Miri, Sarawak: A Muslim-Friendly & First-Timer’s Guide
Miri is one of those cities that quietly surprises you — warm people, beautiful coastal views, plenty of halal-friendly food options, and an easy launchpad into Sarawak’s biggest natural attraction: Mulu National Park. Whether you’re stopping over before heading into the rainforest, exploring the city itself, or planning a calm weekend getaway, choosing the right area to stay makes all the difference.
This guide breaks down the best areas to stay, where I personally stayed, Muslim-friendly food suggestions, travel essentials, and practical tips to make your first visit smooth and enjoyable.
Best Areas to Stay in Miri
1. Miri City Centre (Most convenient for first-timers)
Miri City Centre is the most convenient base for travellers who want everything within easy reach. The area is filled with halal eateries, local cafés, shopping malls, pharmacies, supermarkets, and convenience stores — making it especially suitable for Muslim travellers and families. You’ll also be close to the lively Miri Waterfront, which is great for an evening stroll or dinner by the river. Because most places are walkable or just a short Grab ride away, this area is ideal for solo travellers, couples, and anyone who wants a smooth, fuss-free stay.
2. Marina Bay / Waterfront Area (Best for views + sunsets)
The Marina Bay and Waterfront stretch is perfect for travellers who appreciate scenic views and tranquil evening walks. This area offers waterfront dining, spacious boardwalks, landscaped parks, and some of the best sunset spots in Miri. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy photographing golden hour scenes along the coast. The vibe here is more relaxed compared to the city centre, making it suitable for travellers who want peaceful surroundings while still staying close to food and attractions.
3. Beach-Front / Seaside Hideout (Most private option)
If your ideal getaway involves fresh sea breeze, quiet moments, and waking up to the sound of waves, then a beachfront stay is perfect for you. Resorts located slightly outside the city centre — like Tim’s Seaside Hideout Resort — offer a peaceful and private environment with gorgeous ocean views. These stays are great for travellers who value nature, calmness, and a slower pace, without being too far from Miri’s main highlights. It’s an excellent choice for retreats, couples, or anyone looking to balance city convenience with seaside relaxation.
Where I Stayed: Mercure Miri City Centre
During my trip, my base was Mercure Miri City Centre, and it was the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and warmth.
What I loved:
Beautifully designed rooms and interiors
Amazing rooftop views, especially at sunset
Close to halal food and cafés
Ultra-convenient location in the heart of the city
Comfortable, modern rooms ideal for winding down
Only about 15 minutes from Miri Airport
It’s a great choice for anyone looking for something reliable, stylish, and well-located without being overly pricey.
Other Recommended Hotels in Miri
Budget Options
Mid-range
Luxury / Beach-Front Stay
Muslim-Friendly & Halal Food Nearby
Miri is incredibly Muslim-friendly, with many halal-certified or Muslim-run eateries. Around Mercure, you’ll easily find:
Ayam Penyet Ria
Warung Puteri
Local stalls and cafés
Halal seafood restaurants
Miri Night Market
Beyond the immediate area, the city has plenty of cafés, restaurants, and street food options at affordable prices. And before you leave, don’t forget to pick up some Sarawak Layered Cake (Kek Lapis) — one of the tastiest souvenirs you can bring home.
Stay Connected: Get an eSIM Before You Fly
Staying connected in Sarawak is incredibly easy, especially if you install an eSIM before flying. This saves you the trouble of searching for a local SIM card at the airport, and it activates the moment you land. An eSIM also gives you stable data throughout your trip, which is helpful for navigation, Grab, translations, and contacting your tour operators. You can purchase an eSIM through platforms like Klook or Airalo for fast, reliable setup.
Cashless Payments Are Widely Accepted
One of the nicest things about travelling in Miri is how smooth payments are. Most places—including restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and even small vendors—accept cashless options. I personally use my Wise Card for international transactions because the exchange rates are usually better, and the process is seamless. For QR payments, Touch ‘n Go eWallet works perfectly throughout Sarawak, making it easy to pay without needing to withdraw cash.
Who Should Stay in Miri?
