What’s The Worst (And Best) Time To Travel To Bali, Indonesia?

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The short answer is that there is no worst time to travel to Bali. The island is beautiful year-round, and chances are you’ll love it no matter what month you visit. However, you’ll have to adjust your expectations and keep in mind that every month of the year has its pros and cons for tourists.

A lot of visitors are quick to say that the rainy season is the worst time to travel to Bali. This isn’t always true in my experience. The months between November and April might have higher chances of rainfall, but there are also upsides to coming to the island of the Gods when tourism isn’t at its peak.

If you’re planning your trip to Bali at the moment and are trying to avoid the worst time to travel, this complete guide will have all the answers you’re looking for.

Are you a solo traveller in Bali and have no idea how to make friends? We’ve got you covered. You could also check out this list of 62 fun and unusual ways to celebrate your birthday on the island of the Gods and our guide on the best organised tours to the island.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Guide Your Travel free and provide high-quality content for you. Please read the full disclaimer for more information.

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Why you can trust this article

I’ve lived in Bali on and off for years and have spent a considerable amount of time on the island both as a tourist and an expat. I’ve experienced the seasons here countless times and regularly help people plan their trips to Indonesia, always keeping the weather in mind. I work in the travel industry and am focused on Bali, which gives me a great perspective on life here and what you might want out of your trip as a tourist.

An important thing to note that visitors often forget when booking their Bali trip is that the rainy season and the low season aren’t synonymous in Bali. December to mid-January is actually one of the busiest times on the island, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. During these weeks, accommodation prices will be at an all-time high, so don’t assume you’ll get to enjoy the benefits of visiting Bali during the low season.

Indonesia’s changing weather

One important thing you have to keep in mind is that Indonesia’s seasons are changing, just like many parts of the world. The distinct dry and wet seasons don’t exist apart from each other like they once used to, and a lot of us are observing them blend into one more and more. This is one reason why information online on the weather in Bali for each month of the year is so unreliable.

While your chances of sunny days are still the highest during the dry season, you’ll also have to expect regular downpours. The rainy season isn’t just 6+ months of daily monsoon rains anymore but can actually bring a lot of sun and fantastic weather. However, due to these seasons being so unpredictable, your travel planning just became a lot more complicated. Luckily, you can use this carefully crafted guide as a resource to set you up for the best Bali trip possible.

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Here are our absolute favourite hotels in Bali – hand-picked and tested by us.

Alaya Resort Ubud

Alaya Resort Ubud

Nusa Dua Beach Hotel

Nusa Dua Beach Hotel

Weather forecasts in Bali

When you open your weather forecast app for Bali, it might seem as if it rains every single day. Storms are often predicted, but the forecast is rarely accurate. It can be used as a rough guide, and days that are marked as sunny will usually be dry. However, the weather changes extremely quickly on the island, and you might encounter rain unexpectedly. Look less at the forecast and more at the sky to plan your day.

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When is the worst time to travel to Bali?

The easy answer is that the rainy season, which lasts roughly from November to April, is the worst time to travel to Bali. It rains frequently during these months, and changing ocean currents lead to large amounts of plastic waste being washed ashore at many beaches. The water visibility is also low during this time, and the waves are generally higher, leading to bumpy ferry rides.

But the rainy season also has benefits, and just because it usually rains a lot during this time doesn’t mean it always does.

Only have a week or two in Bali? Here is our complete guide on how much money you need for a week on the island.

Rainy season – November to April

The rainy season in Bali takes place between the months of November and April, although some people also consider October to be a part of the rainy season and April to be a part of the dry season. These shoulder months can be hit-or-miss, and the weather will be different each year.

The rainy season in Bali isn’t all bad, though. Here are some pros and cons to keep in mind if you’re considering coming to Bali during these months.

Pros

+ Cheaper prices for accommodation, transport and tours
+ Fewer tourists, which means attractions aren’t as crowded
+ Lush, green landscapes, which can be dry and burnt in high season
+ More potential for spontaneous trips since flights, hotels and tours are rarely sold out
+ Clouds help against the extreme heat of the direct sun

Cons

– High chances of rain, especially in the afternoon
– Low underwater visibility, so not great for snorkelling or diving
– Increased level of trash and debris on the beaches
– High winds and waves can lead to bumpy boat rides
– Nightlife may be quieter than expected, especially on the Gili Islands, or Kuta Lombok
– Highest levels of humidity which can be uncomfortable

rainy season bali flooded streets worst time to visit

Dry season – May to October

The dry season in Bali brings thousands of domestic and international tourists to the island, leading to a sharp increase in accommodation prices. This applies mostly to the months from June to September, while May and October represent the shoulder season which will be slightly quieter.

