Overview of Lombok’s Climate
Lombok is a tropical island destination with a warm climate year-round. Temperatures consistently range between 26°C and 31°C, while humidity levels remain relatively high at 76-84% throughout the year. The island experiences two distinct seasons: a dry season from April to September and a rainy season from November to March. Sea temperatures stay pleasantly warm at 27-29°C, making swimming and water activities enjoyable in every month. The best time to visit depends on your preferences, but the dry season offers the most favorable conditions for outdoor activities.
Lombok’s Seasonal Weather Patterns
Dry Season (April-September)
The dry season runs from April through September and represents the optimal window for visiting Lombok. During this period, average temperatures range from 27°C to 32°C with predominantly clear skies. Monthly rainfall is minimal (10-70mm), and the islands experience 9-10 hours of daily sunshine. Humidity levels are relatively lower at 76-78% compared to the rainy season.
This season is ideal for all outdoor activities including trekking, snorkeling, and surfing. However, July and August mark peak tourist season, bringing crowds and premium accommodation prices. These months offer the most predictable weather but require advance booking.
Late Dry Season (September-October)
September and October transition from the dry season toward the rainy season. Temperatures remain warm at 28-32°C with mostly clear days, though rainfall increases to 95-127mm per month. Humidity rises slightly to 76-79%, but conditions remain excellent for outdoor exploration.
This shoulder season offers the perfect balance of favorable weather and fewer tourists than peak season. Accommodation prices are more reasonable, and you’ll still enjoy plenty of sunshine alongside good travel conditions.
Rainy Season (November-March)
The rainy season extends from November through March, with December and January recording the heaviest rainfall (140-216mm monthly). Contrary to common misconceptions, rain typically concentrates in afternoon and evening hours, leaving mornings clear and suitable for activities. Daily rainfall rarely exceeds 1-2 hours even during the wettest months.
Temperatures hover between 28°C and 33°C with humidity reaching 79-81%. While the abundance of rain may deter some travelers, it brings significant advantages: tourist numbers drop dramatically, accommodation costs fall by 30-50%, and waterfalls showcase their full power. Mountain scenery becomes lush and vibrant, though trekking in rural areas may present challenges.
Best Times to Visit Lombok
Optimal Period: The dry season from April through October, with particular emphasis on the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October.
Peak Tourist Season (July-August): These months offer the most reliable weather and clearest skies, making them perfect for water sports and outdoor adventures. However, expect crowds and higher prices. Book accommodations well in advance.
Budget-Conscious Travelers: The rainy season (November-March) provides exceptional value with 30-50% discounts on accommodations. Morning activities work well before afternoon showers, and fewer tourists mean more authentic local experiences.
Mountain Trekking (Mount Rinjani): May through September offers the safest and most comfortable conditions. May and June are particularly excellent with perfect trail conditions and clear skies. Avoid December through February due to safety concerns from heavy rainfall.
Surfers: Both the rainy season (November-March) and early dry season (April-June) offer good conditions. Experienced surfers prefer the larger swells of the rainy season, while beginners find the more manageable waves of April-September easier to navigate.
Monthly Weather & Packing Recommendations
January (Peak Rainy Season)
January is the height of the rainy season with 180-220mm monthly rainfall across approximately 20-27 rainy days. Daytime temperatures average 30°C while nighttime drops to 24°C. Humidity reaches 79%, and daily sunshine falls below 8 hours due to cloud cover. Sea temperature remains warm at 29°C.
What to Pack: Lightweight, breathable cotton and linen short-sleeved shirts; 2-3 pairs of quick-dry shorts; waterproof rain jacket; waterproof bag; 2-3 swimsuits; quick-drying clothing. Avoid heavy garments and opt for lightweight rain ponchos over traditional umbrellas.
February (Late Rainy Season)
February maintains rainy conditions but shows decreasing rainfall trends (slightly less than January) with approximately 18-20 rainy days. Temperatures remain hot and humid at 30°C (day) and 24°C (night) with 79% humidity. Rain concentrates in afternoon and evening hours, leaving mornings clear for morning activities.
