La Plancha is known for beachside seating and sunset service, paired with casual snacks and drinks. It fits May’s calmer dry season when tables are easier to get. Arrive before sunset for seating, and expect cash or card fees.
May is one of Bali’s most inviting months. The dry season is firmly established, with average highs of 30°C (86°F) and cool nights in the highlands. The air is crisp, the skies are clear, and the beaches are peaceful. The landscape remains lush from recent rains, and the island feels balanced—alive with activity but not yet crowded. This is a time for beach days, yoga festivals, and exploring the countryside. Markets and restaurants are accessible, and it’s easy to negotiate for drivers or souvenirs. May is a month for relaxation, adventure, and savoring Bali’s best weather without the high-season rush.
Pro tips for visiting Bali in May
Enjoy peaceful beaches and moderate prices before the June–August rush begins.
Attend the Bali Spirit Festival in Ubud for yoga, music, and wellness events.
Negotiate with drivers and market vendors, as business is slower and deals are common.
Book accommodations for late May/early June if you want specific resorts or villas.
Visit popular restaurants and beach clubs without long waits—walk-ins are usually fine.
Take advantage of excellent diving and snorkeling conditions, with clear water and few crowds.
Plan day trips to the highlands (Bedugul) for cooler evenings and scenic views.
If Ramadan or Vesak falls in May, expect minor impacts on some businesses but little effect on tourism.
Bali in May at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 30°C
Minimum temperature: 24°C
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Daylight
Around 11 hours 45 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 6:25am
Sunset: 6:10pm
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Key events
Purnama temple ceremonies (May), Tilem temple ceremonies (May), Ubud Food Festival (late May), Bali Hope Ultra (May)
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Crowds
Balanced crowds, with manageable queues and a mix of tourists and local visitors in the city.
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What to pack
Light clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light jacket for highlands, sarong.
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Seasonal treats
Balinese fruit salads (rujak), young coconut drinks, fresh jackfruit and durian in local markets
May full-moon ceremonies continue across Bali with evening prayers and offerings. It often coincides with stable dry-season weather. Plan temple visits with modest clothing and an unhurried schedule.
Tilem in May is a quieter observance tied to renewal and purification. You may notice offerings at homes and temples. If you attend, keep your behavior subdued and follow any local instructions.
A ceremonial day honoring plants and trees. Offerings may appear in gardens and agricultural areas. It highlights the Balinese relationship with cultivation and the environment. Respect private property when viewing.
A multi-day program of talks, cooking demos, tastings, and market-style events focused on Indonesian food culture. Book signature sessions early if you have must-see speakers. Ubud stays can fill faster during festival days.
A multi-stage ultramarathon that draws endurance runners and support crews. Routes can affect traffic in participating areas. If you are driving that day, check local notices and allow extra time for road movement.
Vesak is a Buddhist holiday that may fall in late May in some years. It is not a major Bali-wide shutdown, but you may notice observances at some Chinese-Balinese temples. Confirm timings locally.
Plan ahead: Must-visit experiences for Bali in May
