Bali in December: What’s the Rainy Season Really Like & Why It’s Still Worth Visiting

Last Updated on November 21, 2025

Are you planning a trip to Bali in December and wondering what the rainy season is really like, while asking yourself if that’s the worst decision you could make?

After living here for a while, I can honestly say that the weather in Bali is completely unpredictable—no matter the season. I moved to Bali in June, when the weather was awful. I’m writing this by the end of November, and I’m gazing at the bluest sky out my window. I feel like there are actually no season rules anymore!

Sure, the dry season (May to September) usually offers more sunny days in a row (with less sudden showers), but you could still end up with one of those weeks when the sun refuses to show up and it rains on and off for days. And trust me, this year’s dry season (2025) has had plenty of those.

In this blog post, I’ll share what the Bali rainy season is really like and why it’s still worth visiting despite the forecast (btw, they always say it’s going to rain… I don’t even look at them anymore). You’ll also find some practical tips to help you plan your trip and make the most of it, even when the skies turn grey.

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I Visited Bali in December and…

I actually visited Bali for the first time during the Christmas/New Year’s break—likely one of the worst periods on paper. Not only is this because the rainy season is well underway in December, but also because prices peak towards the second half of the month due to the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.

As it turned out, I got lucky (not with the very high flight prices, but with the weather). It rained daily, but only while I was on the bus moving from one place to another—not the torrential downpours I’d feared. We even had a couple of sunny days and clear skies!

My itinerary included outdoor activities like rafting, snorkeling, surfing, and a ferry trip to the Gili Islands. None of them were canceled due to bad weather, which was definitely a success.

That’s not to say I didn’t get wet—I was at Uluwatu Temple during the heaviest rainfall—but over a 10-day Bali trip, only one day was a total rain disaster, and that was the day I left.

So, if you ask me, I’d still recommend going if it’s your only chance to visit Bali. Just be flexible and have a plan B in case of heavy rain.

🌧️ Visiting Ubud during the rainy season? Don’t worry — here are 13 fun ways to make the most of a rainy day. From getting creative to connecting with Balinese culture, pampering yourself, or simply having a good laugh, you’ll see that rain can actually make your trip even more special.

Bali in December: 6 Things To Know Before Planning Your Trip

If you’re planning to visit Bali in December, here are a few key things to know so you’ll know what to expect.

1. When Is the Rainy Season in Bali?

Bali’s rainy season typically lasts from October to March. I say “usually” because this year the rain lasted from March to June as well. Toward the end of June, the skies finally started to clear, although occasional showers were still common.

The rainy season in Bali is actually considered summer, so temperatures are high despite the rain. The average daily temperature is around 84°F (29°C), with high humidity. Don’t expect your wet clothes to dry in a single day.

2. How’s Bali’s Weather in December?

Bali is a tropical destination, meaning rain is an almost daily ritual (no matter the season) and is usually heavy when it falls. The downpours are brief, but they often require you to stop somewhere for shelter.

Bali in December is very hot, and the rain actually helps keep the heat down. During the rainy season, you can expect rain almost every day, but not the entire day.

During this year’s rainy season (2025), rain usually hits around the early afternoon (with heavy downpours) and lightens up or stops by 5 pm. This pattern has been going on for weeks here in Ubud, and it’s honestly much better than I had expected. This allows you to plan all your activities in the morning and, if needed, slow down, rest, or plan something indoors for the afternoon.

3. Is Bali Crowded in December?

One of the benefits (likely the biggest one) of visiting Bali in December is the smaller crowds.

Don’t be fooled by the fact that it’s the rainy season—Bali during Christmas and New Year’s is packed! But if you visit during the first two weeks of December, you can still avoid the bigger crowds and find some fantastic deals on flights and hotels.

4. Best Places to Visit in Bali in December

The rainy season in Bali affects the entire island. Still, as a general rule, Central Bali (the region around Ubud and Bedugul) is usually much rainier than the southern part of the island, such as Uluwatu or even the Gili Islands (Lombok).

The farther south you go, the more likely you are to find better weather—even though the rainy season still affects that part of the island.

In Central Bali, the skies often turn cloudy and rainy, especially in the afternoons. This is literally what has been happening for weeks here in Ubud: very sunny, extremely hot mornings with the sky turning grey towards lunchtime, rain showers during the early afternoon, stopping by 4 or 5 pm, in time for dinner.

Ubud, in particular, is known for having many rainy days throughout the year. So if you’re heading to that area, don’t be fooled by sunny weather in the south—it can change very quickly.

