApp and Maps even when your data runs out.

Stay Connected in Bali with Jetpac eSIM

When planning flights, hotels, and activities, one detail travelers often forget is connectivity. Yet, in Bali, staying online matters as much as sunscreen or a sarong. You’ll use your phone for ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek, navigating to hidden waterfalls, booking last-minute villas, or sharing that perfect sunset in Bali. That’s where Jetpac makes the difference.

Here’s why Jetpac is the best Bali eSIM for your travel:

One eSIM, 200+ destinations – Install once and use it in Bali and beyond, perfect if you’re continuing your trip across Southeast Asia.

Up to 70% cheaper than roaming – No shocking bills, just clear, upfront pricing.

Multi-network switching in Bali – Your phone automatically connects to the strongest local signal, even in less touristy areas.

Hotspot sharing included – Use your Bali eSIM to connect your laptop or share data with friends.

Voice + data plans – Not just internet; Jetpac also offers voice options for regular calls.

Free essentials when data runs out – WhatsApp, Google Maps, and Uber remain accessible, so you’re never left stranded.

5G in 50+ countries – Where available, you get fast speeds for streaming, work, or social updates.

24/7 premium support – Help is always available, whether you’re in Ubud, Uluwatu, or Nusa Penida.

With Jetpac, staying connected in Bali is seamless. No airport SIM queues, no hidden costs, and no roaming stress. Just smooth, reliable data so you can focus on what matters most, making your trip to Bali unforgettable.

FAQs

How many days in Bali is enough?

Most travelers find 5–7 days is enough to see beaches, temples, and cultural spots. If you want to explore Ubud, Nusa Penida, and some hidden places, 10–14 days is ideal.

Is $1000 enough for a week in Bali?

Yes. A budget of $1000 for 7 days is enough for mid-range travel, covering flights (if booked early), comfortable stays, daily meals, and tours. Budget travelers spending less on hotels and food can stretch this further.

What are the best and worst months to go to Bali?

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, April–October, when the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities. The worst time to visit Bali is January–February, when rain is heaviest and beaches can look less inviting.

What is the hottest month in Bali?

April and October are typically the hottest months, with daytime highs reaching 32°C and humidity starting to rise.

When is the best time to visit Bali for good weather?

The best time to visit Bali for good weather is June–August, when the skies are clear, humidity is low, and evenings are cooler.

What is the cheapest time to visit Bali?

The cheapest time to visit Bali is during the rainy season, November–March, when flights and hotel prices are lower, and attractions are less crowded.

Do I need an eSIM in Bali?

Yes. Staying connected is essential for maps, rides, and bookings. Jetpac offers the best eSIM for Bali, with upfront pricing, strong coverage, hotspot sharing, and free access to apps like WhatsApp and Google Maps, even if your data runs out.

Which is the best Bali eSIM for your travel?

Jetpac is the best Bali eSIM for your travel because it works instantly on arrival, covers all of Indonesia, connects to the strongest local networks, and lets you keep using your home SIM for calls while your Jetpac eSIM handles data.