So, you're Googling the best time to visit Bali with kids, huh? Totally get it. Taking the whole family on vacation is already stressful enough without worrying about weather, crowds, or cranky toddlers stuck in traffic.
I’ve been helping families plan Bali vacations for years, and trust me—this is one of the top questions I get, right after “Is Bali safe for children?” or “Can we bring a stroller to Ubud?” Spoiler alert: you can, but you’ll hate it on the stairs at Tegenungan Waterfall.
Read also: Kintamani Volcano Bali
But back to the point—when is the best time to visit Bali with kids? Well, it kinda depends on what you’re looking for. Are you chasing sunshine? Trying to dodge the crowds? Want cheaper hotel rates? Or just hoping your 6-year-old doesn’t melt down from the heat?
Let’s break it all down in a way that’s super easy to understand. No complicated weather charts or “influencer” fluff. Just straight-up advice from someone who actually lives here and has seen hundreds of family trips—some magical, some... not so much.
Understanding Bali’s Seasons—Why Timing Matters for Family Travel
Before we talk about the best time to visit Bali with kids, you need to understand Bali’s seasons. Bali isn’t like Europe or the US where you get spring, summer, fall, and winter. It’s a tropical island, so we pretty much have two main seasons: dry season and rainy season.
The dry season runs from April to October. This is when Bali is at its most popular. Think clear blue skies, cooler mornings, and very little rain. It’s perfect for beach days, outdoor activities, and splashing around in hotel pools without worrying about thunderstorms.
The rainy season is from November to March. But don’t get too scared of the word “rainy”—this isn’t like monsoon season in Thailand where streets flood for days. Bali rain usually comes in short bursts, mostly in the afternoons or at night. The mornings can still be sunny, but you’ll definitely get some wet weather mixed in.
That said, the dry season is usually the safest bet for families, especially if you’re coming from far away and you don’t want to risk bad weather messing up your plans.
Why June, July, and August Are Popular—But Not Always the Best for Every Family
Now, most travel blogs will tell you that June to August is the best time to visit Bali with kids, and yeah, there’s some truth to that. These months are Bali’s peak season because the weather is basically perfect. It’s sunny almost every day, humidity is lower, and the beaches look like they came straight off a postcard.
But here’s the thing they don’t tell you: it’s crowded. Like, really crowded. Australians are on school holidays, Europeans are escaping their summer heatwaves, and domestic tourists from Jakarta also flood the island. So, if you’re not a fan of waiting 30 minutes for a smoothie bowl in Canggu or fighting for a sun lounger in Seminyak, this might not be your dream scenario.
Also, prices go up during this time. Hotels, villas, tours, car rentals—you’ll pay more in July and August. Not crazy amounts, but enough to make you think twice if you’re on a budget. I’ve seen families spend double the usual rates just because they didn’t realize they were booking smack in the middle of Bali’s high season.
Why April, May, and September Might Be the Sweet Spot for Family Travel
If you ask me, the best time to visit Bali with kids is actually April, May, or September. These months are what locals and long-term expats call the shoulder season. It’s kinda like the secret season—good weather, but fewer crowds and better prices.
In April and May, the rain has usually stopped, the island is lush and green from the wet season, and everything feels fresh. You’ll get sunny mornings, cooler evenings, and it’s easier to find good deals on villas and hotels. Plus, tourist hotspots like Ubud Monkey Forest or Bali Safari & Marine Park aren’t packed to the brim yet.
September is also gold. The school holiday rush is over, the weather’s still great, and prices start to drop again. I’ve sent a lot of families here in September, and they always come back saying it was the perfect balance—not too hot, not too crowded, and still plenty of sunshine for beach time.
One family from New Zealand told me they spent September mornings building sandcastles at Sanur Beach, then took peaceful afternoon bike rides around the rice paddies in Ubud. Zero stress, and they didn’t have to fight for dinner reservations either. That’s the kind of trip I try to help families plan.
Rainy Season in Bali—Is It Really That Bad for Kids?