What to Pack: Similar to January with lightweight, breathable garments; multiple quick-dry shorts and shirts; waterproof rain jacket; waterproof bag; light rain poncho; 2-3 swimsuits; insect repellent spray; water bottle for staying hydrated.
March (Transition to Dry Season)
March marks the transition from rainy to dry season, with rainfall decreasing to 100-150mm across approximately 15 rainy days. Daytime temperatures reach 31°C with nights at 24°C, and clearing skies increase daily sunshine hours. Overall conditions improve significantly for travel.
What to Pack: Summer clothing (short-sleeved shirts, shorts, linen dresses); 2-3 swimsuits; 2-3 bottles of sunscreen; sunglasses; hat; lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bag still recommended; UV-protective long-sleeved shirt.
April (Early Dry Season/Shoulder Season)
April signals the start of the dry season with rainfall dropping dramatically to 50-90mm across just 8-10 rainy days. Daytime temperatures reach 31°C with nights at 24°C. While humidity remains at 79%, clear skies and approximately 9 hours of daily sunshine create ideal conditions. Tourist arrivals increase with corresponding price increases, but weather remains perfect for all outdoor activities.
What to Pack: Lightweight breathable cotton and linen clothing; 2-3 swimsuits; 3 pairs of shorts; 3-5 tank tops; UV-protective sunglasses; hat; high-SPF sunscreen (50+); flip-flops and comfortable sandals; sports activity clothing.
May (Dry Season/Early Peak Season)
May represents peak dry season conditions with minimal rainfall (30-60mm across 5-7 days). Daytime temperatures reach 31°C while nights cool to 21-24°C. Humidity sits at 79%, and daily sunshine extends to 9 hours. Conditions prove perfect for water sports and mountain trekking.
What to Pack: Lightweight breathable summer clothing; 2-3 swimsuits; multiple shorts; tank tops and short-sleeved shirts; mountain trekking outfit (long pants); comfortable hiking boots; UV-protective hat and sunglasses; high-SPF sunscreen; flip-flops and walking sandals; sports activity clothing.
June (Dry Season/Peak Season)
June is extremely dry with rainfall under 50mm across just 3-5 days. Daytime temperatures reach 30-31°C while nights cool to 21°C, and daily sunshine reaches 9 hours with perfect clarity. Strong UV radiation demands consistent sun protection. Peak season pricing begins.
What to Pack: Ultra-lightweight summer clothing (cotton, linen, quick-dry fabrics); multiple swimsuits; 3 pairs of shorts; multiple tank tops and short-sleeved shirts; mountain trekking outfit; UV-protective rash guard or beach shirt; high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm; UV-blocking sunglasses and hat; comfortable hiking boots and walking sandals; quick-dry towels.
July (Driest Month/Peak Season)
July is among the year’s driest months with rainfall under 15mm across just 3-4 days. Daytime temperatures dip to 27-28°C (the season’s coolest), while nights cool to 21-22°C, and humidity drops to 79%. Daily sunshine extends to 9-10 hours, and average wind speed reaches 13.3 km/h—excellent for water sports. Water temperature is coolest at 27°C.
What to Pack: Lightweight summer clothing; multiple swimsuits; shorts and tank tops; board shorts; mountain trekking outfit; UV-protective rash guard; high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm; UV-blocking sunglasses and hat; portable sunscreen spray for reapplication; comfortable walking sandals and hiking boots; quick-dry towels.
August (Peak Dry Season)
August rivals July as the year’s driest month with rainfall below 10mm across approximately 10 days. Daytime temperatures remain at 27-28°C with nights at 23°C, humidity at 76-79%, and cloud cover at just 22% (the year’s minimum). Daily sunshine reaches 9-10 hours with UV index of 7 (very high). Strong sun protection becomes essential.
What to Pack: Ultra-lightweight summer clothing; multiple swimsuits; several shorts; tank tops and short-sleeved shirts; board shorts; mountain trekking outfit; UV-protective rash guard; very high SPF sunscreen (50+); portable sunscreen spray; UV-blocking sunglasses and UV-protective hat; UV-protective arm sleeves or cover-up; comfortable hiking boots and walking sandals; quick-dry towels.
