Bali rainy season
On the island of Bali there are basically two seasons: rainy and dry. The Bali rainy season lasts from October to April, while the dry runs from May through September. As you can imagine, the dry season is the time when tourists pour onto the island in search of sun, fun and surf. But the Bali rainy season also has a lot to offer — and at a lower cost.
If you’re OK with hot and wet and want to avoid the crowds, you might want to check out Bali outside of the so-called “summer” months of the dry season. Of course, there’s good reason people prefer the dry season, but there is also sun during the wet season and waves all year round. Winds change between the seasons and some surf spots (mainly left-handers and beach breaks) get on-shore winds during the “off season”. On the other hand, the right hand breaks provide great surf from October through April.
Another reason to go to Bali during the wet months is to take advantage of the island’s spectacular opportunities for white water rafting.
From Perth Now:
One of the good things about being a tropical island with a distinctive wet season (November to March) is that rivers run through it regularly.
Since 1988, the spectacular Ayung River has hosted some of the best – and safest – whitewater rafting in Indonesia, open to children as well as hard-core thrill seekers
Remember, it’s called the rainy season for good reason, so pack a raincoat or poncho if you plan on visiting during the wet months. Personally, I find that vegetation and nature come to life in the rain, especially in warm places. I love the vivid colors and the strong fragrance that comes with the rains.
Check out this video of paddle surfer Rob Small ripping it up during the Bali rainy season. And yes, take note of the sun and see that it’s not always raining during the wet months.
Lead image: Ivan Bandura (Flickr CC)