11 Family-Friendly Attractions in Sarawak for the Perfect Holiday!

If seeing orangutans swinging through the trees and learning about indigenous traditions are something you’re after, you’ve come to the right place! Welcome to Sarawak, Malaysia, a hidden gem in the heart of Borneo. Not only will your kids be able to become close to nature, but also visit quirky museums and try all sorts of fun outdoor activities that’ll make them want to stay longer. So, check out these awesome family-friendly attractions in Sarawak that’ll do justice to every member of your fam!

Also read: Unique Sarawak Bucket List: 8 Coolest Activities You Must Experience At Least Once!

Most exciting family-friendly attractions in Sarawak you can’t miss

1. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Image credit: Sarawak Tourism Board | Official Website

Semenggoh Nature Reserve is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Sarawak for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. It is a rehabilitation centre for orangutans, providing families a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural environment. 

Here, you can join guided walks with rangers through scenic trails that wind through lush rainforests as you learn about the importance of orangutan conservation and the threats they face. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might be lucky enough to spot proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and squirrels along the way!

2. Kuching Cat Museum

Image credit: Sarawak Tourism Board | Official Website

Calling all cat parents and cat lovers! Kuching Cat Museum, located in the heart of Kuching, welcomes you with open paws to their various cat-related exhibits, including antique cat figurines, cat paintings, and historical artefacts. 

Here, both you and the little ones can enjoy interactive displays that teach about cat anatomy, behaviour, and history. Not only that, but you can also drop by the museum’s gift shop, which offers a variety of cat-themed souvenirs, from cuddly toys to stylish accessories! Talk about an a-meow-zing experience you can’t say ‘no’ to.

3. Bako National Park

Image credit (L-R): Goddard_Photography | Canva Pro; mazzzur | Canva Pro

Bako National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, which showcases a variety of habitats, including mangrove forests, coastal vegetation, and hill forests. This means you and the kids will encounter a wide range of flora and fauna. Think long-tailed macaques, silvered langur monkeys, bearded pigs, and the world’s biggest flower: rafflesia!

What’s more, the park features a network of well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Also, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the water of Teluk Pandan and Teluk Paku, two of the park’s secluded beaches. Afterwards, take your loved ones to the nearby Iban longhouse to experience their culture and customs.

4. Tun Jugah Foundation

Image credit: Tun Jugah Foundation | Official Instagram Page

Another one of the worthy family-friendly attractions in Sarawak you should visit with the entire crew is the remarkable Tun Jugah Foundation in Kuching. FYI, this foundation is named after Tun Jugah Anak Barieng, a prominent Iban leader who played a crucial role in Sarawak’s history. 

This is the place to be if you’re up for a hands-on experience of Iban culture, such as learning traditional weaving techniques, music, and dance. You can also take the whole family on a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the foundation’s significance. Don’t forget to bring home some authentic Iban handicrafts, such as woven baskets, textiles, and jewellery, while there!

5. Borneo Cultures Museum

Image credit: Borneo Cultures Museum | Official Instagram Page

We cannot talk about museum visits in Sarawak without mentioning the Borneo Cultures Museum. The museum showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the various ethnic groups in Borneo, including the Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, and many others. You can start your adventure by visiting the museum’s permanent galleries, which showcase traditional clothing, textiles, and artefacts.

Upon reaching level 5 of the Borneo Cultures Museum, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Kuching city, including the State Legislative Assembly and the century-old Silk-Cotton tree by the side of the green Padang Merdeka. After this visual delight, your kids can engage in hands-on activities like creating their own piece of beaded jewellery via holographic technology and playing the Game on Love Our Rivers at the Children’s Gallery.

6. Sarawak Cultural Village

Image credit (L-R): Sarawak Tourism Board | Official Website; Malaysia Truly Asia | Official Website

Sarawak Cultural Village, known as the ‘living museum’ of Sarawak, is a must-visit to experience the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak. Start your journey by visiting the respective replica traditional homes of the various ethnic groups and see how they lived. You can also listen to the enchanting Iban and Bidayuh folklore from native storytellers while listening to sape instrumental music in the background.

