What are the best things to do in Bali in December? What is the weather like in Bali in December? What are some tips for traveling to Bali in December?
Bali in December is known as a retreat during the holidays and the wet season.
Bali’s rainy season begins in December, but even then, there are still plenty of things to do and see, as well as interesting locations to explore, even when the skies grow gloomy and the roads are slick with rain.
Perhaps some of you believe that December is a bad time to travel to Bali, but you are mistaken.
Bali tourism visits peak in December due to the influx of visitors during the Christmas and New Year vacations.
The finest sights to see and activities to partake in when visiting Bali in December will be discussed in the lines that follow.
We’ll discuss the weather and events that occur in that month, as well as some practical advice that will help you prepare for the prices, crowds, and items you’ll need to bring when visiting Bali in December.
Continue reading to make sure you’re completely ready for your journey to this idyllic island!
Get to know Bali
The Lesser Sunda Islands, which are to the west of Java, contain Bali, the most well-known island in Indonesia.
It is well known throughout the world for its beautiful rice fields, flavorful food, breathtaking beaches, and abundance of culture and customs.
Bali flawlessly blends relaxation and adventure with its ornate temples, infinite coastline, some of the world’s finest coral reefs, waterfalls, and retreats.
The island has some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets, which will enthrall you and tempt you to stay put forever.
Bali’s appeal and fun possibilities are limitless.
It is home to the coral reefs of Tulamben, the mountain peaks of Kintamani, the beaches, and scenic routes of Seminyak and Kuta, with ancient temples and the traditional village life of Ubud.
Although Bali has been the topic of countless travelogues and is well-known for being mentioned in numerous literary works as a location of exceptional beauty, words will never fully express the enthralling enchantment of The Island of the Gods.
Places to visit and things to do in Bali in December
Due to the increased likelihood of rain in December, some of you might decide to postpone your trip to Bali.
The island of Bali, however, has a lot of things you can do even though there is a high possibility that it will rain while you are there for a vacation in December.
So, if you’re traveling to Bali in December, here is a rundown of the best places to visit and things to do.
So, keep reading and find out something more about them!
Places to visit and things to do in Bali in December:
HINDU TEMPLES
The Balinese Hindu temples are one of Bali’s distinctive features that attract tourists to the island.
The architecture, history, and geographic position of Bali’s Hindu temples are all distinctive.
There are numerous Hindu temples on the island of Bali, but we’ll list a few of the finest ones for you to visit if you travel there in December.
If you’re traveling to Bali in December, you should visit one of these three popular Balinese Hindu sanctuaries that we are going to mention.
The first one is Tanah Lot Temple, which is perched atop a craggy precipice that extends out into the ocean.
The second one is Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, a temple situated in the center of Lake Beratan Bedugul.
And the third one is Uluwatu Temple, which is situated on a tall promontory with a view of the Indian Ocean.
The majority of the fantastic tourist sites in south Bali are in the same way as Tanah Lot Temple and Uluwatu Temple, so make sure to visit these wonderful temples while your stay in Bali in December, and enjoy the diverse culture of this island.
RICE TERRACES
The finest rice terraces in Bali offer breathtaking scenery that will leave you feeling profoundly moved.
They are among the island’s must-see attractions because they provide a window into daily living there.
The centuries-old customary irrigation cooperative known as subak continues through such artistry in nature, and rice fields in Bali are a part of the culture of the people.
Jatiluwih rice terraces, one of Bali’s best rice terraces, is listed among the global cultural landscapes by UNESCO.
Tegallalang rice terraces is another, a smaller valley than Jatiluwih but one that is more well-known and easily approachable.
Several other locations in Bali provide breathtaking vistas of rice fields, and because rice is planted in succession, there is no particular time of year when the paddies appear their best.
Only a brief journey from Ubud is the lovely roadside valley viewpoint for seeing these beautiful natural fields, so you should visit them if you have the opportunity during your trip.
SUBMARINE TOUR
Many tourists choose submarine excursions in December because they are less impacted by the rain.
Due to the excellent weather that persists and the low waves in December, it is one of the finest things to do in Bali.
