Bali is known for its hot, dry, beach-ready weather, but there will be an occasional downpour where it becomes wet with heavy rain sometimes for days at a time.
Even when it’s raining, Bali can be a great destination with exciting activities and things to do.
You don’t have to be stuck in your hotel room or in one of our Bali villas getting bored. Bali is full of exciting things to do even when it’s the tropical rainy season which lasts from November through February,
@balivillaescapes Stuck in the villa cause of the rain in Bali?? The rain will pass so get out there and enjoy your holiday!! #balivillaescapes #rainbali #baliholiday #baliwithkids
So, when exactly is the rainy season in Indonesia?
Indonesia, Bali included experiences two clearly defined seasons: the rainy season, which spans from October to February, and the dry season , which lasts from March to September. Keep in mind, the weather in Bali, like anywhere else on Earth, can be unpredictable. You might experience the rains arriving a month earlier or later than expected, so it’s always best to be prepared. The rain is unpredictable and can last one hour or the whole day. But, from experience it generally in the afternoon for a couple of hours and stops around 6 pm. Again, don’t treat this as gospel as it can vary.
Also read: Bali Weather Guide: A Guide To The Best Times To Visit Bali (Month By Month)
Whats a rainy day in Bali really like?
Let’s be clear: it doesn’t mean that it’s going to be raining the whole day, and you can generally follow the rhythm of the rainy season day as it tends to be fairly predictable. Picture this; a hot morning with clear blue skies, then the clouds start to develop around 2 pm, followed by a massive afternoon downpour for about a couple of hours (maybe less) followed by humid, sticky Bali evenings. Having said that when it rains it’s torrential and flooding does occur in Bali especially in built up areas due to the lack of drains which can be problematic especially if you’re stuck somewhere on a scooter. But we all get used to it and it’s clean the air and settles the dust from all the developments, such as construction and road works. Plus it’s a good watering for all the plants.
What you need to pack
A Sturdy Raincoat or Poncho – While there are plenty of cheap plastic ponchos available at convenience stores, they may not hold up in heavy downpours. Investing in a quality raincoat will ensure you’re prepared for any weather conditions, providing a sense of security during your trip.
Waterproof Shoes – Those leather shoes and expensive Birkenstocks you just bought can stay in the villa. Wear rubber sandals or thongs as you’ll wreck anything decent with the mud and water.
Quick-Dry Clothing – It’s self-explanatory that you’ll get wet, even with a poncho. Wearing quick-dry clothes, especially during tours, will keep you comfortable and at ease, knowing that you won’t be soaked for long.
A Decent Umbrella – You’ll need this if you’re going to walk around. Look for a sturdy, wind-resistant umbrella that can withstand the heavy rain and wind often associated with rainy seasons. Ditch the cheap and nasty umbrellas.
Insect Repellent – Mozzies love the rainy season so bring the Aerogard!
Bali Villa Escapes Tip: Embrace the unique experience that Bali’s weather variability offers. Just because it’s raining in one area of Bali doesn’t mean it’s raining in another. For example, if you’re staying in Seminyak and it’s raining and you’ve got a tour booked for Ubud, you should still go as the chances are high that it won’t be raining in Ubud.
1. Shopping in Bali
Bali is one the best place to shop as it caters for such a wide range. From labels to handcrafts, antiques and jewellery, it’s easy to find something for everyone.
The best shopping malls are generally in and around the major resorts, the newly completed Seminyak Village, Kuta Beachwalk and the Discovery Shopping mall are our picks. Make sure you have a look at the Seminyak area as well as this has many upmarket boutiques and shops. You will need a day for this. Shopping in Bali is about bargain hunting. Make sure you are ready to haggle over prices.
Kuta Beachwalk includes a huge shopping, dining and entertainment complex. Over three levels there are luxury brands including Victoria Secret, Armani Jeans and Tommy Hilfiger. The building itself has adapted an eco-friends concept and unique wavy design. If the weather clears up, you can step out of its hallways and onto the beach, making it one of the best spots for all ages. There is even a cinema there so keep an eye out for children’s movies in case it’s raining. They’ll definitely want to catch the latest movie. See the Beachwalk website here.
