November is Bali in transition — the last of the drier weather before the full wet season arrives in December, and a month that asks for a wardrobe of two halves. The days are still warm, with temperatures of 28-31°C and the sea a balmy 27-28°C, but the humidity is climbing and short, heavy showers become more likely as the month goes on, especially in the afternoons. The landscape is still golden-green, the waterfalls are filling up, and the crowds and prices have not yet peaked — November is a beautiful, rewarding, good-value time to be in Bali, as long as you dress for the change.
This complete guide to what to wear in Bali in November covers the clothing you need for every part of a November trip — daytime exploring, beach and beach-club days, evenings out, temple visits, the late-month showers and active days — plus a full packing list and answers to the most common questions. We also bring together all the travel essentials in one place: live flight prices to Bali, the best Bali hotels, car rentals and scooter hire for getting around, a Bali eSIM so you stay connected, and the best GetYourGuide tours and experiences to round out your trip. Whether you are spending early November on the beaches of Seminyak, mid-November in the rice terraces of Ubud, or late November chasing waterfalls, this is your November Bali packing handbook.
The Bali November Climate in Brief
November sits on the cusp of Bali\'s dry and wet seasons. The first half of the month is often still sunny and pleasant — a genuine shoulder-season sweet spot with lower prices and fewer crowds. Rainfall rises through the month, averaging around 120-180 mm, and by late November short, heavy showers become more common, usually arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The rain rarely lasts all day; most showers pass within an hour or two, leaving warm, humid evenings and a fresh, vivid-green landscape. Mornings are often bright, making early starts the best way to make the most of the day.
Daytime temperatures sit between 28°C and 31°C, with night-time lows of 24-26°C. Humidity climbs through the month — often 75-85% — which makes the air feel warmer and stickier than the thermometer suggests, especially in Ubud and the interior. The sea stays warm and swimmable through November, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and water sports, though surf on the west coast can be powerful and the occasional late-month storm can make boat trips to Nusa Penida choppy. The sun is strong even on cloudy days, so sun protection is non-negotiable.
In short: November is a warm, increasingly humid, occasionally wet month. The wardrobe it asks for is light, breathable and adaptable — layers you can peel off in the heat and add back when the first showers or the air-conditioning arrive.
The Six Wardrobe Essentials for Bali in November
A Bali November wardrobe can be built around a small number of versatile essentials. Get these six right and the rest of your packing falls into place.
Breathable Daywear
November sits on the cusp of Bali's dry and wet seasons, so the backbone of your wardrobe is still light, breathable natural fibres. Pack cotton or linen tops, shorts, dresses and light trousers for the warm 28-31°C days. The humidity is rising but the real downpours are still mostly a late-November feature, so you can lean a little more on natural fibres than in December, with one or two quick-dry pieces as insurance.
A Light Rain Layer
By November, short afternoon showers become more likely, especially in the second half of the month. A compact travel umbrella and a thin, packable rain jacket or windbreaker are worth carrying, but you will not need them every day. Avoid heavy waterproofs — the humidity will make you sweat more than the rain wets you. A foldable rain layer you can tuck into your day bag is the single most useful piece you will bring.
Swimwear & Cover-Ups
Bali's sea stays a balmy 27-28°C well into November, and the sun breaks through often between any showers. Pack at least two sets of swimwear so one is always dry, plus a sarong or kaftan cover-up. A sarong also serves as a temple sash, a beach mat and a sun scarf — the most versatile item you can carry.
Comfortable, Grippy Footwear
November is a transition month, so pathways are usually dry but can turn slick after a shower. Pack flip-flops for the beach, plus a pair of sturdy sandals or slip-on sneakers with grip for exploring. Water shoes are worth their weight in gold around waterfalls and rice terraces. Slip-on styles are practical because you will remove them often to enter temples and cafés.
Modest Temple Outfit
Balinese temples require shoulders and knees covered and a sarong and sash around the waist, regardless of the weather or season. Bring your own sarong and sash to skip the queue at temple entrances, and wear or carry a top with sleeves. November's occasional rain does not change the dress code — dress to respect the sacred space.
Sun & Insect Protection
The UV is strong even on cloudy November days, so pack a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen. As the wet season approaches, mosquitoes become more noticeable, especially at dawn and dusk — bring a good insect repellent and a couple of lightweight long-sleeve shirts for evenings and jungle areas.
