December in Bali means warm tropical days, balmy nights, and bursts of tropical rain that keep the island lush and green. It’s the heart of the wet season, so you can expect short, heavy showers, often followed by sunshine and clear skies.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about visiting Bali in December, from weather patterns and travel tips to what to pack and where to go.
Whether you’re here for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or just a dose of island heat, you’ll discover that Bali in December is full of energy, beauty, and a little tropical drama.
TL;DR: Summary Of Bali’s Weather In December
- Sunny most of the day, but frequent rainfall throughout the month hits in short bursts.
- It’s more humid during this time of the year, so wear light clothing.
- Most activities can be enjoyed as normal with occasional disruption.
- December gets busy around the holiday season.
- Don’t let weather conditions put you off; Bali is great to visit year-round.
What Is Bali’s Weather Like In December?
December in Bali is warm, tropical, and vibrant. Daytime average temperatures typically range between 27°C and 31°C, and even the evenings stay mild, so you’ll be in shorts, singlets, and sandals from morning to night.
The sea is warm too, making it great for swimming, surfing, and beach days.
December does bring rain – it is right in to the rainy season by this stage – with average rainfall around 270 mm daily across the month, but it’s not the kind of rain that drags on all day.
Think short bursts of rain that sweep through, clear the air, and leave everything fresh and green again. You’ll still get plenty of sunshine, especially in the mornings and early afternoon.
Average humidity levels sit around 80–85%, which makes the heat feel a little stronger, but if you’re near the coast, the ocean breeze balances things out nicely.
The sunshine hours range between 7 and 8 hours per day, plenty to be getting on with.
A Point Worth Noting For The Wet Season In December
December sits in the middle of Bali’s wet season (November to March), but this doesn’t mean constant rain.
It’s more about quick, dramatic bursts, a downpour that lasts anywhere from 20 minutes to a couple of hours, often in the late afternoon or at night. Think occasional rain showers near to more frequent tropical showers, which vary throughout the month.
It does not typically rain every day, especially in coastal areas. Of course, inland mountainous areas will always catch increased rainfall, making the rivers and waterfalls stand out for both their natural beauty and raw brutality.
Most days still start bright and warm. Check the weather forecast for a rough idea, though the weather can be unpredictable.
You’ll wake up to sunshine, go for a swim, grab breakfast, and it’ll feel like classic Bali.
Then later, the clouds roll in, you get a tropical shower, and by evening, you’re back to clear skies again.
So the key is just to plan your activities earlier in the day and carry a light poncho or throw-on shirt. It’s simple, and honestly, part of the island’s charm this time of year.
Where To Go In Bali In December
Even with the occasional tropical shower, December is still an amazing time to explore. Occasional rain showers can interrupt outdoor activities, but that shouldn’t stop you.
Of course, stormy weather can make things such as intense jungle treks and scuba diving impractical.
- Canggu – Beach bars, great surf, sunset spots, and plenty of places to duck inside when the rain hits. The atmosphere is lively all month, especially leading up to NYE.
- Seminyak – Good for shopping, brunches, and long lunches. When the rain comes, you’re never far from a cafe, spa, or boutique to wander into.
- Uluwatu – Cliff views, dramatic coastlines, and bigger surf. Mornings are usually clearer, so plan beach or temple visits earlier in the day.
- Ubud – Cooler temperatures, rice terraces, and jungle vibes. It does rain more here, but it suits the mood. Think spas, yoga studios, galleries, craft markets, and slow days.
- Nusa Dua – Calmer beaches and quieter holidays. Resort-style comfort where everything you need is at your doorstep. Water sports can still be enjoyed this time of year.
What To Do In Bali In December
Some activities are even better in the wet season, while others just need a bit of timing around the showers.
- Surfing – Still really good this time of year. Swells are solid, the water is warm, and there are waves for every level. West coast surf towns like Canggu and Uluwatu are always a good shout.
