What to eat in Bali in August: Seasonal delicacies
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Dinner reservation at Sarong (Seminyak)
Sarong is a well-known dining option in Seminyak, often booked ahead in peak months. It suits August when restaurants fill quickly. Reserve a few days early, confirm dress expectations, and plan extra road time due to traffic.
August continues Bali’s peak season with sunny days, cool breezes, and a festive, cosmopolitan vibe. Average highs remain at 29°C (84°F), and the island is at its most expensive and crowded. International visitors, families, and locals celebrating Independence Day fill the beaches, temples, and clubs. Community games, parades, and cultural performances add to the energy. The ocean is calm, diving is excellent, and the countryside is golden. While the crowds can be intense, the atmosphere is joyful and inclusive. August is a month for celebration, connection, and making the most of Bali’s best weather.
Pro tips for visiting Bali in August
Book flights, hotels, and tours months in advance, especially around Independence Day (August 17).
Attend local parades and community games for a taste of Balinese culture—ask your hotel for event details.
Escape the crowds with side trips to Nusa Lembongan or North Bali; pre-book tours due to high demand.
Reserve tables at restaurants and beach clubs, as walk-ins are rare in August.
Plan early morning visits to major attractions to avoid peak crowds.
Diving with Mola-Mola (sunfish) is best this month—coordinate with dive shops for early trips.
Expect temporary road closures during local events and parades.
Prices are highest—budget accordingly and look for value in less touristy areas.
August full-moon ceremonies take place during very high travel demand. You may see heavier crowds around major temples. Build extra travel time and keep your focus on respectful observation.
Tilem in August is a quieter new-moon ritual. It can be easier to observe amid peak-season crowds. If you want a low-impact cultural moment, ask your host about nearby temples that welcome visitors.
Odalan ceremonies occur at different temples throughout the month. Expect decorations and offerings, and occasional road slowdowns near village temples. Ask locally which ceremonies welcome visitors.
August 17 brings flag ceremonies, local parades, and community games in many towns. Tourist sites typically stay open, but some roads may close temporarily for events. Ask your hotel about nearby celebrations you can watch.
A two-day jazz festival featuring Indonesian and international musicians in a village-scale setting. Buy tickets early if you want weekend passes. Plan transport, as late-night ride availability can be limited in rural lanes.
A major road-race weekend in Gianyar with marathon and shorter distances. Expect early-morning road restrictions along parts of the route. If you have airport or hotel transfers, verify timings and alternate roads with your driver.
Bali in August at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 29°C
Minimum temperature: 23°C
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Daylight
Around 11 hours 45 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 6:30am
Sunset: 6:15pm
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Key events
Purnama temple ceremonies (Aug), Tilem temple ceremonies (Aug), Indonesian Independence Day, Ubud Village Jazz Festival (Aug)
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Crowds
Tourist-heavy, with long queues at attractions, crowded streets, and seasonal events adding to the buzz.
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What to pack
Summer clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, thin sweater for evenings, comfortable shoes.
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Seasonal treats
Independence Day snacks (kue lapis, traditional sweets), grilled satay at parades, fresh salak (snakefruit)
Plan ahead: Must-visit experiences for Bali in August