Places Of Interest In Miri: Things To Do And Activities

Before we dive into places of Interest, Miri is the second largest city in Sarawak, famous for its limestone karst formations, caves, and diverse ecosystems. Miri’s history dates back to the early 20th century when it was a small fishing village inhabited by the indigenous Melanau people. Things would shift however when in 1910, oil was discovered in the Miri area, leading to the establishment of the first oil well known as the Grand Old Lady on Canada Hill.

Today, Miri stands as a vibrant city with a mix of cultural influences, a rich history in the petroleum industry, and a growing focus on tourism and other economic sectors. The city’s population is a mix of different ethnicities, contributing to a rich tapestry of traditions and celebrations. If you’re into nature, adventure, and a bit of industrial vibe, Miri’s got a unique blend of everything for you!

Places To Visit In Miri: Attractions & Activities

Miri’s attractions are generally based around nature, and the enjoyment you get from exposure to it. Known for its cultural and natural beauty, it attracts many visitors from all over the world every year. However, Miri also offers a diverse range of attractions, catering to adventure seekers and those interested in cultural experiences. We’ll be taking a closer look at these places of interest in Miri down below.

1. Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is the pride and joy of Miri as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its stunning limestone karst formations, extensive cave systems and rich natural diversity, it makes for a picturesque sight. A forest of razor-sharp pinnacles known as the Mulu Pinnacles create a stunning visage amid the cliffs and gorges. Witnessing these miraculous natural formations can be a serious “you need to see it to believe it” moment.

On top of this, Gunung Mulu is also home to some of the world’s largest and most extensive cave systems. The well-known Deer Cave is one of the largest cave passages globally, and Clearwater Cave boasts one of the longest cave systems in Southeast Asia. Equally impressive is the Sarawak Chamber, a cave chamber so massive that it can famously accommodate several Boeing 747 airplanes.

2. Canada Hill

Canada Hill, also known as Bukit Telaga Minyak, is one of Miri’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks. The area is home to the Grand Old Lady, a fanciful name for the first ever oil well in Malaysia. While it’s well past its days of drawing oil, preservation efforts maintain the site as a historical monument. After all, Grand Old Lady plays a significant part in Malaysia’s development as a key player in the petroleum industry!

This can all be seen in the Petroleum Science Museum, which can also be found on Canada Hill. Here, you can find information on the area’s role in Malaysia’s oil and gas industry history, if you find interest in such topics. But, if that’s not too interesting, Canada Hill also offers some of the most breathtaking views of Miri available.

3. Coco Cabana Miri

If nature isn’t your primary cup of tea and thrills are what you seek, then Coco Cabana might be more your thing. It’s Miri’s premier water theme park, offering a wide variety of attractions and activities for families and water park enthusiasts. Perhaps its most interesting trait is its unique look and style. It’s a pleasantly tropical package, adopting a more organic approach to its look that better fits Miri’s general vibe.

The theme park offers different types of slides, from thrilling, fast-paced slides for the adventurous to gentler options. There’s also a wave pool and a children’s play area, making it a good destination for families. The Cabana Suites available are private rental areas that are perfect for a bit of shade or a picnic. Coco Cabana also often hosts themed events, so keep an eye out for these!

4. Luak Bay Esplanade

Luak Bay Esplanade is a scenic waterfront area, a tranquil and picturesque spot that’s popular for locals and visitors alike. The esplanade features a seaside promenade where visitors can take leisurely strolls along the waterfront. The paved walkway is ideal for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere while enjoying the sea breeze. It’s perfect for relaxing, with a beautiful panoramic view of the sea for memorable moments.

Depending on the time of day and events, there might be food stalls or vendors offering local cuisine. It’s an opportunity to savor some classic Sarawkian street food while enjoying the coastal ambiance. If you’re looking to enjoy the serenity of the sea, it’s hard to be Luak Bay Esplanade.

5. Piasau Nature Reserve

Sitting on the outskirts of Miri is the Piasau Nature Reserve. It’s a reserve with the heavy task of protecting and rehabilitating the area’s precious natural mangrove and riverine ecosystem. The ecosystem is important, playing host to various rare species of mangroves, birds, and other wildlife. As if that weren’t enough, the mangrove ecosystem is also crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of local communities.

