Things To Do
in Miri
Miri is a coastal city in Sarawak on Malaysia's eastern shore, known for its oil-and-gas heritage and access to rainforest adventures. It blends a modern urban core with nearby natural wonders, from rainforest parks to sandy beaches. The waterfront and multicultural dining scene reflect Sarawak's diverse communities, while the city serves as a gateway to Niah Caves and Lambir Hills.
With a tropical climate and friendly locals, Miri offers relaxed exploration, seafood feasts, and easy day trips into nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Grand Old Lady, the iconic oil well that symbolizes Miri's rich history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the Miri Heritage Centre, where you can learn about the cultural heritage of the local communities. Enjoy a traditional Malaysian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies like Nasi Lemak and Roti Canai.
Visit the Miri Market to experience the hustle and bustle of locals shopping for fresh produce and unique handicrafts. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, trying out the famous Sarawak Laksa or Kolo Mee that Miri is known for. Afterward, head to the Petroleum Museum to delve deeper into the oil industry's impact on the region's development.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Miri waterfront, enjoying the cool breeze and picturesque views of the South China Sea. Stop by a seafood restaurant to indulge in freshly caught fish and prawns, paired with local sauces. Cap off your evening at a nearby café where you can sip on kopi and enjoy live music.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the popular Tanjung Lobang Beach. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the clear waters, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach. For the adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the coastline at your own pace.
After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local seafood stalls, sampling grilled fish and tropical fruits. In the afternoon, engage in exciting water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides, guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. Don't forget to take plenty of pictures against the stunning beach backdrop.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Dinner can be enjoyed at a nearby beach restaurant, with fresh seafood and local dishes on the menu. End your night with a stroll along the beach, where the sound of waves lulls you into relaxation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $4-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to lush rainforests and easy day trips to Niah Caves and Lambir Hills
- Delicious, diverse Sarawakian cuisine with strong seafood offerings
- Compact city with waterfront charm and reasonable travel costs
- Friendly locals and English-friendly for travelers
- Limited public transport options beyond central areas
- Tropical climate means high humidity and sudden rain showers
- Some areas may have intermittent internet in rural spots
- Nightlife is modest compared to larger cities
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Selamat petang" - Good evening
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Maaf" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Boleh saya minta bantuan?" - Could I get help?
- "Berapa harga ini?" - How much is this?
- "Saya tidak faham." - I do not understand.
Places to Visit in Miri
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic overlook offering panoramic city and harbour views, especially striking at sunset and after dark.
A scenic riverside stretch with modern sculptures and a mix of urban and water reflections—great for evening photography.
Industrial heritage shots of Sarawak's oil history, with the Grand Old Lady oil well nearby and cultural museum exhibits.
Dense rainforest trails and dramatic waterfalls; perfect for lush green landscape photography and wildlife opportunities.
Coastal scenery featuring sea stacks and dramatic sunsets over the South China Sea.
Mangroves and coastal habitats ideal for birdlife photography and tranquil nature scenes.
Food in Miri
Miri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant noodle soup with shrimp, shredded omelette, and a tangy-tamarind broth; a staple found across Miri eateries.
Must-Try!
Springy egg noodles tossed with pork lard, garlic, shallots, and soy sauce; widely available in local coffee shops.
Stir-fried fern shoots with spicy shrimp paste; a Sarawak specialty often featured as a stir-fry side dish.
Herb-steamed chicken cooked with rice inside bamboo; a traditional Sarawak dish occasionally found at longer-standing eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Riverside stalls offering fresh seafood grills, laksa, fried noodles, and local desserts with sunset views.
Evening stalls featuring grilled skewers, nasi lemak, fruit, and snacks, giving a taste of local street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or temples; remove shoes where required.
A handshake is common; use a respectful tone and address people using appropriate titles.
Public displays of affection are acceptable in many areas but should be discreet, especially in more conservative spaces.
Bargaining is common in markets; do so with a smile and a friendly approach.
Use the right hand for giving and receiving items when interacting with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Miri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; service charges may be included at larger establishments. A small tip (around 5–10%) for good service is common in nicer restaurants; for street food and casual cafés, rounding up is sufficient.
Cash (Malaysian Ringgit) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping malls. Mobile payments and e-wallets (e.g., Touch ’n Go, ShopeePay) are increasingly popular, especially in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmer and drier days with high humidity; ideal for outdoor activities, market strolls, and beach trips, though sudden showers can still occur.
Heavier rainfall and higher humidity; excellent for rainforest treks and photography with lush greenery, but some outdoor plans may be disrupted by rain.
Transition periods with variable weather; good for fewer crowds and moderate temperatures, but be prepared for occasional rain.
Miri at Night
Hiking in Miri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive rainforest trails with a variety of flora and waterfalls; a top hiking option near Miri.
Pathways leading to ancient cave systems with limestone features and bat colonies; a remarkable day hike.
Airports
How to reach Miri by plane.
Serves domestic and limited international flights; quick taxi or ride-hailing to the city center.
A regional alternative about a few hours' drive away, useful for broader Sarawak trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core community alongside other major groups; many mosques and Malay-owned eateries.
A significant presence with Chinese-owned businesses, restaurants, and cultural events.
Diverse indigenous communities contributing to Sarawak's cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport with local leagues and casual games among communities.
Widely played in community centers and clubs; easy to join for visitors.
Diving, snorkeling, and island-hopping around the coast are common beyond the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Miri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted by requesting no meat or seafood; look for vegetables with tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms, and ask for vegetables cooked with oil rather than animal fats.