10 Things to Do in Bali in Summer

The summer in Bali begins at the end of December and extends until March, it is an ideal long season to take advantage of activities outdoors. It is characterized by intermittent rains (especially in the mountains), hot and quite humid days, so take your precautions when packing your suitcase. There are plans for all the tastes, but without a doubt you can begin surfing to prove the intense waves or to venture to a relaxing plan on board of the best local cruises.

If you want to take advantage of the best things to make in Bali you can explore the refreshing waterfalls or to visit an interesting thematic park, where the famous aerial swings are hidden. The cultural events are also worthwhile, since in these dates the Ogoh-Ogoh parade, the Chinese New Year and the celebrations of San Valentin are carried out.

There is no doubt that Bali is a vibrant destination, where summers are catalyzed by hot and humid days. To start your itinerary you can head to some of the best local beaches to cool off and enjoy a variety of water experiences, such as a surfing lesson from 29 euros.

It is an activity suitable for beginners that will give you an exciting connection with the sea. You can rent the board and try it on your own, although I advise you to hire an expert teacher, since in the wet season the waves are more complicated.

In a guided class you can learn about the favorite spots of surfers, starting with Canggu beach. It is a bay that stands out for its black sand and crystal clear waters, where the waves are usually more consistent and ideal for this sport. It is surrounded by fascinating activities such as yoga classes in front of the sea, as well as beach bars to eat delicious food and beautiful cliffs. Other beaches that lend themselves to this activity are:

• Keramas: if you plan to be at least 5 days in Bali, you have to pass by this paradise in the east. Its waves are fast and turbulent, but completely safe. Occasionally, there are surfing events like the Rip Curl Cup, which is disputed between several countries of Southeast Asia.
• Padang Padang: it is an ideal bay for professional surfers, since the waves are more powerful and can reach up to four meters high.
• Medewi: is located to the west and offers gentle waves, with perfect conditions for surfing. If you go with experts you can arrive to the zone where the longest wave of Bali is projected.

The humidity in the summer can be overwhelming, for that reason I recommend you to look for relaxing and refreshing plans that connect you with the goodness of Bali. The best Bali cruises are a great option, mainly because in this season the prices are lower, compared to the dry season. Also there is usually less people, reason why you will delight yourself with exclusive clear landscapes. I specifically recommend you to consider it in December, February or March, since January is usually an extremely rainy month.

Some cruise ships offer different entertainment options on board, such as arts and crafts workshops, casinos and discos, spa services, dance shows and live music. You may also find yourself with an appetizing buffet, ideal to experience the local gastronomy. Packages are available from 79 euros and as general recommendations I advise you to wear breathable clothing to cope with the humid days, wear non-slip shoes and prioritize tours of the southern and eastern beaches, where there is less chance of rain.

The nature is one of the incredible attractiveness of Bali, which will leave you boquiabierto during all the trip. The beaches, temples and sanctuaries of animals are amazing, but also it is worth giving a chance to its waterfalls. Tours of this type include adventures, climbs and challenges to decipher the coordinates of the amazing waterfalls. Beforehand, I recommend you to take swimsuit, raincoat, comfortable shoes, mosquito repellent, water shoes and sunscreen.

It is one of the best things to do in Bali in summer, since in the humid season the flow of the waterfalls is stronger and more impressive. In addition, they are a great way to escape the sticky heat and to enjoy the clear paths, with few tourists. However, in this season there tends to be more rain in the mountains, so I recommend opting for a guided tour for safety. There are options from 47 euros, which usually make stops in the abundant rice fields of Ubud.

Note that the most impressive waterfalls are:

• Leke Leke: it is a low intensity route in the north of the island, which you can not overlook. It is ideal for cooling off in shallow waters and enjoying the lush scenery.
• Nungnung: is an imposing waterfall, where the water falls with great force due to its height. It is located between Canggu and Ubud, so it is easy to reach. The only drawback is that it requires some physical wear, as you will climb at least 500 steps.
• Tibumana: without a doubt, it will not leave you indifferent with its incomparable beauty. It is surrounded by rice fields and palm trees that adorn the landscape.

Images of the famous aerial swings probably come to mind when you think of Bali, but some photographable locations seem to be a complete secret. While there are different areas of the island that offer this experience, one of the most accessible is the Aloha Ubud Swing theme park. Its jungle landscapes are breathtaking and ideal for taking unforgettable photographs.

There are about five swings, where you can recline comfortably and be between 10 and 60 meters above the ground. The adrenaline rush of flying through the air is unmatched by any other activity on the island. In addition, it offers panoramic views of the rice terraces that are a work of nature. During the experience you will also get a glimpse of the butterfly park and the surrounding bird and chicken nests. You can find tickets from 28 euros, which usually include most attractions.

In the summer the water levels rise, so the season is perfect to enjoy adventure water sports. The most recommended in the wet season is rafting, as the rides are more exciting and daring. Of course, it is important to do it in the company of professionals to avoid accidents. Be prepared for the accumulation of sensations, the raft will flow better what diminishes the risk of hitting or touching bottom.