Visitors to the Piasau Nature Reserve can enjoy a peaceful and educational experience while appreciating the beauty of the mangrove ecosystem. It’s a great destination for those interested in nature conservation and ecotourism. You can also mesh with the local community and help out with conservation efforts if you so choose.

6. Niah Cave

Niah National Park is home to Paleolithic and Neolithic cemeteries, ancient cave paintings and the spectacular Great Cave entrance, one of the largest in the world. Officially opened in 1974, the park covers 3,183 hectares of rainforest and limestone hills.

While the cave system in Mulu National Park is more famous and attracts more tourists, Niah Caves has a lot to offer and makes for a fun day trip from Miri.

The presence of humans in Niah Cave some 40,000 years ago has led to a re-evaluation of theories of the spread of humans on Earth. Even more surprising is the evidence that the cave was inhabited by humans until recently.

The park has a visitor information centre, cabin accommodation and a series of boardwalks allowing visitors to explore the forest and enter the caves.

The Great Cave of Niah is spectacular in both its sheer size and historical significance. The large entrance is 60 meters high and 250 meters wide, covering an area of ​​10.5 hectares. The caves are accessible via a 1.9-mile (3.1-kilometer) jungle trail and boardwalk from the park headquarters. Archaeological excavations can be seen to the left of the cave entrance.

Best Beaches in Miri

Miri, with its coastal location, offers several beautiful beaches where visitors can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. If you go to Miri and don’t experience some of its beaches, then you’re missing out! Some of these views are the best that the area has to offer, and you’ll regret it if you don’t visit at least one of these for a photo opportunity. Below, you’ll find some of the best beaches you can find in Miri.

1. Tusan Beach

Tusan Beach is Miri’s coastal gem, with plenty of renown for its unique “Blue Tears” phenomenon. It’s an enchanting sight that happens during the darker hours of the day, usually after sunset. Bioluminescent plankton swim along the side of the beach, creating a sparkling and otherworldly atmosphere. The blue glow they emit is almost otherworldly and ethereal, something you can’t find almost anywhere else.

Tusan Beach is also known for its distinctive rock formations, including sea stacks and cliffs. These geological features contribute to the scenic beauty of the beach. It’s also mostly secluded, giving it a more tranquil and quiet ambiance that fits the general vibe of Miri. If you’re a photography buff, then you’ll love Tusan Beach and its many picturesque sights.

2. Tanjong Lobang Beach

Tanjong Lobang Beach is situated near the Miri Petroleum Museum in Canada Hill, and is easily accessible from the city center. Unlike Tusan Beach, Tanjong Lobang Beach is much more happening and active. It features a long stretch of sandy shore, picnic areas, and food stalls offering local delicacies. Because of this and how close it is to the city, it’s popular with locals and tourists looking for a quick break.

The beachfront area has a paved promenade, making it suitable for leisurely walks and jogging. It’s a great place to enjoy the sea breeze while engaging in recreational activites. Adding to this, it has a lot of facilities for recreation, including spots for gatherings and family outings. Overlooking everything is the iconic Tanjong Lobang Lighthouse, adding a touch of charm to the coast.

3. Luak Esplanade Beach

Luak Esplanade Promenade offers a beach that sits adjacent to it, carrying a lot of its same strengths. The generally peaceful, tranquil atmosphere is here, with the gentle lapping of the waves generating a serene feeling. Similar to other coastal areas in Miri, Luak Esplanade Beach is known for its stunning sunset views. The changing colors of the sky over the South China Sea make it a favorite spot for evening gatherings.

Luak Esplanade Beach is part of the broader Luak Bay Esplanade area, which includes the beach as well as the seaside promenade. The esplanade provides a pleasant space for leisurely strolls, jogging, and enjoying the coastal views.

Best Things to Eat in Miri

Miri is in Sarawak, so naturally many of its best dishes are Sarawakian. This means a visit to Miri will involve a lot of the best Sarawak as a state has to offer. But, as a coastal area, Miri also has some incredible seafood to offer to visitors craving a taste of the ocean. Plus, as with anywhere in Malaysia, there’s a ton of cross culture when it comes to food, so eating in Miri is like a great experience for the adventurous.

1. Sarawak Laksa

Sarawak Laksa is a beloved dish, and Miri, being part of Sarawak, is no exception to the popularity of this iconic dish. Unlike some other types of laksa, Sarawak Laksa uses coconut milk, giving the broth a creamy, rich texture. The base of the broth is typically made with a combination of ingredients such as shrimp paste, chicken or seafood stock, lemongrass, galangal, and other spices.