The weather during this time is generally dry, with little rainfall and plenty of clear, sunny days. However, Bali is never completely without rain, and even the high season can be wet if you’re unlucky.

Pros

+ Best chance of sunny, dry weather
+ Best underwater visibility and great for snorkelling or diving
+ Cleanest beaches
+ Generally calmer seas
+ Best nightlife, especially on the islands
+ Less humidity

Cons

– Prices are significantly higher
– Tours, hotels and boats may be sold out far in advance
– The landscape is generally more dry and brown and not as lush
– Attractions may be overcrowded and less enjoyable
– Little cloud cover, which leads to extremely hot days

Uma Kalai Luxury Resort Ubud Landscape views pool Rainy season Bali
Views at Uma Kalai Resort, Ubud

Why is the rainy season considered the worst time to travel to Bali?

If you have limited time for your Bali trip, you’ll want the highest possibility of good weather, of course. However, if you’re travelling for an extended time period, you might have a few days to spare and aren’t too bothered about some rain. You’ll get to save some money on travel expenses and will be able to enjoy attractions that aren’t overcrowded.

What you need to keep in mind, though, is that the rainy season also includes December and January, which are considered some of the busiest months in Bali. This is largely due to the holidays and the large number of Australians who come to Bali over this time period. There will be large events taking place, and accommodation is usually sold out months in advance in popular areas. If you can help it (and if you aren’t interested in the DJ lineups of these events), make sure to avoid these weeks, as it’s definitely the worst time to travel to Bali.

Bali guide your travel blog

Best and worst months to travel to Bali

If you’re not sure which month to choose for your trip to Bali, this breakdown will help you make the best decision possible. Keep in mind that these are generalisations and that predicting the weather perfectly is impossible.

Events in Bali

The Balinese religion follows a special calendar, which means that most events do not take place on the same day annually but are shifted every year. Make sure to double-check local calendars to keep an eye out for ceremonies taking place during your visit. Except for Nyepi (where the whole island shuts down for a day), the ceremonies shouldn’t impact your stay too much, but you might want to experience some during your time in Bali.

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What is Bali like in January? – Wet and crowds start to disappear

The weather in Bali in January is generally quite warm, with temperatures of up to 30°C during the day. The island of the gods also tends to be quite humid at this time of year.

January is considered one of the wettest months in Bali, which is why rain can be expected at any time. Luckily, the maximum per day is usually only around 1 to 2 hours, so you can still plan activities. However, this can, of course, vary depending on the region, altitude and year.

January is the end of the holiday season, so it can still be relatively busy in Bali, although the crowds tend to disappear towards the end of the month, leading to a drop in accommodation prices. January isn’t the worst time to travel to Bali, but it’s certainly not the best.

Weather: Hot, humid, rainy and sometimes stormy
Average temperature: 26 °C to 30 °C
Average water temperature: 29 °C
Average rainfall: 350 millimetres
Recommended activities: Explore Bali and its attractions, try cooking classes, massages or other indoor activities
Avoid: Diving, snorkelling, hiking, and trips to the islands. The underwater visibility will be disappointing, and rains can occur unexpectedly. The ocean is generally rough in January, and beaches may face increased plastic pollution.

Natural Spring Ubud high season worst time to visit Bali
Natural spring pool at Tegenungan Waterfall, Bali

What is Bali like in February? – Low prices and lots of rain

February is very similar to January in Bali, with very hot and humid temperatures of 25°C at night and up to 31°C during the daytime.

Although it rains a little less than in January, sudden downpours can happen, usually either in the early morning or in the afternoon. Even when it does rain, it doesn’t have to ruin your day, it usually stops shortly after. Although it is still the rainy season, it is not unusual for the sun to shine almost every day.

The January crowds will have disappeared completely by February, allowing you to enjoy low prices, lush greenery and quiet beaches.

