Best Time to Visit Bali: Month-by-Month Weather Guide

By Family Travel Path

Best Time to Visit Bali: Month-by-Month Weather Guide

Best Time to Visit Bali: Month-by-Month Weather Guide for 2026

Planning a family trip to Bali? Deciding when to go can be tricky! Bali's climate and culture offer unique experiences throughout the year. This month-by-month guide for 2026 will help you choose the best time to visit Bali, considering weather, crowds, prices, and special events.

Bali's Seasons: A Quick Overview

Bali essentially has two seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season (April to September) is generally considered the best time to visit, offering sunny skies and lower humidity. The wet season (October to March) brings more rain, higher humidity, and fewer crowds.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

  • Average Temperature: High 84°F (29°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: High (approx. 12 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 2/5 (Relatively quiet after the holiday rush)
  • Hotel Price Trends: Moderate. Expect to pay around $80-$200 per night for a family-friendly hotel in areas like Seminyak.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Galungan begins (Balinese holiday celebrating the victory of good over evil).
  • Verdict: Not the best time due to the high rainfall, but you can find good deals and fewer crowds. Be prepared for daily showers and plan indoor activities.

February

  • Average Temperature: High 84°F (29°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: High (approx. 10 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 2/5
  • Hotel Price Trends: Moderate. Similar to January, look for deals in Ubud or Canggu.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Kuningan (Ten days after Galungan, celebrating ancestors returning home).
  • Verdict: Similar to January, February is rainy but offers lower prices and fewer tourists. Consider staying in a villa with a private pool for rainy day fun.

March

  • Average Temperature: High 84°F (29°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: Moderate (approx. 7 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 3/5 (Slightly increasing)
  • Hotel Price Trends: Moderate. Prices might start to creep up towards the end of the month.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence). A truly unique experience, but be aware that the entire island shuts down – no lights, no travel, no noise. Plan accordingly.
  • Verdict: The end of the wet season. Rainfall is decreasing, and crowds are still manageable. Nyepi can be a fascinating cultural experience if you're prepared.

April

  • Average Temperature: High 86°F (30°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: Low (approx. 3 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 4/5 (Starting to get busier)
  • Hotel Price Trends: High. Expect to pay $150-$350+ per night, especially near the beaches in Kuta or Nusa Dua.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Bali Spirit Festival (Yoga, music, and dance festival near Ubud).
  • Verdict: A great time to visit! The weather is improving, and the crowds are not yet at their peak.

May

  • Average Temperature: High 86°F (30°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: Low (approx. 2 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 4/5
  • Hotel Price Trends: High.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Bali Arts Festival preparations begin (leading up to the festival in June).
  • Verdict: Excellent weather with plenty of sunshine. A popular time for families, so book accommodations well in advance.

June

  • Average Temperature: High 86°F (30°C), Low 73°F (23°C)
  • Rainfall: Very Low (approx. 1 inch)
  • Crowd Levels: 5/5 (Peak season)
  • Hotel Price Trends: Very High. Expect to pay top dollar for everything.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Bali Arts Festival (A month-long celebration of Balinese art and culture).
  • Verdict: The best weather, but also the most crowded and expensive time to visit. If you don't mind the crowds, the Bali Arts Festival is a must-see.

July

  • Average Temperature: High 84°F (29°C), Low 73°F (23°C)
  • Rainfall: Very Low (approx. 1 inch)
  • Crowd Levels: 5/5 (Peak season)
  • Hotel Price Trends: Very High.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Bali Arts Festival continues.
  • Verdict: Similar to June, July offers fantastic weather but comes with high prices and lots of tourists.

August

  • Average Temperature: High 84°F (29°C), Low 73°F (23°C)
  • Rainfall: Very Low (approx. 1 inch)
  • Crowd Levels: 5/5 (Peak season)
  • Hotel Price Trends: Very High.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Independence Day (August 17th) - Celebrations throughout the island.
  • Verdict: Another peak season month with great weather, high prices, and large crowds.

