Bintulu Travel Guide
City City in Malaysia known for its oil and gas
A Sarawak port town with a long shoreline at Tanjung Batu, close to Similajau National Park’s rainforest and beaches; visitors sample seafood at the tamu, watch night markets, and sign up for jungle hikes or boat trips.
.jpg?width=1200)
Why Visit Bintulu? #
On Sarawak’s coast, Bintulu attracts visitors who combine seaside relaxation with rainforest and cultural excursions. Tanjung Batu beach and fresh seafood markets introduce Sarawakian flavors, while nearby Similajau National Park offers jungle trails and wildlife watching. The town’s Melanau and Iban influences appear in local crafts and festivals, and travelers often use Bintulu as a low-key base for exploring Borneo’s coastlines and riverine communities.
Top Things to Do in Bintulu
All Attractions ›_(8440622595).jpg?width=600)
- Tanjung Batu Beach (Bintulu Beach) - Sandy beachfront area with evening promenade and local seafood stalls.
- Bintulu Waterfront - Seafront area with restaurants, evening lights and views over the Tanjung Kidurong channel.
- Bintulu Central Market - Bustling market selling fresh fish, produce and regional Sarawak specialties.
- Bintulu Museum - Small museum presenting the area's history, ethnic cultures and local industries.
- Kampung Jepak longhouse visits - Nearby Iban longhouse communities offering cultural demonstrations by prior arrangement.
- Local seafood stalls at Tanjung Batu - Family-run stalls serving grilled fish and shellfish, popular with residents at sunset.
- Similajau National Park - Coastal park with beaches, trails and wildlife, a short drive northeast of Bintulu.
- Lambir Hills National Park - Rainforest reserve near Miri, suitable for a longer nature-focused day trip.
Best Time to Visit Bintulu #
Bintulu is tropical and humid year‑round; expect heat and frequent rain. The drier months (June-September) are marginally easier for outdoor plans, while November-March brings the heaviest rainfall and lush landscapes.
Best Time to Visit Bintulu #
Bintulu's climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 23°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (3290 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (342 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (227 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (216 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (220 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is the hottest month, feeling like 33°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (215 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (230 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (220 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (256 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (284 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (327 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (353 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (400 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
How to Get to Bintulu
How to Get Around Bintulu #
Bintulu’s central area is walkable for short trips but the city is spread out, so taxis, ride-hailing and local buses are useful for getting around. Renting a car makes exploring beaches and industrial areas easier. Bintulu Airport and the intercity bus network connect the town with other parts of Sarawak; expect reasonable fares for taxis and consistent bus schedules to regional hubs.
Where to Stay in Bintulu #
- Bintulu - budget hotels & inns (Booking) - Economical lodgings near town centre
- Local budget listings (Tripadvisor) - Simple guesthouses and inns available
- ParkCity Everly Hotel Bintulu - Modern hotel popular with business guests
- Bintulu mid-range hotels (Booking) - Comfortable hotels with restaurants
- Top-rated regional hotels (Tripadvisor) - Best available higher-end options locally
- Premium suites & serviced apartments (Booking) - Upscale serviced apartments and suites listed
Where to Eat in Bintulu #
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Bintulu's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Bintulu #
Bintulu’s nightlife is modest: hotel bars, waterfront eateries and a number of casual pubs form the main evening options. There are occasional events and weekend live-music nights, but no large club scene. If you want a livelier late-night atmosphere you’ll find more choices in larger Sarawak cities.
Shopping in Bintulu #
Shopping in Bintulu includes local markets and a handful of shopping centres and retail complexes that meet daily needs. Fresh seafood and local produce are sold at markets near the harbour area. For a larger mall experience or a wider selection of brands, travellers often visit bigger Sarawak cities such as Miri or Kuching.
