10 Things to Do in Bali in Summer

Summer in Bali starts at the end of December and lasts until March, a long season ideal for outdoor activities. It's characterised by intermittent showers (especially in the mountains), hot and quite humid days, so take your precautions when packing your suitcase. There's something for everyone, but you can certainly start by surfing for a taste of the intense waves or venture out for a relaxing cruise aboard the best local cruises.

For the best things to do in Bali you can explore the refreshing waterfalls or visit an interesting theme park, where the famous aerial swings are hidden. Cultural events are also worthwhile, with the Ogoh-Ogoh parade, Chinese New Year and Valentine's Day celebrations taking place around this time.

There's no doubt that Bali is a vibrant destination, where summers are catalysed by hot and humid days. To start your itinerary you can head to some of the best local beaches to cool off and enjoy a variety of water experiences, such as a surfing lesson from €29.

It's a beginner-friendly activity that will give you a thrilling connection with the sea. You can rent a board and try it on your own, although I advise you to hire an expert instructor, as the waves are trickier in the wet season.

A guided lesson will take you to surfing's favourite spots, starting with Canggu Beach. It's a bay with black sand and crystal clear waters, where the waves are usually more consistent and ideal for surfing. It is surrounded by fascinating activities such as yoga classes in front of the sea, as well as beach bars for delicious food and beautiful cliffs. Other beaches that lend themselves to this activity are:

• Keramas: If you plan to spend at least 5 days in Bali, you must visit this paradise in the east. Its waves are fast and turbulent, but completely safe. Occasionally, there are surfing events such as the Rip Curl Cup, which is disputed between several Southeast Asian countries.
• Padang Padang: it is an ideal bay for professional surfers, as the waves are more powerful and can reach up to four metres high.
• Medewi: is located to the west and offers gentle waves, with perfect surfing conditions. If you go with experts you can reach the area where Bali's longest wave is projected.

The humidity in the summer can be overwhelming, so I recommend you look for relaxing and refreshing plans that connect you with the goodness of Bali. The best Bali cruises are a great option, especially as prices are lower during this season compared to the dry season. It also tends to be less crowded, so you'll be treated to unique, uncluttered landscapes. Specifically, I recommend considering December, February or March, as January tends to be an extremely rainy month.

Some cruise ships offer different entertainment options on board, such as arts and crafts workshops, casinos and discos, spa services, dance shows and live music. You may also find a mouth-watering buffet, ideal for experiencing the local cuisine. Packages are available from 79 euros and general recommendations include wearing breathable clothing to cope with the humid days, wearing non-slip shoes and prioritising the southern and eastern beaches, where there's less chance of rain.

Nature is one of Bali's incredible attractions, which will leave you spellbound for the duration of your trip. The beaches, temples and animal sanctuaries are amazing, but the waterfalls are also worth a chance. Tours of this kind include adventures, climbs and challenges to decipher the coordinates of the amazing waterfalls. Beforehand, I recommend you bring a swimming costume, mackintosh, comfortable shoes, mosquito repellent, water shoes and sunscreen.

It's one of the best things to do in Bali in summer, as the waterfalls are at their strongest and most impressive during the wet season. They are also a great way to escape the sticky heat and enjoy the uncrowded trails with few tourists. However, there tends to be more rain in the mountains at this time of year, so I recommend opting for a guided tour for safety. There are options from 47 euros, which usually make stops in Ubud's abundant rice paddies.

Note that the most impressive waterfalls are:

• Leke Leke: this is a low-key route in the north of the island that you can't afford to miss. It is ideal for cooling off in shallow waters and enjoying the lush scenery.
• Nungnung: is an impressive waterfall, where the water falls with great force due to its height. It is located between Canggu and Ubud, so it is easy to get to. The only drawback is that it requires some physical effort, as you will have to climb at least 500 steps.
• Tibumana: without a doubt, it will not leave you indifferent with its incomparable beauty. It is surrounded by rice fields and palm trees that adorn the landscape.

Images of the famous aerial swings probably spring to mind when you think of Bali, but some photo-worthy locations seem to be a complete secret. While there are different areas of the island that offer this experience, one of the most accessible is the Aloha Ubud Swing theme park. Its jungle scenery is breathtaking and ideal for unforgettable photographs.

There are around five swings, where you can recline comfortably and be between 10 and 60 metres above the ground. The adrenaline rush of flying through the air is unmatched by any other activity on the island. It also offers panoramic views of the rice terraces which are a work of nature. During the experience you can also get a glimpse of the butterfly park and the surrounding bird and chicken nests. You can find tickets from 28 euros, which usually include most of the attractions.

In the summer the water levels rise, so the season is perfect for enjoying adventurous water sports. The most recommended in the wet season is rafting, as the rides are more exciting and daring. Of course, it is important to do it in the company of professionals to avoid accidents. Be prepared for a lot of sensations, the raft will flow better which decreases the risk of hitting the bottom.

