Bali Weather in April: What to Expect, Pack & Plan For (From Someone Who’s Been There)

If you’re wondering what the Bali weather in April is like—short answer? It’s one of the best months to visit. You get that sweet spot between the wet season fading out and the dry season settling in. I’ve been to Bali a few times in April (thanks to cheap shoulder-season flights), and lemme tell ya—if you’re looking to dodge the thick crowds but still want sunshine, April’s your month.

Read also: Best Hotels in Ubud

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, your first solo backpacking trip, or just itching to get those toes sandy again, knowing the April climate in Bali helps big time. It’ll save you from soggy sandals, overpriced tours, and way too much sweating. So, here’s everything I’ve learned the sweaty, sunburnt, and mosquito-bitten way—broken down, just for you.

What’s the Weather Really Like in Bali in April?

Alright, let’s break it down simply. April in Bali marks the beginning of the dry season (locally known as musim kemarau). But it’s not bone-dry just yet. You’ll still get the occasional afternoon downpour, especially early in the month.

• Average daytime temps: 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F). It gets hot, but not unbearable.
• Humidity: Still hangs around 75–85%, but it starts dipping. You’ll feel the difference if you’ve been during peak wet season.
• Rainfall: Around 90–120 mm for the month. For comparison, January dumps about 300mm, so yeah—it’s significantly drier.
• Sea temperature: Around 29°C (84°F). Warm, but still refreshing enough for a swim.
• Sunrise & Sunset: Expect sunrise at about 6:20 AM and sunset just before 6:30 PM. Decent daylight hours for beach bumming or temple-hopping.

What caught me off guard the first time was how localized rain can be. It might be pouring in Ubud, and sunny AF in Canggu. Always have a small umbrella or a poncho jammed in your daypack. Seriously, I’ve learned that lesson in flip-flops more times than I’d like to admit.

Does It Still Rain A Lot in April? Or Is It Mostly Sunny?

Great question, and honestly, April’s kinda unpredictable in a predictable way—if that makes any sense. The first half leans wetter, while the second half is noticeably drier.

Some days you’ll wake up to bright skies, hit the beach, then around 3 PM—boom, short tropical rain. But it’s rarely a full-day washout. And unlike in December or January, April rain is more of a “take-a-break-and-grab-a-coffee” kind of thing, not a “cancel-everything-you-planned” situation.

Last April, I stayed in Seminyak for a week and had three brief showers the whole time. They lasted maybe 20 minutes, max. And one evening shower made for the best dang sunset I’ve ever seen—golden light hitting wet pavement, surfers still out catching the last waves, and this low fog rolling in. Absolute chef’s kiss.

Just don’t let a little rain freak you out. If you’re planning a yoga retreat in Ubud or rice terrace hikes in Tegallalang, the moisture actually makes everything greener and prettier.

Best Places to Stay in April (Based on Weather & Crowd Levels)

Because April falls right after Bali’s wettest months and before the crazy summer tourist wave (June–August), it’s a magical little window. Hotels aren’t fully booked, villas are affordable, and beaches aren’t too crowded.

If you want mostly sunny weather:

• South Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu): These coastal spots get less rain and more sunshine this time of year.
• Bukit Peninsula (Uluwatu, Bingin): Fewer clouds, better sunsets. I stayed in a clifftop villa in Uluwatu once—stunning views, almost no rain, and near-empty beaches. Pure bliss.

If you don’t mind occasional rain and want greenery:

• Ubud: Gets more rain but also more jungle vibes. April here means lush forests, misty mornings, and vibrant waterfalls. Pack a light jacket though—it gets cooler at night.

Avoid the central mountains if you’re dead set on staying dry. The highlands (like Munduk or Kintamani) can still be damp in April. Pretty as hell, but bring socks. Wet feet are no joke.

