Bali Agent

So, you’re thinking of going to Bali in October, and now you’re doing the smart thing—Googling what the weather in Bali in October is like. Good move. I did the same before my first trip during that month, and let me tell you—there’s a lot of sorta helpful info out there, but not much that really gives it to you straight.

Here’s what I’ve learned after spending three Octobers in Bali—some chill, some chaotic, all unforgettable. Let’s dive into the real-deal stuff you actually need to know before you pack your bags, book that dreamy Ubud villa, or roll into Canggu thinking it’s all sunshine and cocktails.

What’s the Weather Actually Like in Bali in October?

October in Bali is like that friend who shows up late to the rainy season party and still tries to be the life of it.

Technically, October is the start of the wet season—but it’s not full-on rainy yet. Think of it as Bali’s version of shoulder season: hot, humid, and a little unpredictable. You’ll still get a ton of sunny days, especially in the first half of the month. But rain? Oh yeah, it shows up too, often like a surprise guest crashing your beach plans.

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Most days, you’ll wake up to blue skies and think you’re in the clear. By mid-afternoon, though, those puffy clouds start building, and by late afternoon or evening—bam—downpour. Sometimes it lasts 20 minutes, sometimes it’s two hours of heavy tropical rain. But it rarely rains all day.

Now, I’ve had weeks in October with zero rain, and I’ve also had stretches where it rained every evening for five days straight. That’s just Bali. You can’t predict it perfectly, but you can plan around it (more on that in a sec).

Bali Temperature in October — Hot, Sticky, and Sweaty

Expect daytime temps around 28–32°C (that’s about 82–89°F). It feels hotter because of the humidity, which hangs around 75% or more most days.

You will sweat. Like, a lot. If you’re walking anywhere mid-day, be ready for that instant damp-shirt situation. I made the mistake of wearing jeans once in Uluwatu in October… never again. It’s strictly linen, flowy cotton, and loose shirts for me now.

Evenings are warm too, usually around 24–26°C (75–79°F). You won’t need a jacket, not even in the mountains unless you’re particularly sensitive to cooler temps. I’ve sat on the edge of the rice terraces in Tegallalang at 10 pm in just a tee and shorts, sipping ginger tea, feeling cozy.

Rain in October — Is It Going to Ruin Your Trip?

Short answer? Nope. Unless your idea of a vacation is only lying on a beach for 12 hours a day with no interruptions, you’ll be fine.

The rain in Bali in October is usually pretty manageable. It often comes in the late afternoon or evening, which is when most folks are either heading to dinner or chilling in their villas anyway. Plus, the rain is warm. I’ve danced in it. Literally. Outside a warung in Seminyak, trying to find a Grab ride. Got soaked, laughed the whole time, and the food after tasted even better.

Just plan your outdoor adventures (think temples, surfing, rice fields, and waterfalls) for the mornings or before 2 pm. Keep a poncho or a small umbrella in your bag—it’s the Bali version of having a Swiss army knife.

Beaches in October — Still Gorgeous, But Keep an Eye on the Tide

If you’re planning a beach holiday in October, you’re still in luck. Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Sanur, and Canggu all have their usual charm, though the waves can be a bit rougher depending on where you go.

I’m a sucker for Canggu in October. It’s less crowded than the peak July-August season, and you still get killer sunsets most nights. Just don’t be surprised if a thunderstorm rolls in around 5 pm one evening—makes for some pretty epic lightning shows over the ocean.

For surfers: October is like a crossover month. The dry-season swells from the Indian Ocean start calming down a bit, but you can still catch solid waves, especially in Uluwatu and Padang Padang. Some beaches might get choppier due to shifting winds, so always check the local surf report (Magic Seaweed or Surfline usually got your back).

Ubud and the Inland Hills — When the Rain Actually Makes It Prettier

Ubud in October is magical. Yeah, I said it. Even with the rain. Especially with the rain.

When it rains in the hills, everything turns this ridiculously lush, hyper-saturated green. The rice paddies start glistening, the mist rolls in around the temples, and the whole vibe feels like a fantasy movie set.

Here’s the thing: You will get rained on in Ubud in October. But it’s usually quick and dramatic—thunder, lightning, downpour, then boom, clear again. It’s also a great time for indoor experiences like yoga classes, cooking schools, or wandering around the local markets.

One time I got caught in a monsoon-level storm just after visiting Tirta Empul (the holy spring temple). I ended up stuck in a roadside café for over an hour, sipping hot Bali coffee, chatting with the owner about his gamelan band. One of my best memories.

What Activities Are Better in October?

Plenty. You just have to time them right.

