Berakas Forest Reserve Recreational Park

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Description

Berakas Forest Reserve Recreational Park is one of those places that quietly surprises you. It’s not the sort of park that shouts for attention with flashy attractions or massive crowds. Instead, it draws you in with its calm rhythm — the rustle of leaves, the faint scent of salt from the nearby sea, and the occasional chatter of monkeys swinging through the trees. Located just a short drive from Bandar Seri Begawan, this 348-hectare reserve feels like a world away from the city’s hum. It’s where forest meets beach, and honestly, that combination alone makes it worth the trip.

What’s interesting about Berakas is how it balances being both a protected forest and a recreational park. The area is mostly kerangas forest — a type of heath forest that thrives on sandy soil — and over the years, it’s been carefully regenerated after fires. Today, you’ll find a thriving landscape with hundreds of thousands of trees, a testament to Brunei’s commitment to conservation. The trails are well-maintained, the air feels cleaner somehow, and the whole place has this unhurried charm that makes you want to slow down and just breathe.

And let’s talk about the vibe. Families come here for picnics and barbecues, friends gather for camping weekends, and solo wanderers (like me, on one lazy Sunday afternoon) find peace in the quiet corners of the forest. It’s not overly commercialized, which is a blessing. There are restrooms, picnic huts, and basic amenities, but the park still feels natural — like the forest is in charge, not us. You can hear the distant waves crashing against the shore, and if you follow the trails long enough, you’ll end up at a scenic lookout where the sea stretches endlessly before you. It’s the kind of spot that makes you forget about your phone for a bit, which says a lot these days.

Key Features

• 348 hectares of protected forest: A mix of regenerated kerangas forest and coastal vegetation, offering a unique ecosystem to explore.
• Beachfront access: The park borders the South China Sea, giving visitors a rare blend of forest and beach scenery.
• Hiking and biking trails: Around 8 km of trails suitable for both casual walks and light mountain biking.
• Picnic and barbecue areas: Well-equipped shelters and BBQ stands ideal for family gatherings or group outings.
• Camping grounds: Designated spots for overnight stays under the stars, popular among local youth groups and scouts.
• Diverse flora and fauna: Look out for pitcher plants, tropical birds, and the occasional monkey swinging overhead.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrances and paths in some parts of the park make it inclusive for all visitors.
• Facilities: Public restrooms and shaded rest areas are available throughout the park.

One of my favorite things about Berakas is how it doesn’t try too hard. It’s not manicured to perfection; it’s alive, breathing, and a little wild around the edges. You’ll see families grilling satay near the beach, kids running barefoot through the sand, and photographers crouched in the undergrowth trying to capture the perfect shot of a bird mid-flight. It feels real — and that’s what makes it special.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re planning a visit, timing matters more than you might think. Brunei’s tropical climate means it’s warm year-round, but the dry season — roughly from February to August — is the sweet spot. During this time, the trails are firm, the skies are clear, and the sea breeze feels just right. I once went in late March, and the golden light filtering through the trees at sunset was absolutely magical. The rainy months (around October to January) can still be beautiful, but expect muddy paths and the occasional downpour that sends everyone scrambling for shelter.

Morning visits are particularly rewarding. The air is cool, birds are most active, and the park feels fresh and untouched. If you’re into photography, catch the early light — it gives the forest this soft, diffused glow that’s hard to describe. Evenings are lovely too, especially near the beach where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon. But bring mosquito repellent; trust me on that one.

How to Get There

Getting to Berakas Forest Reserve Recreational Park is fairly straightforward if you’re already in Bandar Seri Begawan. It’s about a 20-minute drive along the Muara-Tutong Highway, and the route is well-signposted. You’ll know you’re close when you see the replicas of pitcher plants marking the entrance — a quirky but fitting touch given the park’s biodiversity. There’s parking available near the entrance, and from there, you can easily access the main trails and picnic areas.

If you don’t have your own car, taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off at the park. Public transport options are limited, though, so it’s best to plan ahead. Some tour operators in the city also include Berakas as part of day trips that combine nature walks with visits to nearby attractions. Personally, I prefer driving myself — it gives me the freedom to linger as long as I want, especially when the forest starts to glow in that late-afternoon light.

Tips for Visiting

Before you head out, a few words of advice from someone who’s learned the hard way (and occasionally the muddy way):

• Bring water and snacks. There aren’t many vendors inside the park, so pack what you need for the day.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The trails are easy to moderate, but some sections can get slippery after rain.
• Protect yourself from insects. Mosquitoes love the shaded areas, so repellent is a must.
• Respect the environment. Don’t litter or disturb the wildlife. The park’s charm lies in its natural balance, and it’s up to visitors to keep it that way.
• Check the weather forecast. Sudden showers can roll in, especially during the wetter months, so a light rain jacket might come in handy.
• Go early or late in the day. Midday heat can be intense, and the softer light in the morning or evening makes the experience far more pleasant.
• Stay for the sunset. If you have time, walk down to the beach in the late afternoon. The view is one of the best in Brunei — calm, reflective, and quietly breathtaking.

One last thing — if you’re someone who loves a bit of solitude, weekdays are perfect. The park tends to be busier on weekends with families and groups, but during the week, it’s peaceful enough that you can hear the waves and the forest whispering around you. It’s the kind of place where you can sit on a bench, stare out at the sea, and just let your thoughts wander. I’ve done that more than once, and somehow, it always feels like time well spent.

In many ways, Berakas Forest Reserve Recreational Park is a reflection of Brunei itself — understated, deeply connected to nature, and quietly beautiful. It’s not about adrenaline or flashy attractions; it’s about slowing down, reconnecting, and remembering how good it feels to be surrounded by trees and sea air. Whether you’re a traveler passing through or a local looking for a weekend escape, this park has a way of leaving a gentle mark on you. And honestly, that’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

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