Weather: Warm and humid with rainy days
Average temperature: 26 °C to 31 °C
Average water temperature: 29 °C
Average rainfall: 280 millimetres
Recommended activities: Visit temples and tourist attractions that are usually crowded, massages, and yoga classes
Avoid: Just like in January, diving, snorkelling, and trips to the islands aren’t recommended. The underwater visibility will be disappointing, and rains can occur unexpectedly. The ocean is generally rough in February, and beaches may face increased plastic pollution.

Bali rainy season worst time to visit scooter street wet

What is Bali like in March? – Wet and quiet

March is the last proper rainy season month, and the rainfall already starts to decrease during this time. You’re going to have good chances of some sunny days, although downpours are still to be expected. Temperatures are between 25°C at night and up to 31°C throughout the day, just like in the previous months. The humidity is still intense, which can be uncomfortable.

March is also when Nyepi, Bali’s Silent Day, usually takes place. Everything on the island shuts down during this time, so you have to come prepared.

There are still fewer tourists on the island of the gods in March, and prices for accommodation and tours are generally a little cheaper, so you can book spontaneous trips. However, diving and snorkelling are not recommended since the visibility underwater isn’t great. If you don’t mind this, March can be a great time to travel to Bali for lower prices, and it’s certainly not the worst as many people seem to believe.

Weather: Warm and humid with rainy days
Average temperature: 25 °C to 31 °C
Average water temperature: 29 °C
Average rainfall: 215 millimetres
Recommended activities: Cultural attractions, yoga/silver-making/cooking classes
Avoid: Diving, snorkelling, hiking. The underwater visibility will be disappointing, and rains can occur unexpectedly. The ocean is still generally rough in March, but trips to the islands may be an option towards the end of the month.

Tanah Lot Temple Bali tourist attraction ocean rock
Tanah Lot Temple

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What is Bali like in April? – Optimistically dry with hot temperatures

April is the so-called shoulder season in Bali when the first waves of tourists show up again, especially over the easter holidays.

Temperatures are again somewhere between 25 °C during the night and 31°C during the day, but rainfall is much less likely than in previous months.

Now the weather is perfect for climbing one of the volcanoes on the island or spending days by the beach. During April, islands like Nusa Penida, Lombok or the Komodo National Park are still lush and green, so you could plan a trip there if you don’t mind the occasional rainy day.

Underwater visibility will start to improve, which means you can plan a diving trip or snorkelling tour.

The neighbouring islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are also good destinations now, as the tourist crowds are still not headed there to see the famous Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Tembeling Beach and other sights.

Weather: Hot and humid but less rainy
Average temperature: 25 °C to 31 °C
Average water temperature: 29 °C
Average rainfall: 90 millimetres
Recommended activities: Hike Mt. Batur or Mt. Agung, go diving in Amed or explore the neighbouring islands
Avoid: Last-minute trips to Bali over Easter, which is more expensive and crowded, making it one of the worst times to travel to the area

single fin beach club uluwatu
Single Fin beach club in Uluwatu, Suluban Beach

What is Bali like in May? – Mostly dry and still not extremely crowded

May is a hot month and marks the start of Bali’s dry season, with temperatures of up to 33°C and little to no rain.

More and more tourists are coming to the island of the gods, and the streets are slowly becoming busier but not overcrowded. Bali’s tourism is slowly taking off, though, and prices for accommodation and tours are rising. Make sure to pre-book hotels should you extend your trip into June or July.

May is usually a good time to lie on the beach and soak up some sun. If you want to escape the heat, head to Ubud or further into the mountains for a few days, where the temperatures are much cooler than in the coastal towns of Seminyak, Kuta and Canggu. Visit Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida, swim with turtles in Gili Trawangan or spend the day in Uluwatu beach clubs before the crowds arrive for high season.

Weather: Hot with only occasional rain
Average temperature: 27 °C to 33°C
Average water temperature: 29 °C
Average rainfall: 75 millimetres
Recommended activities: Explore the neighbouring islands or the cooler parts of Bali, and visit places that are usually very crowded
Avoid: Being ripped off by high season prices.

Daghan Cottages Nusa Penida best time to visit Bali
Daghan Cottages, Nusa Penida. Find more great hotels in Nusa Penida here

What is Bali like in June? – Dry, warm and busy

June brings, besides its pleasantly warm temperatures of up to 30°C during the daytime, mostly blue skies and very little chance of rain. Humidity is decreasing, making the heat more bearable.

