Bottom line: Bali’s rainy season (November to March, with the wettest months being December, January, and February) doesn’t mean it rains all day—it’s mostly sudden tropical showers in the afternoon or evening that last 1-2 hours, with sunny mornings and noons. The perks are fewer crowds, hotels often at 50-70% off, flights 20-40% cheaper, and the lushest green scenery; the downsides are slippery roads (better to hire a car or use ride-hailing instead of renting a scooter), occasional localized flooding, and murkier seas that aren’t ideal for snorkeling. If you want to save money and don’t mind occasional rain, the rainy season is a great deal.
Hi everyone, I’m a traveler who absolutely loves Bali, having visited during both the dry season and the rainy season multiple times. Many people are put off by the idea of ‘Bali’s rainy season,’ worried about constant rain and ruined plans. But that’s not the case! The rainy season brings a different kind of lush green, tranquility, and incredible value to Bali. Today, I’m sharing the latest complete guide to Bali’s rainy season, so you can have a fantastic time even when it rains!
When Is Bali’s Rainy Season?
Bali’s rainy season generally runs from November to March (sometimes light rain starts in October and doesn’t fully end until April). Here’s the breakdown:
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Wettest months: December, January, and February (especially January, with average rainfall exceeding 300mm)
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In 2025, the rainy season arrived early in September, but it’s still mostly concentrated after November.
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Rain characteristics: Mostly sudden tropical showers in the afternoon or evening that last 1-2 hours, with sunny mornings and noons!
Temperatures remain hot (27-31°C), and while rain brings some cooling, the humidity is higher, making it feel a bit more muggy at times.
The Perks of Visiting Bali in the Rainy Season (Seriously, So Many!)
- Fewer Crowds: No lines at popular spots, perfect for photos—it feels like the whole island is yours!
- Incredible Deals: Hotels, villas, and private pool villas often get 50-70% off, and flights are 20-40% cheaper. Want a luxury ocean-view villa without breaking the bank? The rainy season is your time!
- Lush Scenery: Rice paddies, waterfalls, and forests turn super green. After the rain, blue skies, white clouds, and rainbows make everything look like a full-on filter!
- Surfing Paradise: Big waves on the southwest coast, perfect for advanced surfers.
- Fresh Air: Rain washes away the dust, leaving the air exceptionally clean.
The Downsides of the Rainy Season (Honestly)
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Slippery roads—be careful on scooters (better to hire a car or use Gojek/Grab).
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Occasional local flooding (especially in Kuta and low-lying areas).
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Seawater can be murky at times, not ideal for snorkeling or those wanting super blue ocean shots.
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Hiking (e.g., Mount Kintamani/Batur sunrise) is riskier—you might not see the sun, or the trip could be canceled.
Rainy Season Packing Essentials
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Lightweight raincoat or disposable poncho (more convenient than an umbrella)
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Waterproof phone pouch, waterproof backpack cover
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Quick-dry clothing, flip-flops (don’t wear leather shoes—you’ll regret it when they get soaked)
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Non-slip sandals or waterproof shoes
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Mosquito repellent (more mosquitoes during the rainy season)
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Light long-sleeve shirt (for temples or cooler evenings)
Quick Reference: Do You Need a Jacket in Bali? Bali Packing Guide: 8 Must-Pack Items
Rainy Season Transportation Tips
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Be extra careful riding a scooter! Slippery roads and puddles make it easy to fall—beginners should opt for a private driver or use Grab/GoJek.
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Southern areas (Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Uluwatu) usually get less rain, while Ubud and the mountains see more.
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Don’t push yourself to drive or ride in heavy rain—just duck into a café and wait it out.
Perfect Activities for the Rainy Season (No Need to Fear the Rain!)
- Spa & Massage Relaxation: The sound of rain paired with aromatherapy massage is pure heaven! Prices are way cheaper than in the dry season.
- Café Hopping: Ubud and Canggu are packed with Instagram-worthy cafés—perfect for sipping coffee and reading while it rains.
- Cooking Classes / Silver Jewelry Workshops / Hands-On Experiences: Indoor activities that are full of Balinese charm.
- Shopping Spree: Head to Ubud Market, Kuta’s shopping malls, or Seminyak’s boutique stores—rainy days are ideal for shopping.
- Yoga / Meditation / Wellness Retreats: The serene atmosphere of the rainy season is perfect for recharging your soul.
- Waterfall Chasing: The rainy season brings the most water—Sekumpul and Tegenungan waterfalls are absolutely spectacular!
- Cultural Tours: Visit temples and watch traditional dance performances (many are held indoors).
Quick Reference: 60 Rainy Day Backup Plans for Bali
My Honest Advice
If it’s your first time in Bali, you’re really worried about rain, and you want to snap endless beach photos, then I’d still recommend the dry season (April–October).
But if you’ve been before, are on a budget, and prefer a quieter, more natural Bali, the rainy season will absolutely make you fall in love with a different side of the island! During the rainy season, staying in a villa listening to the rain and gazing at the rice fields is incredibly soothing!
Rainy-season Bali isn’t a “second choice”—it’s a “different flavor of Bali.” Pack a raincoat, keep a flexible mindset, and set off! I promise you’ll fall in love with the rainbow over this magical island after the rain, just like I did. 🌧️🌈🏝️