Alright, let’s talk about the rainy season, because a lot of parents get nervous when they hear it rains in Bali from November to March.
Honestly? It’s not always a dealbreaker. Especially if your kids love splashing in puddles or you’re okay with mixing in some indoor activities. Some families actually prefer the rainy season because it’s way less crowded and you can get crazy good deals on hotels and villas. Like, 50% off kind of deals.
The trick is knowing what to expect. During rainy months, you might get hot, sticky mornings with sudden rain showers around 2 or 3 PM. Sometimes it pours for an hour, sometimes it just drizzles. It’s unpredictable. But it usually doesn’t rain all day.
Also, the ocean gets rougher in rainy season, especially on the west coast—places like Kuta or Canggu. So if you’ve got little kids who want to swim in the sea, you’re better off sticking to calmer beaches like Sanur or Nusa Dua, where the water stays pretty chill most of the year.
I had one family from California visit in January, and they actually loved it. They spent mornings at Waterbom Bali (which is open rain or shine, by the way), then relaxed in their villa during the rain with movies and room service. They told me they loved the vibe because everything felt slower and more relaxed. Plus, their kids thought the afternoon thunder was super exciting, like nature’s own sound show.
Balancing Bali’s Weather With School Holidays—Because Let’s Be Real, That Matters
Now, I know not every family has the luxury of picking random dates. School holidays usually dictate when you can travel, and that’s okay.
Here’s a little rundown of how Bali’s seasons match up with typical school breaks:
- June to August: School’s out in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the US. Bali’s dry season is in full swing, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time.
- December to early January: Christmas holidays bring another rush. It’s technically the rainy season, but lots of families still come because it fits the school schedule.
- March, April, May, and September: These months usually don’t line up with major school holidays, which is why they’re quieter. But if you’ve got preschoolers or can get flexible leave, these are gold.
Some families I’ve worked with do creative stuff to dodge the crowds. Like, I had one couple from Singapore who pulled their kids out of school for a week in late May. They called it a “worldschooling” experience and made the trip educational by visiting temples, learning Balinese crafts, and doing a cooking class. Their kids thought it was the coolest thing ever, and they avoided the July madness.
If you can’t be flexible with dates, no worries. You can still make it work—you’ll just need to book earlier, plan smarter, and maybe adjust your expectations. More on that next.
Activities and Adventures That Work No Matter When You Come
One of the cool things about Bali is that there’s always something to do, rain or shine. So even if you can’t pick the “perfect” time to come, you can still have an awesome trip.
Here’s what I usually recommend for families:
- Dry Season (April–October): This is the time for outdoor adventures. Think beach days in Nusa Dua, snorkeling in Amed, ATV rides in Ubud (yes, kids can ride with a guide), or visiting waterfalls like Tegenungan or Gitgit. The weather is more predictable, so you can plan big day trips without stressing about rain.
- Rainy Season (November–March): Go for indoor-friendly fun. Waterbom Bali is still great because you’re wet anyway. The Bali Safari & Marine Park has lots of covered areas. Bali’s Trick Art 3D Museum is fun for younger kids. And you can always do cultural stuff like batik painting classes or Balinese dance lessons indoors.
Also, consider booking a private pool villa if you’re coming in rainy season. That way, even if it rains, the kids can still swim and play without you worrying about packing up and heading to the beach.
Where to Stay in Bali With Kids—And Why It Depends on the Season
Picking the right place to stay can make or break your family trip, and the best time to visit Bali with kids affects that too.
In dry season, you might want to be closer to the beach. Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran are super family-friendly with calm water, beachfront hotels, and stroller-friendly paths. Perfect for those classic sunny Bali days.
During rainy season, consider areas with more indoor stuff to do. Ubud is great for cultural activities, cooking classes, and jungle views from your villa—even if it rains. Seminyak or Canggu work if you want cafes and shops close by, so you’re not stuck in your hotel when the skies open up.
One family I helped last February stayed in a villa in Ubud with a covered pool area, so the kids could swim even when it was raining. They spent afternoons watching monkeys swing in the trees while sipping hot chocolate. Honestly, that sounds pretty magical to me.
