August is Bali’s driest, sunniest and most reliable month, and it is still the busiest. The main differences from July are two festival moments: Indonesia’s Independence Day on 17 August, and in 2027 a Galungan celebration on 11 August.
For the wider view, see visiting Indonesia in August. The Bali-only picture is below, and our best time to visit Bali page lets you compare months.
Weather: The Driest Month
Rainfall averages roughly 20-40mm in the south, and many years bring almost none. Days are 29-30C, humidity is low, and nights are comfortably cool. Because it is so dry, some countryside looks browner than in May, and paddies may be harvested or fallow. Dust and smoke from burning can reduce visibility on some days. In Kintamani, highs are around 20-23C and nights are close to 12-14C, the coolest of the year, so a fleece is essential for Batur sunrise treks; views are generally excellent. Check BMKG for wind and swell.
Independence Day, 17 August
Indonesians celebrate Merdeka with flag-raising ceremonies, street decorations in red and white, and village competitions in the days around 17 August, including pole-climbing contests (panjat pinang) and sack races. It is a free, friendly spectacle in almost any village. The date is a national public holiday, so domestic travel rises and some government offices close. Sanur and Denpasar run larger parades.
Galungan and Kuningan in August 2027
The Pawukon cycle puts Galungan on 11 August 2027 and Kuningan on 21 August 2027. If you are on the island, expect penjor bamboo poles along every road, temple processions and some shop closures. There is no Galungan in August 2026. Details and future dates are in Bali festivals.
Crowds and Prices
August matches July for crowds. Australian school holidays have ended, but European and North American summer travel continues, and Indonesian domestic visitors rise around 17 August. Expect hotel rates 20-30% above shoulder months as of 2026, and book villas two to three months ahead. Quieter bases like Sidemen, Amed and Lovina remain good choices; see where to stay in Amed and where to stay in Ubud.
Surf and Wind
August is peak southeast swell for the Bukit Peninsula, with offshore morning winds at Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Bingin. Strong afternoon wind can blow out some beaches, so surf early. See surfing in Bali. The same wind keeps kite season in full flight along the east coast.
Diving and Nusa Penida
August is a top month for mola mola at Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida, with cold upwellings bringing the sunfish close. Water at depth can be 18-22C, so a thicker suit helps. Boat crossings can be choppy, so book morning departures; see Nusa Penida snorkelling and Bali diving.
Planning Tips
Start early, use drivers for Ubud’s busiest sights, and keep one flexible day for traffic. Browse Bali tours for early-morning slots, or a Nusa Penida tour.
Packing and Booking Tips for August
Bring a warm layer for Kintamani and for cool nights, a mask in case of dust or smoke on dry days, and reef-safe sunscreen. Book villas early and pre-arrange transfers via Bali airport transfer. Around 17 August and Galungan in 2027, expect shop closures and slower traffic; plan travel days accordingly. Reserve fast boats ahead for Nusa Penida, and check tide and swell conditions before snorkelling.
Verdict
August is the most dependable weather of the year, with a lively festival calendar. Pay for it in price, and plan ahead.