Bali, Indonesia: When to Go and Weather

Weather: Bali is a tropical destination located close to the equator, so it doesn't have four seasons. When it comes to weather, Bali residents categorize the months into just two seasons: dry and wet. The sun rises early (6 a.m.) and sets early (6 p.m.) almost every day, and it's hot and rainy year-round. If the heat is too much, head to the beach - you're likely to catch a refreshing breeze near the coast.

Wet Season: During the wet season, between the months of October and April, the weather in Bali is humid and often overcast. Rainstorms are especially frequent between December and February, but the clouds usually pass by quickly, with the heaviest downpour lasting for less than an hour. The average temperature is 85 and the average rainfall is 3 inches.

Dry Season: From April to October, Bali weather remains hot, but precipitation is much less frequent. Travelers generally prefer these months because the humidity is lower and rains usually occur at night or early in the morning. From June to August, cooler breezes blow through Bali, making sunbathing on the beach a great deal more pleasant. The average temperature is 80 degrees F and the average rainfall is 1 inch.

Local sources for weather include www.bali.com.

When to Go: Peak Season

July and August are peak season in Bali. Honeymooners, traveling families, and backpackers crowd onto the island during these months because the weather is warm but comparatively dry and temperatures are comfortable on the beach. Hotels are often booked solid during these months, and the sand is covered with beach blankets and lounge chairs. The temperatures drop a bit in the evening, so travelers should bring a long-sleeved shirt or two. Indonesia's Independence Day occurs in August, too, and the festive celebrations bring locals into the streets and onto the beach - it's the last hurrah before the rainy season begins.

When to Go: Off Season

Bali weather is rainy from October to April. Thunder and rain storms, short but intense, shower precipitation over the island, but they often don't cause any major inconveniences to tourists. The oppressive humidity is often the major source of discomfort during the fall season. February, March, and April are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures pushing into the upper 90s. During the off season, the island sees much fewer tourists, and hotels are frequently only half full. Public celebrations like New Year's Day, Christmas, and Easter bring huge crowds to Bali, as well, rivaling the crowds of peak season.

When to Go: Shoulder Season

The months of May, June, and September are considered should seasons in Bali. These months fall in the dry season, and the weather is sunny and temperate, but they see fewer tourists because they fall during times when the weather is fair in Europe and the US. The shoulder season is an excellent time to save money on hotels (the rates are often about 15% less than those of the peak season) and enjoy some solitude on the sand. The humidity is lower than in February and March, as well, making sunbathing more appealing. Sunsets occur early and are especially dramatic and beautiful during these in-between seasons.

• Tue

   

  Mostly Sunny

  88  79

• Wed

   

  Sunny

  90  79

• Thu

   

  Sunny

  89  77

• Fri

   

  Sunny

  89  77

• Sat

   

  Sunny

  89  77

• Sun

   

  Sunny

  89  77

• Mon

   

  Sunny

  89  77

Get more information on Bali weather.