The best months at a glance
| Goal | Best months | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Good weather and fair prices | April, May, June, September | dry season without the summer peak |
| Guaranteed sunshine | July, August | driest months, but the busiest and most expensive |
| Lowest prices | February, November | low season, frequent rain |
| Surfing the Bukit and west coast | May – September | dry-season swell and offshore trade winds |
| Surfing the east coast | November – March | the monsoon wind is offshore on the east side |
| Diving and snorkelling | April – October | calmer sea and the best visibility |
| Culture and festivals | March (Nyepi), June–July (Arts Festival) | the biggest celebrations of the year |
Peak periods and what they mean
- July and August: European and Australian school holidays. Book accommodation two to three months ahead and expect queues at the airport and popular sights.
- Christmas and New Year (the last week of December to early January): the most expensive time of year despite the rain.
- Easter and Australian school holidays in April and late September to early October add demand for flights from Australia.
- Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran) brings many domestic travellers and busy roads and ferries.
Plan around Nyepi, the Day of Silence
Once a year, usually in March, Bali stops for 24 hours. During Nyepi the airport is closed, nobody may leave their hotel or villa, lights are kept low and the internet may be restricted. In 2027 Nyepi falls on 8 March. Do not plan to fly in or out that day, and watch the ogoh-ogoh parades on the evening before.
Is the rainy season worth it?
Yes, if you are flexible. It rarely rains all day, prices are lower, the rice terraces are at their greenest and the waterfalls are full. The downsides are humidity, slippery roads, rubbish on the west-coast beaches and occasional cancellations of boat trips to Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands. Choose the east coast or Ubud, plan outings for the morning and keep spare days around boat crossings.
Weather for every month
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to go to Bali?
May is a strong favourite: dry, sunny, calm seas and prices below the summer peak. April, June and September are close behind.
When is the cheapest time to visit Bali?
February and November, and most of the rainy season outside Christmas and New Year. Monthly villa rentals are often discounted in this period.
When should I avoid Bali?
Avoid flying on Nyepi, when the airport is closed. If you dislike crowds and high prices, skip mid-July to August and the Christmas–New Year period.
