Alright, so you’re thinking about visiting Bali in October and wondering what the weather’s like. Good question. I get asked this all the time from my guests while we’re cruising through the rice terraces or heading up to Ubud from Seminyak. So, let me break it down for you, no fluff, just real talk about Bali weather in October from someone who’s literally driving in it every day.
Is October a Good Time to Visit Bali?
Short answer? Yes. Slightly longer answer? Depends on what you’re after.
October’s kind of like that transition month. It’s not full-on rainy season yet, but you’ll start to see the change, especially after the first couple weeks. Early October? Still dry most days. By the end of the month? You’ll probably want to keep a poncho or umbrella handy.
The thing is, October’s low-key perfect if you’re not into the hectic crowds of peak season (like July and August). Everything chills out a bit. Hotels drop their prices, beaches aren’t as packed, and traffic’s slightly less chaotic—which is a blessing if you’ve ever been stuck in Canggu at 5pm.
What’s the Temperature Like in October?
Okay, let’s talk numbers. On average, you’re looking at daytime highs around 30°C (86°F) and nighttime temps dipping just a little to 24°C (75°F). Still super warm, so bring your light cottons, tanks, and comfy sandals.
But—and there’s always a but—the humidity starts creeping up mid-month. You’ll feel it when you’re out exploring temples or taking those epic swings in Ubud. Trust me, I’ve got a towel on standby in my van just for that sticky October sweat.
Also, locals like me? We start feeling the shift. Even the stray dogs start sleeping more in the shade.
How Much Rain Are We Talkin’?
So here’s the deal: October marks the start of the shoulder season, the part where dry season is sayin’ goodbye and wet season’s knocking.
But it’s not a total washout.
Rainfall averages around 60 to 90mm for the month. Sounds like a lot, but most of it comes in short, heavy bursts—usually in the late afternoon or evening. Mornings? Usually still golden.
One time, I had a family from the UK booked for a full-day tour around Uluwatu. Skies were clear all morning, but by 3 PM, the sky just opened up. We had to huddle under a warung for 30 minutes, sipping sweet iced tea and chatting with the owner about his fighting rooster (true story). Rain stopped, and boom—clear skies again. That’s just how October rolls.
What To Pack If You’re Coming in October
Alright, listen—if you pack wrong, you’re gonna sweat your face off or end up soaked. So here’s what my guests always thank me for recommending:
Bring:
- Lightweight clothes – cotton, linen, breathable stuff. Ditch the jeans, they’re torture here.
- A travel umbrella or rain poncho – October rain is sneaky.
- Flip-flops and one pair of solid walking shoes – just in case you’re hiking around waterfalls or slippery paths.
- Mosquito repellent – rain brings those little suckers out.
- A dry bag – if you’re bringing camera gear or electronics, trust me, you’ll want one when those surprise showers hit.
Oh and sunscreen. Yeah, even in October, UV here doesn’t mess around.
October Events in Bali You Should Know About
This is one of my favorite things about Bali—there’s always something going on. In October, the vibe shifts a bit. Not as many international festivals, but still a few cool things:
Bali Vegan Festival (Ubud mostly)
Now I’m not vegan (I love my babi guling too much), but this festival is actually really fun. Great food stalls, wellness talks, yoga sessions—it’s very “Ubud,” if you get what I mean. Happens around mid-October. Even if you’re a meat lover, the food is 🔥.
Galungan and Kuningan (if it lands in October)
These are big spiritual holidays in Bali, and the whole island gets decked out. Tall bamboo poles (called penjor) line the streets, families make offerings, and everyone’s in traditional dress. If you’re lucky to catch it in October—it shifts based on the Balinese calendar—it’s a beautiful time to be here.
I usually tell my guests to just hop off the main road and explore a bit during these festivals. The village vibes are something else.
Where To Go and What To Do in October
Okay, so weather’s a bit mixed, but it’s not gonna stop you from having a blast.
Beach Days Are Still In
Places like Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran still get solid beach weather in October. I’d say avoid Canggu and Seminyak if you’re not into big waves or party scenes—the tides can get rough and beaches a bit messy after storms.
Sanur’s chill and great for families or couples just lookin’ to relax. Nusa Dua’s beaches stay cleaner ‘cause they’re mostly resort-managed.
Jimbaran’s sunset seafood dinners? Still magic in October, rain or shine.
Ubud Is Greener (And More Humid)
Ubud starts to get this fresh, misty look in October. The rice terraces look greener, waterfalls start flowing stronger, and the jungle vibe gets even more “jungle-y.” Yeah, it gets sticky, but it’s also less dusty. My guests always say it feels more like the Bali they imagined.
