Bali weather in December is warm, humid and shaped by the island’s wet-season pattern. Tropical showers become more frequent, but the month does not usually mean uninterrupted rain across every part of the island throughout the day.
For cruise passengers, the practical question is not simply whether December is rainy. It is where the excursion travels after leaving the port, how much of the route is outdoors and whether changing conditions may slow the return journey.
A bright morning at Benoa can become cloudy around Ubud, while the highlands near Kintamani or Bedugul may feel cooler and receive rain earlier. North Bali can also experience different conditions from the southern coast.
This guide from Shore Excursions Asia explains what December feels like in Bali and how the weather may affect temple visits, rice terraces, waterfalls, coastal stops and cruise-port timing.
Travellers visiting other Indonesian destinations can explore our Indonesia shore excursions, while passengers arriving at Benoa or Celukan Bawang can compare our private and customizable Bali shore excursions.
What Is Bali Weather Like in December?
December falls within Bali’s wet season, which generally extends between November and March.
Temperatures remain tropical rather than cool. Low-elevation areas around Denpasar, Benoa, Sanur and Nusa Dua commonly feel warm throughout the day and evening.
The most noticeable seasonal changes are higher humidity, more cloud and a greater chance of tropical showers.
Some December days begin with sunshine before cloud develops during the afternoon. Others may receive an early shower followed by brighter conditions later.
Longer wet periods are also possible when a broader weather system affects the island. Cruise passengers should therefore prepare for changing conditions rather than assuming every shower will disappear within a few minutes.
Official guidance from Indonesia Travel places Bali’s wet season between November and March, while also noting that seasonal timing has become less predictable.
Bali Temperatures in December
Bali temperatures in December remain warm across the coastal and lowland areas.
Daytime temperatures around southern Bali frequently reach approximately 30°C, while nighttime conditions generally remain in the low-to-mid 20s Celsius.
Long-term climatological information for Denpasar published through the World Weather Information Service indicates warm December conditions with little seasonal cooling compared with other months.
Humidity can make the air feel warmer than the measured temperature, particularly while walking through Denpasar, temple courtyards or busy streets with limited shade.
The central highlands are cooler. Ubud may feel slightly softer than Benoa, while Kintamani, Bedugul, Munduk and the Twin Lakes can feel noticeably cooler beneath cloud or rain.
A passenger may therefore leave the port in lightweight clothing and still appreciate a thin outer layer during a mountain stop.
Does It Rain All Day in Bali in December?
A weather application may display a rain symbol even when showers are expected during only one part of the day.
December rain often develops in tropical periods. A morning may remain usable for outdoor sightseeing before a shower arrives later, or rain may pass through and leave brighter intervals behind.
However, it would also be misleading to promise that every shower will be short. Some weather systems can bring longer rain, reduced visibility and slower road conditions.
The most practical December itinerary does not depend on one fixed weather assumption. It combines a clear principal experience with enough flexibility to change the attraction order.
Why the Port Forecast Is Not Enough
Bali’s weather can change within a relatively short road journey because elevation, mountains and local geography influence cloud and rainfall.
The forecast for Benoa Port may not accurately describe the complete day around Ubud, Kintamani or Bedugul.
Passengers should check the forecast for both the port and the principal excursion area rather than using only “Bali” or “Denpasar” as the location.
Benoa and southern Bali
Benoa, Denpasar, Nusa Dua, Sanur and Uluwatu remain hot and humid during December.
Showers are possible, but cultural visits and city routes can often continue by adjusting the order of the stops.
Coastal locations may also experience wind and passing rain that differ from conditions farther inland.
Ubud and central Bali
Ubud is greener and slightly higher than the southern port area.
Cloud and showers may develop earlier around rice terraces, villages and forested landscapes.
The area remains rewarding during December, but passengers should expect wet paths, humid air and possible changes to waterfall or rice-terrace walking routes.
Kintamani and the central highlands
Kintamani and the Mount Batur area sit at a higher elevation.
