Thinking about spending Christmas in Bali? You’ll need to prepare for warm, humid days and sudden tropical downpours. At Christmas in Denpasar, daytime highs reach around 29°C, nights stay warm at 25–26°C, and you’ll likely get frequent afternoon or evening rain showers. The air feels sticky, yet the sea remains just as inviting, with water temperatures right up there with the air.
You won’t get the clear, dry skies of Bali’s middle months, but December still brings stretches of sunshine between the showers. The island buzzes with a festive vibe, blending its tropical climate with beach time and cultural celebrations.
If you understand how heat, humidity, rainfall, and sunlight balance out, you’ll plan a lot better. Knowing when the rain usually falls and how much daylight you’ll get helps explain why so many still flock to Bali for Christmas, even though it’s the wet season.
Typical Christmas Weather in Denpasar
Expect warm days, humid air, and frequent showers during Christmas in Denpasar. The climate stays tropical, with steady temperatures and plenty of moisture, plus a mix of sunshine and clouds.
Temperature Ranges and Daily Patterns
Daytime temperatures around Christmas in Denpasar usually sit between 27°C and 29°C (81°F–85°F). Nights cool down just a bit, averaging 25°C–26°C (77°F–79°F).
You’ll notice the warmth stays pretty consistent, day and night. The sea temperature sticks close to 29°C, so swimming and water activities feel great.
Mornings start off warm and humid. By afternoon, the humidity ramps up and things feel even hotter. Evenings stay warm, sometimes feeling sticky, especially if you’re outside and there’s no breeze.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
December marks the rainy season, so you’ll want to be ready for frequent showers. The month usually sees 250 mm of rain, spread out over about 16 rainy days.
Most of the rain falls in short, heavy bursts, often in the afternoon or evening. Streets can flood for a bit, and outdoor plans might get interrupted.
Still, you’ll often find sunny breaks. December brings about 177 hours of sunlight, which isn’t as much as the dry season but is enough to fit in outdoor activities between storms.
Humidity and Cloud Cover
Humidity in Denpasar during Christmas stays high, usually around 80–85%. The air feels heavy, and the warmth can seem more intense.
Clouds are common, with skies flipping between overcast and partly sunny. You might get hours of gray, then suddenly, the clouds clear.
High humidity and cloud cover together take the edge off direct sunlight, but UV levels still run high. Sun protection is a must, even when it looks cloudy.
Sunshine, UV Index, and Daylight Hours
Denpasar’s tropical climate means you get long daylight hours, strong sun, and a high UV index around Christmas. These factors shape your outdoor experience, from sightseeing to beach time, and they determine how much sun protection you’ll need.
Average Hours of Sunshine
In December, Denpasar usually gets about 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day. That’s a bit less than the sunniest dry season months, but it’s still plenty for outdoor plans.
Rain showers happen often but usually come in short bursts, not all day. You’ll often see the sky clear up before or after the rain.
The sunniest months here—July, August, and October—average close to 10 hours of sunshine daily. December falls just under that, but it’s still brighter than lots of other tropical places in December.
If you want to hike, snorkel, or visit temples, mornings and early afternoons generally give you the best shot at sunshine.
UV Index and Sun Safety
The UV index in Denpasar stays high year-round, and December doesn’t let up. At Christmas, it often hits 7 or higher, which is strong enough to burn unprotected skin in under half an hour.
To protect yourself, use SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and grab sunglasses with UV protection. Lightweight, long sleeves help too.
The UV index peaks from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you want to avoid the worst of it, plan beach or sightseeing trips for earlier or later in the day.
Even when it’s cloudy, UV rays still get through, so don’t skip the sunblock. A lot of travelers forget this because of the passing showers in December.
Length of Daylight
Bali sits near the equator, so daylight hours don’t change much. Around Christmas, the shortest day is about 11 hours 30 minutes, and the longest stretches to roughly 12 hours 30 minutes.
