Planning a trip to Bali but not sure when to book your ticket? Timing matters more than you might think. Whether you’re chasing perfect waves, dreaming of golden beaches or hoping to catch one of Bali’s vibrant cultural festivals, understanding when to go to Bali can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
This guide breaks down the best times to visit depending on your interests, budget and travel goals. We’ll also explain why many surfers and travelers choose to stay at a surf camp Bali like Mondo Surf Village to get the most out of their adventure.
Dry Season: April to October
If you’re wondering when to go to Bali for clear skies and consistent weather, the dry season is your answer. Running from April through October, this is Bali’s peak tourist season for a reason. Expect sunny days, cooler evenings and very little rain.
Ideal for:
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Beach days and tanning
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Exploring waterfalls and temples
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Hitting the top surf spots on the west coast
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Island hopping to Nusa Penida and the Gilis
During these months, popular areas like Seminyak, Ubud and Uluwatu are buzzing with energy. It’s also the perfect time to enroll in a surf camp Bali like Mondo Surf Village, where dry conditions mean uninterrupted surf lessons and day trips to the best west coast breaks.
If crowds don’t bother you and you want Bali at its liveliest, this is the time to go.
Wet Season: November to March
The wet season often gets a bad reputation, but it can be one of the best answers to the question of when to go to Bali — especially if you value fewer tourists and a lower price tag.
Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts, mostly in the late afternoon or evening. Mornings can still be sunny, and the entire island becomes lush and green.
Ideal for:
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Budget-friendly travel
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Surfing on the east coast
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Wellness retreats, yoga and spa experiences
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Quiet beaches and uncrowded temples
If you’re staying at a surf camp Bali during the wet season, such as Mondo Surf Village, the team typically adjusts surf schedules based on daily conditions. They’ll often take guests to spots like Keramas and Serangan, which work best this time of year.
When to Go to Bali for Surfing
The best time to surf depends on your skill level and which coast you want to explore.
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Dry season (April to October): West coast is on fire — Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Canggu offer some of the best waves.
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Wet season (November to March): East coast is the star — with Keramas and Nusa Dua being solid picks.
If you’re unsure when to go to Bali for your first surf experience, consider joining a beginner-friendly surf camp Bali like Mondo Surf Village. They’ll guide you to the right breaks each day, based on tides, winds and your skill level.
When to Go to Bali for Festivals and Culture
One of the most magical things about Bali is its rich spiritual and artistic culture. Planning your visit around a local celebration can give you a whole new appreciation of the island.
Major festivals to catch:
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Nyepi (March): Bali’s Day of Silence. Airports close, streets empty, and a reflective calm settles across the island.
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Galungan and Kuningan (dates vary): A ten-day spiritual celebration where the streets are decorated and temples come alive.
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Bali Arts Festival (June to July): A month-long showcase of music, dance and traditional crafts.
So if you’re wondering when to go to Bali for a deeper cultural experience, aligning your trip with one of these festivals is highly recommended.
When to Go to Bali for Deals
If saving money is your top priority, then low season is your best friend. Between mid January and March or in October and November, you’ll find flight deals, discounted hotels and fewer crowds.
This is also when many surf camp Bali providers offer packages at reduced rates. Mondo Surf Village, for instance, often has special pricing during quieter months, which means you can enjoy the same world class instruction at a better value.
Final Thoughts
Choosing when to go to Bali depends on what you want out of your trip. For surfing, dry and wet seasons both offer excellent conditions — just on different coasts. For beaches and nightlife, dry season wins. But if you want peace, authenticity and value, the rainy season may surprise you.
No matter when you go, Bali delivers. And staying at a welcoming place like Mondo Surf Village can help you experience the best of the island in any season. From surf adventures to cultural explorations and moments of stillness, Bali is waiting — you just need to decide when to go to Bali and make it happen.