Cloud can cover the volcanic view even when conditions at Benoa remain bright. The temperature can also feel cooler during rain or stronger wind.
A Kintamani excursion should be valued for the complete cultural and highland route rather than depending entirely on a perfectly clear volcano panorama.
Bedugul, Munduk and the Twin Lakes
The northern highlands are known for forested scenery, lakes, waterfalls and cooler air.
December rain can make mountain roads, viewpoints and walking paths wetter than the coastal areas.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple remains accessible during many rainy periods, while waterfall paths may require more caution.
Celukan Bawang and North Bali
Celukan Bawang lies on Bali’s north coast and creates a different starting point from Benoa.
The port provides practical access to Lovina, Singaraja, Brahma Vihara Arama, Munduk and the Twin Lakes.
Passengers travelling inland should prepare for changing conditions as the route climbs towards the highlands.
Our Celukan Bawang Cruise Port Guide explains arrival arrangements, transport and realistic North Bali routes in greater detail.
How December Weather Changes through the Day
Morning
Mornings can provide some of the most comfortable sightseeing periods.
The air remains warm, but direct heat and humidity may feel less intense than later in the day. Outdoor temples, rice terraces and viewpoints are often best prioritised earlier.
A clear morning does not guarantee that the entire day will remain dry, particularly when the itinerary travels inland or uphill.
Midday
Midday can feel hot and humid around Benoa, Denpasar and the southern coast.
Cloud may begin building around the central highlands, while direct sunshine can remain strong between showers.
Sunscreen and drinking water remain necessary even when the forecast includes rain.
Afternoon
Afternoon showers become more likely during the wet season.
A private guide may move a covered cultural stop, local lunch or workshop into this part of the day while protecting outdoor viewpoints earlier.
Road traffic can also become slower when rain affects busy junctions or reduces visibility.
Evening
Evenings remain warm in the coastal areas, although rain and wind can make open viewpoints feel cooler.
Passengers considering a sunset or Kecak performance need to confirm that the complete experience fits before the ship’s all-aboard time.
A sunset should not be treated as the final deadline for beginning the return to Benoa Port.
Benoa Cruise Port in December
Benoa is Bali’s principal international cruise gateway and the usual starting point for southern and central island excursions.
December weather does not normally prevent passengers from leaving the port, but the ship controls the final gangway or tender arrangements.
Passengers should check the onboard programme before disembarking because arrival procedures, weather and berth operations can affect the time genuinely available ashore.
The Bali Cruise Port Guide compares Benoa and Celukan Bawang, including transport, port access and suitable sightseeing directions.
Which December routes work well from Benoa?
Denpasar and southern Bali provide the greatest flexibility during an uncertain weather day.
Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa, Uluwatu and Denpasar require less cross-island travel than Ubud, Kintamani or Bedugul.
A nearby route can be particularly useful when the ship begins disembarkation late or rain slows the roads.
The Bali Half-day Denpasar City Tour provides a shorter cultural option with less exposure to long highland travel.
Can passengers visit Ubud in December?
Yes, provided that the ship offers sufficient time and the route remains selective.
Ubud temples, villages and cultural workshops can remain rewarding during passing rain.
Rice terraces and waterfalls require greater flexibility because wet paths may affect walking comfort.
The Bali Nature Exploring Tour combines villages, Batuan Temple, Tegenungan Waterfall and Tegallalang Rice Terraces within a full-day route from Benoa.
During December, the attraction order may change according to rain, visibility and walking conditions.
Is Uluwatu suitable in December?
Uluwatu remains one of the more practical major temple experiences from Benoa.
The cliff setting is exposed to wind and rain, while the walking route includes steps and open paths.
A light shower may not prevent the visit, but visitors should carry secure rain protection and footwear with good grip.
The Bali Half-day to Uluwatu Temple suits passengers who prefer a focused southern route without travelling deep into central Bali.