This small difference means you can rely on long daylight every day, unlike places farther from the equator. Sunrise usually happens close to 6:00 a.m., and sunset falls around 6:30 p.m.
You won’t have to deal with sudden early sunsets or late sunrises, which makes planning tours or adventures a lot easier.
Sea and Water Conditions in December
In December, the waters around Bali, including Denpasar’s coast, stay warm enough for swimming. Seasonal winds and currents, along with rainfall, stronger waves, and debris along the shore can change your ocean plans.
Sea Temperature and Swimming Conditions
The sea around Bali in December averages 29°C (84°F). Most people find it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and just splashing around. You won’t need a wetsuit.
Mornings usually bring calmer water and clearer visibility for swimming. Rain and clouds in the afternoon can make the water murky, especially near Denpasar and southern beaches.
Currents shift quickly sometimes. Pay attention to lifeguard flags and posted signs. Swimming near the shore is generally safe, but don’t head out too far during the rainy season unless you know what you’re doing.
Beach and Surf Conditions
December brings rougher seas to Bali’s west and south coasts, like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu. Winds push debris onto the beaches, and the waves run higher than in the dry season. It’s not ideal for relaxed swimming, but surfers might love the action.
Surf conditions change depending on where you go. The Bukit Peninsula—Uluwatu and Nusa Dua—still sees surfable waves, though rain and wind can mess with the quality. Beginners might find it tough, while experienced surfers could enjoy the bigger swells.
Beaches on the east, like Sanur, usually stay calmer. Families or anyone wanting a gentle swim might prefer these spots. Still, rain can muddy the water and make the sand slippery.
Water Activities and Safety
You can still do plenty of water activities in December, but you’ll need to plan. Snorkeling and diving sometimes suffer from poor visibility after heavy rain. The Nusa Islands often have clearer water than the main island, but the seas can get choppy when you’re on a boat.
If you’re surfing, pick a spot that matches your skill level. Stronger currents and shifting tides can catch anyone off guard. Always check the surf forecast before heading out.
For paddleboarding or kayaking, mornings are safer. Winds and waves pick up later, making it trickier to balance and easier to drift. Wearing a life vest and staying close to shore is always a good idea.
Regional Variations Across Bali
Bali’s weather shifts depending on where you are. Coastal areas feel warm and humid, the highlands get cooler air and more rain, and the southern peninsula and nearby islands each have their own twist on wind and rain.
Coastal Weather Patterns
Along the coasts—Denpasar and the main beach towns—expect average highs near 31 °C (88 °F) and lows of about 25 °C (77 °F) in December. Humidity usually stays above 80%. Short, heavy showers hit most afternoons.
Rainfall can reach 150–170 mm for the month, but mornings often bring sunny breaks. The sea keeps warm at about 28 °C (82 °F), so swimming and water sports are still on the table, even in the rainy season.
Winds along the shore run moderate, around 10–15 mph. They help cut the humidity and make for decent surfing, though the seas get choppier than in the dry months.
Highlands and Interior Climate
The central highlands—Ubud and the areas near Mount Batur—stay cooler because of the elevation. Daytime highs hit 24–27 °C (75–81 °F), and nights can drop to 20 °C (68 °F).
Rain falls heavier here than on the coast. Showers can last longer, and fog sometimes rolls in during the morning or evening. Roads might get slick, and hiking trails turn muddy, so waterproof gear really helps.
Humidity still runs high, but the cooler air makes it feel less intense than in Denpasar or by the sea. If you want to see temples or rice terraces inland, expect more overcast skies and lower visibility after storms.
Bukit Peninsula and Nusa Islands
The Bukit Peninsula, just south of Denpasar, and the nearby Nusa Islands get a bit less rain than the highlands. Showers still happen, but they’re usually shorter and the sky clears up faster.
Temperatures stay warm, with daytime averages of 30–31 °C (86–88 °F). Nights are mild at about 25 °C (77 °F). Winds are stronger here, especially on the cliffs, which makes the air feel fresher even with the humidity.
