Is the scorching heat of May forcing you to seek a relaxed vacation? Bali is the right place for you. This warm sun-kissed island has the perfect environment with the soft ocean breeze, the scent of blooming frangipani in the air, and the traditional gamelan music welcoming you into a magical realm. Bali in May brings visitors endless delights that extend beyond its beautiful natural landscape. Bali operates as an ideal location for those who want to experience adventure alongside peaceful relaxation through its immaculate beaches, gorgeous rice terraces, and distinct cultural elements. Visit Bali with our Bali tour package, and get to experience a captivating journey through ancient temples, crystalline waters, and traditional cuisine that will provide ultimate fulfilment to your heart and soul.
Weather in Bali in May
Bali transforms from its rainy season into its dry period during May, which creates the perfect conditions for sunny days and minimal precipitation. Bali temperature in May reaches between 24°C and 33°C, which creates perfect climate conditions to enjoy various local activities. Outdoor activities are convenient because the Bali climate in May maintains comfortable humidity. The daytime average of 9 hours of sunshine combined with friendly temperatures creates the perfect weather for visitors who want to enjoy beach days and explore both the landscapes and attractions of the island of Bali in May.
How to Reach Bali?
Tourists can easily access Bali through Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) located in Denpasar, which functions as the primary entry point to the island. Multiple international airports serve Bali by offering routes to Asia, along with Australian cities and key European metropolitan centres. After landing, several transport solutions, including taxis combined with shuttle services, together with vehicle rental choices, await passengers to transfer them to their chosen island destination. If you want to reach Bali from nearby Indonesian islands, then you have the choice to use ferry services as transportation, which gives a delightful experience.
Places to Visit in Bali in May
Bali presents the best opportunity to discover its numerous attractions because of its pleasant May weather. Here are five must-see places to visit in Bali in May
1. Ubud
Ubud stands as the cultural centre of Bali, which is surrounded by lush vegetation. You should visit Ubud if you’re visiting Bali in May, as you can experience famous traditional arts and crafts together with dance shows and numerous art gallery displays. You can observe hundreds of long-tailed macaques at the Ubud Monkey Forest while enjoying the characteristics of Tegallalang Rice Terraces, which present marvellous landscapes of rice paddies. You can find numerous handcrafted items at the Ubud Art Market, including silk scarves together with woven bags for purchase.
- Location: Central Bali
- Cost: Monkey Forest - Approximately IDR 80,000
- Timings: The Monkey Forest opens its doors from 8:30 AM until 6:00 PM daily.
Suggested read: The Best Places To Stay In Bali: Discover Your Dream Stay
2. Seminyak
Seminyak stands out as a coastal community that presents its visitors with luxurious hotels, fashionable beaches, club spaces, and refined dining restaurants and hotels. You can not only experience complete beach relaxation but also enjoy surfing activities at these beaches alongside the energetic nighttime activities that bring the night to life. Stand apart from the crowd as the streets are lined with various boutique stores that sell both fashionable clothes and distinctive accessories.
- Location: Southwestern coast of Bali
- Cost: Free access, but you have to pay for your own expenses, which might range from 2,00,000 to 10,00,000 IDR
- Timings: Morning (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM) or Evening (4:00 PM to 7:00 PM)
- Popular Beach Clubs: Potato Head Beach Club, Ku De Ta
3. Tanah Lot Temple
The famous Tanah Lot Temple stands on a rock formation near the turbulent waves which makes it one of the main sea temples in Bali. This location becomes even more stunning during sunset when spectators can watch the setting sun create magnificent views against the horizon. Visitors from both tourist groups and local residents consider this temple a cultural centrepiece while making it a frequented destination for sightseeing in Bali in May.
- Location: Tabanan Regency
- Cost: Approximately IDR 60,000
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Suggested read: Bali Backpacking Trip
4. Mount Batur
If you’re an adventure enthusiast, then you should experience the unforgettable and spectacular feeling of hiking to the top of Mount Batur during sunrise. Hikers who complete the moderate trek will reach breathtaking caldera and Lake Batur views just as the landscape begins to glow under the morning sun. During May, the lower temperatures ensure climbers find the hike to Mount Batur easier to manage.
- Location: Kintamani District
- Guided Tour Cost: It varies, typically around IDR 400,000.
- Timings: The trip to the summit takes about two hours from start to finish
5. Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua stands out because of its beautiful white sandy shores and top-class hotel developments, which create an ideal atmosphere for relaxation. The ocean conditions in this section remain peaceful, which makes it perfect for swimming while snorkelling. Attractions at the Water Blow site present a remarkable sight when the ocean waves hit the limestone cliffs to produce powerful water sprays.
- Location: Southern Bali
- Popular Beaches: Geger Beach, Mengiat Beach
Suggested read: Best Time to Visit Bali
Things to Do in Bali
The month of May in Bali brings fine weather together with expansive sky conditions, along with balanced cultural experiences and entertainment. In May, you should experience these 5 top things to do in Bali, which will create everlasting vacation memories.