Bali’s beaches, temples and other attractions are now quite busy, and the street vendors in Kuta and Legian are running at full speed to sell you all kinds of souvenirs. Expect heavy traffic and sold-out accommodation across the island.

Sidemen, Kintamani or the northern coastal part of Bali are the perfect places to escape the busy streets, and you’ll get to enjoy slightly lower prices.

Despite the crowds, a trip to Nusa Penida, Gili Air or Gili Trawangan is still highly recommended, especially since the scenery will still be a little bit green and not burnt like at the end of high season. Snorkelling and diving conditions are perfect in June, and surfing is another must-do.

Weather: Pleasantly warm and less humid
Average temperature: 25 °C to 30 °C
Average water temperature: 28 °C
Average rainfall: 70 millimetres
Recommended activities: Explore Sidemen, Kintamani and the northern parts of Bali as well the islands. Go surfing, diving or snorkelling or spend your days at the beach.
Avoid: Stressing about the traffic and booking last-minute trips.

Traffic in Canggu’s popular shortcut during high season

What is Bali like in July? Crowded and sunny

In July, tourism in Bali peaks and accommodation and tours become more expensive, making it the worst time to travel to the island for budget travellers. For this reason, you should book your holiday in July as early as possible to get the best deals. Temperatures are consistent between a pleasant 25°C at night and 30°C during the day.

Traffic is getting worse, and a one-way trip from the airport to Canggu can now take more than two hours. Bring plenty of patience and expect to take a while to get from one place to another.

The beaches, bars and restaurants are usually busy along Bali’s hotspots, and nightlife is booming everywhere. Definitely make dinner reservations if you’re eating out for a special occasion around Canggu. If you want to escape to a quieter place, head for the Gili islands or Lombok, where you can enjoy beach days and water sports.

Weather: Pleasantly warm and less humid with very little rain
Average temperature: 25 °C to 30 °C
Average water temperature: 27°C
Average rainfall: 50 millimetres
Recommended activities: Explore the Gili islands, discover the nightlife, go surfing or to a beach club
Avoid: Moving too much, or you’ll be stuck in traffic, forgetting to pre-book your ferry tickets, hiking in the hot sun

La Brisa Beach club Bali Canggu Echo Beach Lounge
La Brisa Beach Club, Canggu

Best Deals For Unmissable Bali Experiences

  • Make your own silver jewellery
  • Balinese cooking class
  • Day trip to Nusa Penida
  • ATV & rafting tour
  • Kecak Fire Dance
  • Sunrise at Mount Batur
  • Swim with manta rays

What is Bali like in August? Expensive and busy

In August, the chances of rain are almost non-existent (at least in theory). This is the month with the best weather, and the high season is at its peak. Now you can do whatever you want without having to worry about it raining. Temperatures are still somewhere between 24 °C at night and 30°C during the day, and humidity is at its lowest.

Lombok, Komodo National Park and Nusa Penida will now be a brownish colour, with a lot of the usually green grass being burnt by the sun. Expect it to feel a lot hotter than it is, as there will be little to no cloud cover.

You can escape the tourist crowds in Kuta and Seminyak by going to hidden Uluwatu beaches. The lesser-known Nyang Nyang Beach is our favourite recommendation.

The 17th of August is Indonesian independence day, which is widely celebrated across the island. Look out for live music or other events in the nearby bars, restaurants and beach clubs and don’t plan to renew your visa on this day, as a lot of businesses and government offices will be closed.

Our tip: Staying in Seminyak but want to give Canggu a try? You can actually walk there along the beach in around 45 minutes.

Weather: Dry and pleasantly warm
Average temperature: 24 °C to 30 °C
Average water temperature: 27°C
Average rainfall: 15 millimetres
Recommended activities: Celebrate Indonesia’s independent day (17th of August), snorkelling, diving, surfing, beach days, nightlife, and outdoor activities (expect crowds)
Avoid: Hiking in the hot sun, being disappointed by overcrowded attractions, and forgetting to pre-book hotels, tours and ferry tickets, forgetting that this is the worst time to travel to Bali if you’re on a budget

liveaboard luxury tour Komodo national park Indonesia
Komodo National Park

What is Bali like in September? Dry, warm and slightly less crowded

In September, the number of tourists decreases a little, although you might not notice the difference too much.