5. What to Pack For The Rainy Season in Bali?

There are a few items you shouldn’t forget if you’re planning to visit Bali during December.

First of all, a long raincoat—the longer, the better. Depending on where you’re walking, an umbrella isn’t always the best idea, as you’ll have to watch out for people around you. However, a raincoat is essential for scooter rides and for avoiding getting stuck due to the rain.

Make sure to bring dark-colored sneakers, as they will likely get dirty if you walk through mud or puddles (or hiking sandals if you don’t mind muddy feet). And finally, don’t forget a strong mosquito spray—the rainy season is their favorite time.

🌧️ If you’re unsure what else to pack for a trip to Bali, I’ve put together a complete packing list for both the rainy and the dry season.

6. Best Things to Do in Bali in December

In Bali, it’s very rare for activities to stop because of bad weather—it’s simply part of daily life. Usually, all the activities that run during the dry season don’t stop during the rainy season.

The good news is that, in case of rain, there are plenty of things to do indoors, from cultural experiences like Canang Sari or Balinese cooking classes to day spas and yoga sessions.

If you wake up to less-than-ideal weather, I highly recommend turning to one of these indoor activities. I know a big part of your trip is exploring Bali’s incredible nature.

Still, rainy days are also a great opportunity to connect with local communities, try something new, or slow down—even if it wasn’t part of your plan.

10 Reasons Why Bali in December is Still Worth Visiting

I’m not here to tell you that traveling to Bali during the rainy season is better than the dry season. However, the reality is that climate change is impacting Indonesia as well, and those rules (the rainy season stops in March…) are no longer valid, and there’s no fix breakdown.

So if you ask me if it’s worth visiting Bali in December, I’d still say yes. Simply because there’s no way to forecast what the weather will be like, and a trip to Bali is always worth it. I’m so not disappointed with how this rainy season is looking!

So, if you visit Bali in December, yes, you can still expect some rainy days, but I’m here to help you romanticize and actually enjoy them.

1. Cozy Atmosphere & Relaxing Tropical Rain Sounds

Living here, I’ve come to love rainy days (as long as I don’t actually have anywhere to go). I usually take them as a chance to slow down and rest. I know that’s not exactly what you expect to do in Bali, but when the downpours come, there’s really nothing else to do but stop and wait.

These are the perfect moments to chill in one of the many cafés with a book or a journal in hand. I like to think that on those days when the rain won’t stop, Bali is asking us to be a little more introspective.

Personally, I find it so relaxing to wake up in the middle of the night and hear a tropical rainstorm while I’m cozy in bed—or to start the morning with a thunderstorm and nowhere I need to be.

It may not be your case, but instead of stubbornly sticking to your exploration, you could plan activities closer to your hotel: a yoga class, a silver jewelry-making workshop, or maybe a massage—then return to your adventures once the rain is over.

2. That Vibrant Green Scenery You Can’t Stop Photographing.

We should actually thank the rain for the lush, green nature that will amaze you in Bali. The vivid shades of green were what struck me the most when I first visited.

Picture yourself surrounded by the deep, intense greens of the jungle as you trek toward a hidden waterfall, the air alive with the scent of rain. The rice terraces stretch out like a never-ending sea of green—you won’t be able to stop taking pictures.

These are the kinds of sights and experiences that make you forget any inconvenience of traveling to Bali during the rainy season.

I genuinely believe the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are the best example of Bali’s incredible nature. But if you don’t have time to go all the way to Central Bali, you can visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces near Ubud, or even discover some hidden ones right in Ubud town.

3. Waterfalls Are in Full Flow

The rainy season is the perfect time to experience Bali’s waterfalls in full flow, thanks to the consistent rainfall that feeds them.

Bathing under a waterfall, feeling its mighty cascade as it reminds you of nature’s strength, is a primal experience I’ll never forget.

If you’re visiting Central Bali, Leke Leke Waterfall is a must-stop location. This small yet mighty waterfall is tucked away in the heart of the jungle.

Or if you’re traveling to Ubud, you can even plan a waterfall-hopping day trip to some of the many waterfalls around town.

Trying to reach a waterfall during the rainy season can be an adventure in itself, especially on muddy ground. However, the journey through the jungle, with the waterfall’s sound growing louder and the view once you reach it, will make you forget your likely muddy feet.

4. Great Waves on The East Coast

If you’re a surf enthusiast or want to take some lessons, the rainy season is the perfect time to enjoy great waves without the crowds (except during the holiday season, of course).

While the weather can be unpredictable, there are still plenty of days to enjoy Bali’s stunning beaches and catch the perfect wave.