What to Wear for Each Part of Your Bali Day
Bali in November sees a wide range of activities and weather in a single day — a sunny morning temple visit, a showery afternoon beach club, a humid evening dinner — so each part of the day has its own dress code. Here is what to wear for each.
Daytime Exploring (Cafés, Temples, Rice Terraces)
For a day of exploring in November, wear light, breathable clothing: a cotton or linen t-shirt or tank top with shorts or a midi skirt, comfortable sandals or slip-on sneakers, and a crossbody bag with a rain cover. Keep a compact umbrella and a thin rain jacket in your bag for the second half of the month, a sarong for temple stops, and reef-safe sunscreen on exposed skin. For rice-terrace walks and waterfalls, choose water shoes or sturdy sandals with grip and a quick-dry outfit you do not mind getting a little wet.
Beach & Beach Club Days
November beach days are still largely sunny, especially in the first half of the month. Wear swimwear with a sarong or kaftan cover-up, flip-flops, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, and keep a compact umbrella and a light rain jacket in your beach bag for late-month showers. A linen shirt over your swimsuit gives coverage for lunch at a beach club, and a dry bag protects your phone and valuables on boat trips. Most beach clubs keep a resort-casual dress code.
Evenings Out (Dinner, Beach Clubs, Bars)
November evenings are warm and humid, so keep outfits light and breathable. For women, a midi or maxi sundress, a linen shirt-dress or tailored shorts with a blouse all work; for men, a linen or cotton shirt with chinos or tailored shorts is the standard. A light layer is useful for air-conditioned restaurants, and a compact umbrella is wise for the walk home once late-November showers begin. Beach clubs and rooftop bars lean resort-smart; avoid sport sandals and gym wear.
Temple Visits
Balinese temples require modest dress: shoulders and knees covered, and a sarong and sash around the waist. The easiest approach is to wear or carry your own sarong and sash, though most temples lend or rent them at the entrance. Pair the sarong with a t-shirt or blouse that covers your shoulders, and remove your hat and sunglasses inside the temple. In November, add a compact umbrella and sandals or shoes with grip once late-month showers arrive.
Late-November Showers & Waterfall Days
When the afternoon rain arrives in late November, a compact umbrella and a thin, packable rain jacket keep you dry without overheating. Avoid heavy waterproofs — the humidity will make you sweat more than the rain wets you. Quick-dry fabrics are your friend; a change of dry clothes at your hotel or in a day bag is worth its weight in gold. Water shoes or sandals with grip are essential around waterfalls and on wet stone, where the paths are genuinely slippery.
Yoga, Surf & Active Days
For yoga, bring breathable leggings or shorts and a tank top — most studios in Ubud and Canggu provide mats. November's warm water (27-28°C) is perfect for surf lessons; swimwear and a rash vest are enough, and most schools provide the rash vest and the board. For sunrise hikes like Mount Batur, wear layered breathable clothes, proper sneakers, a rain layer and a warm layer for the pre-dawn summit — it gets cold at altitude even in Bali, and November mornings can be misty.
The Complete Bali November Packing List
- 5-7 lightweight cotton or linen tops / t-shirts
- 2-3 pairs of shorts and a midi or maxi skirt
- 2 sundresses or linen shirt-dresses
- 2 sets of swimwear and 1 sarong / kaftan cover-up
- 1-2 light long-sleeve shirts for sun, insects and air-con
- 1 thin packable rain jacket or windbreaker
- 1 compact travel umbrella
- Flip-flops, sturdy sandals or slip-on sneakers, and water shoes
- A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses
- Reef-safe (mineral, non-nano) sunscreen and insect repellent
- A scarf or shawl for temple visits and air-conditioned cafés
- A light layer (cardigan or hoodie) for evenings and flights
- A refillable water bottle and a small daypack with rain cover
- A waterproof phone pouch or dry bag for beach and boat days
- Modest outfit (covered shoulders and knees) for temples
- Quick-dry underwear and a laundry bag for humid climates
- Slip-on shoes that are easy to remove (you'll take them off often)
- A sarong you can also use as a beach mat, towel, sun scarf or temple sash
November: The Transition Month
November is the month Bali shifts gears — from the dry, sunny high season into the green, dramatic wet season. The first half of the month often feels like a quieter, cheaper version of the dry season: warm, sunny days, light breezes and empty beaches. By the second half, the air grows more humid, the clouds build in the afternoon, and short, heavy showers become a near-daily feature, usually clearing within a couple of hours. The rice terraces turn vivid green, the waterfalls fill, and the whole island takes on the lush, atmospheric look that makes the wet season so photogenic.