You can find Sarawak Laksa in many different hawker centers, food markets, and local eateries across Miri. It’s a popular choice for breakfast or brunch, and you’ll find both locals and tourists savoring this flavorful bowl of goodness.

2. Kolo Mee

Kolo Mee is another iconic dish in Sarawak, known for its delicious simplicity and unique flavor profile. It typically features springy egg noodles in a mixture of shallot oil, soy sauce, and other seasonings, giving them a distinct savory flavor. The noodles are commonly topped with some form of protein, as well as additional toppings such as sliced mushrooms, green onions, and fried shallots.

The springy and slightly chewy texture of the noodles, combined with the savory and umami-packed seasoning, creates a delightful eating experience. Try it with a side of chili paste for a bit of spicy kick!

3. Seafood

Miri, being a coastal city, is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood. The city offers a wide variety of seafood dishes, showcasing the bountiful offerings from the nearby South China Sea. Dishes like grilled fish, chilli crab and butter prawn are highlights of any dinner in the city. You’ll regularly find these dishes in seafood restaurants all around the city center and coastal areas of Miri. Definitely enjoy these with a nice side of rice.

4. Local Sweets and Snacks

Kuih culture in Miri lifts a lot from Chinese and Malay cultures, but that’s a good thing! Freshly fried yoo tiao can be found in many spots in Miri. Malaysian sweets like Kuih Lapis (layered cake), Onde-Onde (glutinous rice balls with palm sugar filling), and Kuih Bingka (tapioca cake) can be found sold by vendors in the evenings. If you’re adventurous, you may even find hawkers selling traditional Sarawkian snacks like gula mitai.

5. ABC

A popular Malaysian dessert, ABC is a shaved ice dessert topped with various ingredients like sweet corn, red beans, grass jelly, and drizzled with flavored syrups and condensed milk. Miri’s location near the coast means the sun can glare down on you throughout the day. What better way to cool down than with a cold dessert? Miri locals have also gotten creative with ABC toppings, so keep an eye out for these cool treats.

When is the Best Time to Visit Miri?

You absolutely do not want to visit Miri during the rainy season. All of Miri’s best attractions are outdoors, and you’ll only be ruining your experience if you visit during gloomy, rainy days. Instead, try to visit Miri during the dry season between June and September. It’s ideal time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the natural attractions, and the weather is generally not too overbearingly hot.

How Many Days Do You Need In Miri?

Miri is unique in that how long you’ll want to stay is directly tied to how relaxing you want your trip to be. For the most part, you can have a fairly comprehensive experience with four to five days in Miri, even when taking things at a slower pace. You get to sample the many different foods it has to offer, venture the beaches and enjoy its natural marvels.

Where to Stay in Miri?

Miri’s reputation as a tourist destination means it’s pretty easy to find hotels in the city. Accommodation is also relatively inexpensive, even when you go for the higher class choices. We’ve combed through the options once again, and we’ve made a list of all the best hotel options in the city. As usual, make sure to read reviews before you choose!

• Miri Marriott Resort & Spa – One of the best 5-star hotels in Miri.
• Pullman Miri Waterfront – Surprisingly affordable 5-star hotel that’s complete and high-quality.
• Mercure Miri City Centre – Unique 4-star hotel with a lot of amenities and facilities on offer.
• Meritz Hotel Miri – A good 4-star hotel that’s relatively affordable.
• Ys Inn – Extremely budget oriented hotel with good standards.
• Amigo Hotel – Excellent budget hotel with an emphasis on comfort.
• Diamond Bay Resort – A beachfront condo hotel that’s good for families.

How Do You Get Around in Miri?

Definitely get a car or motorcycle if you’re planning to go around Miri. While public transport is available, the heat can make it quite uncomfortable to traverse most places on foot. Most places have ample parking available, and the Miri city center offers many spots where you can rent a bike or a car for fairly affordable prices.

Conclusion

Miri is the gateway to some fantastic natural attractions like its wondrous limestone karst formations, caves, and diverse ecosystems. Its history as an oil-rich city makes it a fascinating spot for history enthusiasts. The many beaches give it a calming, laid-back atmosphere, and the food’s excellent. Miri isn’t the best place for thrills, but if you just want a relaxing holiday in Malaysia, Miri is by and far one of the best places you can go.

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