The East Coast of Bali is mainly known for its ideal waves during this season, so if you have to choose a spot, that’s the place to be.

I had a fantastic first-time surfing adventure in Uluwatu, a popular surfing destination in Bali. We found a surf instructor on Padang Padang Beach.

Even though Uluwatu isn’t on the East Coast, the sea conditions were perfect. This side of Bali offers the ideal island experience with its beautiful beaches, stunning beach clubs, and numerous fashionable boutiques.

5. Best Time for Water Sports Like Rafting & Canyoning

The rainy season is the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities and water sports, such as rafting and canyoning, as rivers swell, making your adventure even more exciting.

Imagine navigating a mid-level rafting course surrounded by the lush, vivid green vegetation of Ubud. It’s one of the best experiences you can have in Ubud, the perfect way to escape the heat and the crowds in the city.

I did it during my first trip to Bali, and again with my parents when they visited. Honestly, it’s something I would do again and again!

If you’re curious about whether the rafting in Ubud is something for you, I wrote all about my rafting experience here: it was fun, wet, and incredibly tiring!

6. Fewer Crowds ( But Avoid Christmas & New Year’s Holidays)

Visiting Bali in December has its perks. If you avoid the weeks from Christmas to New Year, you can experience Bali without the usual crowds that head to the Island of the Gods for its tropical climate during the dry season.

With this in mind, I’d be more than happy to keep visiting Bali during the rainy season, hoping for the same good luck I’ve enjoyed before

7. Lower Prices for Amazing Stays

If you’re looking to save money in the already affordable Bali, the rainy season is the ideal time to enjoy stunning villas with pools, luxury resorts, and bungalows nestled in nature for half the price you’d pay in the summer.

While this doesn’t apply during Christmas and New Year, planning your trip in November or from February to March can help you save big bucks.

8. Fun & Interesting Indoor Activities

Some days, the rain may keep you indoors, but that doesn’t have to be a downside if you know how to make the most of it.

A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to try cultural experiences that bring you closer to the Balinese culture and the local community that is hosting you.

Depending on your interests, you can attend a fun cooking class where a local will show you how to prepare one of Bali’s typical dishes.

If you enjoy fitness and spirituality, a yoga and meditation class can help you connect more deeply to yourself through these practices. 

Alternatively, try your hand at a jewelry-making class. Guided by an expert, you’ll learn to craft beautiful pieces from silver or wax, creating a unique “souvenir” of your time in Bali.

So, even when the rain falls, there are plenty of activities to fill your day.

9. The Best Time for A Relaxing Massage or Facial

Rainy days in Bali are the perfect opportunity to slow down, relax, and pamper yourself!

You won’t find a street without a spa, ranging from simple and affordable to the most luxurious and well-appointed.

If the day looks gloomy and the rain seems endless, why not book a spa day near your guesthouse? The majority of spas offer wellness packages that keep you busy (and relaxed) for a couple of hours to a full day.

It’s the perfect way to recharge, ensuring you’ll be ready for the next adventure when the rain stops. If you happen to be in Ubud on a rainy day, you can plan a visit to Ubud Sari Health Resort or INKA Spa, my favorites in town.

10. Festive Atmosphere in Balinese Style

Finally, if you’re brave enough to visit Bali between Christmas and New Year, you’ll experience how the Balinese embrace these holidays. While most Balinese are Hindu, they will make you feel at home!

Many Balinese people will wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Some hotels even display Christmas trees and gifts, adding a festive vibe to your stay.

In places like Seminyak or Canggu, the already lively nightlife becomes even more exciting, with famous DJs flying in for New Year’s events.

If you’re seeking a unique NYE experience, head to Gili Trawangan. There, amidst the occasional heavy rain, you’ll find horses trotting along the streets, rusty bicycles, and plenty of people celebrating outdoors.

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If you asked me, I would still book that first trip to Bali in December. Despite the gloomy skies and occasional rain showers, I had the time of my life.

Hopefully, this blog post helped you find some peace of mind about your decision to visit Bali during the rainy season and actually showed you that it’s still worth it!

After living here for a while and experiencing heavy rainy days even during the dry season, I’ve realized one thing: in Bali, you never really know what to expect, so the best thing you can do is go with the flow and embrace the unknown.

And in case it rains? Here are my favorite activities for rainy days. Honestly, some of them might even make you wish for more rainy afternoons during your Bali trip. Okay, maybe that’s a stretch—but they’ll definitely keep you from missing those scorching sunny days!

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