A trip to Bali is always a good idea. The tropical vibe you experience here at a reasonable price is the main attraction for globetrotters, especially solo travellers, backpackers, and budget-conscious visitors. But, like all destinations, timing is everything. It is essential that you choose a time of year for your Bali trip where you can enjoy refreshing, sun-soaked days. That’s exactly how Bali is during September. Here’s a compact guide on weather, food, festivals, and more for a trip to Bali in September.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Bali?
Bali weather in September is just perfect for your mid-year tropical escape. It has a refreshing yet warm climate. With hardly any rainfall, it keeps you cosy indoors and energetic outdoors. All you have to do is find your vibe – be it spending lazy days in cafes, exploring ancient temples, or going surfing or hiking, everything is possible in Bali during September.
Weather in Bali in September
September in Bali has a warm, breezy climate with plenty of sunshine, scarce rainfall, and low humidity – the perfect tropical weather for beach holidays, underwater exploration, and outdoor activities. The average temperature during the day is 22 to 31°C, with bright blue skies that tempt you to think: ‘Today is a good day for a stroll!’ The evenings are equally fascinating, as the September sun casts a golden hue over Bali’s emerald rice fields and turquoise waters, and the island glows with a tranquil charm. Though April to June are considered the best time to visit Bali for plenty of sunshine hours, September holds the spot for being a quaint, pleasant time to visit. It is also the last leg of the dry season, which means a few more weeks of sunshine before the weather takes a turn for rainy days. Being the end of summer, September’s fewer crowds and ideal conditions make it the perfect time to explore Bali’s culture, cuisine, and natural wonders.
Temperature: Low: 22 degrees Celsius, High: 28 degrees Celsius
Humidity: 68%
Chance of Rain (%): 5%
Daylight (Hrs): 12 Hrs
Sunrise: 6.20 AM
Sunset: 6.15 PM
Things to Do in Bali in September
1. Go Surfing!
Bali lures adventurers, but September is temptingly inviting for surfers. The surfing season in Bali lasts from April to October. September is one of the best months because the beaches are dry, bright, and breezy. The waters are also full of consistent, large swells that are ideal for surfing. In September, Canggu and Padang Padang see a lot of surfers showing off their talented manoeuvres. Try your hand at catching a wave at Kuta, too. The sea offers perfect swells, allowing surfers to get on their boards and glide on the waves repeatedly. Hit these spots early to beat the crowds to catch the crystal clear waves.
2. Visit the Temples!
Turn into a temple explorer when you are in Bali! It’s the best way to get an insight into Bali’s cultural scene. Bali’s temples are nestled in city centres, but the most famous ones are either tucked away in the wilderness or perched on a cliff. With over 20,000 temples scattered across its landscape, you have plenty of options. However, there are a few temples, such as the Tanah Lot Temple, Pura Besakih, and Uluwatu Temple, that are must-visit sites. The amalgam of pristine landscapes of sea and bright skies as background, along with the stunning architectural craftsmanship, will leave you in awe.
3. Cherish the Greenery!
Green is a prime colour in Bali during September. More than the azure hues of its waters and skies, the greenery of rice terraces and wilderness treks pops into your mind the moment Bali is mentioned. The region feels like it is surrounded by a sea of green so vibrant that it’s hypnotic, and even more so in real life. It is one of the few beach destinations that could trick your mind into seeing green rather than blue! In September, the island is lush and vibrant without the muddy trails or heavy downpours of the wet season, perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration. So don your walking shoes, slather on sunscreen, plop a hat on your head, and visit Ubud’s famed rice terraces and Munduk’s highlands. From rice terraces to jungle trails, September is the time to explore, connect, and fall in love with the island’s soul-soothing natural wonders.
4. Enjoy Animal Expeditions
September’s warm weather sets the stage for unforgettable animal expeditions. Head to Bali Safari and Marine Park for a tram ride cruising through open landscapes, where you can spot rhinos grazing, zebras strutting nonchalantly, and lions lounging under the shade. Next up, visit Bali Zoo, where fun meets furry friends in a lush, tropical setting. Not just on land, extend your animal exploration beneath the surface of clear waters, where aquatic animals will take your breath away. Swim alongside graceful sea turtles, darting tropical fish, and maybe even a curious reef shark! Not a diver? No worries! Snorkelling tours in shallow waters or glass-bottom boat rides let you marvel at the underwater world.
5. Rejuvenate at the Beaches.
Enjoying the soul-reviving vibes on the best beaches in Bali is something you look forward to. It’s undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in Bali in September. Sink your toes in the soft, powdery sands of pristine beaches like Sanur, Kuta, and Jimbaran, and watch your stress melt away. Simply gazing at the hues of blue-green waters, the bright skies, and feeling the breezy sea air in your hair is nature’s salve to soothe and enliven your weary soul. It’s better than any expensive spa treatment. Stay back until the sun dips below the horizon to view a mesmerising sunset and the kaleidoscope of golden hour streaks and hues across the skies.