September (Late Dry Season/Shoulder Season)
September marks the dry season’s conclusion with rainfall increasing to 30-60mm across 6-8 days. Daytime temperatures reach 28-32°C with nights at 22°C, humidity at 79%, and approximately 9-10 hours of daily sunshine. Rain concentrates in afternoon hours, leaving mornings perfect for activities.
What to Pack: Lightweight breathable summer clothing; 2-3 swimsuits; multiple shorts; tank tops and short-sleeved shirts; mountain trekking outfit; lightweight rain jacket; waterproof bag; high-SPF sunscreen; UV-blocking sunglasses and hat; comfortable hiking boots and walking sandals; umbrella or lightweight rain poncho for afternoon protection; quick-dry towels.
October (Late Dry Season/Shoulder Season)
October marks the final dry month with increasing rainfall (95-127mm across 9-12 days) as it transitions toward the rainy season. Daytime temperatures reach 31°C with nights at 24°C, humidity at 77-79%, and approximately 10+ hours daily sunshine. Rain increases but remains concentrated in afternoon hours, with clear mornings and evenings.
What to Pack: Lightweight breathable summer clothing; 2-3 swimsuits; multiple shorts; tank tops and short-sleeved shirts; mountain trekking outfit; lightweight rain jacket; waterproof bag; high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm; UV-blocking sunglasses and hat; comfortable hiking boots and walking sandals; umbrella or lightweight rain poncho; quick-dry towels.
November (Early Rainy Season/Shoulder Season)
November begins the rainy season with rainfall increasing to 150-216mm across approximately 15 rainy days. Daytime temperatures reach 30-31°C with nights at 23-24°C and 79% humidity. Rain concentrates in afternoon and evening hours while mornings typically remain clear.
What to Pack: Lightweight breathable summer clothing (cotton, linen, quick-dry fabrics); 2-3 swimsuits; shorts; tank tops and short-sleeved shirts; lightweight rain jacket; waterproof bag; high-SPF sunscreen; UV-blocking sunglasses and hat; comfortable sandals and hiking boots (for wet conditions); umbrella or lightweight rain poncho; insect repellent spray (increased mosquitoes due to humidity); water bottle for hydration.
December (Peak Rainy Season)
December marks the rainy season’s height with 165-219mm monthly rainfall across approximately 17 rainy days. Daytime temperatures reach 31°C with nights at 23°C, humidity at 79%, and just 8 hours of daily sunshine due to cloud cover. Heavy rain concentrates in afternoon and evening, though intensity remains manageable.
What to Pack: Ultra-lightweight breathable clothing (cotton, linen); multiple swimsuits; multiple shorts; tank tops and short-sleeved shirts; quick-dry fabric clothing; waterproof rain jacket or lightweight rain poncho; waterproof bag for electronics; high-SPF sunscreen; UV-blocking sunglasses and hat; insect repellent spray; water-friendly sandals (wet-weather style) and hiking boots; umbrella; water bottle for constant hydration.
Lombok Climate Data Table
| Month | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Sea Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Humidity (%) |
| January | 31.2 | 24.1 | 29 | 280 | 79 |
| February | 31.4 | 23.8 | 29 | 225 | 79 |
| March | 31.8 | 23.6 | 29 | 160 | 79 |
| April | 32.1 | 23.5 | 29.5 | 110 | 79 |
| May | 31.8 | 22.6 | 29 | 95 | 79 |
| June | 31 | 21.7 | 28 | 45 | 79 |
| July | 30.4 | 20.9 | 27 | 30 | 79 |
| August | 30.7 | 20.8 | 27 | 20 | 79 |
| September | 31.3 | 22 | 27 | 35 | 79 |
| October | 32.3 | 23.3 | 28 | 110 | 77 |
| November | 32.3 | 24 | 29 | 165 | 79 |
| December | 31.5 | 24 | 29.5 | 245 | 79 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Lombok Weather
Q: How much rainfall does Lombok receive annually?
