If you're planning a short getaway or a weekend trip, look no further than Miri, Sarawak. This vibrant city offers a plethora of activities – natural wonders, cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you're travelling solo, with family, or with friends, this guide will help you discover the best of Miri and make the most of your trip.
So, what are you waiting for? Get the best travel insurance, pack your bags, and set off to Miri for your next adventure. With your travel insurance secured, you can ensure you get the most out of your trip with the protection you need, so you have the least of worries when exploring Miri's attractions.
Table of Contents
- Things to Prepare and Pack Before Your Trip
- How Much Should You Bring to Miri?
- Tourist Attractions and Things to Do & See in Miri
- Things to Do in Miri at Night
- How To Get Around Miri
- Experience the Best of Miri Today!
Things to Prepare and Pack Before Your Trip
Whether you're travelling solo, with family, or with friends, ensuring a great trip starts with packing correctly. Here are some tips on solo travel and a travel checklist for your trip to Miri:
Clothes
The weather in Miri is tropical and humid, similar to Singapore’s, so it's best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Opt for materials like cotton or linen to stay comfortable while exploring Miri's attractions.
Portable Wi-Fi
Staying connected is crucial, especially for solo travellers. A portable Wi-Fi router helps you navigate, stay in touch with loved ones, and share your travel experiences on social media.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must in Miri due to the strong sun. Choose a lightweight, non-greasy formula to protect your skin without feeling uncomfortable in the humidity.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from the sun and add a stylish touch to your outfit with a good pair of sunglasses. They're essential for exploring Miri’s outdoor attractions.
Comfortable Walking Sandals
You'll be doing a lot of walking in Miri, so comfortable, breathable walking sandals are essential. They help keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Umbrella
An umbrella is a smart addition to your packing list. Miri can experience sudden rain showers, so a compact umbrella with UV protection will keep you prepared for both rain and sun.
Travel Insurance
[Secure the Best Travel Insurance]
Travelling in Miri is generally safe, but it's always wise to be prepared. The city can experience heavy downpours and flooding, particularly during the monsoon season. In recent years, there have been instances of severe storms and flooding that have caused significant disruptions. Having the best travel insurance ensures you're covered for unexpected weather conditions, travel mishaps, and other incidents, providing peace of mind during your trip.
Stay protected while exploring Miri.
Travel Credit Cards
[Get the Best Travel Credit Card for Your Trip]
Using a travel credit card can save you money through rewards points or miles on your spending. These can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. If you don't already have a travel credit card, consider getting one before your trip to Miri.
Any Additional Travel Documents
Besides your passport, check if you need additional documents like visas, health certificates, or even a criminal record. For Singaporeans, no visa is required for short stays, but it's always good to have health certificates and any necessary vaccinations documented.
How Much Should You Bring to Miri?
Figuring out how much money to bring can be tricky, but it depends on your travel style, trip duration, and planned activities. On average, you can expect to spend around RM300 per day on essentials like food, transportation, and accommodation. This translates to:
- Weekend Trip (2 days) – RM600
- 5-Day Trip – RM1,500
- 1-Week Trip – RM2,100
- 10-Day Trip – RM3,000
Remember, this is just an average! Unexpected expenses can pop up, so it's always wise to pack a little extra for emergencies.
Tourist Attractions and Things to Do & See in Miri
Stuck on what to do in Miri for a memorable trip? Don't worry, Miri has something for everyone. Here’s a list of must-see tourist attractions and must-do experiences to pack your Miri itinerary with fun:
Explore the stunning limestone formations at Niah National Park
Niah National Park, one of Sarawak’s smallest yet most significant parks, is famous for its archaeological importance. It hosts the oldest modern human remains in Southeast Asia, dating back 40,000 years. Covering 3,138 hectares of forest and limestone karst, it features the Subis River and Mount Subis. Discoveries led by Tom Harrison in 1958 unearthed a 40,000-year-old Homo sapiens skull and various prehistoric tools, confirming its historical significance.
