“Coastal and mangrove forests in pristine condition. A 30 km stretch of golden beach with breathtaking Borneo sunsets. Opportunities to spot pink dolphins and sea turtles. Multiple jungle trails of various difficulty levels.”
Similajau National Park, located north of Bintulu on the South China Sea coast of Sarawak, covers over 7,000 hectares of diverse habitats, including coastal forests, mangroves, and tropical rainforests, making it one of the most ecologically rich areas in northern Borneo. The park is a vital sanctuary for wildlife and supports a wide array of flora and fauna, providing opportunities for ecological research and nature-based tourism.
Visitors to the park can encounter rare and endemic species, such as the proboscis monkey, flying squirrels, monitor lizards, and a variety of shorebirds and migratory birds. The park also hosts marine life along its coastline, and visitors occasionally spot dolphins swimming near the shore. This makes Similajau National Park a prime destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.
The park offers several well-marked trails for trekking and exploration. The Golden Beach Trail is a 7-kilometer scenic route that meanders through coastal forests, streams, and mangroves before reaching the park’s stunning golden sandy beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach photography. The Viewpoint Trail leads to an elevated lookout providing panoramic views of the turquoise sea, surrounding forests, and nearby islands, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.
In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy dolphin-watching boat tours, guided nature walks, and educational tours that focus on the park’s biodiversity and ecosystem conservation. The park emphasizes eco-tourism, encouraging visitors to respect wildlife, avoid littering, and stay on designated trails to preserve the delicate rainforest and coastal habitats.
The best time to visit is between February and October, when the weather is dry, skies are clear, and outdoor activities are safe and enjoyable. The monsoon season, from November to January, brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, making trekking and water activities less accessible.
Similajau National Park combines pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, rich biodiversity, and scenic coastal landscapes, making it an excellent destination for adventure seekers, families, researchers, and travelers seeking an immersive nature experience in northern Borneo.
How to Get There
- From Bintulu town, the park is approximately a 30-minute drive via Jalan Sibiew.
- Taxis and private shuttles are available from the town center to the park entrance.
Travel Tips
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Wear non-slip trekking shoes and bring sufficient drinking water.
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Avoid swimming during the monsoon season.
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Contact park rangers before attempting long-distance trails.
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Accommodation and camping sites are available inside the park (advance booking required).
Admission Fee:
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Malaysians: RM 10
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Foreigners: RM 20 Prices are approximate and subject to change.
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 08:00 – 17:00