Places to See in Bali in September
1. Mount Batur
Keep the sunsets for the beaches. For surreal, early morning sun views, we urge you to take on a Mount Batur trekking experience. With the pre-dawn breeze brushing your face, instantly refreshing you from a groggy, sleepy mood, the sight of Mount Batur’s verdure will double your rejuvenation. So, lace up your hiking boots and take that hike to this gorgeous volcanic mountain. Standing at 1717 meters, it offers a relatively easy hike that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike. The dry season vibes in September mean clearer skies and less chance of rain, setting the stage for a jaw-dropping sunrise view from the summit.
2. Tegenungan Waterfall
This crystal-clear, 15-meter cascade of water plunging into a shimmering pool, surrounded by vibrant green jungle, feels like it is straight out of a postcard. September is almost the end of the dry season, so these are the last few weeks to enjoy the waterfall’s gentle cascade before it gets strong and overwhelming as the rain arrives. The paths are dry and less slippery, making it easy for a safe hike, and the surrounding wilderness is lush green and inviting. Located in the village of Kemenuh, just a 20 to 30 minute drive from Ubud, and a short hike later, you can capture some amazing shots of the dramatic cascade or take a refreshing dip in the natural pool.
3. Tegallalang Rice Terraces
One of the best places to visit in Bali in September is Ubud. While you are here, you cannot miss exploring its famous terraced rice fields. Wander through the stepped fields of Tegallalang Rice Fields, snap that perfect Instagram shot, and feel the calm wash over you! This spot in Bali is one of the most picturesque, postcard-worthy attractions that you must have certainly come across on many Instagram reels. Located north of Ubud, this is one of Bali’s unique rice fields, offering a refreshing, bucket-list moment that captures Bali’s raw, verdant beauty and local living.
4. Tanah Lot Temple
One of Bali’s most iconic and breathtaking sea temples, Tanah Lot Temple’s sensory appeal and spiritual vibe are profound. This sacred temple, nestled inside a rock formation surrounded by crashing waves of the sea, is a sight to behold. What makes it more adventurous is that it can only be reached during low tide. Take a short walk to the nearby cliffs for a panoramic view of the temple against the vast ocean. The mesmerising backdrop, especially at sunset when the sky explodes in shades of orange, pink, and purple, is perfect to grab your camera and take some jaw-dropping shots!
Bali Festivals and Events in September
September comes with a handful of festivals and events that add a colourful layer to your Bali visit. Note the dates and plan your trip around these cultural experiences.
1. Mas Village Festival
Mas Village Festival is a must-visit event for art lovers and those who appreciate good craftsmanship skills. Preserving a unique Balinese skill set and art, Mas Village keeps its old traditions thriving by encouraging young artists to showcase their skills while lauding the masters in the art. The village is known for its wood carving art, and you can view elaborate, impressive, and intricate works on display at any time of the year. But during the festival, the village brims with celebration, thrilling activities, and a grand showcase of art displays and workshops.
- When: 23rd to 27th September 2025
- Location: Mas Village Field, Ubud
2. Minikino Film Week – Bali International Short Film Festival
Balinese International Short Film Festival lets you explore short films from avid film creators of various kinds from all over the world. This year, the festival has a line-up of fascinating stories told in a short span of time through standout direction and cinematography, brilliantly performed by actors who redefine creative boundaries and viewpoints. It also hosts pre-events like short internships for writers, stop-motion workshops for kids, and workshops in visual storytelling and filmmaking.
- When: 12th to 19th September 2025
- Location: Dharma Negara Alaya, Denpasar
3. Soundrenaline Music Festival
Get immersed in a kaleidoscope of colours, rhythmic dances, and pulsating beats, all set against Bali’s lush landscapes at the Soundrenaline Music Festival. Always known to have a line-up of diverse and electrifying performances, this music fest brings together Indonesian and international music artists and genres on one stage.
- When: To be announced.
- Location: Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, Uluwatu
Travel Tips to Visit Bali in September
- Book your Bali packages and reserve your accommodations early, as September is still popular among tourists, though it is shoulder season.
- On a beach day, swim only in designated areas where lifeguards are manning the beaches, and check for red flags indicating unsafe conditions.
- When visiting temples and spiritual attractions, keep a check on your manners, like keeping your voice low, and refrain from pointing your feet at altars while inside a temple.
- Carry cash, as most temples and a few attractions might charge a small entry fee, and you also need cash for parking, donations at temples, or to shop for souvenirs.