Packing Tips for Bali in April (What I Wish I Knew the First Time)

You don’t need a suitcase packed like you’re going on a winter expedition—but you do need to pack smart. Here’s what I bring every April trip:

• Light, breathable clothing: Think linen shirts, cotton tanks, and anything you don’t mind sweating in.
• Quick-dry clothes: Seriously helpful if you get caught in a sudden downpour or plan on waterfall hopping.
• Swimwear: Bring at least two pairs. Stuff takes longer to dry in Bali’s humidity, especially if you’re moving between hotels.
• Rain gear: Compact umbrella, foldable poncho. You can also buy these dirt-cheap at Circle K when you get there.
• Mosquito repellent: Absolute must, especially after a rain. The buggers love that fresh wet heat.
• Sun protection: Reef-safe sunscreen (don’t mess with Bali’s coral), a wide-brim hat, and polarized sunnies.
• Comfortable sandals or flip-flops: You’ll live in them.
• One light sweater or hoodie: It can get breezy in Ubud or late at night near the coast.

I always throw a sarong in my bag. Works as a towel, beach mat, makeshift skirt, or temple wrap. Locals use them all the time.

What Activities Are Best in April?

April opens up a bunch of activities that are often iffy during the wet season. Water clarity improves, roads get less muddy, and fewer bugs means jungle exploring’s less annoying.

• Surfing: April kicks off the dry-season surf season on the west coast (Canggu, Uluwatu). Swells start getting consistent, and the crowds are still light.
• Diving & Snorkeling: Places like Amed and Nusa Lembongan are great this month. Visibility is better than January-March, and the water’s crazy warm.
• Trekking Mount Batur: April’s great for sunrise treks. Not too slippery, not too hot, and the early light over Lake Batur is something else.
• Temple Visits: Less rain means you can explore without slipping on mossy steps. Tanah Lot and Uluwatu Temple both glow in that golden hour light this time of year.
• Waterfalls: Tegenungan, Sekumpul, Tibumana—they’re roaring after the wet season but not too muddy. Just bring water shoes or old sneakers you don’t mind trashing.

What I also love about April is how quiet it feels, especially mid-week. I once had an entire beach in Nusa Penida to myself for a couple hours—no vendors, no drone pilots, no influencers. Just me, the sound of waves, and a warung that sold the best mie goreng I’ve ever had. Pure peace.

April Events & Local Happenings in Bali

April can be a little sleepy on the big-festival front, but that’s kinda nice. It means cheaper hotel rates and less competition for that front-row beanbag at sunset.

That said, if Nyepi (Balinese New Year) falls late in March, April might overlap with Omed-Omedan, also known as the kissing festival. It’s hilarious and weird and very Balinese. I accidentally stumbled into it in Denpasar once. Think: teens in traditional garb playfully smooching in the street while elders throw buckets of water. Totally family-friendly, just super quirky.

Some temples hold Odalan ceremonies around this time—those are colorful and full of offerings, dances, and gamelan music. Just keep a sarong handy and be respectful if you happen to walk into one.

Also, because tourism picks up slowly after the rains, a lot of yoga studios and surf schools run April promos. I’ve snagged 2-for-1 surf lessons and discount passes to yoga barns around Ubud without even trying. Always worth asking what’s on offer!

Should You Book Ahead or Wing It?

This one’s tricky. April’s not peak season, but the Easter holidays can drive up demand for villas and flights, especially with Aussie travelers (Bali’s their Cancun). If your trip lines up with Easter weekend, book accommodation early, at least the first few nights.

Otherwise? You can totally wing it. Last year, I booked a last-minute treehouse stay near Sidemen just the night before. Best decision ever—woke up to Mt. Agung staring me down and nothing but rice fields around me.

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, there’s flexibility. Big family groups or luxury villa hunters? Lock it in early.

What’s It Like Driving Around Bali in April?

This part often gets overlooked, but driving conditions in April are a huge plus. Roads are drier, there’s less flooding, and way fewer potholes compared to January or February.

I usually rent a scooter (IDR 70k–100k/day) and get around Canggu, Uluwatu, or Ubud pretty easily. Just be cautious after a short rain—roads can get slick with all that oil buildup. And don’t ride at night in rural areas unless you really know the roads.