Temperatures remain unchanged at an average of 30°C during the day and drop to around 24°C at night. There is still little to no chance of rain in September, and a lot of people actually prefer this month to August since the weather is nice, but prices can be slightly lower.

Towards the end of September, you notice that the traffic has calmed down a bit, and the tourist attractions in Bali are no longer as extremely crowded as in July or August. Use this month for trips to the islands or visiting cultural attractions.

Our tip: Do you know why Bali is sometimes called The Island of the Gods? You might be surprised how this beautiful island got its name and the history that lead to its unique culture.

Weather: Dry and warm
Average temperature: 24°C to 30°C
Average water temperature: 27°C
Average rainfall: 40 millimetres
Recommended activities: Visit the neighbouring islands or enjoy the now lesser crowded beaches and other tourist attractions of Bali, like the Monkey Forest
Avoid: Being disappointed if the crowds remain

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What is Bali like in October? Occasional rains but slightly lower prices

October can bring a little rain, especially towards the end of the month, but it usually doesn’t last long. The temperatures are raising up to 32 °C during the day but can cool down to 24°C during the night.

Accommodation and tours become much cheaper as hotels try to get rid of their empty rooms and offer better deals.

If you haven’t been diving or snorkelling yet, you should do it now before the upcoming rainy season drastically reduces underwater visibility. Surfing is also recommended now, as are trips to the islands before the ocean becomes too rough in the following months.

Nightlife starts to become a bit quieter, and traffic improves slightly in October. However, the humidity picks up, and temperatures become hotter.

Weather: Hot and humid
Average temperature: 24°C to 32°C
Average water temperature: 28°C
Average rainfall: 90 millimetres
Recommended activities: Explore the neighbouring islands, go diving or snorkelling, spend the days by the beach
Avoid: Forgetting that it rains more frequently now, leaving your poncho at home

What is Bali like in November? Rainy and rough seas

November marks the official start of the off-season in Bali, and the weather is very hot and humid, with high temperatures of up to 33°C. There are occasional rain showers that can flood the streets for a few hours.

Sights such as Ubud’s rice terraces or Kelingking Beach are now increasingly green and becoming more beautiful. If you don’t mind a possible spontaneous rain shower, definitely use this time to enjoy Bali’s nature.

However, the sea can be choppy in November, so you should expect high waves when crossing to the neighbouring islands. If you really want to visit the Gilli Islands, November is the worst time to travel there from Bali. Don’t forget to pack some anti-nausea medication.

Weather: Hot and humid with a medium chance of rainfall
Average temperature: 25°C to 33°C
Average water temperature: 29°C
Average rainfall: 150 millimetres
Recommended activities: Visit Ubud’s rice terraces or Nusa Penida for fewer crowds and beautiful scenery
Avoid: Diving and snorkelling are starting to be less enjoyable as the underwater visibility decreases

Kelingking beach worst time to visit Bali droneshot
Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida

What is Bali like in December? Expensive, rainy and busy

In December, visitors can expect regular downpours and high temperatures of up to 33°C. However, the rain usually doesn’t last longer than a few hours, so you can still plan activities. After the rain, it usually clears up a bit, and the sun makes an occasional appearance. The beaches begin to suffer from plastic pollution in December, making surfing and swimming unpleasant in many parts of Bali.

If you are travelling by scooter, don’t forget to put on a rain poncho and be careful not to slip on wet roads.

Keep in mind that December is part of the high season in Bali, especially for Australian tourists. There are large New Year’s celebrations across the island, and accommodation prices are at an all-time high again. Traffic between Christmas and New Year’s is usually disastrous, especially when these dates coincide with Balinese holidays. In my experience, December is the worst time to travel to Bali by far.

Weather: Hot and humid with a higher chance of rainfall
Average temperature: 24°C to 33°C
Average water temperature: 29°C
Average rainfall: 290 millimetres
Recommended activities: New Year’s celebrations, renting a villa (book months in advance), massages
Avoid: Last-minute trips, boat rides to the islands, going anywhere in busy traffic, diving, surfing and snorkelling due to poor water quality

Beach front villa Lovina Bali rainy season worst time to visit
Beachfront villa in Lovina, Bali

12 tips for visiting Bali during the rainy season

If you’re coming to Bali between November and April, you’ll want to keep these tips in mind to make the most of your trip and help you still enjoy your time, despite the weather. Rainy season doesn’t have to be the worst time to travel to Bali if you follow these tips.