The key to enjoying November is preparation and flexibility. A light, packable rain layer rather than a heavy waterproof, quick-dry fabrics, and a willingness to lean into the rhythm of sunny mornings and showery afternoons. A compact travel umbrella and a thin rain jacket or windbreaker keep you dry without making you swelter — heavy waterproofs trap the humidity and leave you wetter from sweat than from the rain. Quick-dry fabrics are your friend, as is a change of dry clothes in your day bag or back at the hotel.
Most importantly, do not let the late-month rain change your plans. November showers are part of the rhythm of Bali, and many of the island\'s best experiences — a quiet temple, a spa afternoon, a long lunch, a cooking class, a yoga session — are all the more enjoyable for the rain. Pack for it, dress for it, and the November weather becomes a feature rather than a problem, and the island reveals itself at its greenest and most atmospheric before the full wet season arrives.
Tips for Dressing Well in Bali in November
- Lean on natural fibres (cotton, linen) — November is still mostly dry, especially early in the month
- Add one or two quick-dry pieces as insurance for late-November showers
- A sarong is the most useful single item in Bali: cover-up, temple sash, beach mat, scarf
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen — many snorkelling sites ban conventional sunscreen to protect the coral
- Carry a compact umbrella from mid-November onward, even when the morning looks clear
- Wear slip-on shoes — you will remove them to enter temples, cafés and sometimes shops
- Avoid black and heavy dark fabrics; they absorb Bali's heat and show sweat
- Dress modestly when leaving the beach — cover up before walking through towns and villages
- Water shoes with grip are essential around waterfalls and on wet stone paths
- A light layer is essential for air-conditioned restaurants, cafés and flights
- For a sunrise hike like Mount Batur, bring a warm layer — it is genuinely cold at the top before dawn
- Use insect repellent at dawn and dusk — mosquitoes become more noticeable as the wet season approaches
- Never enter a temple in swimwear, shorts, singlets or sheer fabrics — dress to respect
- A dry bag protects your phone, passport and valuables on boat trips and rainy walks
Fly to Bali
Compare live flight prices to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) from cities across Australia, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. November is a shoulder month — fares are lower than the July-August peak, so it is a great-value time to fly.
Book Bali Hotels
Check live rates and availability across Bali — from beachfront resorts in Nusa Dua to villas in Canggu and jungle lodges in Ubud. November is a shoulder month, so prices are lower and availability is good.
Book Bali HotelsRent a Car in Bali
Hire a car — ideally with a local driver — to explore Bali dry and comfortable even on a showery November afternoon. Book online in advance for the best rates.
Get a Bali eSIM
Activate a Bali eSIM before you land so you can check the weather radar, message your hotel and share your trip the moment you arrive — no airport SIM queues.
Get a Bali eSIMRent a Scooter or Bike
A scooter is a cheap, fun way to explore Bali\'s back roads and beaches. Bring a light rain jacket for late-November showers, and book online in advance to skip roadside haggling.
Rent a ScooterBook Bali Experiences
Pair your trip with the best of Bali — Nusa Penida snorkelling, Ubud waterfalls and rice terraces, Mount Batur sunrise hikes and Uluwatu temple sunsets. Book ahead in shoulder season for the best slots.
Book ExperiencesThings to Do in Bali in November
November is a wonderful month to explore Bali — the landscape is greening up, the waterfalls are filling, and the lower crowds make the popular spots more peaceful. Snorkel the reefs of Nusa Penida, chase waterfalls around Ubud, hike Mount Batur for sunrise, or watch the Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. Browse and book some of the most popular Bali experiences below.
Bali: Nusa Penida Island Day Trip with Snorkeling
Cliffs, crystal-clear water and snorkeling at Manta Bay and Crystal Bay.
Book on GetYourGuide
Ubud: Waterfall, Temple & Rice Terrace Day Tour
Tegenungan waterfall, Tirta Empul temple and the Tegalalang rice terraces.
Book on GetYourGuide
Mount Batur Sunrise Hike with Breakfast
Pre-dawn volcano trek with a mountaintop breakfast and coffee.
Book on GetYourGuideWhat to Wear in Bali in November: In Pictures
From light linen outfits and swimwear to temple attire and vivid green rice terraces — here is a visual guide to dressing for Bali in November.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Bali in November?
