After spending nearly three years in Bali, Indonesia, I have gained extensive knowledge about the top activities to enjoy on the Island of the Gods. Although Bali daydreams typically revolve around blue skies and endless sunshine, it’s essential to recognize the significant rainy season in this part of Indonesia. However, this should not deter you from visiting Bali between November and March. Instead, you just need to plan your trip accordingly to make the most of the weather.
During this time, you can take advantage of more affordable accommodations, less crowded restaurants and hotels, and opt for smaller, thoughtfully curated group trips while exploring the island. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Bali during the rainy season.
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Explore the World of Coffee at a Coffee Plantation
Satria Coffee Plantation, situated in Ubud, Bali, is a picturesque coffee plantation worth visiting. It’s conveniently located just 20 minutes away from central Ubud and is surrounded by serene rice fields. The plantation provides an excellent opportunity to savor a variety of coffees and teas, including the renowned Luwak coffee (for further details, feel free to look it up).
The experience offers an educational insight into the coffee-making process, allowing you to taste local blends right where they are grown. You’ll learn about the different types of coffee beans, their harvesting, roasting, and grinding techniques, and have the chance to try mini samples of each unique flavor.
One of the best parts is that the tour is entirely free of charge, and at the end, you can purchase all the different coffees and teas in the gift shop. Moreover, the plantation offers an array of locally grown souvenirs, such as flavored oils, freshly ground herbs and spices, and delightful chocolates, making it a perfect place to take home some memorable treasures from your Bali trip.
Enhance Your Vacation Wardrobe with a Memorable Shopping Experience
Discover Beachwalk Shopping Centre at Kuta Beach – Bali’s Premier Mall Experience
When you visit Kuta beach, make sure to explore the Beachwalk Shopping Centre, one of Bali’s finest malls, boasting an extensive selection of shops offering everything from fashion and homeware to jewelry and more.
Why Visit? This sheltered shopping haven is an ideal escape from both rainy days and scorching heat. Besides housing high-end fashion boutiques and souvenir shops, the mall offers an array of entertainment options such as a cinema, a games arcade, and a spacious food hall to satisfy your cravings.
Handy Tip: Bali’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain followed by blazing sunshine. Fortunately, Beachwalk’s convenient location right on the beach allows you to take a quick break from shopping and enjoy a refreshing swim if the weather takes a turn for the better during your visit. So, plan a trip to Beachwalk Shopping Centre for a delightful shopping and leisure experience, perfectly complemented by the beauty of Kuta beach.
Bali’s Abundant Yoga Culture
Bali and yoga are an inseparable combination, with numerous studios across the island offering a wide array of styles, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Ashtanga, among many others. Although Ubud is renowned as the yoga capital of Bali, you can discover yoga studios scattered throughout the entire island.
Why Engage in Yoga? Bali’s yoga classes cater to practitioners of all levels, allowing you to select from various styles and sessions that align with your preferences. Apart from standard classes, many yoga studios also present meditation sessions, workshops, and retreats, offering a more profound and immersive experience, particularly beneficial if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Helpful Tip: Bali boasts several impressive yoga studios, with some of the finest ones being The Yoga Barn in Ubud, Samadi in Canggu, and Radiantly Alive in Ubud. Each of these centers offers a unique and rewarding yoga journey, providing an ideal way to rejuvenate your mind and body amidst the enchanting ambiance of Bali’s natural beauty.
Indulge in Tranquility at a Spa
What Is It? Treat yourself to the world-renowned Balinese massage experience by visiting a serene spa like Bodyworks in Seminyak. Immerse yourself in a range of delightful treatments, including massages, facials, body scrubs, and manicures, all while savoring a cup of fresh herbal tea.
Why Do It? Beyond the impressive treatments, the beautiful spa itself is worth a visit. Step into rooms adorned with deep blue and vibrant pink hues, providing a perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. Bodyworks focuses on using natural ingredients, such as coconut oil, honey, and coffee, ensuring a truly rejuvenating experience with meticulous attention to detail.
Good to Know: It’s advisable to book your appointment in advance, especially for weekends, as this popular spa tends to get busy. If you desire a complete pampering experience, explore the package options available for an enhanced journey of relaxation and bliss. Embrace the soothing ambiance of Bodyworks and let go of all stress and worries as you unwind in the lap of indulgence.
Experience the Culinary Delights at a Balinese Cooking Class
What Is It? During your time in Bali, you have undoubtedly savored some of the most delectable dishes the island has to offer. On a rainy day, seize the opportunity to learn the art of recreating these flavors by attending a Balinese cooking class. These classes are typically hands-on, providing valuable insights into the proper preparation and cooking methods of Balinese cuisine.
Why Do It? Balinese culinary delights are renowned for their intricate flavors and use of fresh spices, herbs, and vegetables. Participating in a cooking class allows you to delve deeper into the island’s culture and traditions, leaving a lasting impression even after you’ve departed from Bali.
Good to Know: Balinese cooking classes cater to various budgets, making it accessible to all. In the Uluwatu area, you can find options starting from around 100k IDR per class, while bespoke classes with personalized one-to-one guidance may cost around 1.5 million IDR. Embrace the opportunity to enrich your culinary skills and take a piece of Bali’s gastronomic wonders back home with you.
Embark on a Mesmerizing Waterfall Adventure
What Is It? Bali’s natural beauty knows no bounds, and throughout the island, you’ll discover an array of breathtaking waterfalls that will leave you in awe. Among the most impressive ones are Aling-Aling, Sekumpul Waterfall, and Gitgit Waterfall.
Why Do It? Embrace the opportunity to chase waterfalls in Bali, as it offers a bucket-list experience while keeping you refreshed in the tropical climate. Many of these enchanting waterfalls are nestled amidst lush greenery and can be found in serene, off-the-beaten-track locations, allowing you to indulge in a bit of adventure and exploration.