Morning hikes are clutch in October. If you’re doing Mount Batur, do it as early as humanly possible (most tours start around 2 am anyway). The skies are clearest pre-dawn. If you wait too long, you risk clouds rolling in before you even summit.
Waterfalls are next-level. More rain = better flow. Tegenungan, Tukad Cepung, and Sekumpul are all pumping with fresh, clear water. Just wear proper shoes; it gets slick.
Snorkeling and diving around Amed or Nusa Penida? Still amazing. Visibility is decent in early October, but it might start to drop later in the month if rain runoff increases. I went snorkeling with manta rays off Nusa Penida in mid-October and the water was a bit choppier than usual, but still clear enough to spot those gentle giants.

Getting Around — Driving in Rainy Season Is… an Adventure

Okay, real talk: Scootering in the rain is a rite of passage in Bali. You haven’t really done Bali until you’ve white-knuckled your way down a slick road with your flip-flops sliding on wet asphalt.

In October, roads can get slippery fast when it rains, especially in places like Ubud where moss grows on everything. If you’re not super confident on a scooter, maybe opt for a car with a driver during rainy spells. It’s safer, and usually only costs you about IDR 500k ($30-ish) a day.

One time I underestimated a drizzle and ended up sliding halfway down a driveway in Uluwatu. My ego was bruised more than my body, but still—learn from me.

What to Pack for October Weather in Bali

This one’s important. Your packing game can make or break your comfort level.

You’ll need:

• Light, breathable clothes (linens, rayon, cotton—trust me on this)
• A quick-dry travel towel (you’ll use it more than you think)
• Poncho or small umbrella (yes, really)
• Waterproof sandals or flip-flops (not the $2 kind that die after a week)
• Power bank (storms sometimes mess with electricity)
• Waterproof bag or dry sack for electronics
• Rehydration salts if you’re sensitive to humidity (or drink coconut water daily—it’s nature’s Gatorade)

Also—your sunscreen will melt off by 10 am. Go with something high SPF and water-resistant, even if you’re just wandering through Ubud’s art markets.

October Events and Local Happenings

October isn’t high season, so there’s less of the party scene you get in July or August, but there’s still stuff happening.

You might catch Galungan or Kuningan, two big Balinese Hindu festivals that sometimes fall in October, depending on the Balinese calendar. Streets get decorated with tall penjor bamboo poles, and the temples are full of offerings and color. Just walking through a local village during this time is a full-on cultural experience.

In Seminyak or Canggu, you’ll still find weekend DJ sets and live music at spots like Old Man’s, Deus, or Potato Head. The scene is just a bit more chill—fewer tourists, more expats.

Is October a Good Month for Deals?

Oh yeah. October is a sneaky-good month if you’re hunting for hotel or villa deals.

It’s just after peak season, but before the big holiday crowds start rolling in November. That means you’ll often find nicer places at lower prices. I once stayed in a cliffside Uluwatu villa that normally goes for $150+/night for just under $90 per night in October. Pool, ocean view, the whole deal.

Flights are cheaper too if you book early enough. And you won’t be shoulder-to-shoulder with the Instagram crowd at every turn.

Food and Health in October — Watch the Water, Enjoy the Soup

One thing to keep in mind is that October’s moisture and humidity can sometimes mess with your stomach. Rainwater runoff means you’ve gotta be a bit extra careful with street food and tap water. Stick with places that look clean, and always drink bottled or filtered water.

Also: soups and warm local dishes hit different when it’s raining outside. A bowl of soto ayam or bakso from a roadside stall is pure comfort food when you’re damp and a little tired from exploring.

Bugs, Allergies & That Sticky Feeling: The Humid Truth About Bali in October

Let’s talk about the other guests you’ll meet in Bali in October—mosquitoes.

They love this weather. Warm, moist, and lush—basically mosquito paradise. If you’re staying near rice paddies or anywhere green (hello Ubud), bring bug spray and don’t cheap out on it. DEET-free, natural oils are nice, but honestly, they don’t always cut it. I usually go with the local Soffell brand—cheap, smells alright, and actually works.

Most villas and hotels will provide mosquito coils or plug-in repellents, but if you’re sensitive to bites, bring antihistamines. I get big welts from bites, and after one itchy night in Sidemen, I learned to never skip that part of my routine again.

Also, with the rain and humidity, mold can be an issue—especially in older guesthouses or budget hostels. If you have allergies, consider booking a newer place with good airflow or air conditioning. Trust me, waking up with a scratchy throat every day ain’t the kind of detox you came for.

And that sticky skin feeling? That’s just life in the tropics during shoulder season. I’ve given up on trying to feel “fresh” past 9am. You shower, you sweat, you repeat. It’s the Bali rhythm.

October Is Peak Vibe Season in Ubud

Ubud in October hits different. It’s calm, but still lively. The crowds thin out just enough that you can actually get a seat at Clear Café without playing musical chairs with someone’s yoga mat.