Undoubtedly, you have to choose this activity if you plan to be at least 7 days in Bali. You can find options from 24 euros, which slide by the immensity of the river and to recharge energies, usually offer a delicious lunch. It is possible that also you can enjoy a hot shower and receive all the necessary implements for the experience. Other recommended rafting areas include the Melangit River and the Telaga Wajay River.

Another unmissable experience is a tour by the rice terraces of Jatiluwih, catalogued as the most extensive of Bali. They are in the middle of the jungle and they will leave you dazzled with their beauty, which comes from a cooperation between the nature and the man. Originally, the cultivation of rice began in the Neolithic period, due to the fertility of the lands. However, the steepness of the mountains made it difficult to harvest successfully. For that reason, the natives created a system of irrigation that maintained humid the culture giving origin to the famous terraces.

Undoubtedly, it is one of the best things to make in the island. In the rice fields of Bali you can learn more about this history, keep in mind that this one in particular has almost 600 hectares. The best way to tour it is by motorcycle or aboard an electric bicycle, taking advantage of experiences from 71 euros that usually offer guidance and a tasting at lunchtime. In addition, the ride allows you to glide through the jungle, pass near the Monkey Forest and take a look at the slopes of Mount Batukaru.

Bali is one of the most romantic destinations and every year is chosen by hundreds of couples to celebrate love on the island of the gods. You can take advantage of the spectacular nightlife, tour its natural monuments and take advantage of the best local beaches.

Keep in mind that it is a multicultural island where the Hindu culture predominates, which is governed by the Balinese calendars. However, love is celebrated as in any part of the world, following the guidelines of the Gregorian calendar (the most similar to Western culture). Therefore, it is common for Valentine's Day activities to take place every February 14. Some of the things you can do include:

• Enjoying a moviesunset, either aboard the best local cruises or in the free bays.
• Take advantage of a romantic getaway to a private beach. Luxury resorts with exclusive pools are one of the most sought-after activities at this time of year, so I recommend booking in advance.
• Camping under the stars in the multifaceted West Bali National Park. It is a safe and romantic place that allows you to live this experience in cabins or tents at the foot of the mountain.

In Kuta beach you can live an enriching experience, which will connect you with nature. Here you will find the Bali Sea Turtle Society, a marine life conservation center that has been releasing rescued turtles since 2002. More baby turtle eggs tend to hatch in summer, so there are more chances to experience this.

Here you can attend awareness workshops and learn about the six species of turtles that coexist on the island: Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, Leatherback, Loggerhead and Flatback turtles. Due to the increasing trade of the species, a rescue program was created and you can be part of it. You can go to the beaches with designated equipment to carefully collect eggs and take them to the hatcheries. In this season there are still some monsoons, so many turtles get stranded in the bays and require immediate assistance.

Between February and March takes place one of the most important activities of Bali, better known as the Ogoh-Ogoh parade. It consists of a procession by the spiritual enclaves of the island of the gods, where enormous statues of papier-mâché are taken out that represent the evil spirits of the Hindu mythology. It is considered a purification ritual and is accompanied by traditional music, handicraft workshops and torches.

It is made to receive the Balinese New Year and to prepare the locals for the famous day of the silence, a ritual that leaves the island empty since it is prohibited to speak during twenty-four hours. This practice comes from the belief that talking can attract evil spirits, so I advise you to maintain a respectful attitude and open yourself to these particular cultural practices.

Bali is located in Southeast Asia, so there is a large Chinese community. In fact, the influence of this culture in the traditions of Indonesia, can be noticed in different elements of the island. The Chinese New Year is all an event with assured amusement, usually the Chinese Balinese begin their celebrations in the Taoist temple Ling Gwan Kiong with dances of dragons

The most special events come alive in the town of Singaraja, where you can enjoy the spectacle of fireworks at the end of the celebrations. You can also take advantage of the lantern and flower decoration workshops, as well as bring offerings to Chinese temples or klenteng. Sometimes, the Chinese New Year coincides with the Balinese New Year and you can find the contrast between both cultures, as well as experiences that combine gastronomy, dances and music. It is one of the best things to do in Bali, so you have to make a hole in your itinerary.

• Pack loose and fresh clothes, since the humidity can be oppressive.
• Prepare an itinerary of at least 7 days in Bali, so that you can take advantage of all the summer activities.
• Take a foldable bag or backpack to take advantage of the best excursions in Bali, so that you can carry water and other important elements.
• Adjust the plans according to your needs, keep in mind that the coasts are hotter, while the mountains and the center of the island have cooler temperatures although with certain humidity.
• To enter the island, you must have vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, tetanus and typhoid fever.
• Protect yourself from mosquitoes with a good repellent, as they can be quite annoying at this time of year.
• Keep in mind that public transportation is very limited, so it is best to call a cab or rent a car.
• In summer it can be a lot of fun to travel by motorcycle from one place to another, of course it is essential to wear a helmet and avoid this transport when it is raining or at night. If you are the one driving, make sure you drive in the left lane and have an international driving license and valid insurance. This way, you will be able to enjoy the best things to do in Bali in a safe way.