Traffic in tourist zones still sucks, no matter the month. If you’re based in Seminyak or Kuta, plan for 20-minute delays during “rush hour” (yeah, Bali has that now). But April’s milder than high season. I’ve actually cruised through Denpasar mid-morning with zero jams. It happens. Rarely. But still.

Is April Good for Budget Travelers?

Oh absolutely. April is when Bali is cheap without being sketchy.

• Flights: From most places (especially Australia, Singapore, and parts of Europe), April fares are lower than in July or December.
• Accommodation: You’ll find deals all over—private villas for under $50/night, boutique hotels doing free breakfast, or hostels with rooftop pools and yoga classes.
• Food & Drink: Nasi campur for a dollar. Cold Bintang for less than two. Local warungs are open, and tourist tax hasn’t kicked in yet.
• Tours & Experiences: Fewer people = better haggling. I’ve gotten private snorkeling trips for half the advertised price, just by being friendly and flexible.

If you’re watching your wallet but still want a full Bali experience, April’s honestly one of the best months to go. You don’t have to fight crowds or pay holiday markups.

What’s the Vibe in Bali in April?

Honestly? It’s laid-back, local, and slightly sleepy—in a good way.

People are relaxed. Tour guides aren’t pushing as hard. Restaurant staff have time to chat. Beaches aren’t packed with drone-wielding TikTokers (yet). You’ll still find nightlife if that’s your thing, especially in Seminyak or Canggu, but the chaos of high season hasn’t hit.

April feels like Bali on her lunch break. Still beautiful, still Bali, just with a little more room to breathe.

What About Bali’s Beaches in April? Can You Swim and Surf Safely?

Oh, totally. April’s when Bali’s beaches start showing off again. The rainy-season debris (yep, there’s usually a ton of driftwood and trash washing up between December and February) mostly clears out by the second week of April. That means cleaner sand, clearer water, and way fewer plastic bottles photo-bombing your sunset shots.

Now, if you’re heading to Seminyak or Kuta, the surf picks up in April. You’ll see tons of surf schools out there, especially in the mornings. If you’re a beginner, it’s a decent time to start—waves are manageable and instructors aren’t overwhelmed with students yet. I did my first surf lesson in April at Batu Bolong beach in Canggu, and even though I wiped out like… constantly, the warm water made it way less painful. Also, it’s kinda hilarious to learn with 20 strangers cheering each other on.

If you’re more into swimming and chill beach days, Nusa Dua and Jimbaran are good calls. The water’s calmer on that side and the vibe’s more laid back. I’d avoid swimming in open water after a heavy rainstorm though. The current can get a bit aggressive and visibility drops. I made that mistake once—jumped into what looked like fun waves and ended up swallowing enough seawater to hydrate a camel.

Beach safety tip: Always check for red flags (literally and figuratively). Lifeguards in tourist-heavy areas are usually good about marking strong currents. April surf can be tricky if you’re not used to Bali’s breaks.

Should You Visit Popular Attractions Like Nusa Penida in April?

Short answer? Yep. Long answer? Go mid-week if you can.

Nusa Penida is one of those places that looks unreal in photos—and honestly, it kinda lives up to the hype. But it gets overrun in peak season. April gives you a window where boats aren’t packed to the gills, and you can actually find a shady spot at Kelingking Beach without having to elbow your way through selfie sticks.

Ferries and fast boats to Nusa Penida or Lembongan run normally in April unless there’s a rare late-season storm. But again, I always check with the locals before booking. There’s a Facebook group called “Bali Travel Advice” where I lurk for updates on weather conditions, ferry changes, or anything weird going on.

Just watch your step on Penida—roads are still janky AF in some places, especially if it’s rained recently. Like, potholes big enough to swallow a motorbike. Rent a driver for the day or join a small group tour if you’re not confident on a scooter.

I once tried to be all brave and rode my own bike to Diamond Beach. It rained on the way back, and I slid into a ditch. Nothing serious—just bruised pride and a bent foot peg—but lesson learned. Bring bandaids and humility.