- Keep health and safety a priority. Book a guided trekking tour as local guides know the trails, keeping you safe while additionally offering cultural insights.
- Bali is famously chided for the ‘Bali Belly,’ which can ruin your vacation. So make sure you practice good hygiene and visit popular local restaurants and reputed restaurants to avoid it. If you have issues with spicy food, you can always ask the restaurant to prepare it with fewer spices to decrease the heat.
What to Pack for Bali in September?
- Use high-SPF sunscreen. Since Indonesia sits on the equator, the sun’s UV rays are intense and consistent, even on cloudy days. Hence, slathering sunscreen on every exposed inch of skin is non-negotiable. Add a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to keep yourself refreshed in the tropical heat during the afternoons.
- Add an umbrella to your luggage if you are visiting Bali in the last weeks of September, when days can see drizzles of rain.
Get these non-negotiable essentials as well:
- A local SIM card, like Telkomsel or XL Axiata, to keep you connected on the go.
- Valid travel insurance to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.
- A good travel adapter, basic medications, mosquito repellent and first-aid kits.
What to Wear in Bali in September?
September is a balanced month for a Bali visit, where the climate is sunny, less humid, and pleasantly warm. But since it is a tropical climate, let’s stick to cotton and linen, light, airy clothing. Ladies, pack those floral summer dresses and bright, flowy skirts to flaunt. For men, shorts, singlets, T-shirts, and slippers are perfect for an ideal getaway. Don’t forget to pack swimwear and sarongs for a day out at the beach. Flip-flops are great for the beach, but pack sturdy sandals or trainers for temple visits or jungle treks. Also, note that the attire cannot be this casual when visiting temples and local spiritual spots. Make sure to cover your shoulders and knees, and wear a sarong and a light jacket when visiting temples.
Where to Stay in Bali in September?
There is no shortage of accommodation in Bali. You even get what you desire in September, be it a stay in a boutique guesthouse, eco-lodges, beachside resorts overlooking the turquoise sea, or a sprawling jungle villa with infinity pools.
With September being a middle ground in the travel season, the prices are neither too high nor too low. So, you can easily adjust your budget to get a reasonably good deal on accommodation. Check out stays in Ubud and Nusa Dua, though adventurers and water enthusiasts would love to stay at trendy Canggu and Seminyak. These spots are also home to some of the finest luxury resort chains, such as Alila Resorts, Bvlgari, Angsana Resorts, and Como Resorts. You should book a stay and splurge for a pampering holiday if your budget allows it.
What to Eat in Bali in September?
Get ready to witness a flavour explosion on your September visit to Bali. Bali’s cuisine is predominantly non-vegetarian and seafood, but you also get a lot of vegetarian and vegan options. For a local experience, have a hearty meal at a warung, which are small, family-run spots that serve authentic dishes like Nasi goreng, Nasi Ayam, Lawar, Sate Lilit, and more. If you are confused about what to try, go for the Nasi Campur, a wholesome Balinese platter featuring steamed white rice along with a variety of small portion side dishes of meat, vegetables, and eggs. Don’t forget to satiate that sweet tooth with large servings of martabak and klepon.
You should also definitely check out the farm-to-table experiences at Begawan Biji, Moksa Ubud, and E.A.R.T.H. Restaurant and Lounge for a one-of-a-kind organic experience. Bali’s food scene is a feast for the senses, and September’s pleasant evenings are perfect for dining al fresco. So reserve a table at trendy rooftop restaurants or open-air garden cafés like Ji Bar & Restaurant, Moonlite Kitchen & Bar, Folk Pool & Gardens, and Karang, to name a few.
FAQs About Visiting Bali in September
1. Is Bali crowded in September?
Not much, but you will find like-minded tourists who want to make the most of good weather on a lower budget. It is less crowded than the summer months.
2. What water sports can I do in Bali in September?
Plenty of water sports are available in September. You can enjoy extreme adventures like scuba diving, surfing, parasailing, and jet-skiing, or milder ones like glass-bottom boat rides, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
3. Which attractions should I visit in Bali in September?
Bali is perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities in September, giving you the freedom to choose whatever you want to do. We recommend visiting Tanah Lot, Mount Batur, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Kuta Beach, Bali Zoo, Lovina Beach, and Tegenungan Waterfall.
4. Is September a cheap time to visit Bali?
Compared to summer peak months, yes, it is quite a bit cheaper, since September is a shoulder season month.
Conclusion
So, is September good time to visit Bali? Absolutely! September brings calm, refreshing weather. It is also the last few weeks of sunshine before the monsoons arrive with heavy downpours. So, take advantage of this weather and treat yourself to Bali this September, where warm days and cool evenings provide the perfect backdrop for a dream tropical escape.
