Braco Bali

So you’re planning a trip to Bali in August? Good call. The Bali weather in August is actually one of the biggest reasons I keep going back during that time of year. It’s sunny, dry, not too hot (most days), and honestly, kind of perfect for just about anything—surfing, hiking, temple-hopping, or just chilling with a Bintang on the beach. I’ll break down exactly what to expect in August based on what I’ve experienced, plus a bunch of stuff I wish someone had told me before my first time.

Is August a Good Time to Visit Bali?

Short answer? Yeah, absolutely. August is part of Bali’s dry season (roughly May to September), which means you’re looking at blue skies, super low humidity, and barely any rain. Most days are in that comfy range of 26°C to 30°C (78°F to 86°F). Nights cool off a bit, but it never really gets cold unless you’re up in the mountains like Munduk or Kintamani.

If you’re anything like me and humidity wipes you out, August is your month. It’s also the middle of peak tourist season though, so beaches and restaurants can get crowded, especially around Seminyak and Uluwatu. But honestly? It never really feels overwhelming, unless you’re stuck in traffic near Canggu (which…yeah, traffic there can get wild).

Read also: Weather in Bali in January

What to Pack for Bali in August

Alright, here’s where most people mess up—they think tropical = nonstop heat. But while Bali weather in August is definitely warm, it’s not sweltering, and the evenings can get breezy, especially if you’re by the coast or in Ubud.

Here’s what I usually pack:

• A light hoodie or long-sleeve shirt for nights
• Loose cotton or linen clothes (tight synthetic stuff is a nightmare in the heat)
• Flip flops and one pair of solid walking shoes
• A sarong (you’ll need this for temples)
• Sunscreen. Don’t count on buying it there—it’s pricey and often not reef-safe
• A waterproof bag or dry sack if you’re doing boat trips or beach days

Also, mosquito repellent. Even though it’s dry season, some areas (especially around rice terraces or jungles) still have those little guys buzzing around.

Rain in August? Let’s Talk Real Numbers

So a lot of weather sites will say it barely rains in August, and they’re not wrong. But it can happen. I’ve had the occasional surprise shower, usually in the late afternoon or evening. It rarely lasts more than 20 minutes though. We’re talking quick, warm sprinkles, not full-on monsoons.

On average, you’re looking at 1 to 3 days of rain the whole month. Even then, it’s super localized. It might rain in Ubud but stay totally dry in Sanur. So don’t let the forecast freak you out if you see a rain icon. Odds are, it’s just a passing cloud.

Ocean Conditions and Beaches in August

If surfing is on your list, August is prime time. Especially on the west coast—places like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Canggu have some of the best swells this time of year. I’m not a pro by any means, but even as a beginner, I found some decent waves at Batu Bolong with one of the local instructors. The water is warm (around 27°C or 80°F), so no wetsuit needed.

For swimming or snorkeling, the east side is where it’s at in August. Sanur, Amed, and Nusa Lembongan have clearer water and calmer seas. Visibility is awesome, and I actually saw manta rays during a dive trip near Nusa Penida around mid-August. Still one of the coolest experiences I’ve had.

Beaches can get a bit crowded in the afternoons, especially around sunset. But if you get out early (like 7 or 8am), you’ll have them almost to yourself. And trust me, Bali sunrises? Totally underrated.

August Events and Festivals Worth Checking Out

One of the best things about being in Bali in August is all the cultural stuff happening. August 17th is Independence Day (Hari Merdeka), and it’s a whole vibe. Expect parades, red-and-white flags everywhere, and locals doing games and celebrations in the streets. It’s honestly a blast.

Some years you’ll also catch Bali Kite Festival, usually held around Padang Galak beach in Sanur. Huge traditional kites, like 10 meters long, with entire teams flying them. It’s something else.

If you’re into music, some beach clubs like Potato Head or Savaya might have big-name DJs playing in August. Check Instagram or local listings closer to your travel dates.

What About the Crowds and Prices?

Yeah, August is high season. There’s no sugar-coating it. Flights, especially from the U.S. or Europe, are gonna be more expensive, and accommodations fill up fast. If you’re looking to stay somewhere decent (not crazy luxe, but not a backpacker dorm either), book at least 2 months in advance.

