Best Things to Do in Miri, Sarawak: From Mulu National Park to Tusan Beach

Nestled on the island of Borneo, Sarawak is a Malaysian state filled with natural beauty and cultural richness, and Miri is one of its most captivating gems. Often seen as the gateway to Sarawak’s world-renowned national parks, Miri is more than just a stopover; it’s a destination in its own right. With its coastal charm, scenic beaches, fascinating caves, and laid-back vibe, Miri offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Ready to explore? Let’s dive into some of the best things to do in Miri, Sarawak!

Also read: A 5D4N Kuching Itinerary to Explore the Beauty of Borneo

Top things to do in Miri, Sarawak

1. Marvel at the majestic caves in Mulu National Park

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Malaysians, have you ever taken a close look at our RM100 note? Alongside Mount Kinabalu, Sabah's highest peak, you'll spot the mesmerising pinnacles of Mulu National Park, right here in Miri. This world-renowned park, famed for its spectacular cave systems like Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, and the immense Sarawak Chamber, is a true haven for any adventure seeker or nature enthusiast.

Imagine witnessing the dramatic bat exodus at sunset, navigating thrilling canopy walks, and trekking deep into the heart of Borneo's ancient rainforest. While a short flight from Miri is required to reach this iconic national park, your Miri adventure truly isn't complete without experiencing its wonders firsthand!

2. Step back in time at Niah National Park

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Located about 1.5–2 hours from Miri by car, Niah National Park is another fascinating site, famous for the Niah Caves, where prehistoric human remains and ancient cave paintings have been found. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor explorer, you’ll enjoy the hike through the jungle and boardwalks to the caves, which were once home to one of the oldest human skulls found in Southeast Asia. It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Miri.

3. Catch the sunset at Tusan Beach

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With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and refreshing sea breeze, Tusan Beach is a truly hidden coastal gem in Miri. It’s an amazing spot for travellers to unwind, sip on refreshing coconut water, and watch the enchanting sunset paint the sky.

Tusan Beach is also especially well-known for the mysterious "Blue Tears" phenomenon — a natural occurrence where bioluminescent plankton light up the shoreline at night.

4. Visit the Grand Old Lady on Canada Hill

Image credit (L-R): Sarawak Tourism Board | Official Website; Sarawak Museum Department | Official Website

No, we’re not talking about an actual lady! For one of your top things to do in Miri, don’t miss out on a visit to Canada Hill, a limestone ridge that offers a panoramic view of the city. On top of the hill, you’ll find Grand Old Lady, Miri’s first oil well, which dates back more than a century. Not far from the well is the Petroleum Museum, the only petroleum museum in Malaysia, where visitors can learn about the state and the country’s petroleum heritage.

5. Chill at Lambir Hills National Park

Image credit: Sarawak Forestry Corporation | Official Website

Just a short drive from Miri, Sarawak, Lambir Hills National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. A naturally formed hilly terrain, visitors can immerse themselves in lush primary rainforest, home to an astonishing 1,200 species of trees and insects. And if you’re a bird lover, keep an eye out for 247 species of birds, and if you're lucky, you might even spot Gibbons, Tarsiers, or the elusive Clouded Leopard.

The park caters to all levels of explorers, offering a variety of intricate jungle trails. For a gentle introduction, a leisurely 15-minute stroll leads to the beautiful Latak Waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip. More seasoned hikers can challenge themselves with a 4-hour trek to Bukit Lambir's peak with panoramic views!

6. Explore local crafts at Miri Handicraft Centre

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How about taking home a piece of Sarawak’s culture with you? One of the things to do in Miri before you leave is to visit the Miri Handicraft Centre, a community hall showcasing a wide variety of handmade artwork from the locals. The vibrant beadwork, intricately woven baskets, and hand-crafted textiles made by local Indigenous communities make for stunning and authentic souvenirs. Not only are they meaningful keepsakes, but purchasing them also supports the talented artisans who help preserve these traditional crafts.

7. Dive into the delicious local eats

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From the popular Sarawak Laksa that’s rich and savoury to the succulent Midin exclusive to the state, Miri’s food scene is so underrated. This foodie paradise blends Malay, Chinese, and indigenous Dayak flavours. Whether you're hitting local hawker stalls or trendy cafes, don’t miss out on must-try eats like the flavourful Kolo Mee, the unique Umai (a refreshing raw fish salad), or the aromatic Ayam Pansuh cooked in bamboo.

Before leaving the city, don’t forget to stock up on some sweet and colourful layered cakes, Kek Lapis, and the iconic Sarawak pepper as souvenirs!

Also read: The Ultimate Youth Adventure Guide to Exploring Sarawak’s Caves, Reefs & Waterfalls!

Now that you have this list of things to do in Miri, Sarawak, are you ready for an adventure? From jaw-dropping natural wonders like Mulu and Niah National Parks to serene beaches and a vibrant local food scene, Miri offers something for every kind of traveller. Don’t wait, start planning your Miri getaway!

Brought to you by Sarawak Tourism Board