Discovery Shopping Mall houses a wider range of brands as well and various food and beverage outlets, with cuisine ranging from fast food to fine dining. Being only 10 minutes from the airport, it shares the beachfront with Home @36 Condotel on the north-side and the Waterbom Bali theme park is just across the road.
Trans Studio Mall is a massive mall in Denpasar with lots of shopping, entertainment, food; ideal for a full days entertainment to keep you out of the rain.
Icon Bali Mall in Sanur has lots of shopping, restaurants, cafes and even a cinema for the kids. It’s located on the beach walk and easy to find as it’s huge. Spend the day here browsing the shops and have a bite top eat. A great way to kill a few hours while it’s raining.
@balivillaescapes Icon Bali Mall in Sanur is a massive shoppong amd entertainment hub in Sanur – check it oit!!! #seminyakvillas #balivillaescapes #cangguvillas #iconbalimall #baliholidays #baliwithkids
2. Treat yourself and head to the spa
Convenience is key when it comes to day spas in Bali. They are plentiful, offering a wide range of treatments including massages, waxing, hair treatments, and nail spas. So, whether you’re looking to escape a gloomy rainy day or simply pamper yourself, you’ll always find a day spa nearby. Plus, most of these day spas cater to men as well, so you can easily plan a relaxing day out with your partner.
Best day spas Seminyak: Aqua Perla, Prana Spa and Bodyworks
Best day spas in Canggu: Goldust Beauty Lounge, Spring Day Spa and Therapy
3. Theatre Shows
Bali has a surprisingly large range of traditional theatres to keep you entertained. Much of it is inspired by folklore, but in a modern setting with dramatic light and sounds. The casts are an array of talented choreographers and dancers that will take the audience on a journey.
We recommend the Devdan show – Treasure of the Archipelago, inspired by the cultures of Indonesia. It’s an amazing 90-minute show full of contemporary dance, aerial acrobatic and special effects. This is a very memorable attraction, that’s perfect for the whole family including the kids.
4. Hang in the villa
If you’re staying in a Seminyak villa or a Canggu villa and it’s teeming with rain (think rainy season), one point to note is getting a Go Jek may prove difficult as they tend not to drive in the rain. This means it’s lots of villa time for you and the kids. Don’t fret as villa life is cool; you can watch Netflix, cook up a storm (as most villas have modern kitchens), hit the gym (if the villa has one), or play games if there’s a billiard table. For the kids, you can set up a movie marathon, have a board game competition (think Monopoly etc), or even do some indoor crafts. And, why not order an in-villa massage if you can? Therapists are more likely to travel on a scooter even if it’s raining.
5. Water parks
Just because it’s raining outside doesn’t mean you can’t splash around! Bali is home to three main waterparks with enough slides and pools to keep you entertained all day, even if it’s cloudy above. Our favourite park is Waterbom (right across the road from Discovery Shopping Mall) with a huge range of slides and pools. When you get tired, retreat to the space for a massage or dip your feed in the fish therapy pool. There is also the waterslides at the Finns Recreation Club in Canggu / Berawa which also has ten pin bowling and a fabulous trampoline centre to keep the kids occupied for hours on end.
6. Arts and Crafts
If you’re interested in traditional Balinese culture, rain or no rain, this is a must. Batik is known as a traditional textile and art form. Located in the Denpasar shopping region, Batik Poplier II offers a course where you can learn how to create traditional textiles, ceramic painting and pottery. There’s a range of short courses which will help you create something you can take home.
7. Yoga
Yoga is a great way to relax and unwind. With Bali becoming a known destination for health and well being. Throughout Bali, there’s a range of classes for every skill level, including private classes and full retreats.
