Fun Activities To Do in Bali During Summer Season
As a tropical island, Bali has two seasons which is the dry season (May to September) and the wet season (October to April). The dry season is what most travelers think of as “summer,” and it’s the best time to visit if you’re all about sunshine, blue skies, and warm days without surprise rain showers. In this season, the temperatures usually sit around 26–28°C (80–82°F) during the day, and it cools down a bit at night. Plus, there’s hardly any rain, especially in August, which is one of the driest months. It’s also less humid, so you won’t be drenched in sweat after just a short walk. Basically, it’s Bali at its best. Here’s your full guide of what to do, and where to stay for the ultimate summer in Bali.
What to Do During Bali’s Summer Season
Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a culture lover, or just in need of a laid-back escape, summer in Bali has something for everyone. Here are some activities you don’t want to miss!
1. Hit the Waves or Paddle the Calm
Bali’s summer is surf season on the south and west coasts, perfect if you are heading to Canggu, Uluwatu, or Padang Padang. Waves are at their best, and the vibe is electric with surfers from all over the world. Prefer calmer waters? Head to Sanur or Nusa Penida Island for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and glassy morning swims. The water is warm, visibility is great, and the coral reefs are alive with colorful marine life.
2. Reset in Ubud
Need a slower pace? Summer mornings in Ubud are magical. Wake up to birdsong and the smell of incense, then head to a yoga class or a silent walking through the rice fields. Ubud is also great for healing retreats, local cooking classes, and traditional Balinese ceremonies. All more accessible during the dry months when roads are clearer and temple grounds are dry.
3. Chase Sunrise & Sunset
During the dry season, the sky in Bali is come to live. Hike Mount Batur before dawn to catch the sunrise over a sea of clouds. The tracking is not too hard, this could be an experience that as humbling as it is breathtaking. In the evening, head west for a sunset at Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, or a beachfront beanbag in Seminyak or Canggu. Don’t forget your camera because the golden hour here is on the next level!
4. Shop Local Markets & Art Villages
From handwoven bags in Ubud to boutique finds in Seminyak, Bali in summer is a paradise for shopping. The weather makes wandering through open-air markets much more enjoyable, and villages like Celuk (for silver) and Mas Ubud (for wood carvings) are buzzing with creativity.
5. Experience Bali Culture at It’s Best
Summer also means more ceremonies and festivals. You might come across temple anniversaries, full moon rituals, or traditional Balinese dance performances. This is when the island feels most alive, full of color, sound, and deep spiritual energy.
6. Enjoy the Kite Festival
Summer isn’t just about the beaches, it also means a kite season in Bali. The Bali Kite Festival, usually held between July and August during the peak of the dry season. Held on the breezy fields of Padang Galak in Sanur, this festival isn’t just about flying kites, but also a celebration of community, creativity, and spirituality.
Expect to see massive traditional kites, some stretching over 10 meters wide, soaring above the rice fields. These aren’t just kids’ toys, but they represent offerings to the Hindu gods, asking for good harvests and blessings. Villages from all over Bali compete in friendly rivalry, accompanied by traditional gamelan music, team chants, and festive energy.
Read also: Best Time and Month to Visit Bali: A Guide to Your Perfect Escape
Where to Stay in Bali During Summer
Summer in Bali means you have got options to stay. From luxe resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, each area offering a different vibe. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the perfect base for your summer adventure.
1. Canggu
If you are after a trendy, youthful vibe, Canggu is the place to be. It’s where surfers, creatives, and digital nomads collide. When you are in Canggu you will find a lively mix of beach clubs, artisanal cafes, yoga studios, and hipster markets. There are so many stylish villas surrounded by rice fields, co-working spaces with a view, and beachside warungs serving smoothie bowls and fresh coconuts. It’s a great place if you want to mix laid-back beach life with Bali’s buzzing social scene. Sunsets at Echo Beach with live music and a bintang beer in hand? That’s the Canggu vibe in a nutshell.
