Hey hey! So, you’re thinking about hitting up Bali in September, yeah? Good choice, my friend. Honestly, this month is one of my favorite times to drive travelers around the island. Not too hot, not too rainy, and the vibe? Chef’s kiss. As someone who’s been a private driver in Bali for more than 15 years (yeah, time flies), I’ve seen this place in all seasons—and I can tell you, September’s kind of a sweet spot.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or coming back for round two, three, or seven (I’ve met a guy who’s been here 13 times—madness), I’ll break it all down. Weather, costs, what to pack, where to go, how crowded it gets, and a few random stories I’ve picked up while waiting for folks outside waterfalls and cafes. Sound good? Let’s go.
The Weather in Bali in September – Why It Just Works
You know how some months are either too rainy or too humid, and you feel like you’re swimming in your own sweat? Yeah, September isn’t like that.
We’re just coming out of the dry season, but not quite dipping into wet yet. It’s like nature’s balancing act. Days are mostly sunny with a few clouds, and if it rains, it’s usually late afternoon or at night—kinda perfect for a nap or a massage.
- Average temps are around 26–30°C (79–86°F)
- Humidity? Manageable. You’re not melting, but you still feel like you’re in the tropics.
- Sunrise & sunset: Expect the sun to rise around 6:15 AM and set by 6:15 PM. It doesn’t change much here.
And honestly, the breeze along the coastline this time of year? Especially in Uluwatu or Sanur—it’s something else. I had a German couple tell me it reminded them of the Mediterranean but “with way better food.” No offense to Europe.
I always tell people to bring sunscreen, even in September. Don’t let the breezy weather trick you—the sun will roast your shoulders if you’re not careful. I’ve seen more than a few beet-red tourists sipping coconut water and regretting everything.
Is Bali Crowded in September?
Not really. That’s one of the biggest reasons people love coming this month. The peak tourist wave from July and August has mellowed out. Aussies are back at work, kids are in school, and flights are a bit cheaper.
You can actually enjoy places like Tegallalang Rice Terrace or Lempuyang Temple without spending 30 minutes lining up for a photo. Still some folks around, of course—it’s Bali, not a ghost town—but it’s a lot more chill. More space on the beaches, shorter waits at the good cafes (hello, Crate Cafe in Canggu), and easier bookings for villas and drivers. Like me.
One American couple I drove last year kept saying, “Wow, we didn’t expect it to be this calm.” They’d come in July before and were kinda overwhelmed by the crowds. In September, they actually got to hear the waterfall at Tukad Cepung. Not just the TikTokers posing in front of it.
Best Areas to Stay in Bali in September (Depends on What You Want)
Alright, here’s where it gets interesting. Bali’s small, but every area’s got its own vibe. In September, the weather’s good everywhere, so where you stay really depends on your mood.
Ubud – For Culture, Nature, and Slightly Cooler Temps
If you wanna wake up to the sound of birds and not scooters, Ubud’s the move. September mornings are cool and misty, great for early hikes like Campuhan Ridge Walk or Mt. Batur sunrise trek. I once had a guest do the Batur hike barefoot (don’t do that) because they forgot their shoes in the car.
Also, monkey activity in the Sacred Monkey Forest goes up when the weather’s nice. Just don’t bring snacks in your backpack unless you wanna get mugged by a long-tailed thief.
Seminyak or Canggu – Beaches, Parties, and Trendy Eats
This is where my younger crowd loves to be. Canggu especially is booming with digital nomads and surfers who pretend they’re working but are really just drinking coconut lattes at Dojo or BGS.
Weather-wise, sunsets here in September are wild. The sky turns pink, then orange, then purple, and you start wondering if you’re in a painting. If you’re into photography, Batu Bolong Beach around 5:45 PM is the spot.
Traffic can still get gnarly in these areas, though. I usually recommend renting a scooter if you’re confident (and have travel insurance). Otherwise, just chill—grab a driver for the day and let us deal with the madness.
