Bali in the Rainy Season – What to Do and Where to Go

Bali is a tropical paradise loved for its sunny beaches and breathtaking landscapes, but the rainy season in Bali (typically from November to March) offers a different kind of magic. Imagine misty rice terraces, lush green jungles, and quiet, rain-kissed temples. If you're wondering what to do in Bali when it rains, don't worry—there are plenty of exciting indoor and outdoor activities to make your visit just as memorable.
Let’s dive into the best things to do in Bali during the rainy season and how you can still make the most of your trip!
Why Visit Bali in the Rainy Season?
Before we explore activities, let’s talk about why visiting Bali during the monsoon season can actually be a great idea:
- Fewer Crowds: Since it’s the low season, you can enjoy popular tourist spots without the crowds.
- Lush Scenery: The rain transforms Bali into a green paradise, making the landscapes even more stunning.
- Lower Prices: Hotels, flights, and tours often offer discounted rates.
- Cooler Weather: While it’s humid, the temperature is more comfortable than in peak summer.
So, instead of worrying about a little rain, let’s embrace the monsoon magic of Bali!
1. Explore Bali’s Best Indoor Activities
When the skies open up, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Bali’s amazing indoor experiences. Here are some of the best ones:
Visit Bali’s Famous Cafés & Coffee Shops
There’s nothing like sipping on Balinese coffee while listening to the sound of rain. Some of the best rainy-day cafés in Bali include:
- Revolver Espresso (Seminyak) – A cozy spot for specialty coffee lovers.
- Seniman Coffee Studio (Ubud) – A great place to learn about Bali’s coffee culture.
- Pison Coffee (Canggu) – Famous for its great coffee and chill atmosphere.
Discover Balinese Art & Museums
Bali has a rich artistic heritage, and the rainy season is a great time to explore its museums and galleries:
- Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) in Ubud – Showcases traditional Balinese paintings.
- Blanco Renaissance Museum – The former home of Antonio Blanco, one of Bali’s most famous artists.
- Nyaman Gallery (Seminyak) – A contemporary gallery featuring modern Balinese art.
Experience a Traditional Balinese Cooking Class
Rainy days are the perfect time to learn how to cook authentic Balinese food! Some of the best cooking classes in Bali include:
- Paon Bali Cooking Class (Ubud)
- Balinese Farm Cooking School
- Pemulan Bali Farm Cooking School
You'll get hands-on experience in cooking traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng, Sate Lilit, and Lawar!
Relax at a Luxury Spa
Nothing beats a Balinese spa experience while the rain gently falls outside. Some of the best spas in Bali include:
- Karsa Spa (Ubud) – Famous for its flower baths and scenic jungle views.
- Fivelements Retreat (Ubud) – A luxurious wellness retreat.
- Bodyworks Spa (Seminyak) – Perfect for Balinese massages and scrubs.
2. Embrace the Outdoors – Rainy Season Adventures
Don’t let the rain stop you! Some of Bali’s best experiences happen in the rain.
Chase Bali’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls
The rainy season is actually the best time to visit Bali’s waterfalls because they are at their most powerful and stunning! Some of the best Bali waterfalls to visit in the monsoon season include:
- Tegenungan Waterfall – One of the most popular and easy to access.
- Gitgit Waterfall – A mystical jungle waterfall in North Bali.
- Sekumpul Waterfall – A hidden paradise with multiple cascades.
Take a Rainforest Trek
Hiking in Bali’s jungles during the rainy season is an incredible experience. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek is a favorite, but you can also explore Munduk’s scenic trails.
Visit Bali’s Most Sacred Temples
Temples are even more magical when the rain falls lightly, creating a misty and peaceful atmosphere. Some must-visit temples in Bali during the rainy season:
- Tirta Empul Temple – Known for its holy water purification ritual.
- Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave Temple) – A mystical cave temple near Ubud.
- Tanah Lot – A stunning sea temple that looks breathtaking under moody skies.
3. Enjoy Bali’s Best Rainy-Season-Friendly Beaches
While swimming may not always be ideal, some Bali beaches are actually better during the rainy season:
- Sanur Beach – A quiet beach perfect for relaxing walks.
- Nusa Dua Beach – Its clean shores and luxurious resorts make it a great rainy-day escape.
- Jimbaran Bay – Enjoy fresh seafood at Jimbaran Beach restaurants while watching the rain.
4. Discover Unique Experiences Only Found in the Rainy Season
- Visit a Local Night Market – Try delicious Balinese street food like Babi Guling and Martabak.
- Take a Scenic Drive Through Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – The green landscapes are even more breathtaking in the rain.
- Book a Rainy-Day Yoga Retreat – Bali’s yoga studios, like Yoga Barn in Ubud, offer incredible rainy-day meditation sessions.
5. Rainy Season Travel Tips for Bali
To enjoy Bali during the monsoon season, keep these tips in mind:
- Bring a raincoat or umbrella – Sudden showers are common.
- Wear waterproof shoes – The streets and jungle trails can get muddy.
- Have a flexible itinerary – Plan for both indoor and outdoor activities.
- Avoid heavy rain areas – Some roads, especially in Ubud and rural Bali, can flood.
Enjoy Bali in Every Season!
Don’t let a little rain stop you from having an amazing time in Bali. Whether you're relaxing in a café, hiking to a stunning waterfall, or visiting ancient temples, the rainy season in Bali offers a unique and magical experience. Plus, with fewer crowds and lower prices, you might find that Bali in the rainy season is one of the best-kept travel secrets!