Celukan Bawang Cruise Port in December
Celukan Bawang provides access to quieter North Bali landscapes, but many of the strongest attractions require travel towards the hills.
Brahma Vihara Arama and coastal visits around Lovina are generally easier to adapt than long waterfall walks during persistent rain.
Munduk Waterfall and the Twin Lakes can remain attractive beneath cloud, although paths may become slippery.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple also retains its atmosphere during softer weather, but low cloud may reduce the wider mountain view.
The North Bali Highlights Tour from Celukan Bawang connects the monastery, waterfall, Twin Lakes and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
In December, the guide may adjust the order or shorten a walking section to protect comfort and return timing.
Which Bali Experiences Work Well in December?
Temple and cultural visits
Temples, traditional villages, museums and workshops can adapt relatively well to passing rain.
Some temple areas remain outdoors, but the guide can reduce exposed walking or change the sequence of the day.
Denpasar city sightseeing
Denpasar provides museums, monuments, markets and cultural landmarks within a more compact geographical area than a full Ubud or Kintamani route.
This makes it a useful choice when port time is limited or road conditions are uncertain.
Ubud villages and local crafts
Village visits, art workshops and temple experiences create a strong cultural route without depending entirely on a clear mountain view.
Passengers should confirm that craft visits are included for cultural value rather than compulsory shopping.
Highland temples
Ulun Danu Beratan and other highland landmarks can remain atmospheric under cloud and light rain.
The experience should be planned with realistic expectations around visibility and cooler conditions.
Which Activities Need Greater Flexibility?
Rice terraces
Rice terraces appear green and vivid during the wet season, but paths and viewing areas may become muddy or slippery.
Passengers do not need to follow every stairway to appreciate the scenery. A shorter viewpoint visit may provide a more comfortable experience.
Waterfalls
Waterfalls may appear fuller during the rainy season, while their access paths become more demanding.
Steps, slopes and wet stone should be considered carefully, particularly for older passengers.
Mountain viewpoints
Kintamani, Bedugul and the Twin Lakes may receive low cloud that reduces long-distance visibility.
A flexible itinerary should include cultural or landscape experiences that retain value even when the main panorama is partly hidden.
Boat and marine activities
Local boat trips and water-based experiences depend on wind, rain, visibility and operating decisions.
A warm day does not automatically mean the water will remain calm.
Passengers should confirm the activity close to arrival and retain a land-based alternative.
Sunset experiences
December cloud can reduce the likelihood of an uninterrupted sunset.
Uluwatu, Tanah Lot and coastal viewpoints remain culturally and visually worthwhile, but the day should not depend entirely on seeing the sun reach the horizon.
How Rain Can Affect Bali Road Travel
Rain may slow traffic around Denpasar, southern resort districts and popular routes towards Ubud.
Mountain roads can also require a slower pace when visibility decreases or surfaces remain wet.
A destination that appears close on a map may still use a substantial part of the port day.
December itineraries should avoid combining attractions located in several opposite directions.
The strongest approach is to choose one coherent route:
Southern Bali: Denpasar, Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa and Uluwatu.
Central Bali: villages, Ubud, Tegallalang and selected waterfalls.
Highlands: Kintamani, Bedugul and lake scenery.
North Bali: Lovina, Singaraja, Banjar, Munduk and the Twin Lakes.
What to Wear in Bali in December
Lightweight, breathable clothing remains suitable because temperatures stay warm.
A compact rain layer or small umbrella is useful, but heavy waterproof clothing can feel uncomfortable in tropical humidity.
Temple visitors should cover their shoulders and knees. A sarong and sash may be required or provided at selected sites.
Secure footwear with a non-slip sole is more practical than loose beach sandals for wet temple steps, rice terraces and waterfall paths.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. UV exposure remains strong during bright intervals and through thin cloud.
A light outer layer may be useful for Kintamani, Bedugul, Munduk or a strongly air-conditioned vehicle.
A waterproof pouch can protect phones, passports, tour confirmations and the guide’s contact information.