- Spa & Wellness Days – Rainy afternoons are perfect for this. Think massage, flower baths, saunas, slow herbal teas, and long, lazy sessions in beautiful wooden treatment rooms. Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak have endless options at every price level.
- Slow Mornings, Long Lunches & Coffee Stops – December is great for taking your time. Mornings are often bright and clear, so front-load your adventures, then settle into cafés, bakery stops, and long lunches when the afternoon showers arrive.
- Museums And Cultural Sites – Temples, Balinese art museums, and local craft workshops are all great sheltered activities. For the places with outside grounds, you’re never far from shelter if the heavens open up suddenly.
- Cooking Classes – Fun, tasty, and great for a rainy afternoon.
- Rice Terraces – Jatiluwih and Tegallalang rice terraces are at their peak in December. The rain brings out every shade of green, and mornings are often misty and calm. Go early, as afternoons tend to bring showers, and the light is beautiful over the rice fields.
- Waterfalls – Waterfalls such as Kanto Lampo and Tegenungan look powerful and dramatic after rain. Trails can be muddy, but that’s part of the adventure. Wear shoes with grip, move slowly, and enjoy how lush everything becomes during the wet season.
Celebrate Christmas And New Year’s Eve
Even though Bali is mostly Hindu, Christmas is widely recognised in the tourist areas, as it is in much of the world. It’s tropical, warm, and easy-going, more sunset drinks by the pool than jumpers by a fireplace.
What to expect:
- Western-style Christmas dinners at hotels, restaurants, and surf retreats.
- Festive decorations in towns and resorts.
- A fun, relaxed holiday vibe across the island.
As for New Year’s Eve, Bali becomes electric.
Think:
- Fireworks across the coastline
- Big countdown parties
- Everyone is in a great mood (obviously!)
And each year, one NYE event consistently leads the pack.
FINNS brings in major headline acts and sets the bar for New Year’s Eve in Bali; the atmosphere, production, and scale are on another level.
If you want the NYE that people talk about all year, that’s the one to lock in early.
Prices In Bali In December
December is one of Bali’s peak travel periods, especially from mid-month onward. Prices for flights, villas, hotels, and even some restaurants will rise as Christmas and New Year’s approach.
If you’re planning to be here for the holidays, book your accommodation well in advance. Early December is generally more affordable, but once you get close to the holiday season.
If budget is a consideration, stay flexible with location. For example, staying slightly off the main stretch in Canggu, Seminyak, or Uluwatu can give you better rates while keeping you close to everything.
How Busy Is Bali In December?
The first half of December is usually pretty relaxed. Beaches, cafes, roads, and hotels are all comfortably busy, but not overwhelming.
Around December 18–20, the holiday crowd starts rolling in. From that point, the island gets lively, energetic, and packed with travellers from Australia, Europe, and around Asia.
Expect more people at sunset spots, restaurants, and popular beach areas.
New Year’s week is peak season, it’s fun, social, and full of atmosphere, but definitely not quiet. If you plan to dine out at popular spots or attend events, reserve ahead.
As the island recovers from New Year’s, and it moves into January – Bali’s wettest month – things start to quieten down again.
What To Wear In Bali In December
Bali in December is warm and humid, with plenty of sunny beach days broken up by occasional tropical rain showers. Humid weather can get sticky, so keep your clothing light and breathable so you stay comfortable throughout the day.
Wear:
- Light shirts and singlets
- Shorts, skirts, easy summer dresses
- Sandals or open shoes
- Swimwear for basically every day (the ocean temperature stays warm year-round)
Bring:
- Rain gear, such as a lightweight poncho or loose throw-on shirt for downpours.
- A dry bag for your phone and wallet if you’re out exploring
If you’re heading inland to places like Ubud or the Tegallalang rice terraces, the air can feel a touch cooler after afternoon showers, so a thin overshirt or loose long-sleeve shirt is useful.
A sun hat and insect repellent also go a long way in the wet season.