In Bali in November, wear lightweight, breathable clothing in cotton or linen — t-shirts, tank tops, shorts and sundresses — for the warm days, and add a compact umbrella and a thin, packable rain jacket for the increasing afternoon showers, especially in the second half of the month. Bring swimwear and a sarong for the beach, a modest outfit for temple visits, a light layer for air-conditioned spaces, water-friendly footwear, and a wide-brimmed hat and reef-safe sunscreen for the strong UV. Insect repellent becomes more useful as the wet season approaches.
Is November a good time to visit Bali?
November is a shoulder-season month — the last of the drier weather before the full wet season arrives in December. The first half of November is often still sunny and pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices than the July-August peak. The second half sees more frequent showers and rising humidity, though rain rarely lasts all day and mornings are often bright. November is a great choice if you want good weather, lower prices and fewer crowds, and do not mind the occasional late-month shower.
Does it rain a lot in Bali in November?
Rainfall rises through November as the wet season approaches, but it is not yet a washout month. Early November is often still quite dry; by late November, short, heavy showers become more common, usually in the late afternoon or evening. Rain typically lasts an hour or two rather than all day, and mornings are frequently sunny. Monthly rainfall averages around 120-180 mm — noticeably more than the dry months but far less than December or January. With a compact umbrella and a thin rain jacket, you can keep exploring comfortably.
How hot is Bali in November?
Bali in November is warm and increasingly humid, with daytime temperatures typically between 28°C and 31°C (82-88°F) and night-time temperatures around 24-26°C (75-79°F). Humidity climbs through the month, often reaching 75-85%, which makes it feel warmer and stickier than the thermometer suggests. The sea temperature is a balmy 27-28°C, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and water sports. The combination of heat and humidity is why breathable clothing and a midday dip or siesta are so important in November.
What should I wear to a temple in Bali in November?
Balinese temples require modest dress: shoulders and knees must be covered, and a sarong and sash are mandatory around the waist. The easiest approach is to wear or carry your own sarong and sash, though most temples lend or rent them at the entrance. Pair the sarong with a t-shirt or blouse that covers your shoulders (avoid singlets, sheer fabrics and low-cut tops), and remove your hat and sunglasses inside the temple. In late November, add a compact umbrella and sandals or shoes with grip for the occasional shower.
Can I wear shorts in Bali in November?
Yes, shorts are fine for everyday wear in Bali in November — for cafés, beaches, towns and most activities. The exceptions are temples, where knees must be covered (a sarong over shorts satisfies this), and more upscale restaurants and beach clubs, where tailored shorts are acceptable but gym shorts and board shorts are not. For exploring towns and rice terraces, a light midi skirt or loose linen trousers are a comfortable, modest alternative that also protects you from the sun, any late-month rain and mosquitoes.
Do I need a rain jacket in Bali in November?
A thin, packable rain jacket or windbreaker is a good idea in November, especially in the second half of the month when showers become more frequent. You will not need it every day, but tucking one into your day bag is wise. Avoid heavy waterproofs, which trap the humidity and make you sweat more than the rain wets you; choose a lightweight, breathable layer you can fold away. Pair it with a compact travel umbrella, which is often more comfortable than a jacket in the warm, humid air. A warm jacket is not needed except for a sunrise hike like Mount Batur.
What shoes should I pack for Bali in November?
Pack three types of footwear for Bali in November: flip-flops or sandals for the beach and pool, a sturdier pair of sandals or slip-on sneakers with grip for exploring, and water shoes for waterfalls, rice terraces and boat trips. Bali's pavements are uneven and can turn slick after a shower, so closed-toe slip-on sneakers with grip are the safest choice for days in Ubud and waterfall visits. Slip-on styles are practical because you will remove them often. Avoid heavy hiking boots unless you are tackling Mount Batur or Mount Agung.
Pack for the Transition, Enjoy Bali in November
Dressing for Bali in November comes down to a few simple principles: light, breathable natural fibres for warm days; a compact umbrella and a thin, packable rain jacket for the first wet-season showers; a sarong that works as cover-up, temple sash and sun scarf; and a light layer for air-conditioned spaces. Add your swimwear, sun protection and insect repellent, and you are ready for everything a November trip to Bali can throw at you — from a sunny beach morning to a showery Ubud afternoon.