Bali Weather Guide: Year-Round Climate & Seasonal Trends

Bali’s weather is defined by its proximity to the equator, resulting in a tropical monsoon climate where temperatures remain remarkably consistent while rainfall and humidity fluctuate. Rather than four seasons, the island moves through a binary cycle of wet and dry, heavily influenced by the prevailing monsoons.

The Seasonal Cycle

• Dry Season (May to October): Characterized by the southeast monsoon, this period brings drier air from the Australian continent. This is the sunniest time of year, with humidity levels peaking at a relatively manageable 60–75%. The atmosphere is often refreshed by steady ocean breezes, and evenings can feel surprisingly brisk, especially in coastal regions.
• Wet Season (November to April): The northwest monsoon carries moisture from the South China Sea, leading to increased cloud cover and higher rainfall. Humidity often exceeds 80–85%, creating a "heavy" or muggy feel. While rainfall is more frequent, it rarely rains all day. Instead, predictable afternoon or evening downpours are the norm, often followed by clear spells.

Daily Weather Behavior

In Bali, the day typically starts with clear, bright skies. As the tropical sun heats the land, moisture evaporates, leading to the formation of cumulus clouds by early afternoon. During the wet season, these clouds frequently transit into localized thunderstorms by late afternoon. Evenings usually cool down to the mid-20s°C (70s°F), providing a reprieve, though the high humidity in the monsoon months can make the air feel stagnant.

Regional Microclimates

Bali’s diverse topography creates significant internal weather variations:

• The Highlands and Mountains: Regions like Ubud, Bedugul, and Kintamani are significantly cooler and rainier than the coast. At elevations above 1,000 meters, temperatures can drop to 15°C (59°F) or lower at night. Mist and low-hanging clouds are common even during the dry season.
• The Bukit Peninsula: The southern tip (Uluwatu/Jimbaran) is often drier and sunnier than the rest of the island, frequently avoiding the rain that hits Central Bali.
• North and East Coast: Areas like Lovina and Amed sit in the rain shadow of the central volcanic range, often experiencing lighter rainfall during the wet season compared to the south.

Historical Context & Global Influences

While Bali's cycle is generally predictable, it is sensitive to the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). El Niño events typically bring prolonged droughts and a delayed start to the rainy season, while La Niña can lead to unusually heavy rainfall and cooler sea temperatures. Historically, farmers have relied on the Subak irrigation system to manage these shifts, though recent decades have seen a gradual rise in average temperatures, with record-breaking heat becoming more frequent during the October transformation period.

Local Experience and Adaptation

Locals navigate the weather with pragmatic ingenuity. During the wet season, the "motorbike canopy"—a flexible plastic roof for scooters—has become a common sight. Daily life remains largely outdoor-oriented; when a downpour begins, people simply take shelter under a warung (small shop) roof for 30 minutes until the storm passes. The rainy season is also celebrated for its lushness, as it is the primary growing season for Bali's iconic rice terraces.

Weather Phenomena: The "Feel" of Bali

Beyond the thermometer, the weather is an sensory experience. In the dry season, the Southeast Trade Winds attract surfers with world-class swells on the west coast. In the wet season, the sheer intensity of tropical thunder—often felt as a deep vibration—signals the afternoon transition. The "RealFeel" temperature regularly exceeds 35°C (95°F) during the humid peaks of January, making the shade of the jungle or a sea breeze essential for comfort.