Good to Know: Most of Bali’s waterfalls can be accessed on foot, so it’s essential to wear sturdy footwear. Some may require a short hike through forests or rice fields, while others are conveniently situated near main roads and parking lots. Capture the essence of Bali’s natural wonders as you set out on a mesmerizing journey to explore the island’s captivating waterfalls.
Visit the Ancient Temples
When it rains in Bali, visiting the ancient temples is a captivating experience. The rain adds an ethereal touch, enhancing the mystical atmosphere of these sacred sites. Explore the picturesque Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, nestled by Lake Beratan, or marvel at the serene beauty of Tirta Empul Temple’s holy springs. Remember to dress respectfully and adhere to temple customs while enjoying these spiritual sanctuaries.
Immerse Yourself in History at Bali Museum
What Is It? Situated in Denpasar, the capital city, Bali Museum, also known as Museum Negeri Propinsi Bali, stands as a popular cultural hub. Comprising four buildings, it showcases a treasure trove of historical artifacts, cultural objects, and traditional art pieces, providing a profound glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.
Why Do It? For those intrigued by art, history, and culture, a visit to Bali Museum is a must. Delve into the unique history of Bali through its captivating displays, enriching your understanding of the island’s heritage, and gaining valuable insights that will add depth to the rest of your journey.
Good to Know: When visiting the museum, it’s essential to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered regardless of gender. The museum operates from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, Tuesday to Sunday, while remaining closed on Mondays and public holidays. As Bali celebrates numerous national days, it’s advisable to check in advance before planning your visit. Immerse yourself in the cultural and historical wonders of Bali Museum, an enriching experience that unveils the island’s fascinating past.
Experience Thrills at Waterbom Bali
What Is It? Nestled within lush tropical surroundings and offering an array of attractions for all ages, Waterbom Bali is a premier water park in Asia, making it a must-visit destination, no matter the weather.
Why Do It? For thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, Waterbom Bali promises an exhilarating experience with attractions like the Climax, a colossal water slide boasting a near-vertical drop, along with the Superbowl, Boomerang, and Smashdown. However, if you prefer a more relaxed time, you can enjoy restaurants, cabanas, lounges, and the Lazy River, a leisurely floating experience through a winding river.
Good to Know: To make the most of your visit, try to go during weekdays or early mornings to avoid long queues for rides. Don’t forget to pack all the essentials, including swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. Additionally, bring dry clothes and shoes for after your time at the park.
Get ready for an action-packed and enjoyable day at Waterbom Bali, where fun, excitement, and relaxation come together for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bali’s tropical paradise.
Enjoy a Fun-Filled Day at Finn’s Recreation Club
What Is It? Located in Canggu, Finn’s Recreation Club is a versatile sports and leisure complex that caters to all ages and interests. This family-friendly destination offers a wide range of activities, including a bowling alley, fitness center, waterpark, restaurant, trampoline hub, and more.
Why Do It? With a day pass to Finn’s Recreation Club, boredom will be the last thing on your mind, regardless of who you’re accompanied by. Children will delight in the thrilling waterpark slides, while adults can indulge in relaxation at the spa, Body Temple, featuring a variety of soothing treatments. Sports enthusiasts can explore the tennis courts, squash courts, and football pitches for some active fun.
Good to Know: For an extended stay in Bali, consider purchasing season passes to Finn’s Recreation Club. Moreover, the club is connected to Finn’s Beach Club in nearby Berawa, and if you opt for a longer access pass, you can enjoy discounts on various activities throughout the complex.
Plan your visit to Finn’s Recreation Club for a day packed with excitement and entertainment, where everyone in the family can find something to enjoy in this fantastic recreational paradise.
Dine in the Depths at Koral
What Is It? Bali offers a wide array of upscale restaurants, catering to various budgets and culinary preferences. If you seek an extraordinary dining experience, Koral is the place to be. Situated in Nusa Dua, Koral is Bali’s pioneering aquarium restaurant, providing a unique underwater setting for your meal.
Why Do It? At Koral, indulge in an exquisite culinary journey with dishes inspired by the flavors of Indonesia’s coastal regions, crafted from fresh, local ingredients. As you savor your meal, be captivated by the vibrant marine life surrounding you in the aquarium. Although it may be more expensive than many other restaurants in Bali, dining at Koral is undoubtedly one of the most budget-friendly ways to enjoy an underwater meal anywhere in the world.
Good to Know: Koral is nestled within the elegant Apurva Kempinski Bali, and reservations are essential to secure your spot. The restaurant enforces a smart-casual dress code, requiring men to avoid sleeveless tops and prohibits sportswear, sleepwear, and flip-flops.
Embrace a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you dine underwater at Koral, where delectable cuisine meets the enchanting beauty of Bali’s marine world, creating an unforgettable culinary adventure in the depths of Nusa Dua.
Explore the Ubud Art Scene
Ubud, the artistic heart of Bali, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in creativity and culture. Spend a rainy day exploring art galleries, museums, and workshops. Discover traditional Balinese paintings, intricate wood carvings, and contemporary artworks. Visit the Blanco Renaissance Museum, Agung Rai Museum of Art, or take a stroll through the vibrant Ubud Art Market.
Conclusion
So Things to Do in Bali Don’t let the rain put a damper on your Bali vacation. Embrace the opportunities that the rainy season brings and explore the cultural, artistic, and culinary wonders of the island. From immersing yourself in Bali’s cultural heritage to enjoying indoor activities, there are numerous ways to make the most of your time when it rains. So, pack your umbrella, put on a smile, and let Bali captivate you, rain or shine!
