While most travelers flock to Bali during the dry season, November offers a unique opportunity to experience the island in a completely different light. As the monsoon season begins, Bali transforms into a lush, uncrowded paradise with significant advantages for savvy travelers.

Understanding Bali’s November Weather

November marks the beginning of Bali’s wet season, bringing distinct weather patterns that smart travelers can work with rather than against:

Temperature: Average of 27°C (81°F), with highs around 31°C (88°F) and comfortable lows of 24°C (75°F)
Rainfall: Expect 15-20 rainy days throughout the month
Rain Pattern: Brief, heavy bursts rather than continuous downpours
Best Times: Mornings typically offer clear skies and pleasant conditions before afternoon storms arrive

The key to enjoying November in Bali is understanding that rain usually comes in afternoon thunderstorms lasting one to three hours, leaving plenty of time for activities during the sunny morning and early afternoon periods.

The Budget Traveler’s Dream

November’s off-season status translates to substantial savings across all aspects of your trip:

Accommodation: Prices drop 30-50% compared to peak season rates
Flights: Significantly cheaper than July-August bookings
Activities: Many tour operators offer discounted rates
Overall Savings: Budget travelers can expect total trip costs 20-40% lower than peak season

Luxury resorts that might be prohibitively expensive in July become accessible to mid-range budgets. Five-star villas in Seminyak or Ubud can be secured at three-star peak-season prices.

Regional Weather Variations

Not all parts of Bali experience November weather equally:

South Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua): Drier and sunnier, better for beach activities
Ubud and Central Bali: Cooler with more rainfall, ideal for cultural experiences and cooler temperatures
North Bali (Lovina, Munduk): Lush and green, perfect for nature experiences and waterfalls at peak flow

Best Activities for November

Indoor and Covered Activities

Cultural Workshops

  • Batik making classes
  • Wood carving lessons at Mas Village
  • Traditional Balinese dance instruction
  • Cooking classes (particularly popular during rainy afternoons)

Museums and Art Galleries

  • ARMA Museum in Ubud
  • Neka Art Museum
  • Puri Lukisan Museum
  • Contemporary art galleries throughout Seminyak

Covered Markets

  • Ubud Art Market (partially covered)
  • Sukawati Art Market
  • Sanur Night Market
  • Traditional morning markets

Spa and Wellness November is perfect for indulging in Bali’s renowned spa culture. With fewer tourists, it’s easier to book treatments at premium facilities at discounted rates.

Outdoor Activities (Morning Focus)

Beach Activities Despite the wet season, beaches remain enjoyable, especially in the morning:

  • Tanjung Benoa water sports operate in the protected bay with covered facilities
  • Beach clubs offer sheltered areas for relaxation
  • Surfing conditions can actually improve during wet season
  • Snorkeling remains excellent in the morning hours

Temple Visits Many of Bali’s most significant temples feature covered areas:

  • Tanah Lot (dramatic with stormy skies)
  • Uluwatu Temple
  • Tirta Empul (water temple experience enhanced by rain)
  • Besakih Temple complex

Nature Experiences

  • Waterfalls at maximum flow and beauty (Tegenungan, Sekumpul, Gitgit)
  • Rice terraces absolutely stunning in lush green (Tegalalang, Jatiluwih)
  • Monkey Forest Ubud (monkeys less aggressive due to fewer tourists)

Special November Events

Pemuteran Bay Festival (November 6-8, 2025)

This annual celebration in North Bali honors the region’s marine conservation efforts and natural underwater beauty. The festival includes:

  • Traditional ceremonies
  • Cultural performances
  • Marine conservation activities
  • Local cuisine showcases

The festival highlights Pemuteran’s commitment to coral reef restoration and sustainable tourism practices.

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (October 29 – November 2, 2025)

Spanning into early November, this internationally acclaimed literary festival brings together authors, thinkers, and readers from around the world.

Family-Friendly November Activities

Bali Safari and Marine Park Perfect for rainy days, this attraction offers:

  • Climate-controlled viewing areas
  • Indoor exhibits
  • Covered walkways
  • Night safari experiences

Indoor Playgrounds and Entertainment

  • Trans Studio Bali (indoor theme park)
  • Upside Down World
  • Various trampoline parks

Practical Tips for November Travel

What to Pack

  • Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella
  • Quick-dry clothing
  • Waterproof bag for electronics
  • Comfortable sandals that dry quickly
  • Mosquito repellent (more prevalent during wet season)

Transportation Considerations

  • Book rides during morning hours when possible
  • Allow extra time for destinations (traffic worsens in rain)
  • Consider private drivers over scooters for convenience
  • Many villas offer covered parking

Accommodation Strategy

  • Book accommodations with covered areas and good drainage
  • Resorts with multiple restaurant options offer flexibility
  • Properties with spas provide perfect rainy-afternoon retreats
  • Villas with pools remain enjoyable (warm rain swimming is delightful)

The Uncrowded Advantage

Perhaps November’s greatest benefit is the dramatic reduction in tourist crowds:

  • Popular temples can be explored peacefully
  • Restaurants don’t require advance reservations
  • Beaches feel private and serene
  • Photography opportunities without crowds
  • Authentic interactions with locals who have more time
  • Shorter lines at attractions

Photography Opportunities

November’s dramatic weather creates stunning photographic conditions:

  • Dramatic cloud formations at sunset
  • Lush, vibrant green landscapes
  • Waterfalls at peak flow
  • Stormy beach scenes
  • Rice terraces in full color
  • Mystical morning mists in Ubud

Culinary Advantages

With fewer tourists, November is excellent for food experiences:

  • Easier reservations at top restaurants
  • More attention from chefs and staff
  • Cooking classes with smaller groups
  • Better availability for food tours
  • Local warungs less rushed and more welcoming

Making the Most of November Weather

Morning Strategy (6 AM – 1 PM)

  • Beach visits and water activities
  • Temple tours
  • Outdoor excursions
  • Photography sessions
  • Market visits

Afternoon Strategy (2 PM – 6 PM)

  • Indoor cultural activities
  • Spa treatments
  • Cooking classes
  • Museum visits
  • Shopping at covered malls
  • Enjoy rain from covered restaurant patios

Evening Strategy (7 PM onwards)

  • Dinner at restaurants (many covered)
  • Traditional dance performances
  • Sunset (when visible) from beach clubs
  • Night markets

Is November Right for You?

November in Bali is ideal for travelers who:

  • Value budget savings over guaranteed sunshine
  • Appreciate fewer crowds
  • Enjoy lush, green landscapes
  • Don’t mind flexible itineraries
  • Focus on cultural over beach activities
  • Want authentic local experiences

November may not suit those who:

  • Require guaranteed beach weather
  • Have rigid activity schedules
  • Prefer ultra-dry conditions
  • Plan extensive outdoor adventures

The Bottom Line

Visiting Bali in November 2025 offers exceptional value and unique experiences that peak-season travelers miss entirely. The island’s legendary beauty becomes even more dramatic under monsoon skies, while significantly lower prices and reduced crowds create ideal conditions for cultural immersion and relaxation.

The key is embracing flexibility, planning morning activities, and viewing afternoon showers not as inconveniences but as opportunities to experience indoor aspects of Balinese culture. With proper preparation and realistic expectations, November can be one of the best times to visit Bali – offering authentic experiences at a fraction of the cost.

As the saying goes, “There’s no such thing as bad weather in Bali, only inappropriate clothing and poor planning.” Come prepared, stay flexible, and discover why savvy travelers increasingly choose Bali’s green season as their preferred time to visit this magical island.