You can see Balinese marine life up close and personal by taking the submarine excursion, which will transport you one hundred feet beneath.
You can look through the portholes to see the fish swimming just a few inches from the submersible windows as it gently lowers towards the vibrant coral and aquatic life.
Your submarine excursion will undoubtedly be a memorable one thanks to the breathtaking landscape and an abundance of aquatic life.
Some of the best submarine tours in Bali are The Odyssey Submarine tour, located in the eastern area of the island of Bali, namely in Karangasem, which is precisely on Labuhan Amuk Beach, and another one is Voyage of Fantasy Submarine tour, located on a beach resort Seminyak in tourist area Kuta.
UBUD MONKEY FOREST
Regardless of the season, every visitor in Bali should go to Monkey Forest Ubud, one of the island’s most well-known sights.
The formal name of the sanctuary for gray long-tailed macaques in Ubud is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
In addition to several ancient buildings hidden beneath thick vegetation, this natural refuge has paved paths that wind through a leafy nutmeg forest.
Due to its location, accessibility, and community-based administration, it is a well-liked wildlife sanctuary in Bali.
The Ubud monkey forest is a tropical jungle, so rainy months like December will bring a distinct ambiance and fresh air.
Monkey Forest Ubud has very clean, fresh air after a storm, and the ground appears to be wet, so it’s a special experience worth attempting to explore in December.
BALI SAFARI AND MARINE PARK
If you’re visiting Bali in December, Safari Marine Park is one of the top sites you should check out.
If you fly out of Ngurah Rai International Airport, it takes about an hour and a half to get to Bali Safari Marine Park.
There is a reason Bali Safari Marine Park is one of the top tourist destinations in Bali to explore in December.
You will have a chance to ride in a special vehicle that shields you from the weather when you join the safari trip to see the creatures at Bali Safari Marine Park.
Therefore, you shouldn’t be concerned if it rains while you’re at Safari Marine Park Bali, so be sure to go there if you’re traveling to Bali in December.
SHOPPING AND MARKETS
Bali is well-known for its distinctive sights and fun tourism activities, but it is also a fantastic place to go shopping.
On the island of Bali, you can find fabrics with various design motifs, as well as Luwak coffee, silver jewelry, gold, and countless other kinds of traditional Balinese goods.
If you enjoy shopping, you can explore Bali’s main art market for trinkets without being restricted by the weather.
If you’re wondering about where in Bali is the best spot to shop, and If you’re looking for souvenirs that are typical of the island of Bali, you can go to the traditional art market.
Also, consider the art markets in Sukawati, Ubud, and Kuta, and additionally, if you want to buy in upscale shops, you should go to Seminyak or Nusa Dua.
Best beaches to visit in Bali in December
Bali is a tropical location that is well-known for its stunning beaches.
While some of them might not be ideal to visit during the typical December rainfall, the other ones are.
We will therefore list the beaches that are the ideal option for you to explore during your stay in Bali in December.
So, before visiting, keep reading and find out something more about them!
Best beaches to visit in Bali in December:
KUTA BEACH
Another fantastic beach in Bali is Kuta Beach, which is a well-liked touristic destination and is constantly packed with visitors throughout the year.
It serves as a center for many activities like surfing, diving, and spiritual retreats and is home to a large number of eateries and cafés.
Additionally, Waterbom, Bali’s biggest water park and one of the most exciting tourism destinations in December, is located south of Kuta Beach and offers a variety of thrilling water activities.
The theaters in Kuta, which are near the beach, are a must-see if you’re looking for locations to go beyond the typical tourist destinations.
The average water temperature in Kuta Beach in December is 29.5°C.
NUSA DUA BEACH
The majority of Bali’s beaches experience murky waterways and trash piles up during the wet season, but Nusa Dua Beach does not.
This shoreline is Bali’s go-to location during the rainy season and still has clear water in December.
Families and other tourists enjoy visiting Nusa Dua, particularly around the Christmas season.
Watersports may not be available or appropriate when cyclones are present and the sea is choppy, but they are still available for the majority of the wet season, which is bright and warm.