Address: Niah National Park, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Price: RM20 (Adults), RM7 (Children)
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (Daily)
How to get there: The park’s headquarters is a 2-hour drive from Miri or Bintulu. You can either rent a car, hire a taxi, or take the bus to the headquarters, followed by a short boat ride across the Niah River and a one-hour walk to The Great Cave entrance.
Visit the Grand Old Lady on Canada Hill for panoramic views of Miri
Canada Hill is a limestone ridge offering excellent views of Miri and its surroundings. Atop the hill sits the historical Oil Well No. 1, known as the Grand Old Lady, where Sarawak Shell first struck oil in 1910. This site now also houses the well-designed Petroleum Museum, which traces the history and technological development of Malaysia's oil and gas industries.
Address: Canada Hill, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
How to get there: While there are no bus services available, you can reach The Grand Old Lady (Miri Well) by foot or taxi via Jalan Setia Raja. After passing SJK North, continue along the road, and you will spot it on the right-hand side of Jalan Miri - Pujut.
Discover the vibrant marine life at Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park through snorkelling or diving
Miri is renowned for its pristine reefs at Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park, with dive depths from 7 to 30 metres and visibility of 10 to 30 metres. Just ten minutes from the Marina Bay Jetty, you can start diving within hours of arriving. Local dive operators offer certification programmes. Water temperatures range from 23ºC to 30ºC, with the best diving time from late March through November. The park boasts diverse corals and marine life, making it a top dive destination.
Address: Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Price: Varies by tour operator
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (Daily)
How to get there: Book a tour with a local dive operator, with the nearest site being a ten-minute boat ride from the Marina Bay Jetty.
Take a leisurely walk along the Luak Bay Esplanade and enjoy the sea breeze
Only a 15-minute drive from the city centre, Luak Bay Esplanade is ideal for family barbecues, seaside picnics, and casual strolls on the sandy beach. This picturesque spot offers ample parking and stalls selling cold drinks. Easily accessible by bus, it’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.
Address: Luak Bay Esplanade, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
How to get there: The Luak Bay Esplanade is accessible by car or bus from the city centre.
Enjoy a picnic amidst lush greenery at Lambir Hills National Park
Lambir Hills National Park, located 32 km southeast of Miri, is perfect for a family picnic amidst lush greenery. The park boasts diverse flora and fauna, scenic waterfalls, and well-marked trails. The Latak Waterfall trail is a popular spot for picnics, offering a gentle walk through the forest to a beautiful 25-metre waterfall with a natural pool ideal for swimming. Remember to pack your swimwear and enjoy the serene environment.
Address: 1-76, Jalan Bintulu – Miri, 98000 Miri, Sarawak
Price: Adults: RM20, Children: RM7
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (Daily)
How to get there: The national park is reachable by car within a 30- to 40-minute drive from Miri city.
Visit the Petroleum Museum to learn about the history of oil exploration in Miri
The Petroleum Museum provides an in-depth look at the history and technological advancements of Malaysia's oil and gas industries, with interactive exhibits, historical artefacts, and educational displays detailing the significance of oil exploration in the region.
Address: Canada Hill, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Price: Free
Opening hours: 9am - 4.45pm (Weekdays), 10am - 4pm (Weekends & Public Holidays)
How to get there: While there are no bus services available, you can reach The Petroleum Museum by foot or taxi via Jalan Setia Raja. After passing SJK North, continue along the road, and you will spot it on the right-hand side of Jalan Miri - Pujut.
Relax at the beautiful Tusan Beach and marvel at the stunning rock formations
Tusan Beach, about an hour’s drive from Miri, is a perfect getaway for nature lovers. The beach features narrow white sand stretches interrupted by rock outcrops and backed by sandstone and limestone cliffs extending 11 km. The views from the cliffs are spectacular, especially at sunset. Direct beach access requires walking from Bakam Beach or Bungai Beach, but the clifftop is accessible from the coastal road. Nearby Bekenu town, just 15 minutes away, offers a seafood market.
Address: Tusan Beach, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
How to get there: Tusan Beach is accessible via a one-hour drive from Miri city, with access from the coastal road.
