This article is a quick summary of travel advice and weather info for December in Bali, including average temperatures, rainfall, humidity, travel tips, places to go, and what to wear.
Bali Weather in December: Overview
- Averages temperature range: 24–33°C (75–91°F)
- Rainfall: 280 mm (11 inches)
- Rainy days: 22
- Sunshine hours/day: 7
- Ocean temperature: 29°C (84°F)
- Humidity: 85% (feels muggy, except after rain)
The rainy season is in full swing in December in Bali. The weather in Bali in December is warm to hot and still quite sunny, averaging 7 hours of sunshine per day despite heavy rain. The average daily maximum is 33°C (91°F) and the average daily minimum is 24°C (75°F).
Humidity builds to very high levels in between the downpours, as December is the middle of the southern hemisphere summer and the November–March wet season. Bali can expect an average of 22 days with some rain in December. Rain is usually heavy, but over quite quickly, often falling in the afternoon or evening.
You could also find some drier places to go in Southeast Asia in December>>>
The Best Places to Visit in Bali in December
December is not a month for visiting Bali's islands, doing most watersports (Nusa Dua is an exception), or for adventurous outdoor activities. It is not good for island hopping, diving, snorkeling, or volcano climbing. If you really want to do those things, consider Thailand in December, which (apart from Ko Samui and the east coast) has ideal dry-season weather.
Make the most of the sunny times, but avoid getting caught out by tropical downpours, strong ocean currents, and rough seas. Here are some of the most suitable places for you to go during your visit to Bali in December.
Get to know the best times to visit Bali>>>
The Best Places to Visit in Bali in December1. Nusa Dua for the Best Rainy Season Beach
Most beaches on Bali suffer from murky waters and rubbish being washed up during the rainy season. Not so Nusa Dua. It still enjoys clear water in December and is Bali's go-to beach in the wet season. Nusa Dua is popular with families and other vacationers, especially over the Christmas period. Book early!
Though watersports may not be offered or suitable when the storms come and the sea is rough, they can still be enjoyed for the major part of the wet season, which is sunny and hot. Nusa Dua is known as a great place for luxury resorts, honeymoons, family holidays, restaurants, shopping, and surfing.
Check the sample itineraries of Bali for 10 days.
2. Experience Balinese Culture and Cuisine in Ubud
If it looks like it will be a rainy day, Ubud — the cultural capital of Bali — is still somewhere you could go. (Bear in mind it hardly ever rains all day.) Go to Ubud Royal Palace to see the island's royal family treasures within charming architecture and gardens, and see Balinese dance performances. Visit its art market for souvenirs from silk scarves and lightweight shirts to statues and kites.
Ubud is the best place to find a Balinese chef, who would take you to a local market for fresh ingredients, then give expert guidance in making Balinese cuisine. Cooking and eating some tasty creations would be a great wet-day activity.
3. Visit Ubud Monkey Forest for a Rainforest Nature Encounter
Sacred Monkey Forest in UbudUbud's closest natural attraction is also known as Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Only 20 minutes' walk from the cultural center, you can find yourself in a world of jungle, temples, and long-tailed macaques. It's a great mini trip for photographers, delighted kids, and nature lovers that can always be slotted in between the downpours.
4. View Tegallalang's Reflective Rice Terraces
Tegallalang Rice Terraces in BaliAnother attraction that is only a short distance (within half an hour) from Ubud is the island's second-most popular rice terraces at Tegallalang. December could be a good month to visit, as Tegallalang's tiered paddies fill up with rain water, creating a steep valley vista of mirror-like fields — some of the best scenery of the year. Catch them when the sun is shining for great photos.
The only December drawback for terraced field exploration is that paths become muddy after rain. The World Heritage rice terraces at Jatiluwih are usually very visitable too in December, but the roads out from Ubud may be affected by mudslides making the 2-hour journey longer/undoable.
Both Extremes of Crowding and Costs
There is some pleasant weather to be enjoyed in Bali in December, but it is definitely a rain-affected off-season month with corresponding price reductions, apart from around Christmas, which is one of the most popular times of the year.
Go early in the month for lower costs and visitor numbers. Go late in the month for the festive atmosphere, but book early.
What to Wear in December
Pack light, cool, quick-drying clothing. An umbrella will be handy to provide shelter from showers and sun. Sandals and cool, breathable footwear are generally recommended.
Bring some light longer clothing to cover arms and legs for Bali's Hindu temples and religious sites, which will also help to protect you from the sun and mosquitoes.
UV levels will be high (when it's not cloudy), so pack plenty of sun cream, a sunhat, and good sunglasses. Insect/mosquito repellent may be required, especially in evenings and rural areas.
For hiking on rural (hillside terrace) paths comfortable walking shoes with a good grip in the wet/mud are recommended.
Monthly Weather in Bali
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