Any Health Stuff or Safety Concerns Unique to April?

Good to be aware of this stuff. Bali’s not particularly dangerous, but tropical climates come with quirks.

Dengue

April’s still technically mosquito season in some areas, especially after rain. Dengue fever’s a real thing in Bali—mostly spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes. Ubud and jungle areas have more bugs, but even coastal towns aren’t 100% safe.

I always use DEET spray (the 50% stuff), especially in the mornings and evenings. Also, wear long pants if you’re heading into rice fields or jungle zones. Trust me, you don’t wanna be scratching your ankles all night. And I stay in places with mosquito nets or AC to keep the critters out.

Sunburn

April sun is no joke. Overcast doesn’t mean safe. I’ve seen people come back from 20-minute beach walks looking like lobsters. Reef-safe sunscreen is mandatory, not optional. And remember to reapply every two hours—sweat and seawater rinse it off faster than you think.

Hydration & Bali Belly

It’s hot and humid, and you sweat buckets without realizing. Always keep a bottle of filtered or sealed water with you. Don’t drink from the tap (even to brush your teeth if your stomach’s sensitive). I usually bring a reusable bottle and fill up from hotel dispensers.

As for Bali Belly? It hits people randomly. Could be dodgy ice, spicy sambal, or just different bacteria. I carry activated charcoal and electrolytes just in case. And I avoid salad bars or buffet sushi—not worth the risk in warmer months.

Any Downsides to Visiting Bali in April?

Okay, let’s not sugarcoat it—no month is perfect.

• You might still get some afternoon rain early in the month.
• Humidity can still be annoying, especially inland.
• Easter holidays (if they fall in April) bring family crowds and price hikes.
• Roads can be a bit sketchy in hilly areas post-rain.
• Some rural paths and jungle hikes stay muddy into mid-April.

And if you’re hoping for crystal-clear views of Mt. Agung every day—nope. April still has a bit of haze lingering from the wet season. You’ll get some killer views, sure, but not always every morning.

Also, because April sits between peak tourist months and the new summer rush, some events and classes take a break. I tried to join a breathwork class in Ubud last April and found out the teacher was “on holiday until May.” It happens.

Still, the good easily outweighs the meh. It’s the kind of month where you can plan just enough, wing the rest, and usually end up with great stories.

How Does April Compare to Other Months in Bali?

If you’re on the fence between April and some other time of year, here’s a quick breakdown based on my past visits:

• January–March: Super rainy, high humidity, cheaper prices. You’ll get wet—no avoiding it.
• April: Warm, less rain, moderate crowds. Arguably one of the best months.
• May: Drier, cooler mornings, more sunshine. Feels like April but with fewer clouds.
• June–August: Peak dry season. Gorgeous weather but high prices and thick crowds.
• September–October: Still dry-ish, less crowded again. Also a solid choice.
• November–December: Wet season returns. Prices drop, but rain returns with a vengeance.

If I had to rank it? April’s probably my second favorite after May. You get most of the perks of dry season, without the price or crowds of July. Plus, it’s still lush from the rains—which makes for amazing nature walks and way better waterfall photos.

Real Talk—Is Bali Worth Visiting in April?

Absolutely. Look, I’ve done Bali in every season, and April’s that low-key sweet spot people forget about. The weather’s solid, prices are chill, and the island feels more relaxed. You can surf, hike, party, detox, or just lie around eating nasi goreng twice a day. Whatever your vibe is—April doesn’t get in the way.

It’s that mix of good weather, fewer people, and enough sunshine to keep your serotonin levels high. You won’t get baked dry like in August, but you also won’t be wading through ankle-deep rainwater like in February.

April’s the month I tell my friends to go if they’re first-timers and don’t wanna mess it up. And honestly? If you’re coming from somewhere cold and grey, Bali in April will feel like stepping into a warm hug.

And hey—if you get a little rain, grab a beer, find a café, and watch the clouds roll over the palm trees. It’s still Bali. It’s still magic.