September

  • Average Temperature: High 86°F (30°C), Low 73°F (23°C)
  • Rainfall: Low (approx. 2 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 4/5 (Decreasing slightly)
  • Hotel Price Trends: High (Slightly decreasing towards the end of the month)
  • Major Events/Festivals: Ubud Writers & Readers Festival preparations begin.
  • Verdict: Still a great time to visit with excellent weather and slightly fewer crowds than the previous months.

October

  • Average Temperature: High 86°F (30°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: Moderate (approx. 4 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 3/5 (Decreasing)
  • Hotel Price Trends: Moderate. Prices start to fall as the wet season approaches.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Ubud Writers & Readers Festival.
  • Verdict: The start of the shoulder season. You might experience some rain, but the crowds are thinner, and prices are lower.

November

  • Average Temperature: High 86°F (30°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: High (approx. 7 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 2/5
  • Hotel Price Trends: Moderate to Low. Great deals can be found.
  • Major Events/Festivals: None major.
  • Verdict: Rainy season is in full swing. Best for budget travelers who don't mind the weather.

December

  • Average Temperature: High 84°F (29°C), Low 75°F (24°C)
  • Rainfall: High (approx. 10 inches)
  • Crowd Levels: 4/5 (Increasing for the holidays)
  • Hotel Price Trends: High. Prices surge during the holiday season.
  • Major Events/Festivals: Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations.
  • Verdict: Rainy, but festive! Expect higher prices and more crowds around the holidays.

Best Time for Budget Travelers

The best time for budget travelers is during the wet season, from November to March (excluding the holiday period around Christmas and New Year's). You'll find significantly lower prices on accommodation, tours, and activities. Be prepared for rain, but also enjoy the lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. Look for deals on villas with private pools in areas like Umalas to enjoy your downtime.

Best Time for Families

The dry season, from April to September, is generally the best time for families. The weather is sunny and dry, perfect for beach days, swimming, and exploring the island. However, be aware that this is also peak season, so book accommodations and activities well in advance. Consider staying in family-friendly resorts in Nusa Dua or Sanur, which offer kids' clubs and activities.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds

If you want to avoid crowds, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are your best bet. You'll still enjoy good weather, but the crowds will be thinner than during the peak months. Also, consider visiting less popular areas like the north or west coast of Bali. For example, Pemuteran offers amazing snorkeling and diving with fewer tourists.

Shoulder Season Sweet Spots

The shoulder seasons offer a great balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds. April, May, September, and October are all excellent choices. You'll still have plenty of sunshine, but you won't be fighting for space on the beaches or paying top dollar for accommodation. The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival in October is a great bonus for book lovers.

What to Pack for Each Season

Dry Season (April to September):

  • Lightweight and breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
  • Swimwear
  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Sandals or flip-flops
  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
  • Reusable water bottle

Wet Season (October to March):

  • Lightweight and quick-drying clothing
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Umbrella
  • Waterproof bag for electronics
  • Insect repellent
  • Closed-toe shoes (for muddy conditions)
  • Hand sanitizer

Essential Tips for Traveling to Bali

  • Book Flights and Accommodation in Advance: Especially if traveling during peak season (June-August and December).
  • Learn Basic Bahasa Indonesia: Even a few phrases will be appreciated by locals.
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and be mindful of Balinese traditions.
  • Bargain Respectfully: Bargaining is common in markets, but always do it with a smile and respect.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially in the hot and humid climate.
  • Be Aware of Scams: Be cautious of overly friendly strangers and always negotiate prices upfront.
  • Use Reputable Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek, or hire a driver through your hotel.
  • Get Travel Insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Conclusion

No matter when you choose to visit Bali, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. Consider your priorities – weather, budget, crowds – and use this guide to plan the perfect family trip to the Island of Gods in 2026!

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