Restaurants in popular areas like Seminyak and Ubud will definitely be busy around dinner time. But I’ve never had to wait more than 15 minutes for a table. And if you eat early (like 5:30 or 6pm), you’re golden.

On the flip side, everything’s open. Some of the smaller warungs and yoga studios actually close during the rainy season, so August means more options, more classes, more fun stuff to do.

Best Areas to Stay in August

If it’s your first time, I usually recommend splitting your time between two spots:

• Seminyak or Canggu for that beach-town vibe, cafes, shopping, and nightlife. Just be ready for scooters and traffic.
• Ubud for culture, yoga, waterfalls, and rice fields. Plus, it’s cooler up there, which feels amazing after a week by the beach.

If you want a quieter vibe, check out Sanur (great for families or chill couples), Amed (diving and snorkeling heaven), or Sidemen (kind of like Ubud 20 years ago—lush, peaceful, super local).

One place I stayed in August that I really loved was a guesthouse in Amed. Super basic, but right on the beach. I fell asleep to the sound of waves every night, and the sunrise view? Unreal. Paid like $35 a night.

Health and Safety Stuff People Forget

The weather in Bali during August might be ideal, but the sun? It’s fierce. I’m talking serious UV levels. I got burned in 20 minutes my first trip because I forgot to reapply sunscreen after a swim. Don’t be me.

Also—hydration. You’re gonna sweat, even if it doesn’t feel super humid. Coconut water’s cheap and everywhere, but bring a reusable bottle and refill it at your hotel or cafes. Tap water’s not drinkable, by the way.

Bali Belly (aka traveler’s diarrhea) is less common during dry season, but still possible. Stick to bottled water, and don’t eat stuff that’s been sitting out in the sun. If your stomach does go sideways, pharmacies sell Norit (activated charcoal tablets) that work pretty well.

What Locals Say About August Weather

Funny thing—I asked a local driver in Ubud last year if August was his favorite month. He laughed and said, “No rain means more tourists, more work. But hot! Too hot for Balinese.” So while we visitors are loving the sunshine, locals sometimes see it as the busiest and most exhausting month.

That said, everyone I’ve talked to agrees August is the best for ceremonies, weddings, and festivals. The dry conditions make it easier to plan outdoor events, and the skies are usually crystal clear.

Activities That Are Better in August

There are a few things that just hit different in August:

1. Hiking Mount Batur at sunrise is a must-do. The skies are clearest in August, so you get killer views. But it does mean waking up at like 2am. Totally worth it.
2. Snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan or Amed – the visibility is insane this time of year. And the ocean’s super calm. You can even take a glass-bottom boat if you’re not a strong swimmer.
3. Uluwatu Temple at sunset – yeah, it’s touristy, but those golden cliffs and the Kecak dance with the ocean behind it? Next-level.
4. Beach bonfires in Lovina – it’s not as flashy as Seminyak, but way more chill. Locals sometimes play acoustic guitar, and you can grab grilled corn and fresh fish right on the beach.

Not-So-Great Things About Bali Weather in August

Alright, so it’s not all sunshine and rainbows (well, it mostly is). Here’s what to watch out for:

• Dry skin and lips – with lower humidity, you might notice your skin drying out, especially if you’re in the sun a lot or swimming daily.
• Dusty roads – especially on the back roads in Uluwatu or Canggu. If you’re riding a scooter, wear sunglasses or a buff.
• Busy airport – Ngurah Rai (DPS) gets slammed in August. I’ve stood in immigration lines for over an hour. If you can swing it, pay for a fast-track service or get there early.

Honestly though, these are tiny trade-offs for what you get.

Random Advice I Wish I Knew My First Trip

First time I went to Bali in August, I stayed only in Seminyak and didn’t realize how different other parts of the island are. Like, Amed feels like another country compared to Kuta. Make time to explore a few different zones if you can. It’s easy to get around with a driver or scooter (just drive safe—the roads aren’t for the faint of heart).

Book your fast boat tickets ahead of time if you’re heading to Nusa Penida or the Gilis. August is nuts for those routes, and they fill up quick.

And one last thing: take it slow. The Bali pace of life is chill for a reason. Don’t cram your itinerary. Let the weather, the people, the beach naps—let it all sink in.