On the Nusa Islands, the sea often looks rougher in December, with stronger currents. The beaches are still beautiful, but always check the local conditions before swimming or diving. You might find these spots less crowded than central Bali, even during the holidays.
Travel Considerations for Christmas in Bali
If you’re heading to Bali for Christmas, get ready for humid afternoons, frequent showers, and the holiday rush. Pack smart, plan your schedule around the rain, and book your hotel early to make your trip smoother.
What to Pack for the Weather
December in Denpasar stays warm, with daytime highs near 30°C (86°F) and nights around 24°C (75°F). The month brings about 300 mm of rain, mostly in afternoon showers. Humidity hovers around 85%, so you’ll want light, breathable clothes.
Bring cotton or linen outfits, a light rain jacket or umbrella, and sandals that dry quickly. A swimsuit comes in handy too, since the sea sits near 28°C (82°F), making swimming easy even in the rain.
A wide-brimmed hat, UV sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle help you deal with the sun and humidity. If you’re visiting temples, pack modest clothing—long skirts or trousers and a scarf or sarong. These will keep you comfy and respectful of local customs.
Impact on Outdoor Activities
Rain in Bali usually comes in short, heavy bursts—not all-day storms. Mornings tend to be clearer, so plan your sightseeing, temple visits, or beach time early. Afternoons and evenings are more likely to see those downpours.
Water sports like surfing and diving are still possible in December, since the sea stays warm and winds are mostly light. After heavy rain, though, diving visibility can drop because of runoff.
Hiking and inland trips get trickier. Trails might turn muddy, and sudden showers can interrupt longer treks. If you’re heading to rice terraces or waterfalls, wear sturdy shoes with good grip and bring rain gear. Always check the local weather before heading out.
Holiday Season Crowds and Pricing
Much of December in Bali feels quieter, but the weeks around Christmas and New Year really bring the crowds. Hotels, beach resorts, and villas in Denpasar fill up fast, and prices jump compared to earlier in the month.
If you want good deals, try to book flights and accommodations ahead of time. Restaurants and beach clubs get busy with Christmas dinners and New Year’s events, so it’s smart to make reservations early.
You’ll probably notice heavier traffic in spots like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. If you’re after a calmer vibe, maybe look at Sanur or somewhere up north instead. Planning your outings for early in the day can help you dodge long delays on the road.
How December Compares to Other Months
December in Bali brings in the wetter half of the year, with more showers and higher humidity than the dry months. Early in December, you’ll see greener landscapes and smaller crowds, but as Christmas and New Year get closer, travel costs shoot up.
Seasonal Climate Overview
Bali basically has two seasons: dry from April to October, and wet from November to March. December lands squarely in the wet season, so you’ll get more rain than in the middle of the year. In Denpasar, average rainfall hits about 300 mm, with around 15 rainy days.
Temperatures don’t really change much and usually sit between 24°C (75°F) at night and 30°C (86°F) during the day. The real difference from July or August isn’t the heat but the humidity and how often it rains. December humidity often climbs to 85%, which can make the air feel pretty heavy.
Even with the rain, you still get about 6 hours of sunshine per day. That’s less than in June or September, but there’s still enough sun for sightseeing or hitting the beach if you plan around those afternoon showers. The sea stays warm at about 28°C, so you can swim or try water sports any time of year.
Best and Worst Times to Visit
If you want steady sunshine and minimal rain, aim for May, June, September, or October. These months bring lower humidity, smaller crowds, and prices that feel pretty reasonable.
July and August usually stay dry, but expect more people since school holidays pack the island.
December feels a bit unpredictable. Early December gives you quiet roads and hotel rates that aren’t sky-high yet.
But by Christmas and New Year, crowds rush in, and accommodation prices shoot up.
January and February bring the most rain, often even more than December.
If you’re into cultural experiences and don’t mind a few showers, December might still work for you.
But if you want to spend your days outdoors with barely any rain, you’ll probably enjoy the middle of the dry season more.