Visit the Miri Crocodile Farm Cum Mini Zoo to see a variety of reptiles and exotic animals
The Miri Crocodile Farm Cum Mini Zoo spans 22 acres and is home to over 1,000 Estuarine Crocodiles and Malayan Gharials. Visitors can safely view these creatures in their natural breeding enclosures and man-made ponds. The farm also hosts exotic animals like Southern Cassowaries, Pythons, Sun Bears, Gibbons, Porcupines, and various monkeys. The zoo offers an educational tour for all ages, providing insights into the animals and their habitats.
Address: Lot 164, 24Km Miri-Kuala Baram Road, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Price: RM40 (Adults), RM20 (Children)
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (Daily)
How to get there: Located near Kuala Baram River Mouth, the crocodile farm is accessible via a coastal drive along Miri-Kuala Baram Road.
Enjoy a birdwatching adventure at the Loagan Bunut National Park, home to various bird species
Loagan Bunut, Sarawak’s largest natural lake, spans 650 hectares and is known for its unique disappearing act during the dry season. From February to September, the lake transforms into a vast dry muddy flatland. Explore the riverbanks and dense forest by boat to spot wildlife such as barking deer, bearded pigs, and various bird species. The park offers jungle trails and boat trips, showcasing the traditional Selambau fishing method and the ancient Berawan burial platforms.
Address: Loagan Bunut National Park, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Price: RM20 (Adults), RM7 (Children)
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (Daily)
How to get there: The Loagan Bunut National Park is accessible via a 2-hour drive from Miri, with travel agents offering tours and rental 4WDs available.
Explore the Tamu Muhibbah Weekend Market for a taste of local food and culture
Tamu Muhibbah, located opposite the central bus station, is a vibrant native market offering exotic fruits, vegetables, handicrafts, and produce from upriver areas, including fragrant Bario rice. This bustling market is perfect for experiencing local food and culture, with plenty of unique souvenirs and excellent photo opportunities.
Address: Jalan Padang, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 6am - 12pm (Weekends)
How to get there: Tamu Muhibbah is located opposite the central bus station, making it easily accessible by foot or taxi.
Explore Miri with peace of mind.
Things to Do in Miri at Night
Miri offers plenty of activities to enjoy after the sun sets. Here’s what to do in Miri for a memorable evening:
Enjoy a stroll along the scenic Miri Marina Bay and take in the breathtaking views of the waterfront
The Miri Marina Bay is beautifully lit at night, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning waterfront views, with various dining options nearby to complement your evening.
Address: Marina Bay, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
How to get there: Located in the city centre, Miri Marina Bay is accessible by foot or taxi.
Indulge in seafood delights at the bustling Ming Café Seafood Restaurant
Ming Café is famous for its seafood dishes and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious meal featuring local favourites such as butter prawns and chilli crab while soaking in the vibrant dining scene.
Address: Jalan North Yu Seng, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11am - 11pm (Daily)
How to get there: Located in the city centre, Ming Café is accessible by foot or taxi.
Savour local street food at the Miri Night Market (Pasar Malam), offering a variety of tasty treats
The Miri Night Market is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide range of local delicacies such as satay, rojak, and fresh tropical fruits. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to sample authentic Miri cuisine in a bustling, lively setting.
Address: Jalan Brooke, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 6pm - 11pm (Daily)
How to get there: Located in the city centre, the Miri Night Market is accessible by foot or taxi.
Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise along the coast of Miri with Miri Leisure Cruises
The new Miri Sunset Cruise is a four-hour sail enjoyed by domestic travellers and residents. The cruise explores the coastal waters of the South China Sea, providing spectacular views of Miri’s coast and forested landscapes. Ideal for corporate and incentive groups, the cruise includes snacks, drinks, and an opportunity to fish. Departing at 4pm from the Miri River estuary, it passes notable landmarks before returning by 8pm.
