Weather
The weather is definitely wet and rainy in February. However, the storms that roll in usually don't last for long—typically just just a few hours in the mornings or afternoons. When it's not raining, the weather is sunny and hot with warm breezes and a tropical feel.
Temperatures range from 85°F to 95°F, making it hot but not completely unbearable. At night, the numbers drop to around 77°F to 80°F, providing moderate respite from the heat. If you choose to vacation here in February, be sure to bring lots of sunscreen and keep yourself hydrated.
Crowds and Costs
Aside from the fact that the weather is warm, the thing that makes February an excellent time to visit is that there are hardly anyone crowds. Even though the rain only lasts a few hours, it drives tourists away so the beaches are much less packed, and even the temples and jungles see substantial drops in tourist numbers.
Similarly, costs are lower too, particularly for lodging. Many hotels, in fact, cut prices nearly in half during February to try to draw in more low-season business. On top of that, the airlines run special deals and it's likely you'll pay less for your plane tickets both coming and going.
Where to Go
The island of Bali is the place to go in February—or at least one of the best options. Unlike neighboring islands, it doesn't get hit quite as hard with rain (though you should still definitely plan for some downpours). What's more, because it's a more heavily touristed island, good infrastructure makes the roads less prone to flooding and electrical outages less likely to occur. Additionally, there are so many restaurants, bars, and tourist activities that there's always something to do when it's raining. Many of the local businesses host special events and promotions when it's rainy to try to bring more people in the door.
Java is another decent choice, although it definitely gets more rain than Bali this time of year. The western part of the country is considerably wetter while the eastern region receives a bit more protection fro the storms. Temperature-wise, it remains hot and pleasant, lingering between 82°F and 86°F.
If you're up for an adventure, another great option is to head to any of the Moluccas Islands (also called the Spice Islands). These lesser-visited islands, which are more remote than places like Bali and Java, have different seasons than other parts of the country and aren't as wet this time of year.
The islands of Sumatra, Nusa Tenggara, Lombok, and Flores stay consistently wet throughout February and generally speaking don't make great destinations this time of year. You can certainly have an enjoyable vacation in these places but you'll need to pack a reliable rain jacket and plan on getting wet.
What to Do
Head to Bali where the rain won't be quite as intense as in other parts of Indonesia. The southern towns around Denpasar and Kuta Beach won't be great for surfing and ocean activities but the central and northern parts of the island will be lush and beautiful. Ubud is spectacular this time of year when the rice paddies surrounding town are bright green in February, creating perfect photo opportunities.
Check out the one-of-a-kind Monkey Forest (Mandala Suci Wenara Wana) where dozens of Balinese long-tailed monkeys wander freely, greeting tourists and asking not-so-coyly for bananas. Take a class at the relaxing Yoga Barn or see traditional silversmiths in the Celuk village where you can shop for jewelry and other items.
From there, head north to Bedugul where the picturesque Ulun Danu Temple is dedicated to the goddess of the lake. The rainy season is actually considered the best time to catch sunrise at this sacred site decorating Baratan Lake. Close by, you can get your adrenaline going at the Bali Treetop Adventure Park or explore the wondrous Bali Botanic Garden.
If you make it to the island of Java, forgo climbing Mt. Bromo or other peaks, which will be too rainy, and instead check out Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia. It will offer a pleasant array of indoor activities like restaurants, museums, and nightlife. Not too far away, temple lovers can check out the Borobudur Temple complex outside the city of Yogyakarta, or explore the Candi Prambanan complex near Borobudur.
Another more adventurous option is to head to the Molucca Islands to traipse through Manusela National Park on Seram Island (which is home to a large number of bird species or hike around Halmahera Island. Just keep in mind that these destinations have fewer amenities (wifi will definitely be spottier) and there won't be a lot in the way of restaurants or nightlife.
Events in February
Maha Shivaratri (or the "Great Night of Shiva"): This Hindu religious holiday, which occurs every year in late February (or occasionally early March), pays tribute to Lord Shiva. It's a time when the deity is said to perform a heavenly dance and participants stay up all night meditating, chanting, and praying. The holy day is celebrated in greater numbers on the island of Bali where a larger percentage of people are Hindu.
Traveling to Indonesia in February? Check out this great itinerary
Highlights of Bali - 8 Days: Since much of Indonesia is rainy this time of year, this 8-day tour is perfect for a February vacation. Unlike some other trips, the itinerary sticks to the island of Bali where rainfall is lighter and there are more tourist activities going on. It includes a visit to the town of Ubud where you'll cook traditional Balinese cuisine and a tour of beautiful Sidemen countryside, among other highlights.
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