2. Ubud
Nestled in Bali lush interior, Ubud is the heart of cultural and spiritual. If you are looking to reconnect with nature, this is where you’ll want to stay. Think morning yoga classes overlooking rice terraces, jungle-shrouded resorts, and days spent exploring temples, waterfalls, and traditional art markets. You can stay in a cozy guesthouse in the heart of town or splurge on a jungle villa with an infinity pool and sounds of wildlife all around. The vibe here is calm, reflective, and soul-nourishing, ideal for anyone craving a deeper connection with Bali traditions.
3. Seminyak
Want a blend of beachfront relaxation and luxury living? Head to Seminyak, where upscale resorts meet boutique shopping, chic sunset bars, and world-class dining. Whether you are sipping cocktails at Potato Head, enjoying a spa day, or browsing local designer stores, Seminyak delivers a polished version of the Bali experience. This area is popular with couples, and travelers who want all the tropical beauty with a splash of glam. Evenings are made for dressing up, dining out, and strolling along the beach under fairy-lit palm trees.
4. Nusa Dua and Sanur
Looking for peace and comfort? Nusa Dua and Sanur are your best bets. These coastal areas are ideal for families, couples, and travelers who appreciate well maintained beaches, relaxed energy, and easy access to resort facilities. Nusa Dua is known for it’s luxury beachfront resorts, golf courses, and water sports, while Sanur offers a more local, laid-back charm, complete with a scenic beach promenade and calm waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. Both spots are perfect for winding down and soaking up summer at a slower and more peaceful pace.
5. The Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Lembongan, and Ceningan)
If you’re craving island-hopping adventures and postcard-worthy scenery, head to the Nusa Islands, just a short boat ride from the main island Bali. These islands are less crowded and more rugged. It’s ideal for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trail. Nusa Penida is famous for its jaw-dropping cliffs and beaches like Kelingking and Diamond Beach, while Lembongan and Ceningan offer a more relaxed, tropical escape with vibrant reefs, seaweed farms, and cozy bungalows right by the water. It’s perfect for snorkelers, photographers, and anyone looking for that off-the-grid summer vibe.
Read more: Choosing the Right Side of Bali: A Guide to Finding Your Perfect Area to Stay
What to Pack for Your Bali Summer Adventure
When it comes to packing for Bali in the summer it’s all about packing smart. The island’s tropical climate means hot, sunny days with the occasional breezy night, especially if you are heading inland or doing early morning activities. Here is a simple checklist to make sure you are prepared for both adventure and relaxation, without overstuffing your suitcase.
- Light, breathable clothing is a must. Think cotton, linen, and loose-fitting outfits that keep you cool in Bali’s heat and humidity.
- Swimwear will probably be your daily uniform. Pack more than one if you plan to beach-hop or spend time at your villa pool.
- Sunscreen is essential, and go for reef-safe options to help protect Bali’s precious marine life.
- A sarong is a super versatile item. It works as a beach towel, sun cover, or a respectful wrap when visiting temples.
- Bug spray is another must-pack. Even during the dry season, mosquitos and tropical insects are still very much around.
- A reusable water bottle will keep you hydrated and help reduce plastic waste. A small but important step toward eco-friendly travel.
- Don’t forget a power adapter. Bali uses Type C and F plugs (just like Europe), so pack accordingly.
- Slip a light hoodie or jacket into your bag. While Bali is warm overall, places like Ubud or higher-altitude spots like Mount Batur can get chilly in the early mornings or evenings.
Why Summer Is The Best Time to Visit Bali?
Everything just works during summer in Bali. You can explore waterfalls without slippery paths, take boat trips without rough seas, and wander temple grounds without getting soaked. The island feels festive, alive, and absolutely glowing. This is a season when the Bali magic truly hits different. Golden light, chilled coconuts, and locals greeting you with warm smiles. Whether you’re here for a week or a month, this is the season to slow down, soak it in, and reconnect, with nature, local people, and maybe even with yourself.
Ready to Make Summer Plans? If Bali is on your summer radar, trust that you are in for something unforgettable. From surf and sunsets to culture and calm, every day on this island has a little bit of magic waiting. So pack that bag, bring your curiosity, and let Bali take care of the rest.