Quick Tips for Avoiding Travel Stress (From Someone Who’s Seen It All)
Let me leave you with a few things I’ve learned after helping hundreds of families plan Bali trips:
- Book early if you’re coming in July or August. Villas and hotels fill up fast, especially the good ones.
- •Pack for the heat year-round, but always bring rain jackets from November to March.
- Don’t over-plan. Kids get tired fast in Bali’s humidity, even during dry season.
- Use a private driver instead of taxis or Grab apps if you’re traveling with kids. It’s just easier—plus, the car will have air conditioning and space for strollers.
- Stay flexible. Even in dry season, sometimes rain shows up out of nowhere. That’s just island life.
So yeah, figuring out the best time to visit Bali with kids isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about knowing what works for your family, balancing weather with school breaks, and being ready for a little adventure. And hey—sometimes the unexpected stuff ends up being the best part of the trip anyway.
Health & Safety Tips for Bali Family Trips—Timing Matters More Than You Think
Another reason families stress over the best time to visit Bali with kids is health stuff. I totally get it—no parent wants to deal with a sick kid on vacation. I’ve been there myself.
Here’s something most travel blogs skip: Bali belly (that lovely nickname for traveler’s diarrhea) tends to pop up more during rainy season. Why? Because the heavy rains sometimes mess with water systems, especially in more rural areas. That doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get sick if you visit from November to March, but I always tell families to be extra careful with hygiene during those months.
Stick to bottled water, even for brushing teeth. And if your toddler’s like my nephew who loves to stick everything in his mouth—maybe wipe those little hands more often than usual. Some parents bring along electrolyte packs just in case, like Hydralyte or Pedialyte powder, and that’s honestly smart.
Also, mosquitoes are more active in the rainy season. Dengue fever is a thing here, and while it’s not super common in tourist areas, you don’t wanna risk it. So pack some kid-safe mosquito repellent. We use Soffell or local citronella sprays, but you can bring your own from home if that feels safer. I usually tell parents to spray ankles first—seems weird, but mosquitoes love feet for some reason!
If you’re visiting during dry season, you still need sunscreen. Bali sun is no joke. Even on cloudy days, kids get burned faster here because we’re close to the equator. Slather it on, and bring rash guards for beach days. Trust me, you’ll thank me when you’re not dealing with cranky, sunburned kids at bedtime.
Cultural Festivals and Kid-Friendly Events—Planning Around Bali’s Calendar
Another thing to think about when choosing the best time to visit Bali with kids is the island’s cultural calendar. Bali isn’t just about beaches and smoothies—it’s a deeply spiritual place, and the local ceremonies are a huge part of daily life.
Sometimes, these ceremonies can actually affect your plans. For example, Nyepi Day—Bali’s New Year based on the lunar calendar—usually happens in March. On Nyepi, the whole island shuts down for 24 hours. No flights, no cars, no going outside. Not even hotels are allowed to have guests in the pool or on the beach. It’s a beautiful tradition, but imagine explaining to your 4-year-old why they can’t go outside for an entire day!
That said, the day before Nyepi is super fun for kids. The Ogoh-Ogoh parade features giant monster statues made by local villages, and they march them through the streets with music and dancing. It’s loud, colorful, and unforgettable. I’ve seen kids absolutely love this part—but just be prepared for the silence the day after.
Other festivals like Galungan and Kuningan happen every 210 days, so the dates shift. During these times, you’ll see beautiful decorations called penjor (bamboo poles with offerings) lining the streets. It’s a great cultural experience for kids to learn about, but just remember—some shops and restaurants might close temporarily. So, if you’re planning a trip during a major holiday, double-check with your hotel or guide about what’s open.
Crowd Control—How to Avoid the Chaos Even in Peak Season
Even if you end up visiting Bali during the busiest months (July, August, or December), there are still ways to dodge the tourist traps. I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years, and they work like magic—well, most of the time.