The sun remains strong even with increased rainfall, and the tropical climate means mosquitoes can be more active around rice fields, waterfalls, and coastal areas in the evenings.
Top Tips For Visiting Bali In December
- Plan outdoor activities in the morning, most days start sunny.
- When the rain comes, treat it as the perfect excuse for spa time, long lunches, or slow coffee stops.
- Carry a small poncho or just buy one locally; they’re cheap and everywhere.
- Traffic can get heavy around Christmas and New Year’s, so leave a bit of time when moving between areas.
- Book accommodation, NYE events, and restaurant reservations early, especially in Canggu and Seminyak.
- And hey, don’t forget to come visit us at FINNS!
December can bring the occasional tropical thunderstorm, especially in the late afternoon or evening. If you see lightning or hear thunder nearby, just play it safe:
- Get out of the pool or ocean
- Avoid standing under tall trees or in open, exposed areas
- Head indoors or into a cafe, bar, or sheltered spot for a bit
Storms usually pass quickly, often clearing back to warm, calm evenings. It’s just part of the experience of Bali in the wet season.
FAQs
Is December A Good Time To Visit Bali?
Absolutely.
While December falls in the wet season, Bali still sees plenty of sunshine between showers. The rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts before clearing up, leaving the island looking fresh and green.
It’s also one of the liveliest months of the year, with Christmas and New Year celebrations filling the beaches, clubs, and resorts.
You’ll get warm temperatures, fewer crowds early in the month, and an amazing festive buzz towards the end. Just expect higher prices and book early if you’re planning to stay through the holidays.
In fact, we think that any month of the year is a good time to visit Bali!
What Are The Best And Worst Months To Visit Bali?
Honestly, there’s no bad time to visit Bali.
The island stays warm and welcoming all year, with a mix of sun, surf, and that laid-back island rhythm that never really stops.
Some people prefer the dry months (May to October) for beach days and outdoor exploring, while others enjoy the lush, tropical vibe that comes with a bit of rain between November and March.
Whether you’re here for sunshine or scenery, Bali always delivers.
How Much Rain Is There In December In Bali?
December brings regular tropical downpours, especially in the afternoons and evenings. On average, Bali gets around 270 mm of rain this month, spread over roughly 20 rainy days.
Don’t let that scare you off, though; the showers are intense but short-lived, and you’ll still see plenty of blue skies. The air stays warm, hovering around 30°C during the day, and the sea remains ideal for swimming.
Bring quick-dry clothes, a lightweight poncho, and plan your beach or temple visits earlier in the day when it’s usually drier.
Is Bali Expensive In December?
Yes, prices do rise in December, but that’s more about the holidays than the weather.
It’s peak season, with travellers arriving for the holiday season in Bali, so accommodation, flights, and even restaurant bookings fill fast.
Plan ahead if you’re coming this time of year, and expect a lively, festive atmosphere wherever you go.
Does It Rain On Nusa Penida And Nusa Lembongan?
Yes, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan get the same rainy season as Bali, with short, heavy rainfall mainly in the afternoons or evenings. Mornings are often clear, warm, and great for exploring the beaches, viewpoints, or taking a scooter around the island.
Because the islands are more exposed and have fewer trees and shaded areas than mainland Bali, the sun can feel stronger, and the rain feels a bit more dramatic when it arrives. Just plan outdoor adventures earlier in the day, carry a light poncho, and you’ll be fine.
You’ll still get plenty of sunshine, just expect that classic tropical rhythm of sun, cloud, shower, clear skies again.
Final Thoughts On Bali Weather In December
December in Bali is warm, vibrant, and full of atmosphere. Yes, it rains sometimes, but that’s part of the island’s tropical rhythm.
You’ll still enjoy beach days, sunsets, and great surf, just with the occasional tropical storm rolling through.
For travellers who don’t mind a bit of weather, it’s one of the most exciting times to visit, especially with the festive buzz around Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Bring a light rain jacket, plan your outdoor adventures in the morning, and embrace Bali’s lush side… rain and all.