First-time travellers to Sarawak
Families who want amenities + convenience
Muslim travellers who need easy halal access
Travellers heading to Mulu (since flights depart from Miri to Mulu)
If you’re flying into Mulu next, you’ll likely travel with MASwings, the regional airline operating rural and domestic routes across Sarawak. I recommend staying 1-2 nights in Miri first to explore the food scene and reset before the nature-heavy itinerary begins. Miri is also the best place to stock up on snacks, bottled water, and essentials..
In case you didn’t know, the airline is currently in the process of being acquired and restructured under the Sarawak state government, which means travellers can expect improved connectivity and upgraded services in the near future. Despite the ongoing transition, MASwings flights between Miri ↔ Mulu remain smooth, frequent, and reliable — making Miri the most convenient gateway into Mulu National Park.
My Personal Recommendations for Miri
1. Dress comfortably
Miri and Mulu are warm, humid, and can get rainy, so lightweight and breathable clothing will make your trip much more comfortable. If you’re visiting cultural sites or local communities, opt for modest clothing out of respect for the local culture.
2. Book your hotels via Agoda
Agoda consistently offers competitive rates for hotels throughout East Malaysia, including Miri and Mulu. If you’re planning your stay, it’s worth comparing prices here first because you can often secure better deals than booking directly. Don’t forget to use your Agoda affiliate link to save even more.
3. Stop by the Miri Visitor’s Information Centre
The Miri Visitor’s Information Centre, located in the heart of the city, provides helpful maps, brochures, and travel insights for both Miri and the surrounding attractions. The staff can recommend cultural sites, nature activities, and even help you understand logistics for Mulu or Niah Caves. It’s a worthwhile stop for first-time visitors who want to plan their trip smoothly.
4. Use Grab for local rides and food deliveries
around Miri is incredibly easy thanks to Grab. We used it throughout our entire trip — rides were affordable, drivers were friendly, and cars arrived quickly even during peak hours. Because most attractions and food spots are spread across the city, Grab is the most convenient option if you’re not renting a car. It’s also useful on days when you’re tired after exploring; just order a ride or GrabFood directly to your hotel and unwind.
5. Visit night markets early
Miri has several night markets, like the Saberkas Night Market, where you can find snacks, local bites, and Muslim-friendly food options. It’s best to visit between 6pm and 8pm when most vendors are open and the crowds haven’t peaked. This gives you time to browse comfortably and enjoy fresher food.
6. Get a full body massage
After returning from Mulu’s nature-heavy adventures, I booked a manicure, pedicure, and a full-body massage at The Spa, Miri — and it was honestly the best decision ever. Due to the lower number of tourists, it’s usually easy to secure same-day appointments. If you need to unwind, Miri is a surprisingly great place to recharge and spoil yourself a little.
7. Bring home Sarawak layer cake (Kek Lapis)
Kek lapis Sarawak (layer cake) makes an excellent souvenir for friends and family back home. There are many flavours to choose from, and they’re packed well for travel, making them easy to bring on flights. It’s one of the most thoughtful and delicious gifts you can buy before leaving Sarawak.
8. Visit Tamu Muhibbah for Local Goods
Tamu Muhibbah is one of the best places in Miri to discover local Sarawakian produce, traditional snacks, and unique souvenirs. You’ll find everything from dried anchovies and local spices to fresh fruits, sago products, and handmade crafts. Prices are reasonable, and the variety is perfect if you want to bring home something authentically Sarawak. It’s also a great way to support local vendors while getting a glimpse into the everyday culture of the city.
9. For activities and tours, book through Klook
Klook is the easiest platform to prebook river cruises, transfers, guided tours, or even local activities around Miri and Mulu. Booking in advance not only helps you secure slots during peak seasons but also allows you to enjoy better prices. Remember to include your Klook code for exclusive discounts.
Why Miri Should Be on Your Sarawak Itinerary?
Miri is often overlooked compared to other Malaysian cities, but it truly deserves a spot on your travel list — especially if you’re planning to explore the natural wonders of Mulu. The city offers modern comforts, easy halal-friendly dining, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it ideal for first-time travellers. Whether you're here for food, culture, or a calm start before your Mulu adventure, Miri gives you the convenience of a city with the soul of a small town.
If you’re already considering Sarawak, make space for both Miri and Mulu. You’ll experience the perfect balance of comfort, nature, and cultural warmth — all in one unforgettable trip.