1. Buy a poncho

Umbrellas are great, but they’re bulky to carry and don’t cover you completely. Get a plastic poncho from a convenience store, which is much better for riding a scooter in the rain and is so small it will fit into any bag. You’ll be prepared whenever it rains unexpectedly.

2. Be careful when riding a scooter

The streets in Bali get extremely slippery when it rains, and the tire tread or profile of local scooters is usually non-existent. If you’re driving, make sure to go slowly in the rain and always wear a helmet.

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3. Wear flip-flops and not sneakers/trainers

During the rainy season, Bali’s streets get very muddy, and flooding is common. Avoid wearing sneakers, which are bound to get wet and dirty and opt for slides or flip-flops instead, which can easily be washed off.

4. Ignore the weather forecast (for the most part)

Your weather app will be a bit more inaccurate in Indonesia than you might be used to. The forecast will often predict rain all day, which isn’t true. Use it more as a rough guide, and don’t be afraid of planning trips when it’s supposed to rain. Hopefully, you’ll still get plenty of sun.

5. Bring seasickness medication

The sea around Bali is rougher during the wet season, which means bumpy speedboat rides to islands like Nusa Penida, Lembongan or Gili Trawangan. You can still enjoy your trip, though, just make sure to come prepared with some seasickness pills, even if you’re not usually prone to nausea.

6. Adjust your expectation for the beaches

Bali beaches during the rainy season can still be beautiful, but it’s unavoidable that you’ll encounter some trash and plastic waste. In popular areas, there are daily cleanups, but especially in the mornings or after heavy rains, you might be greeted with muddy waters and piles of washed-up debris.

Adjust your expectations and consider escaping to a beachfront resort in Uluwatu or the islands, where this is usually less of a problem than on the coast from Kuta up to Canggu or further north.

7. Don’t plan your itinerary too much

Rains in Bali occur unexpectedly and might ruin your plans. Instead of being disappointed, make sure to stay spontaneous and don’t plan too much. Since the rainy season means fewer tourists, you can always change your itinerary last minute or just work with whatever weather you have.

Padang Bai Bali Harbour boats beach blue water
Padang Bai harbour

8. Avoid walking long distances

Getting to places on foot in Bali is difficult as it is, but during the wet season, you’ll encounter overflowing sewers, muddy sidewalks and plenty of puddles. If you can, avoid walking and take a taxi instead to save yourself from wet feet.

9. Know that ordering food or bike taxis will take a while

Taking a taxi is easier said than done during the wet season. When it rains, motorbike drivers don’t accept orders on apps like grab or gojek, which means getting food or a scooter taxi will take a while. Factor this in and try to order a car instead, which is more likely to come.

OUR TIP

Grab and gojek don’t always work in Bali due to the control of the taxi mafia, and Uber is not available in Indonesia. Read our complete guides to no-gojek zones in Canggu, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Tanah Lot Temple, Kintamani, Ubud, Uluwatu, Lovina, Amed, the airport and the harbours in Padang Bai and Sanur.

If you’re exploring further than Bali, you might enjoy these posts about gojek in Labuan Bajo close to Komodo National Park and Kuta in Lombok.

10. Come up with a backup plan

So you planned a trip to the beach in Uluwatu, but it’s been raining for two days straight with no end in sight. Instead of spending the day at a rainy beach, have a backup plan in mind so you can still have fun even when the weather is bad. Why not get a massage instead or try a yoga class?

11. Choose a place to stay with a covered outdoor space

Keep in mind that you might be spending some time at your hotel or villa if you’re visiting Bali during the rainy season. When choosing one, try to prioritise some with a covered outdoor space or a sitting area where you can spend some time even when it rains. Since it’s always warm in Bali, you can still enjoy the outdoors without getting wet.

12. Embrace the rain

Rain doesn’t have to mean your day is ruined. You can always wait it out at a nice cafe or just embrace it and be okay with getting a little bit wet. It’s all part of the experience.

12 things to do in Bali when it rains

Worried you’ll be bored in Bali on a rainy day? Here are our favourite activities when it rains on the island of the gods.