1. Snorkelling at Blue Lagoon Beach
The ocean conditions at Blue Lagoon Beach present an unforgettable opportunity for people who want to swim with colourful fish in its bright blue waters. Snorkelers visiting Bali in May enjoy breathtaking underwater conditions along with moderate waves combined with pleasant water temperatures at this excellent spot. The sunny and dry weather conditions make Bali's underwater world accessible for exploration during this period.
The coral reefs become your underwater playground when you see clownfish, followed by angelfish and sea turtles complete the experience. The local guides both provide the necessary gear and ensure safety measures for beginners to participate.
- Location: Padangbai, East Bali
- Cost: IDR 300,000 per person, which includes both guide services and rental equipment.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
2. Embark on the Mount Batur Trek at Sunrise
The magical experience of climbing Mount Batur at dawn is something that should not be missed by adventurers. Mount Batur's sunset promises a sight that stands out as one of Bali's most memorable moments with its amazing combination of stars, cool temperatures, and awaited dawn splendour. The adventure begins at 2:00 AM before finishing after a two-hour journey.
A picturesque view of Lake Batur together with illuminated villages becomes your reward after reaching the summit. The pleasing climate of Bali in May enhances the hiking experience because there is little precipitation combined with the chilly early hours. The tropical conditions of May create perfect hiking conditions since temperatures remain pleasant throughout this season while rainfall stays low.
- Location: Kintamani District, North-East Bali
- Cost: Between IDR 400,000 and 600,000 for each person who receives guide services and breakfast.
- Timings: The trek begins at 2:00 AM, and the sun will rise approximately around 6:00 AM.
3. Attend the Bali Arts Festival
When planning a visit to Bali in May, you should prioritise seeing the early stages leading up to the June edition of the renowned Bali Arts Festival. Ubud and Denpasar welcome their annual preparations for the Bali Arts Festival through cultural performances, traditional dance exhibitions, and rehearsal sessions in May. The local energy rises through the island during this time, while you can observe Balinese music drama, classical performances, and evolving art traditions. The inhabitants of local villages use their gamelan orchestras to perform in ceremonial parades while displaying magnificent traditional fashion pieces to public audiences.
- Location: Denpasar and Ubud
- Cost: You can attend pre-events at minimal costs since most of them have no admission charge or their prices remain extremely reasonable.
- Timings: Late May evenings for cultural rehearsals
4. Witness the Sunset at Uluwatu Temple
Spoiled by mesmerising sunset panoramas at Uluwatu Temple, you will cherish this beautiful moment in your memories forever. The temple sits dangerously on a cliff, 70 meters above the ocean, to provide its visitors with enchanting views of the Indian Ocean during sunset. Attending the Kecak Fire Dance performance under the stars at the exposed amphitheatre creates an unforgettable experience as the sky transitions to golden hues. Witness this spectacular spiritual and stunning sight at Uluwatu Temple during the month of May when the weather stays clear.
- Location: Uluwatu, South Kuta
- Cost: IDR 30,000 for the temple; IDR 100,000 for the Kecak show
- Timings: The temple operates between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM, while the dance performance starts at 6:00 PM.
5. Enjoy White Water Rafting in the Ayung River
You can find your thrill by doing white water rafting at the Ayung River which is located near Ubud. The dry and pleasant weather conditions of Bali in May create the perfect environment for engaging in this thrilling outdoor adventure. The class II and class III rapids of the river reveal impressive jungle settings and hidden waterfalls along with historical stone formations. The experience creates both exciting and peaceful sensations at the same time.
- Location: Ayung River, near Ubud
- Cost: The full package for Ayung River rafting begins at IDR 400,000, which includes guide services and equipment rental.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (2-hour ride)
Stepping foot in Bali in May represents more than a regular trip because it creates a distinct emotional experience. The weather, cultural vibrancy, and boundless activities create the ideal situation during May for finding the perfect harmony between tropical paradise and serenity. The island transforms into an eternal masterpiece composed of religious temples, sunsets, white sandy beaches, and artistic festivals, together with aquatic marine worlds. So, what to delay anymore? Just pick up your luggage and start planning a trip to Bali in May to make countless memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does May offer favourable conditions for travelling to Bali?
May stands out as an excellent period when travelling to Bali. The start of the dry season brings an enjoyable climate afterthe monsoon and few visitors, which makes it optimal for outdoor and beach activities.
2. What is the average temperature in Bali in May?
The temperature in Bali during May typically stays between 24°C and 33°C under clear skies, and moderate humidity conditions exist during the day.
3. Do Bali beaches remain empty during May?
Beaches maintain a moderate level of visitors during May since tourism reaches its busiest point only from June to July. The destination suits people who want to experience a peaceful tropical vacation spot.
4. Which items should I bring when travelling to Bali in May?
The necessary items for Bali include simple lightweight garments, swimming suits, sun protection, protective headgear, and eyewear, together with suitable walking shoes. A light jacket must accompany your travel for both cooler times along elevated areas.
5. How costly is it to visit Bali in May?
During May, hotels provide moderate costs for their services at reduced levels. Anticipatory booking of accommodation and flights during this time can lead to exceptional deals.