Address: Marina Bay, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Price: RM180 per person
Opening hours: 4pm - 9pm (Daily)
How to get there: The cruise departs from Marina Bay, which is accessible by foot or taxi.
Watch the sunset at Tanjung Lobang Beach
Brighton Beach, also known as Tanjung Lobang, is an ideal sunset spot and Miri's oldest recreational park. Popular with joggers, anglers, Tai Chi enthusiasts, and children, it features two beautiful piers offering excellent views of the coastline and Miri Marina’s unique seahorse lighthouse. Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning sunsets at the Taman Selera food centre located here.
Address: Tanjung Lobang Beach, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
How to get there: The beach is near the Miri Marriott Hotel and Parkcity Everly Hotel, accessible by taxi or bus from the city centre.
Sample local delicacies at the Taman Selera Open Air Hawker Centre, open until late at night
Taman Selera Open Air Hawker Centre offers a variety of local dishes in a casual, open-air setting. It's a great place to enjoy a late-night meal, with specialties like grilled seafood and local desserts.
Address: Jalan Tanjung Lobang, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 6pm - 11pm (Daily)
How to get there: Since Taman Selera is located next to Tanjung Lobang beach, it is accessible by car or taxi from the city centre.
Enjoy a romantic dinner at the Sky Garden Dining Miri, offering panoramic views of Miri
Sky Garden Dining Miri provides a romantic dining experience with panoramic views of the city. It's perfect for a special evening out.
Address: Sky Garden, Jalan North Yu Seng, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 6pm - 10pm (Daily)
How to get there: Located in the city centre, Sky Garden Dining Miri is accessible by foot or taxi.
Go on a night walk along the Miri Beach Promenade, enjoying the cool sea breeze
A night walk along the Miri Beach Promenade offers a relaxing way to enjoy the cool sea breeze and the beautiful night views.
Address: Miri Beach Promenade, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
How to get there: The Miri Beach Promenade is located in the city centre, which makes it easily accessible by foot or taxi.
Explore the eclectic mix of bars and cafes at Miri Times Square, perfect for a night out with friends
Miri Times Square is the place to be for a fun night out, situated on a 19.2-acre plot. It features a variety of bars and cafes, along with offices, SOHO units, and high-street retail shops. The elevated courtyard retail connects patrons to vibrant public spaces. Designed for work, shopping, dining, and entertainment, Miri Times Square offers an open-air, walkable, and safe environment that delights visitors.
Address: Miri Times Square, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 6pm - 12am (Daily)
How to get there: Miri Times Square is located in the city centre, which is accessible by foot or taxi.
Embark on a nighttime fishing excursion along the coast of Miri with local fishing charters
A nighttime fishing excursion with local fishing charters offers a unique way to experience Miri's coastal beauty. It's a relaxing and enjoyable activity for fishing enthusiasts, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish species.
Address: Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
How to get there: Departures from various points along the coast, which is accessible by car or taxi.
How To Get Around Miri
Getting around Miri is easy with several transportation options available. However, we highly recommend getting around with the following transportation options:
Use E-Hailing
Local e-hailing services like Grab, Maxim, Airasia Ride are convenient options for getting around Miri and visiting various tourist attractions. They are especially useful for reaching more remote attractions.
Rent a Car
Renting a car is a great way to explore Miri at your own pace. Services like Kayak, Expedia, and Avis allow you to rent a car online, providing flexibility and convenience for your travels. It’s also wise to get overseas car insurance to safeguard you and your passengers. making it easy to explore Miri at your own pace.
Experience the Best of Miri Today!
Miri is a city full of adventures, from stunning natural attractions to vibrant cultural experiences at major tourist spots. Whether you're exploring the unique limestone formations at Niah National Park, enjoying the nightlife at Miri Times Square, or relaxing at Tusan Beach, there's something for everyone.
So, start planning your trip, and don’t forget to secure the best travel insurance to Malaysia for a worry-free adventure. We hope this guide has inspired you to visit Miri and discover all it has to offer.
Plan ahead for your adventures in Miri. Protect yourself with the best Travel Insurance plans.
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