You should definitely choose this activity if you plan to stay at least 7 days in Bali. You can find options from 24 euros, which glide through the vastness of the river and to recharge your energy, they usually offer a delicious lunch. You may also be able to enjoy a hot shower and receive all the necessary equipment for the experience. Other recommended rafting areas include the Melangit River and the Telaga Wajay River.

Another not-to-be-missed experience is a tour of the Jatiluwih rice terraces, which are the largest in Bali. They are located in the middle of the jungle and will leave you dazzled by their beauty, which comes from a cooperation between nature and man. Originally, rice cultivation began in the Neolithic period, due to the fertility of the land. However, the steepness of the mountains made it difficult to harvest successfully. Therefore, the natives created an irrigation system that kept the crop moist, giving rise to the famous terraces.

It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do on the island. In Bali's rice paddies you can learn more about this history, and this particular one is almost 600 hectares in size. The best way to tour it is by motorbike or on an electric bike, taking advantage of experiences from 71 euros that usually offer guidance and a lunchtime tasting. Plus, the ride allows you to glide through the jungle, pass close to the Monkey Forest and catch a glimpse of the foothills of Mount Batukaru.

Bali is one of the most romantic destinations and is chosen by hundreds of couples every year to celebrate love on the island of the gods. You can make the most of the spectacular nightlife, tour the natural monuments and take advantage of the best local beaches.

Bear in mind that this is a multicultural island where Hindu culture is predominant and is governed by Balinese calendars. However, love is celebrated as anywhere else in the world, following the Gregorian calendar (the one most similar to Western culture). As such, it is common for Valentine's Day activities to take place every 14 February. Some of the things you can do include:

• Enjoy a picture-perfectsunset, either on board the best local cruises or in the free bays.
• Take advantage of a romantic getaway to a private beach. Luxury resorts with exclusive pools are one of the most sought-after activities at this time of year, so I recommend booking in advance.
• Camp under the stars in Bali's multifaceted West Bali National Park. It's a safe and romantic place to experience this in cabins or tents at the foot of the mountain.

At Kuta Beach you can have an enriching experience, which will connect you with nature. Here you will find the Bali Sea Turtle Society, a marine life conservation centre that has been releasing rescued turtles since 2002. More baby turtle eggs hatch in the summer, so there's more chance to experience this.

Here you can attend awareness workshops and learn about the six species of turtles that live on the island: Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, Leatherback, Loggerhead and Flatback turtles. Due to the increasing trade in the species, a rescue programme has been set up, which you can take part in. You can go to the beaches with designated teams to carefully collect eggs and take them to the hatcheries. There are still some monsoons during this season, so many turtles are stranded in the bays and require immediate assistance.

One of Bali's most important activities, better known as the Ogoh-Ogoh parade, takes place between February and March. It consists of a procession through the spiritual enclaves of the island of the gods, where huge papier-mâché statues representing the evil spirits of Hindu mythology are brought out. It is considered a purification ritual and is accompanied by traditional music, craft workshops and torches.

It is performed to welcome the Balinese New Year and prepare locals for the famous day of silence, a ritual that leaves the island empty as talking is forbidden for 24 hours. This practice stems from the belief that talking can attract evil spirits, so I advise you to be respectful and open to these particular cultural practices.

Bali is located in Southeast Asia, so there is a large Chinese community. In fact, the influence of this culture on Indonesian traditions can be seen in different elements of the island. Chinese New Year is a fun-filled event, and the Balinese Chinese usually start their celebrations at the Ling Gwan Kiong Taoist temple with dragon dances.

The most special events come to life in the town of Singaraja, where you can enjoy the fireworks display at the end of the festivities. You can also take advantage of lantern and flower decorating workshops, as well as bring offerings to Chinese temples or klenteng. Sometimes Chinese New Year coincides with Balinese New Year and you can find the contrast between the two cultures, as well as experiences that combine food, dance and music. It's one of the best things to do in Bali, so make sure you make time for it on your itinerary.

• Pack loose-fitting, cool clothes, as the humidity can be oppressive.
• Plan an itinerary of at least 7 days in Bali, so that you can take advantage of all the summer activities.
• Bring a foldable bag or backpack to take advantage of Bali's best excursions, so you can carry water and other important items.
• Adjust your plans according to your needs, keeping in mind that the coasts are hotter, while the mountains and the centre of the island have cooler temperatures but some humidity.
• To enter the island, you must have vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, tetanus and typhoid.
• Protect yourself from mosquitoes with a good repellent, as they can be a nuisance at this time of year.
• Be aware that public transport is very limited, so it's best to hail a taxi or hire a car.
• In summer it can be great fun to travel by motorbike from place to place, but of course it's essential to wear a helmet and avoid riding when it's raining or at night. If you're the one driving, make sure you drive in the left-hand lane and have an international driving licence and valid insurance. This way, you'll be able to enjoy the best things to do in Bali safely.