Uluwatu – Cliffs, Surf, and Serious Chill Vibes
September in Uluwatu? Gold. The waves are still decent, and the evenings are breezy. I had a surfer from California tell me it was the best session he’d had in months.
Even if you’re not surfing, the views from places like Single Fin or Karang Boma Cliff are insane this time of year. The air feels fresher down south, too. Maybe it’s psychological, but people always say they sleep better in Uluwatu.
Prices in Bali in September – Cheaper Than You’d Think
Let’s talk money. September’s what we call “shoulder season.” That means it ain’t peak, but it ain’t low season either. So prices? Pretty sweet.
- Flights: Usually cheaper than July/August, especially mid-week ones.
- Hotels & Villas: I’ve seen discounts around 20-30%. Boutique villas in Ubud that go for $150/night in August? Down to $100–110 in September.
- Private Drivers (like yours truly): You’re looking at 600–800k IDR for a full day. That’s like $40–55 USD. And you get AC, music, and occasional snack stops if I like you.
One guest booked a week-long stay at a cliff villa in Uluwatu and paid less than what his mate paid in Kuta during peak season. Same island, whole different experience. So yeah, do your homework and shop around. Agoda, Booking.com, or just DM the villa directly on Insta—sometimes that works too.
What to Pack for Bali in September (You’ll Be Glad You Did)
This part gets overlooked way too much. I’ve seen people pack like they’re going to Alaska. Don’t be that person.
Here’s the deal:
- You won’t need a jacket unless you’re doing Mount Batur or heading up to Bedugul early in the morning. It’s cool up there.
- Bring a sarong (or buy one here). You’ll need it for temples. And it doubles as a towel/beach blanket.
- Flip-flops are fine, but some solid walking shoes go a long way. Especially in Ubud where the sidewalks fight back.
- Don’t forget bug spray. September’s not super buggy, but mosquitoes don’t need a reason.
- Light rain jacket or poncho? Maybe. I’ve had days where it rained for 15 minutes and then cleared up like nothing happened.
Oh, and bring cash in small bills. Not every warung takes cards, and you’ll need it for parking fees or toilet stops (2,000–5,000 IDR is normal). Trust me, nothing’s worse than needing to pee and only having a 100k note.
What to Do in Bali in September (Let Me Give You Some Ideas)
Alright, so what should you actually do while you’re here?
Early Morning Temple Visits
In September, mornings are cool and calm. Perfect for temple runs. I recommend starting at Tirta Empul—arrive before 8 AM, and you’ll beat the buses. If you’re spiritual or just curious, do the purification ritual in the holy spring. It’s powerful.
I’ve had people cry after that one. No joke.
Chasing Waterfalls
Now’s a solid time to check out waterfalls. Sekumpul, Nungnung, and Tukad Cepung are all flowing nicely without being scary. Water’s clear, trails aren’t muddy yet, and there’s usually less waiting around for Instagrammers to get out of the way.
Take your time. Some folks rush, but man, sitting by a waterfall with a kopi Bali? That’s healing.
Rice Fields Are Lush
If you’re into photography or just wanna see Bali’s green side, rice terraces are full of life in September. Tegallalang’s great, but if you want a more local vibe, go to Jatiluwih. Less crowd, same epic views.
I had a guest from France say it felt like being in a Miyazaki movie. Couldn’t stop smiling.
Beach Clubs & Chill Evenings
Places like La Brisa, The Lawn, and Sundays Beach Club are still poppin’ but not packed to the brim. Book a daybed, order a fresh coconut, and do nothing. You earned it.
Is It Safe to Travel to Bali in September?
Short answer—yeah. Long answer—still yeah, but like anywhere, be smart.
The dry season makes travel easier. Roads are in better shape, fewer landslides or flash floods like in December. Beaches are cleaner too—less debris washed up.
I always remind guests to be cautious when swimming at beaches with strong currents. Ask locals if you’re unsure. And use Blue Bird app or local drivers, not just random taxis off the street. Some are okay, some… not so much.
