Weather in Bintulu

About Bintulu

Bintulu's modest waterfront belies its status as a major industrial shipping port, yet within easy reach lies the Fairy Cave temple complex where limestone formations shelter shrines accessed by narrow passages. This industrial-natural juxtaposition defines Sarawak's economy.

Country

Malaysia

Best months to visit

Year-round

Currency

MYR

Language

Malay, English

Things to do in Bintulu

Fairy Cave temple exploration and worship Limestone chamber hiking and climbing Industrial port heritage tours Local Iban community village visits Fishing and boating experiences Night market cultural food exploration

Weather by month

Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.

January

29C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

February

29C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

March

29C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

April

30C

Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

May

30C

Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

June

30C

Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

July

30C

Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

August

30C

Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

September

30C

Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

October

30C

Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

November

29C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

December

29C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

Bintulu is a working coastal town in Sarawak built largely around one of the world's biggest liquefied natural gas plants, but it also offers a quieter side in Similajau National Park's untouched beaches and rainforest just up the coast. The town's seafront promenade and bustling fish market give a sense of everyday Sarawakian life away from the tourist trail. It's a practical stopover rather than a headline destination, but rewarding for those who venture to Similajau.

Best areas to stay in Bintulu

Bintulu Town Centre

The commercial core, with a large central market, seafront promenade, and a mix of Chinese, Malay, and Iban communities.

Similajau National Park

A coastal rainforest park around 30km from town, with sandy beaches, jungle trails, and wildlife including crocodiles and hornbills.

Kemena River waterfront

The river running through town, lined with markets and a good spot to watch local fishing boats come and go.

Tanjung Batu Beach

A local beach area popular with residents for evening walks and casual food stalls.

Getting to Bintulu

✈

Flights

Fly into Bintulu Airport (BTU) via Kuala Lumpur or Kuching.

⏱

From London

~18-20 hours total journey time from London via Kuala Lumpur and Kuching

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Getting around

Taxis and a limited local bus network cover the town; a car or tour is needed to reach Similajau National Park.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Bintulu?

The driest months, roughly March to October, are best for visiting Similajau National Park and enjoying the beaches without heavy rain.

How do I get to Bintulu?

Bintulu has its own airport (BTU) with flights from Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, and Kuala Lumpur, as well as road connections along Sarawak's coastal highway.

What is there to do near Bintulu?

Similajau National Park offers jungle trails, beaches, and the chance to spot saltwater crocodiles and dolphins offshore; in town, the central market and seafront are worth a wander.

Is Bintulu worth visiting for tourists?

It's primarily an industrial town, but Similajau National Park nearby is a genuine highlight for travellers interested in less-visited Borneo rainforest and coastline.

What food is Bintulu known for?

Fresh seafood is a highlight, especially at the central market, alongside Sarawak specialities like Sarawak laksa and kolo mee found throughout the town.

Traveler reviews

★★★★☆

Bintulu itself is fairly industrial but Similajau National Park was a real highlight — empty beaches and a good chance of spotting wildlife on the trails.

Wei L. · May 2024

★★★☆☆

Mostly used this as a stopover, but the seafood at the central market was excellent and the riverside in the evening was pleasant.

Carl D. · September 2023

★★★★☆

Didn't expect much but the day trip to Similajau was lovely — quiet beaches and a good jungle walk with views over the South China Sea.

Noraini H. · June 2024