  1. Sa’mesa Italian dining experience: This dinner party is like no other. Come to the award-winning Sa’mesa in Canggu or Petitinget for free-flow limoncello and incredible authentic Italian food. You’ll love it.
  2. Watch a movie: Bali has fantastic cinemas with reclining seats, cosy blankets and plenty of screenings in English. The perfect activity for a rainy afternoon.
  3. Make your own silver jewellery: Head to central Bali for silver-making workshops where you’ll learn to make your own handcrafted pieces from scratch.
  4. Get a massage: Relax at a world-class spa and get all the treatments you can imagine, from massages to facials or manicures.
  5. Shop at the Beach Walk Mall: Kuta’s Beach Walk has a wide variety of stores to level up your summer wardrobe. The nearby souvenir shops and tourist stalls are even cheaper and are great for getting gifts to take back home with you. Just make sure to avoid obvious fakes whenever possible.
  6. Rent a villa: When in doubt, rent a luxury villa for reasonable prices and spend your days relaxing, day-drinking, and enjoying some downtime. You’ll be ready to explore whenever it stops raining.
  7. Join a yoga class: Learn something new (or improve your skills) and join a yoga class. Ubud is a fantastic place for this, but you’ll find options all around the island
  8. Enjoy the nightlife: You can still go out and have fun at Bali’s clubs and bars, even when it rains. Most have a roof, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
  9. Do a cooking class: Learn traditional Indonesian dishes by joining a cooking class, which will introduce you to Indonesia’s delicious cuisine.
  10. Go to a beach club (with a roof): Spend the day lounging by the pool, sipping drinks and ordering food. You’ll love beach clubs like La Brisa, Finn’s, Tropical Temptations or Atlas, which have plenty of covered space.
  11. Try sound healing or a palm reading: Bali is known for being a spiritual and esoteric place. Get into sound healing, tantra, and cacao ceremonies or get a palm reading from a healer. The options are endless, and you’ll feel like a new person.
  12. Learn wood-carving, pottery or batik: Bali has a variety of beautiful crafts, and you can join in to learn something new. Plus, you’ll get to take your masterpiece home with you, which is the perfect souvenir or gift.

The worst time to travel to Bali FAQ

What are the worst months to go to Bali?

The months between November and April get the most rain in Bali, and December can be considered the worst time to travel there due to the high prices, rainy weather conditions and bad traffic.

What is the best month to go to Bali?

The best month to travel to Bali is May or September when the weather is nice, but the prices are still lower, and the worst of the crowds aren’t on the island.

What time of year is the cheapest to go to Bali?

The rainy season, around the months of February, March, and April, is the cheapest time to visit Bali.

What should I avoid in Bali?

Avoid last-minute trips to Bali in the high season, and make sure to be careful when riding a scooter in the rain.

How bad is the rainy season in Bali?

Rainy season in Bali can still be nice, with plenty of sunny days, although rains can occur unexpectedly. The beach during the rainy season has a lot of issues with plastic pollution, and underwater visibility is poor.

My Most Important Travel Resources

  • Insurance – Safetywing
  • Hotels – Agoda or Booking
  • Hostels – Hostelworld
  • eSIM – Jetpac
  • Flights – Skyscanner
  • Tours & Experiences – Viator & Get Your Guide
  • Transport in Asia – 12Go Asia
  • Rental Cars – Discover Cars

Did I miss anything?
If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post, please leave a comment below or contact me.

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Victoria Heinz

Victoria is the founder of Guide Your Travel and has been a travel writer for ten years. She has a Master of Arts in International Relations and Politics and is a managing partner at a marketing agency in Indonesia, giving her unique insight into local culture and customs. Originally from Germany, Victoria has been living abroad for eight years in countries such as Australia, the UK, Spain, Malaysia and Indonesia. Today, she calls Bali her permanent home and helps over 200,000 people plan their trips around the world every month.

Welcome to Guide your Travel!

Hi! I’m Victoria, a travel blogger from Germany and the author of Guide your Travel. I write about my favourite destinations in Europe, South East Asia and digital nomad life in Bali.

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Hi, I'm Victoria

Welcome to Guide your Travel – a blog about South East Asia and how to travel on a budget.

I’m a blogger, writer and photographer and love to introduce my favourite destinations to others and encourage them to see the world.

I’m originally from Germany but spent four years living in the UK, quite a bit of time in Spain and Malaysia, and am now travelling full time with a home base in Bali, Indonesia.

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