Bali’s safe, but just like back home—keep your stuff close, don’t flash cash, and watch your drink at bars.
My Honest Take – Should You Visit Bali in September?
Look, I could give you the polished tourism-board answer, but that’s not my style. I’ll tell you straight: Bali in September is legit. You get solid weather, fewer people, better prices, and a more relaxed vibe overall.
As a driver who’s been through the chaos of peak season and the ghost town of low season, September is like that sweet middle child—easygoing and underrated.
If you’re coming to Bali for the first time, you’ll see the best of it without the crowd stress. If you’re coming back, you’ll appreciate the extra space and mellow pace.
And if you end up in my car, well, I’ve got good music, cold water, and probably a few weird stories from the road. Let’s go find you a waterfall.
Unique Events and Local Happenings in Bali in September
One thing I always tell my guests is—don’t just stick to the tourist trail. Especially in September, Bali’s got some real local flavor happening if you know where to look.
So, there’s this ceremony called Tumpek Wayang, which sometimes lands in September. It’s a day that honors puppeteers and shadow puppet performances (wayang kulit), and if you’re in Ubud or Gianyar, you might catch a show in a village hall. I once had a Dutch family who randomly wandered into one during a temple visit—they said it was the best surprise of the trip.
Another cool one is Bali International Film Festival (Balinale). It doesn’t always happen in September, but when it does, there’s screenings in places like Seminyak and Ubud, sometimes even outdoors. I drove a guest who was a film student, and he timed his whole trip around this event. Said it was crazy seeing indie films under the stars in Bali.
You might also see ceremonies at sea temples, especially around Tanah Lot. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see locals dressed in full ceremonial clothes walking down with offerings. One time I watched this from the parking lot with a group from Japan, and we ended up talking about Balinese culture for like two hours while eating grilled corn (jagung bakar) from a roadside stall. Sometimes, the best moments aren’t even planned.
So yeah, September might not have the flashy festivals like Nyepi or Galungan, but it’s still rich in culture if you know where to look—or just ask your driver (wink wink).
Food in Bali in September – What’s Fresh and Where to Eat
Let’s talk food. Because come on, Bali’s not just temples and beaches—it’s a full-on flavor bomb. And in September? Everything feels a bit fresher. Maybe it’s the weather. Maybe it’s just psychological. But man, the fruit stalls are next level.
I always pull over at this little stall in Tabanan that sells mangosteen, salak (snakefruit), and rambutan. September is peak season for all three. If you’ve never had snakefruit, just trust me—peel it and eat it like candy. Tangy, sweet, crunchy. I had a guy from Texas eat 15 in one go. Not recommended, but impressive.
And if you’re vegan or vegetarian, September is solid. Places like Zest in Ubud or Shady Shack in Canggu are in full swing. Not too crowded, and the chefs have time to get creative. One guest told me the jackfruit tacos at Give Cafe changed their life. Dunno about life-changing, but they are damn good.
Seafood? Head to Jimbaran for grilled fish on the beach. Weather’s great in September for evening dinners by the ocean, no jacket needed. I’ve had guests ask me to wait for three hours while they did “just one more cocktail.” No problem—just throw me some grilled squid and we’re square.
Quick note: water spinach (we call it kangkung) is everywhere this time of year. Get it stir-fried with garlic and sambal. Cheap, tasty, and makes you feel like you’re doing something healthy between all those Bintangs.
Getting Around Bali in September – It’s Easier Than You Think
Alright, so you’ve booked your flight, got your villa sorted. Now what? How do you actually move around the island?
First, let’s get this straight: public transport is basically non-existent here. You’ve got two main options—rent a scooter or hire a driver (like me).
In September, the roads are dry, and traffic’s a bit better than August. That makes it a good time for confident riders to hop on a scooter. I say confident because Bali traffic has its own rhythm. If you’ve never ridden before, maybe skip it. I once had a girl from Canada ride into a rice field on day one. She was fine. Her pride? Not so much.