Luxury retreats, honeymoons, family vacations, dining establishments, shopping, and sailing are all popular in Nusa Dua.
The average water temperature in Nusa Dua Beach in December is 29.4°C.
SEMINYAK BEACH
Seminyak Beach is the spot for you if you want to be in the center of all the oceanfront activity in Bali.
You can find a ton of beach bars, five-star hotels, the finest eateries in Seminyak just steps from the waves and renowned beach clubs in every direction along this impressively long stretch of golden sand.
Seminyak Beach is a vacation spot unto itself, stretching from the edges of Kuta up to the cliffsides of Canggu.
Learn to surf in the calm waves, relax on a soft sunbed, or enjoy a round of sundowners in a cozy, vibrant lounger at La Plancha.
The average water temperature in Seminyak Beach in December is 29°C.
SANUR BEACH
If you’re looking for a relaxing day by the sea, travel to sleepy Sanur for a carefree day at the shore.
The over five-kilometer-long seaside promenade is Sanur’s primary beachfront draw in addition to its endless expanse of white sand.
This ocean route winds past hotels, beachfront restaurants, wooden fishing vessels, and a few exquisite old villas constructed decades ago by affluent foreigners who were amazed by Bali.
Go for an intimate walk with your significant other or go biking with the family for some exercise.
You should get going early because Sanur is in a great location for breathtaking sunrises.
The average water temperature in Sanur Beach in December is 28.4°C.
Events in Bali in December
It’s not surprising that December is the Island of the Gods‘ busiest travel month given the opportunity to enjoy Christmas and welcome in the New Year in a tropical heaven.
So, keep reading to learn more about the events that are taking place in Bali in December as we detail a few of them here.
Events in Bali in December:
Christmas Day and Christmas Eve
Bali can seem magical at Christmastime, and there is never a poor time to travel there.
Some of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Bali are in cafes and restaurants in Seminyak Beach, Azul Beach Club, Finns Recreation Club The Lawn Canggu Sunday’s Beach Club, etc.
You can be confident that each one of these lovely locations has something unique planned for Christmas as they all get ready for the season.
Every hotel, eatery, and bar along the shore will be enjoying the holidays in full force, and many of them will offer special meals and deals that you can take advantage of.
New Year’s Eve and Countdown
You’ve made the correct decision if you’re thinking about going to Bali for New Year’s Eve because Bali’s New Year is unquestionably a very thrilling moment.
There will be a flurry of events and gatherings on the island, so you won’t be short on things to do.
There will be a New Year’s special at all of the well-known seaside clubs, eateries, and pubs.
There are many options available, depending on the tone you’re going for.
You have the option of attending eatery gatherings, beach bars, or public beaches to view the pyrotechnics, and you will be satisfied with whatever decision you make.
Penglipuran Village Festival
Penglipuran Village Festival takes place in one of Bali’s most tranquil communities, Penglipuran Village, which is in the Bangli Regency, and is a prime illustration of Bali’s genuine village compounds.
This is a festival of Balinese arts and is celebrated through cultural parades, traditional dance competitions, traditional culinary competitions, and more.
It has preserved both the traditional way of life and the original design of its dwelling compounds, so If you want to enjoy Bali’s cultural activities, mark this one down.
Karangasem Creatif Festival
The Karangasem Creatif Festival, present every year in December, is an event that is held in the lovely garden of Taman Sukasada Ujung in Karangasem.
This festival presents the potential of Karangasem and its environs in the guise of a folk party.
At this festival, there are educational events that engage students and foster an appreciation for local arts, culture, and the environment.
Pandawa Beach Festival
Every year, in the middle of December, Kutuh Village hosts the Pandawa Beach Festival, which includes a variety of traditional art performances by Kutuh Village artists, musical performances, bazaar events attended by various Bali food vendors, as well as fashion and accessories.
Every year, a unique schedule of thrilling and fascinating activities is planned as part of the Pandawa Beach Festival to mark the start of a new year.
Weather & Temperature in Bali in December
Due to the warm ocean currents that keep the land warm, Bali and the entire Indonesian islands only experience very minor weather variations from season to season.