But that’s not all. The village offers a variety of activities that will surely excite you. Try your hand at blowpipe shooting at the Penan hut, or bring your fam to play gasing (top-spinning) or congkak before you shop for souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans. Feeling hungry? Bring your crew to Restaurant Budaya serving tasty local cuisine such as manok pansoh chicken, mee kolok, laksa sarawak, and more!

7. Upside Down House

Image credit: Upside Down House Kuching | Official Facebook Page

Nothing can go wrong when you bring your family to the Upside Down House Kuching (or can it?). This place is one of the most unique family-friendly attractions in Sarawak, offering a fun and quirky experience for everyone. Here, you can wander through the rooms and hallways, experiencing the disorientation and illusion of being in a gravity-defying world.

Don’t forget to strike poses and take photos in the upside-down environment — a great way to test your balance and spatial awareness while admiring the creatively designed furniture and decor around you.

8. Kuching Waterfront

Image credit: Poike | Canva Pro

Kuching Waterfront is a must-stop destination for any families visiting Sarawak. The picturesque promenade located along the Sarawak River offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy leisurely walks along the promenade with your loved ones while taking in the scenic beauty of the river and the surrounding cityscape.

You can also visit the art galleries and souvenir shops around the area, offering unique and handcrafted items for visitors. As the sun sets, the area is filled with bustling food stalls, bars, and restaurants, selling a wide variety of local and international cuisine — a great way to end the day with a full belly!

9. Permai Rainforest Resort

Image credit: Permai Rainforest Resort | Official Instagram Page

Looking for a family holiday in the form of a fun-filled staycation? Look no further than Permai Rainforest Resort, blessed with a magnificent Mount Santubong view. We’re talking, sleeping in a treehouse while the sound of the waves lull you to sleep, and tons of exciting activities await you and your family!

FYI, this eco-resort is located near the beach, which means you are only a few steps away from fun stand-up paddle boarding, dolphin watching (Irrawaddy dolphins), and snorkelling adventures. You can also go for nature walks or simply unwind by the beach with your loved ones while soaking in the beautiful beach vistas around you.

10. Semadang Kayaking

Image credit (L-R): Semadang Kayaking | Official Instagram Page; Semadang Kayaking | Official Website

We can’t talk about the best family-friendly attractions in Sarawak without mentioning Semadang Kayaking! This fun adventure, led by certified guides and rescuers, offers calm and gentle currents, making it safe for visitors of all ages. Imagine paddling through a lush rainforest, surrounded by towering trees, vibrant flora, and exotic birdsong.

Beyond kayaking, the area also provides other family-friendly activities like bamboo rafting, caving, and jungle trekking, catering to different interests. The best part? They also offer River Fish Feeding sessions for all their water sports activities!

11. Borneo Happy Farm

Image credit: Borneo Happy Farm | Official Facebook Page

Another exciting place for family fun in Sarawak is none other than Borneo Happy Farm, an agro-tourism farm offering tons of family-friendly activities! Take your little ones to interact with the adorable furry friends here either by petting, feeding or simply saying ‘hi!’. 

The main highlights here are the thrilling dual zip line adventure and horseback riding that’ll have the whole family screaming in joy. Don’t forget to collect stamps from every station and sample tasty farm-fresh meals at their tropical farm cafe too!

Also read: Beyond Borneo: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Sarawak You Didn’t Know Existed

And that concludes our top picks for the best family-friendly attractions in Sarawak you don’t want to miss for the ultimate family holiday! From a quirky world of cats to an enchanting national park, Sarawak is a treasure trove of family-friendly destinations that will leave lasting memories etched in everyone’s heart. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on a journey through this enchanting state today!

Brought to you by Sarawak Tourism Board