Things To Do
in Bintulu
Bintulu is a coastal town in northeastern Sarawak, Malaysia, known for its riverfront charm and multicultural atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to pristine beaches, mangrove ecosystems, and the nearby Similajau National Park. The town blends Iban and Melanau influences with modern shops, markets, and a thriving seafood scene.
Visitors can enjoy nature, local cuisine, and a laid-back pace off Malaysia’s busier routes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bintulu Waterfront, where you can enjoy the serene views of the Batang Bintulu River. As the sun rises, stroll along the promenade and capture the beauty of local fishermen preparing for their day. Don't forget to stop by the nearby Taman Tumbina, which features a variety of native plants and flowers.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Bintulu Museum to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase the traditional lifestyles of the indigenous communities. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the nearby Pasar Tanjung, where you can shop for local handicrafts and fresh produce.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at one of Bintulu's seafood restaurants, where you can savor fresh catches from the South China Sea. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront and immerse yourself in the vibrant evening atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to one of the local night markets, where you can sample a variety of street food delicacies.
Begin your day at Tanjung Batu Beach, where you can enjoy the soft sand and calming waves. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline and appreciate the stunning views of the South China Sea. Alternatively, relax on the beach with a good book and soak up the sun.
For lunch, indulge in local beachside cuisine at a nearby café, sampling dishes like grilled seafood and traditional Nasi Goreng. Post-lunch, engage in some thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides, which are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the beach and collect unique seashells.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner with a mix of local flavors. Gather around a bonfire as the stars begin to twinkle, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the shore, listening to the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the sand.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥤Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🛍️Souvenir item | $3-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent seafood and fresh market experiences
- Close proximity to nature reserves and beaches
- Friendly, laid-back town with approachable vibe
- Limited nightlife and big-city attractions
- Humidity and heat can be intense for outdoor plans
- Fewer large-scale shopping and entertainment options
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Boleh saya dapat menu ini?" - Can I have this menu?
- "Berapa harga ini?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya tidak faham" - I do not understand
Places to Visit in Bintulu
Visit one of these nice places.
Long riverfront with boats and sky reflections; ideal for golden-hour portraits.
Powdery sands and turquoise water framed by rainforest backdrops for expansive landscape shots.
Vivid colors, produce, and locals in motion—great for candid street photography.
Wide coastline with horizon views and gentle waves—great for wide-angle ocean shots.
Food in Bintulu
Bintulu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A raw fish salad seasoned with lime, onions, chilies, and herbs—best enjoyed fresh at markets or seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Local fish prepared smoked or grilled with sambal or lime, a signature Bintulu seafood bite.
Stir-fried river fern with shrimp paste, a crunchy, savory complement to meals.
Iban-style chicken cooked in bamboo with herbs, often found at restaurants offering local specialties.
A fragrant rice dish served with sambal, eggs, and accompanying sides—widely available for breakfast or easy meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly morning market offering fresh seafood, produce, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Open-air stalls featuring live crabs, prawns, and grilled fish with customizable sauces.
Casual stalls offering local bites, tarts, and cooling desserts after sundown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake; dress modestly in public and places of worship; remove shoes when entering homes.
Address elders with respect, avoid public displays of anger, and ask before taking photos of people or homes.
Be mindful of prayer times, speak softly in places of worship, and follow local signage and staff guidance.
Safety
Tipping in Bintulu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for exceptional service; small tips for guides or hotel staff are common.
Cash (MQD/USD equivalent) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in urban areas and larger establishments; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent brief showers. Stay hydrated, wear light breathable clothing, and shoot early or late in the day.
Higher rainfall and possible rough seas; plan indoor activities or nature trips with flexible timing.
Less rain and more predictable outdoor conditions, though humidity remains high. Excellent for beach and hiking days.
Bintulu at Night
Hiking in Bintulu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal rainforest trails with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy beach scenery.
Short-to-moderate forest trails offering nature immersion near the town.
Airports
How to reach Bintulu by plane.
Domestic airport serving Kuching, Miri, Kota Kinabalu, and other regional destinations; taxis and local transport are available to reach town.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group with a strong Malay-Dusun cultural presence and mosques throughout town.
Indigenous group present in settlements around Bintulu, contributing to cultural crafts and traditional food.
Coastal community with distinctive cuisine and longhouse traditions.
Prominent minority contributing to commerce, markets, and culinary variety.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local pastime with community leagues and casual pickup games.
Common indoor and outdoor sport across schools and clubs.
Long coastal and river fishing is a common recreational activity for residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bintulu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable dishes and tofu; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste.
Most food in Bintulu is halal; look for halal-certified signage and confirm with staff if unsure.
Inform cooks about allergies (shellfish, peanuts, etc.) and opt for clearly labeled dishes.