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Visiting Bali in January offers a completely different experience to the busy, sun-drenched dry season. January falls right in the middle of the wet season, which means fewer crowds, lush green landscapes, over flowing waterfalls, lower accommodation demand and beautifully calm cultural sites. While you can expect showers and cloudy days, Bali in January feels slower, more relaxed and more affordable, making it an appealing time for travellers who prioritise culture, food, wellness or a peaceful escape over perfect beach weather.
This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Bali in January, including the weather, the best places to stay, itinerary tips, what to pack and the best things to do at this time of year.
How to Use This Guide
Use the contents table above to jump straight to the section you are most interested in. This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Bali in January, including weather, crowds, the best things to do, where to stay, and what to expect from travelling during the rainy season. Whether you are planning a relaxing beach break, a cultural getaway or a surf holiday, this guide will help you plan the perfect January trip to Bali.
What Is Bali Like in January
January is one of Bali’s quietest months of the year. You can expect a mix of sunshine, tropical downpours and humid, cloudy afternoons. Rain showers are typically short and intense rather than lasting all day, which means you can still enjoy beaches, waterfalls, spas and most outdoor activities. The island is at its greenest, rice terraces are vibrant and full, and waterfalls are at their most dramatic.
Because there are less visitors in January, you’ll also find it easier to explore major attractions like Uluwatu Temple, Tirta Empul and Tegalalang without the peak-season rush.
Bali Weather in January
January is warm, humid and rainy. Temperatures are consistent both day and night, and even with cloud you’ll still feel the tropical warmth. Expect around 20 rainy days throughout the month, along with sunny breaks and moody skies that can actually make the landscape feel even more dramatic.
Swimming is still enjoyable, although waves and visibility can vary, especially in the south and west. Surfers will still find good conditions in certain areas, but snorkelling and diving are better on the east and northeast coasts during this time.
Where to Stay in January
During the wet season, the best places to stay are areas that offer plenty to do even if it rains. Choose destinations with cafés, spas, yoga studios and cultural experiences close by, instead of remote beach areas where bad weather could limit your options.
Best Areas to Stay in January:
Ubud for culture, temples, jungle retreats and wellness
Seminyak for cafés, beach clubs, restaurants and shopping
Sanur for calmer seas and a quieter coastal atmosphere
Amed for diving, snorkelling and mountain-meets-sea scenery
Uluwatu for surf views, cliffside sunsets and luxury hotels
If you are looking for that perfect hotel, then use our interactive map below to find your dream stay.
Best Things To Do in Bali in January
Even with wetter weather, Bali offers an incredible range of activities. January is ideal for exploring culture, wellness and nature without the dry-season crowds.
Top recommendations:
Explore Ubud’s Culture and Rice Terraces
Visit temples, rice fields and jungle cafés, browse Ubud Market and spend time in yoga studios or spas.
Book a Cooking Class
A great rainy-day activity and one of the best ways to experience Balinese culture through food.
Chase Waterfalls in the North
With heavier rainfall, Bali’s waterfalls are at their strongest and most beautiful.
Visit Temples with Fewer Tourists
Experience quiet moments at Tirta Empul, Tanah Lot and Uluwatu.
Go Diving or Snorkelling in Amed
The visibility on this side of the island can be better in January compared to the south.
Enjoy Spa Days
The perfect way to spend an afternoon with the sound of rain and self care.
Surfing in Bali in January
January forms part of Bali’s wet-season surf, which shifts the best conditions from the west coast to the east. If you are visiting Bali in January and want the most reliable waves, head to Nusa Dua, Keramas or Sanur. These breaks benefit from offshore or cross-shore winds at this time of year, which helps create cleaner and more consistent waves. In contrast, the popular west-coast surf spots that shine in the dry season, such as Canggu and Uluwatu, are often hit by onshore winds in January, making the surf choppy and less ideal.
The east coast offers something for most levels, from reef breaks suited to confident surfers through to gentler sections where beginners can take lessons. Surf schools still operate throughout January, but be aware that sessions may be moved or rescheduled around passing storms or changing wind conditions. If surfing is one of your top reasons for visiting Bali, the east coast is the place to be during January.
What to Pack for Bali in January
Pack for warm tropical weather with frequent showers. Lightweight clothing that drys quickly is preferable, think bikini with lightweight shorts and top, or board-shorts and lightweight tee. This way when you do get caught in the inevitable tropical downpoor, you will dry off quickly.
Essentials:
Lightweight clothing
Waterproof jacket or poncho
Fast-drying swimwear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Insect repellent
Sandals and breathable shoes
Dry bag for boat trips or rainy days
Is January a Good Time to Visit Bali
Yes, January is a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter Bali. It is not the best month for guaranteed sunshine, but it is one of the best months for culture, yoga and wellness, jungle scenery and relaxed exploring.
Bali in January is ideal for travellers who want a slower, more peaceful experience surrounded by lush scenery. While the weather is mixed, the atmosphere is relaxed and meaningful, which makes this one of the most rewarding times to explore the island beyond its beaches.
If your trip is all about beaches and sunsets, then March to October offers more reliable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bali rainy all day in January
Usually no. Expect short, heavy showers followed by dry or cloudy intervals.
Can you swim in Bali in January
Yes, the sea is warm year round.
Is January a good month for beaches
You can still enjoy beach days, although conditions can be unpredictable.
Are tours running in January
Yes, tours operate as normal at this time of year.
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