December Tips for Older Cruise Travellers
December can still provide an enjoyable Bali port day when the itinerary reflects mobility, weather and road time.
Ask how much walking is required at rice terraces, waterfalls and temples rather than relying only on the total tour duration.
Wet stone, moss, mud and outdoor steps can make a normally moderate route more demanding.
A private vehicle provides somewhere dry and air-conditioned to rest between attractions.
Passengers prone to motion discomfort should consider the winding roads towards Kintamani, Bedugul and Munduk.
A cultural route involving temples, villages and accessible viewpoints may be more comfortable than several waterfall trails during a rainy period.
Fewer meaningful stops generally create a better experience than attempting to complete every attraction listed in the original itinerary.
How to Protect the Return to Your Ship
Plan the day backwards from the official all-aboard time or final tender.
Do not use the ship’s published departure time as the deadline for reaching the port entrance.
Allow additional time when the itinerary travels to Ubud, Kintamani, Bedugul or other inland destinations.
Rain, road traffic and slower walking can reduce the practical sightseeing window.
A responsible guide may shorten the final stop when disembarkation begins late or the return journey takes longer than expected.
Passengers should not add an unplanned distant attraction near the end of the day.
Returning comfortably to the ship remains more important than completing every stop exactly as originally listed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bali Weather in December
What is Bali weather like in December?
Bali weather in December is warm, humid and rainy, with a mixture of tropical showers, cloud and sunny intervals.
What are Bali temperatures in December?
Coastal and lowland areas commonly experience daytime temperatures around 30°C, with nighttime temperatures remaining in the low-to-mid 20s Celsius. The highlands are cooler.
Is December part of Bali’s wet season?
Yes. Bali’s wet season generally extends between November and March, although the exact timing and intensity vary between years.
Does it rain all day in Bali in December?
Not on every rainy day. Showers may affect one part of the day, but longer wet periods also remain possible.
Is December a good time to visit Bali?
December can still provide a rewarding visit for temples, culture, green landscapes and a flexible island tour. Travellers should prepare for humidity and changing rain.
Is Bali hot in December?
Yes. Coastal Bali remains hot and tropical, although cloud and rain can make the highlands feel cooler.
Is Ubud rainy in December?
Rain is common during the wet season, and Ubud may experience different conditions from Benoa or the southern coast.
Can cruise passengers visit Ubud in December?
Yes, when the port call allows sufficient time. The route should remain selective and flexible around traffic, rain and walking conditions.
Can you visit Kintamani in December?
Yes, but cloud may reduce the Mount Batur view. The wider cultural and highland route should remain valuable even when visibility changes.
Is Uluwatu suitable in December?
Uluwatu remains practical from Benoa, although the cliffside paths can be exposed to rain and wind.
Are Bali waterfalls suitable in December?
Waterfalls may appear fuller, but their paths can become wet and slippery. Confirm the walking level before visiting.
Can you swim in Bali in December?
Warm temperatures may support swimming, but rain, wind, waves and local safety conditions determine whether a particular beach or marine activity is suitable.
What should cruise passengers wear?
Bring breathable clothing, temple-appropriate coverage, sun protection, a compact rain layer and secure non-slip footwear.
Is December suitable for older cruise passengers?
Yes, provided that the itinerary limits slippery paths, allows regular rests and includes a realistic return margin.
Plan a December Port Day beyond the Rain Forecast
Bali in December remains warm, green and culturally rewarding, even when the forecast includes tropical showers.
The strongest port day does not depend on perfectly dry weather. It depends on choosing one geographical direction, prioritising important outdoor stops early and retaining cultural alternatives when conditions change.
Benoa provides access to southern and central Bali, while Celukan Bawang opens North Bali’s monasteries, lakes, waterfalls and quieter communities.
Shore Excursions Asia arranges private Bali experiences with clear port meeting instructions, comfortable transport, personal pacing, no compulsory shopping and return timing planned around the ship.
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