I spent a full two weeks in Ubud one October doing yoga teacher training (don’t laugh, it was surprisingly intense). The weather? Humid, sure, but the early morning air felt crisp, and the late-afternoon showers gave everything a dreamy, misty filter. We’d hear the rain pounding on the thatched roof while in savasana. Kind of magical.

If you’re into slow travel, Ubud in October is your jam. Cooking classes, art walks, wellness retreats, and cacao ceremonies—all still running, but not booked solid like in July or August.

It’s also a great time to connect with locals. With fewer short-term tourists, people seem more open to conversation. I once ended up helping a temple caretaker fold ceremonial cloths for Galungan just because I asked what he was doing. He even invited me to the family’s celebration the next day. No tour guide could’ve given me that.

Animal Encounters in October – The Good, The Bad, and the Curious

You’re gonna see animals in Bali. Some cute, some… less cute.

In October, the monkeys in places like Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest or Uluwatu Temple can get bolder. Something about the weather makes them extra snack-hungry. Don’t carry plastic bags, and for the love of your sunglasses, don’t wear them on your head. I lost a pair of Ray-Bans to a cheeky monkey who literally popped them on his face, stared me down, then ran into the jungle. True story.

Dogs are everywhere, and while most are chill, don’t try to pet every one. Rainy season sometimes leads to more skin issues (for them), and rabies is still a thing in Bali. Just keep a respectful distance unless it’s a known pet or your villa’s furry friend.

Also: frogs. October brings so many frogs. I stayed in a jungle bungalow once in Tegalalang, and every night it was like a full-on frog opera. Cute at first, but by night three you’ll want earplugs.

Ocean Currents and Swimming Safety in October

This one’s important. The Indian Ocean doesn’t mess around, especially during seasonal changes.

In October, tides start shifting, and strong currents can surprise even confident swimmers. If you’re hanging around Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian, always check the flag color before swimming. Red flag? Stay out. Yellow means be cautious, and green is good to go—but still keep an eye out.

Rip currents are real, and I’ve seen more than one tourist get dragged out a little too far, only to be rescued by local surf instructors. Not exactly the kind of adrenaline rush you’re looking for on holiday.

If you want safer swimming conditions, head to Sanur or Nusa Dua. Both have calmer waters protected by reefs, and they’re great in October—especially for families or nervous swimmers. Also, Amed on the northeast coast is chill, with clear snorkeling and usually mild waves even during shoulder season.

Nightlife in October — Quieter, But Not Dead

If you’re worried October will be boring nightlife-wise, don’t be. It’s quieter, yeah—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

Canggu still parties. Places like The Lawn, La Brisa, or Vault are open year-round. But the vibe shifts in October. It’s more local, more chill, and honestly, more enjoyable (unless you’re 22 and looking to rage every night). You won’t wait 45 minutes for a Bintang or have to dance shoulder-to-shoulder on a packed floor.

I once ended up at a live reggae night in Uluwatu in mid-October, sitting on bean bags with a cold drink, watching a thunderstorm light up the sky behind the cliffs. It was low-key perfect.

Ubud’s nightlife, meanwhile, is always a bit more mellow. But you’ll find open mic nights, DJ sets, and live gamelan performances even in October. Just check the boards at cafés or ask around.

Markets and Shopping – October’s Secret Sweet Spot

Shopping in Bali during October? Surprisingly good.

Tourist markets like Ubud Art Market, Sukawati, or Seminyak’s Flea Market are way less crowded than in peak season. You can actually browse without bumping elbows with 17 other sarong-hunting tourists. And bargaining? Way easier. Sellers know it’s shoulder season and are more open to negotiation.

I snagged a handwoven rattan bag in Ubud for 150k IDR that I saw selling for double in July. Same exact one. Just be polite when bargaining—smile, laugh a little, walk away once, and you’ll likely get your price.

Also, October’s a great time to shop for furniture or homewares if you’re doing a longer stay or setting up a remote work base. Fewer buyers means more options, and often better delivery times.

Digital Nomad Life in October — Chill, Cheaper, and Just Rainy Enough to Focus

October is, low-key, one of the best months for working remotely from Bali.

Cafés in Canggu like BWork, Zin, or Rise & Shine are less packed, and colivings like Outpost or Dojo Uluwatu often have discounts. The vibe is calmer, the internet’s stable (unless lightning hits a tower—which, rare, but yeah, it happens), and the rain gives you fewer excuses to ditch your laptop for the beach.

I spent most of October 2023 working mornings in a quiet rice field café in Pererenan. I’d knock out tasks from 7–11am, grab lunch, and still have time to hit the beach before the 4pm clouds rolled in. Perfect balance of productivity and pleasure.

Just remember to back up your work. Storms can knock out power for short bursts in rural areas.