Things To Do
in Seria
Seria is a coastal town in Brunei's Belait District, located near Brunei Bay at coordinates 4.6141, 114.3302. It is known for its oil and gas heritage and a mix of industrial areas with calmer residential and coastal zones. The town offers approachable markets, waterfront strolls, and access to nearby natural areas.
Visitors can experience Brunei's regional culture, maritime scenery, and a slower pace still close to major Brunei City logistics.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Seria and settle into a beachfront guesthouse, enjoying panoramic views of the South China Sea. Unpack and stretch your legs with a stroll through the town centre, observing local life and colorful shopfronts. Feel the fresh coastal breeze while chatting with friendly vendors at the local market.
Head to the Shell Seria Office for an introductory session on Brunei’s oil industry and the town’s role as one of Southeast Asia’s earliest booms. Walk to the nearby Oil & Gas Discovery Centre for interactive exhibits and guided demonstrations. Sample a traditional lunch at a local kopitiam, savoring kuih and kopi for an authentic Bruneian experience.
Dine at Junjungan Seafood Restaurant, renowned for its grilled prawns and fresh catch of the day. Take an evening stroll along Seria Beach as fishing boats drift under a starlit sky. Sip chilled coconut water while listening to gentle waves lapping the shore.
Return early to the Oil & Gas Discovery Centre for an in-depth guided tour of drilling simulators and geological labs. Participate in hands-on activities that explain how oil wells are located and maintained. Learn about safety measures and environmental protections from expert volunteers.
Attend a workshop on core sampling techniques and inspect real rock samples from Seria’s oilfields. Discuss Brunei’s energy history with a retired Shell geologist over traditional chicken rice. Finish with a walkthrough of the centre’s multimedia theatre showing archival footage of early drilling operations.
Explore Seria’s nightly food stalls, sampling satay and freshly made apam balik. Enjoy live Malay music under string lights at a riverside café. Chat with locals about community life in this historic oil town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨1-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚌Local transport (day pass / taxi) | $5-15 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stable and friendly safety environment
- Accessible oil heritage sites and museums
- Reasonable costs for Southeast Asia travel
- Proximity to nature and coastal scenery
- Limited nightlife within Seria
- Humid climate and heavy rain can affect plans
- Public transportation outside Bandar Seri Begawan is limited
- Industrial areas can be noisy and dusty
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya tidak faham" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Seria
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal views at dusk with boats, water reflections, and the industrial silhouette of Seria’s harbor area.
Architectural contrast between industrial heritage and modern design, great for urban-scale photography.
Open horizons and sunset silhouettes along the coast, ideal for wide-angle and seascape shots.
Food in Seria
Seria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Simple rice with fried chicken and sambal; a Bruneian comfort classic found at local stalls and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A starchy sago paste eaten with a variety of dipping sauces and side dishes; a national staple often shared among groups.
Spiced grilled fish skewers, a popular Bruneian street food often served with fresh lime and chilli sauce.
Charred, marinated fish grilled over direct heat and served with tangy sambal and rice.
Assorted local snacks and desserts such as coconut jellies, rice cakes, and sweet treats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal, vibrant markets where you can buy fresh produce, grilled seafood, snacks, and prepared dishes. Great for sampling local flavors and watching daily life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by wearing modest clothing, especially near mosques and religious sites.
Be mindful during prayer times; avoid loud behavior near places of worship. Remove shoes where required and follow signage at mosques.
A handshake is common with appropriate politeness; use the right hand for exchanges. Public displays of affection are discouraged in many settings.
Safety
Tipping in Seria
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Brunei; most service charges are included or not expected. If you receive exceptional service, a small tip at your discretion is appreciated but not required.
Cash and major credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; ATMs are common. Contactless payments are increasingly available in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent showers; mornings are best for outdoor exploration. Carry water, wear breathable clothing, and use sun protection.
Heavier rainfall and higher humidity; showers can be sudden. Pack a light rain jacket and plan indoor alternative activities for rainy days.
Generally drier with warm days; still humid. Suitable for outdoor activities, but always have water and cooling options on hand.
Seria at Night
Hiking in Seria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle forested riverside trail near Kuala Belait, suitable for a half-day outing.
Short to medium-length forest trails with varying grades, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Seria by plane.
Main international gateway near Bandar Seri Begawan; connects Brunei with regional hubs; roughly a couple of hours’ drive from Seria depending on routes.
In Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia; commonly used by travelers in Brunei for regional connections; accessible by road or overland routes from Brunei.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, with strong cultural and religious ties within Brunei.
A visible minority with community businesses and cultural presence.
Diverse foreign residents from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, often living in Belait district for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team sport; local clubs and informal play are common across Brunei, including Belait.
Widely played in community centers and clubs; many venues offer family-friendly sessions.
Fishing, kayaking, and boating opportunities along Brunei Bay and nearby coastal areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Seria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many eateries; look for vegetable-based dishes, tofu, and fruit-based desserts. If unsure, ask for dishes without meat or fish sauces and request oil-free preparations when possible.