This means that regardless of when you arrive, you can expect mild, humid weather, and you won’t need to worry as much about what to bring to wear.
Bali is truly one of the finest islands to explore if you’re traveling in a month like December during the rainy season.
Compared to many other islands, it sees significantly fewer flooding and transport delays caused by the weather.
Some of the masses are also scared off by the mere mention of the “rainy season,” but December is still very active.
It’s not unusual at all to experience everyday sunlight, even during the rainy season. In Bali, the wet season does not entail constant downpours.
You could easily schedule your work and travel around the rain since it typically begins and concludes at the same time every day.
You can expect it to rain more frequently and for a longer time in Ubud than in the southern part of Bali.
Bali experiences an average December temperature of around 27°C, with average highs of 30°C and average lows of 23°C.
With the water temperature around 27°C, this is a wonderful month to appreciate the days on the beaches when the sun is out.
Due to its proximity to January, the month with the greatest humidity in Bali, December’s humidity is abnormally high, so lightweight clothing is essential because this can sometimes become mildly unpleasant.
Tips for visiting Bali in December
It’s common to hear that Bali has an atmosphere all its own, and it’s accurate.
Something about the people and the straightforward way of life makes you want to stay there forever once you visit.
Here are some tips for traveling to Bali, so keep reading and get informed before you go.
Tips for visiting Bali in December:
What to wear in Bali in December
When thinking about what to pack and wear when going to Bali in December, just simply remember to bring lightweight, chilly, and quick-drying clothes.
There are usually afternoon showers, but they are not too intense, so you can go for lengthy hikes, so If a poncho or raincoat is comfier for you, wear it, and carry a warm sweater, though, in case the nights turn chilly.
If you want to avoid the heat and mosquitoes while visiting Bali’s Hindu shrines and other sacred sites, pack some light, long clothing that covers your arms and legs.
When it comes to footwear, breathable shoes like flip-flops, sandals, or sneakers are usually advised.
However, it is advised to wear comfy walking shoes with excellent traction in the dirt and damp conditions when trekking on country mountain terrace pathways.
And also don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a sunhat, and quality sunglasses.
Things to avoid
Since it can rain in Bali at any time of the day in December, it is best to stay away from activities like trekking, extreme aquatic sports, and viewing waterfalls.
Although Bali has both simple and challenging hiking paths due to its small hills and large cliffs, you shouldn’t engage in this activity in the rain because the trails can become slick and the view from the summit isn’t always spectacular.
Also, avoid activities such as scuba diving, swimming, white river rafting, and parasailing, since those can all be a little more risky than normal as well during the rainy season.
And keep in mind that the waterfalls can occasionally be hazardous, particularly when the water is falling from a high height.
However, even in times of intense weather, you can still appreciate the easier-to-reach Gitgit, Jembong, and SingSing waterfalls.
Prices in Bali in December
Everybody’s definition of “expensive” is different. In addition to August, December is one of the busiest times of year to visit Bali.
Therefore, Bali will see a large influx of vacationers in December.
There will be a rise in demand for lodging, transportation, and airline tickets to Bali during the high holiday season.
As a result, compared to Bali’s low season, December will require a larger trip expenditure.
The low season in Bali is particularly in February, and you’ll see that costs for travel and lodging there are lower than they are during the high season.
Crowds in Bali in December
The good news about Indonesia’s heavy rains in December is that it discourages tourists from visiting.
Most of the nation experiences very little tourism during the first half of the month, but as the Christmas and New Year’s holidays draw near, the numbers start to rise and the second half of the month can be quite active.
Booking your journey in the first few weeks of December will be your best choice if you want to avoid the crowds, though, if you’re thinking about taking a trip in December.
And finally – A trip to Bali!
Bali in December is precisely described as surreal, dazzling, and tranquil, and there are still a ton of activities you can partake in even in the wet season, despite the island’s reputation for having torrential rains that make it a bad month to come.
Therefore, don’t let the weather discourage you, pack your bags and head to Bali, The Island of the Gods!
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