A: Lombok receives an average of approximately 1,500mm (60 inches) of annual rainfall, with concentration during December-February. During the rainy season, typical rainfall consists of 2-3 hour sessions in morning and afternoon, though occasionally rain continues all day. The dry season (June-September) experiences minimal precipitation.
Q: What is the best time to visit Lombok?
A: April through September represents the optimal period, with June, July, and August offering the most reliable weather. However, shoulder season months (April-May and September-October) also provide excellent conditions with fewer tourists and lower prices. These months offer sunny days, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall—ideal for hiking, surfing, and snorkeling.
Q: Is the rainy season really unsuitable for travel?
A: No. Many travelers misunderstand Lombok’s rainy season. Unlike Thailand’s monsoon, Lombok’s rain primarily concentrates in afternoon and evening hours. Mornings often remain clear, and even during rainfall, showers typically last just 1-2 hours. Rainy season travel provides significant advantages: fewer tourists, 30-50% cheaper accommodations, and powerful waterfalls at full strength.
Q: What are the temperature differences between day and night?
A: Daytime temperatures consistently range from 30-32°C year-round. Nighttime temperatures drop to 20-24°C in winter (dry season) and maintain 23-24°C during the rainy season. Mountain areas experience even cooler nighttime temperatures.
Q: How warm is the seawater?
A: Sea temperatures range from 26-30°C year-round, always suitable for swimming and surfing without thermal protection in most months. Dry season months (especially July-August) see the coolest seawater at approximately 27°C, while the rainy season (December-February) offers the warmest temperatures at 29-30°C.
Q: What is the humidity level like?
A: Lombok maintains consistently high relative humidity of 76-79% throughout the year. August experiences the lowest humidity at 76%, while October sits slightly lower at 77%, but humidity remains elevated year-round. August is the most comfortable month humidity-wise.
Q: Is rainy season travel safe?
A: Yes, rainy season travel is safe. However, certain activities face limitations. Morning activities work well, waterfall visits (with more dramatic water flow), surfing, snorkeling, and cultural exploration remain excellent options. Mountain trekking in heavily forested areas requires caution, and guides often avoid Mount Rinjani during peak rainy months (January-February) due to safety concerns.
Q: How should I plan activities during the rainy season?
A: The key to successful rainy season travel is scheduling major activities for morning hours (6am-12pm), when skies typically remain clear. Afternoons offer ideal times for indoor activities, dining, and socializing. Gili Islands enjoy their own microclimate, with clouds often remaining over mountains while the islands experience clearer conditions.
Q: What are surfing conditions like during the rainy season?
A: Both the rainy season (November-March) and early dry season (April-June) offer excellent surfing conditions. The rainy season produces larger, more powerful swells—ideal for experienced surfers. The dry season generates more manageable waves perfect for beginners.
Q: What are the humidity and rainfall patterns like month-by-month?
A: Humidity remains steady at 79% throughout most months, with October offering the only variation at 77%. Rainfall peaks dramatically in December (245mm) and January (280mm), then decreases through March, reaching minimums in July-August (under 30mm monthly). September through November show gradual rainfall increase as the wet season approaches.
Q: When is the best time for Mount Rinjani trekking?
A: May through September offers the safest and most comfortable trekking conditions, with May-June being optimal for trail conditions and sky clarity. Avoid December through February due to heavy rainfall creating serious safety hazards and poor visibility.
Q: Do prices vary significantly by season?
A: Yes. Peak season (July-August) brings premium pricing across accommodations and tours. The rainy season (November-March) offers the lowest rates with 30-50% discounts on lodging. Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide excellent value with favorable weather.
Q: What about mosquito concerns?
A: While mosquito populations peak during early rainy season and spike again several months later, standard prevention works effectively. Use insect repellent sprays consistently, especially during the rainy season months. Air-conditioned accommodations with closed windows provide additional protection.
Planning your Lombok adventure? Use this comprehensive weather guide to select the optimal travel dates based on your preferences, budget, and planned activities. Whether you seek peak-season reliability, budget-friendly rainy season travel, or shoulder-season balance, Lombok offers exceptional experiences throughout the year.