Don’t skip out on Tegenungan Waterfall or Tibumana—both close enough to reach easily but super photogenic after a bit of rain.
Oh, and watch your step on the Campuhan Ridge walk. Gets slippery when damp.
Day Trips Are Still Good, But Plan Smart
I always suggest starting early. Mornings are usually clearer. Like, leave around 7 AM, and you can cover a lot before any clouds roll in.
If you’re doing East Bali—like Tirta Gangga or Lempuyang—plan for early starts and maybe bring extra clothes. I’ve had people get drenched then just laugh it off while drying clothes in the car’s rear window.
My Honest Thoughts as a Driver Living Here
You know what I really like about October? The slower pace. Roads aren’t as packed. Attractions aren’t swarmed. You don’t need to elbow through crowds to get your temple photo.
Plus, locals start settling back into normal life after the craziness of peak season. I get more time to chat with guests, stop at roadside warungs, and even take slower backroads to avoid traffic.
I also get to show people more of the “real” Bali in October. Like hidden hot springs in the mountains or local ceremonies that tourists often miss. Just the other day, I took a couple from Germany to a cremation ceremony that wasn’t even listed anywhere. They were blown away by the music, colors, and energy.
Commercial Stuff – Deals, Discounts, and Why October is Smart for Budget Travelers
Look, October is underrated when it comes to Bali travel deals. Everyone’s already blown their budgets in summer, so prices drop a bit. It’s not dirt cheap like February, but definitely friendlier on the wallet than July or December.
Hotels & Villas
You can snag 4-star villas with private pools in Ubud or Seminyak for like 30-40% less than high season. I’ve had guests book stunning cliffside places in Uluwatu for under $100 a night. In August, those same spots go for double.
Bonus? Staff aren’t overwhelmed, so service tends to be better.
Flights and Transport
International flights to Bali in October? Usually cheaper—especially if you book early. And if you’re booking private drivers (like me 😉), prices are more flexible. Many of us offer packages for the week, so you don’t have to stress about daily transport.
Scooter rentals? Still easy to find, and prices stay steady around 60k–80k IDR per day. Just wear a helmet, yeah? Rainy roads and no helmet? Not a good combo.
Tours and Experiences
Activity providers—like rafting, ATV rides, snorkeling—often throw in discounts or combo packages in October to keep business flowing. Don’t be shy to ask. They want your business, and October gives you bargaining power.
I once had a guest who managed to get a half-day cooking class, market tour, and lunch for half price just ‘cause she asked politely and smiled. Don’t underestimate good vibes and manners here.
Unexpected October Perks
Now this might sound weird, but hear me out—Bali in October smells better.
Yep, legit. After those first few showers, the rain pulls dust and pollution out of the air. The frangipani trees start blooming like crazy. The rice fields? That earthy, muddy smell comes back. It’s like the island gets a reset button.
Plus, sunsets get weirdly good in October. I don’t know why, maybe something about the clouds and the humidity. But the sky goes from pink to purple to orange, like someone’s painting with neon.
I usually park up at a secret spot near Tanah Lot with guests around 5:30 PM, bring some sweet snacks, and just sit. Not a tourist crowd in sight.
How the Rain in October Actually Adds to the Experience
Some folks get scared off when they hear “rainy season,” but honestly? It’s not that deep. In October, the rain isn’t the kind that ruins your day—more like the kind that pauses your day and gives you a good story.
Like, I had these two Aussies last October, right? We were headed back from Tegalalang Rice Terrace, and this wall of rain just came outta nowhere. We pulled over in a random roadside warung, ordered some nasi goreng and kopi Bali, and ended up chatting with the owner for nearly an hour. They learned more about Balinese culture in that rain break than from any guidebook.
And the best part? The roads clear out during the rain. So when the skies open up again, it’s like the whole island is freshly washed. Colors pop harder, sounds feel louder. Everything feels more alive.
It’s actually kind of peaceful—unless you’re caught on a scooter without a poncho. Been there. Not fun. But if you’re in a car or chilling at a beach bar under shelter, the rain adds this mellow soundtrack to your Bali day.
Surfing in Bali in October – Is It Still Good?
Oh yeah, surfers, don’t sleep on October.
This is actually a sweet spot. Wet season’s not full swing yet, and the west coast still has pretty good swell. Places like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and even Kuta Beach can have decent breaks.
That said, if you’re a beginner, you’ll probably wanna stick to Legian or Seminyak. Less intense, easier paddle out, and surf schools are always running. The instructors in October usually have more time to give one-on-one attention too ‘cause it’s not overbooked.
Advanced surfers? You’ll love that it’s less crowded out there. No fighting for waves with 20 other dudes in matching rash guards.