Start your day early. Seriously, this is one of the simplest hacks, and it works wonders. Balinese people are early risers, but most tourists aren’t. If you hit popular spots like the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud or Tirta Empul Temple before 9 AM, you’ll avoid the tour buses and crowds.
Same goes for beaches. If you’re doing a day in Seminyak or Kuta, get there before 10 AM for quiet sand time. By noon, it’s a different story—think packed cafes, busy streets, and nowhere to park your stroller.
Also, consider staying in less touristy areas. Sanur is a great option for families who want a more chill vibe. There’s a flat beach path that’s perfect for scooters, bikes, and strollers. Plus, Sanur doesn’t get as wild as Seminyak or Canggu, even in peak season.
And don’t be afraid to explore the north or east of Bali. Places like Amed, Lovina, or Sidemen are way less crowded but still beautiful. You won’t find big waterparks there, but you’ll get real local experiences and quieter beaches. I once helped a family plan a trip where they skipped Kuta altogether and spent a week snorkeling in Amed instead. Their kids still talk about the sea turtles they saw—it was the highlight of the trip.
Budgeting For Bali With Kids—Timing Affects Your Wallet
Another reason the best time to visit Bali with kids matters? Your budget.
In peak season, prices jump—not just for hotels but also for flights, drivers, and tours. A beachfront villa that costs $150 a night in May might cost $300 a night in July. That adds up quick when you’re traveling with the whole gang.
Flights are usually cheaper if you book outside of school holidays. Some families save big just by traveling a week earlier or later than the rush. I had a client from Perth who saved over $800 on flights just by pushing their trip to mid-May instead of June.
Restaurants and daily expenses stay about the same year-round, though. You can still get a family meal of nasi goreng, satay, and fresh juices for under $20 at local warungs. But big attractions like Bali Zoo or Bali Bird Park might have seasonal discounts during the rainy months, so that’s worth checking out.
One little tip: book activities directly through local operators, not through hotel desks. Hotels often add extra fees, especially in peak season. Use apps like Klook or GetYourGuide, or better yet, find a trusted local driver who can recommend reliable guides. Most drivers have connections and can help you get fair prices without the tourist mark-up.
What to Pack—And How It Changes Depending on When You Visit
Packing for Bali with kids is kinda an art form, and the time of year makes a big difference.
If you’re coming in dry season, you’ll want:
- Light clothes (cotton is your best friend)
- Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen (reef-safe if you’re snorkeling)
- Swimsuits, obviously
- Water shoes if your kids like exploring rocky beaches
If you’re visiting in rainy season, add a few extra things:
- Lightweight rain jackets or ponchos (trust me, you’ll use them)
- Mosquito repellent (again, can’t stress this enough)
- Quick-dry clothes, because nothing stays wet longer than jeans in Bali humidity
- A small umbrella—you can buy one here, but they’re flimsy
Also, no matter when you visit, bring a first aid kit with kids' meds. Some Western brands are hard to find in Bali, or they cost triple the price. Bring stuff like children’s Panadol, antihistamines, and travel sickness tablets if you’re doing windy drives to places like Bedugul or Sidemen.
Making Memories—Why “Perfect Timing” Isn’t Everything
Look, after years of helping families plan Bali trips, here’s what I’ve learned: The “best time” is really about what works best for your family.
Sure, the weather matters. But so does your budget, your kids' ages, and how flexible you are. I’ve seen families have amazing trips during the rainy season because they came with the right attitude. And I’ve seen people visit in the middle of dry season but get stressed out by the crowds because they expected Bali to be some deserted paradise. (Spoiler—it’s not.)
At the end of the day, Bali is Bali. There’s always something magical about being here, whether it’s a sunny beach day in August or a cozy family movie night in a villa while the rain taps on the roof in December.
So don’t sweat it too much. Pick the time that makes sense for your crew, plan a few fun things, leave some room for downtime, and let Bali do the rest.
If you’ve got questions or need help setting up your trip, feel free to reach out. Always happy to help families figure out how to make the most of their Bali adventure.