The Yoga Barn is located in the heart of Ubud and offers a range of traditional yoga styles of Classical Hatha, Vinyasa Flow, Power, Pranayama, Restorative, Iyengar, Yin & Anusara. They also provide classes in meditation, sound medicine, Kirtan and Ecstatic dance. The best thing about the Yoga Barn is that they offer up to 11 classes every day, so you’ll almost always be able to find something that will suit you at any time of day. If you are in Seminyak try Jiwa Bikram yoga for a real sweaty workout.
8. Sea Walks
If it’s raining outside, why not head underwater? Seawalker tours let you walk right on the bottom of the ocean and experience all kinds of amazing sea life. With minimum equipment, anyone can do this and since it is a soft dive system all you need to explore is the unique Seawalker helmet. When you arrive all you need to do is get changed into your swimmers and your guide will take you to the Seawalker station. Once in the water, you go down the stairs to the bottom of the sea and the instructions will accompany you. One of the best features is that you will be able to breathe just like you do on the surface and you can wear glasses or contact lenses.
9. Museum Tours
There’s a wide range of museums throughout the island that gives you an insight into Bali’s rich history. Most of Bali’s museums and galleries are centred in Ubud and offer a range of creative art in the form of paintings, textiles and woodcarving. For something a little bit different, we recommend Blanco Renaissance Museum in Ubud. The Blanco Renaissance Museum was the home of the late, Don Antonio Blanco, which houses unique contemporary collections surrounded by a lush garden. The grounds also include a fine restaurant and tours are held daily.
10. Jewellery Course
Jewellery and silver making is engrained in Balinese heritage and culture, with many notable studios and workshops on the island. Many places will let you observe the process of local artists and offer courses and brief workshops.
We thoroughly enjoyed a class at Chez Monique in Ubud, in which you can create your own unique piece. Classes usually take about 4 hours and there is staff to help you in the design and creation process. You can also visit their showroom for inspiration.
11) Jungel Padel
Here’s a unique all-weather activity in Bali-Jungle Padel. This relatively new concept has quickly gained popularity, with locations in Canggu, Kerobokan, Pererenan, and Ubud. It’s a fun and great activity for everyone, and it’s especially enjoyable when it rains. Think of it as tennis, but with a smaller version. Check out their website here.
12) Gym Workout
In Bali, particularly in areas like Canggu and Uluwatu, the gym scene has exploded, creating a vibrant fitness community. With a new gym on every corner, you’re part of a thriving culture. Whether it’s the body-beautiful focus in Canggu or the high-energy atmosphere of Bali MMA, you’re in good company. The popular gyms like Soham, Bull Gym, Wunderlust, The Wrong Gym, and Bali Body Factory are where the action is. So, when the rain pours, you’re not alone. Put on your gym gear, order a Go-Jek, and head to the nearest gym for a couple of hours of fitness fun.
13) Head to the local sports bar/pub
Many bars in Bali, particularly in areas like Seminyak, Canggu, Legian, Kuta and Kerobokan, offer large screen TVs where you can watch the league game, cricket, or Aussie rules. This is perfect for Aussie sports fanatics who like nothing better than to grab a Bintang or two and enjoy the game on the big TV, all while feeling relaxed and chilled. Legian and Seminyak, home to popular spots like Nirvana Sports Bar, The Goat, and The Forge, are mega-popular areas for this.
14) Cafes
There are no shortages of nice, cosy cafes in Bali where you can do some work, catch up on emails, bring the kids for a meal, or just take a good book and sip on a coffee for a few hours. These cafes are designed for comfort and relaxation, making them a perfect solution for the dreaded rainy season. All the tourist areas have loads of cafes, and they are more than happy to let you sit there and chill out for a few hours.
15) Sunset drink at Ku De Ta, Potato Head or Old Man’s at Canggu.
Yes, it might be raining, but these places all have undercover areas where you can relax with your mates and have a few cocktails and watch the sunset. Yes, it may be rainy and overcast, but it’s worth it just for the great vibe and stylish ambience. Stay there for dinner once the sun goes down, listen to some relaxing music, grab another drink, and enjoy some fabulous cuisine. And here’s the best part: even if it’s absolutely bucketing down, the clubs are open, offering an exclusive experience without the usual crowds; especially Finns.