For most people, hiring a private driver is way easier and actually affordable. You get door-to-door service, someone to help you with translations, local tips, and a solid playlist if you’re lucky. Most of us charge by the day, and you can customize the route. Waterfalls in the morning, beach club in the afternoon, late-night satay stop? No problem.
Apps like Grab or Gojek also work well in the cities. But in rural spots like Munduk or Sidemen? Forget it. That’s where the local drivers come in handy.
September’s also a good time for road trips across the island. I’ve taken guests on 3–4 day loops from Seminyak to Lovina, through Bedugul and back down to Ubud. The roads are green, skies are clear, and the rice fields are practically glowing. Just don’t try to cram too much into one day. Bali time is… different. Trust me.
What You Probably Don’t Know About Bali in September
Alright, now for the real talk—the stuff the brochures don’t tell you.
Sunrise Hikes Are Better This Month
September mornings are cool but not freezing. It’s the perfect time to climb Mount Batur or even go for a simpler sunrise walk like Pinggan Village viewpoint. Less mist, better photos, and fewer people elbowing you for a selfie.
I remember driving a solo traveler from the UK who had never hiked a mountain before. She was scared, didn’t sleep the night before. But we left Ubud at 2 AM, made it in time, and when the sun rose over the crater? She cried. Not kidding. I even teared up a little, but blamed it on the wind.
Beaches Are Cleaner and the Tides Are Mellow
You wouldn’t believe the difference a month makes. After the August beach rush, the sands are cleaner, and the ocean’s calmer. Places like Padang Padang and Balangan are perfect for a swim or beginner surf session in September.
And the local vendors aren’t as aggressive either. They’ve chilled out a bit after the high season, and it’s easier to have real conversations. I always encourage guests to chat with locals. Buy some corn, ask about the waves, practice a few words of Bahasa. You’ll get smiles in return.
Is Bali in September Good for Digital Nomads or Working Travelers?
Totally. In fact, it might be one of the best months.
The Wi-Fi is stable (unless you’re staying deep in the jungle), cafes are less crowded, and the weather makes it easier to stay productive without sweating through your shirt. I’ve had a few repeat guests who do their whole quarterly planning here—mornings in the villa, afternoons in Canggu cafes, and evenings at beach bars.
One Australian guy I drove last year said he got more done in two weeks in Bali than two months back in Sydney. Probably because the food’s better and no one’s bothering you with meetings at 7 AM.
Coworking spots like Dojo, Outpost, and Biliq have special deals in September too. If you’re staying for more than a week, ask about short-term passes. It’s cheaper than daily rates.
And let’s not forget—visa runs are still a thing. September’s a good time to renew your 30-day tourist visa by hopping over to KL or Singapore and coming back. Cheaper flights and less stress.
Should You Travel Solo to Bali in September?
Short answer: yep. Longer answer: it might be the best month for it.
Solo travelers tell me they love September because it’s social but not overwhelming. You’ll meet people at yoga classes, beach clubs, or even during shared tours—but you’ll also get enough space to recharge.
Safety-wise, Bali’s still one of the safest places for solo travelers. Just be street-smart. Lock your stuff, don’t walk alone at 3 AM through alleys, and always let someone know your plans if you’re venturing out to lesser-known areas.
A woman I drove last September said she felt safer walking alone in Ubud than in some cities back home. She even extended her trip because the vibe was that good.
One Last Thing I’ll Say About Bali in September
September’s kind of like that underrated band before they blow up. Still amazing, still yours to enjoy, but without all the noise.
You’ll see Bali at its best—lush landscapes, good food, cool weather, and just the right amount of people. Whether you’re here for surfing, chilling, healing, working, or just escaping your 9-to-5 grind… this month has something for you.
And if you need someone to drive you around, recommend warungs, or just share stories while stuck in traffic, well, you know where to find me. I’ll be the guy with snacks in the glovebox and reggae on the speakers.
Bali Pride 