Just double-check tide times and wind direction before heading out—weather can be a little unpredictable. Apps like MagicSeaweed or Surfline are solid, but locals at the warung near the beach? Sometimes even better. They know.
Bali Nightlife in October – What’s It Like?
Ah, nightlife. October’s a funny one for going out.
Clubs and bars in Seminyak and Canggu are still buzzing, but not slammed wall-to-wall like during peak summer. That’s a good thing, trust me. You can actually find a table, get your cocktail faster than 40 minutes, and not feel like you’re in a mosh pit every time a DJ drops a beat.
Spots like La Favela, Old Man’s, and Vault still bring in a crowd. Uluwatu’s Single Fin does its famous Sunday sessions even in October, and it’s the best kind of chill—surfer meets sunset meets cold beer.
Rain usually doesn’t stop the party either. Most places have covered areas or indoor lounges. You might show up with damp shoes, but nobody really cares. It’s Bali.
And if nightlife isn’t your thing? October is perfect for those quieter nights with a beachfront dinner and live acoustic music. Check out Sundara in Jimbaran or The Lawn in Canggu if you’re after a more laid-back evening.
October in Bali for Families and Kids
Got kids? October can be a super chill time for a Bali trip with the fam. The weather’s still warm enough for pool days, and the rain doesn’t usually hit until later in the day. Mornings are great for activities.
Waterbom Bali is still open, and it’s way less crowded. You don’t spend an hour lining up for slides. Bali Zoo, Bali Safari, and Monkey Forest are all solid choices—but bring that rain jacket or extra clothes just in case. Wet monkeys are a vibe, but maybe not everyone’s vibe.
Plus, most family-friendly resorts offer lower rates in October. Some even throw in extra perks like free kids’ meals or babysitting services. Worth asking about when booking.
And if your kids are into learning stuff (or if you’re like me and you sneak in educational stuff without telling them), the Green School tour in Ubud is actually really cool. Not too long, but super inspiring, and the jungle campus is amazing after a little October rain.
October Sunrises and Sunsets – Are They Still Worth It?
Let me tell you something—October has some of the best skies.
Yeah, I know everyone talks about Bali sunsets, but in October, the clouds actually make it better. You get this wild mix of colors—pinks, purples, oranges—all swirling together. Sometimes it looks fake. Like a filter, but real.
Best places I’ve seen ‘em in October:
- Tanah Lot (but go early, clouds roll in fast)
- Amed – less tourists, clear view over the sea
- Mount Batur – if you’re down for a sunrise hike, October is a great month. It’s cooler in the early morning, and if it hasn’t rained the night before, the trails are easier.
Also, if you do the Lempuyang Temple (you know, the “gates of heaven” place), aim for sunrise. October’s early light there is unreal. Just bring patience… there’s usually a queue for that classic photo, even during shoulder season.
Is It Safe to Travel Bali in October?
Absolutely. Weather-wise, there’s nothing extreme going on. No typhoons, no major storms.
Roads can get slippery when wet, though—especially the ones up north and around Sidemen. If you’re driving yourself, slow down when it rains. And if you’re hiring a driver (hi 👋), just ask if they’ve done those routes before. Most of us know the roads well enough to avoid sketchy ones during a downpour.
Also, a little heads-up: October is when bugs and mozzies start showing up more because of the moisture. Nothing crazy, but keep repellent handy. And maybe bring some anti-itch cream just in case.
Other than that? Totally fine. Most areas are quieter, locals are more relaxed, and tourist scams chill out a bit because there’s not as much hustle.
Personal Rant – Why I Think October Is Low-Key the Best Month Here
Okay, I’m gonna say something bold: I think October is actually one of the best times to visit Bali.
Why? ‘Cause it’s real Bali.
Not the polished, influencer-packed version. But the softer, moodier, greener side. The one with afternoon rain naps and quieter beaches. The one where you don’t have to elbow your way through Ubud Market or wait an hour for a Bintang at Potato Head.
You get more space. More time. And honestly? Locals are more chill. We’re not burned out from back-to-back peak season madness.
Some of my best memories as a driver have come in October. Whether it’s helping couples renew vows on a quiet clifftop, taking solo travelers on impromptu food tours, or just cruising coastal roads with the windows down and that cool pre-rain breeze blowing in.
So yeah, if you’re planning your trip around Bali weather in October, don’t let a bit of rain scare you off. It’s not the peak, it’s not the low—it’s that sweet in-between where the island starts breathing again.
And hey, if you need someone to show you around, you know where to find me. I’ll be the guy waiting with a smile, a full tank, and maybe a rain poncho or two in the back—just in case.
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