Permata Pugu Camping Site — A Hidden Beach Getaway in Sarawak

The Vibe

Permata Pugu is tucked away near Sematan in Lundu, Sarawak — one of those places that feels like a proper secret. You won't find crowds here. The beach is secluded, the air is fresh, and the pace of life slows down the moment you arrive. This is the kind of spot where you actually switch off your phone and just... breathe.

It's a family-friendly setup with a mix of options — you can bring your own tent and pitch it for around RM30 a night, rent a tent on-site, or stay in one of the colourful cabin rooms (Bilik Inap Kuning, cabin house, and others). The beach out front has big waves and a wild, untouched feel to it. No ATV rentals as of the reviews, so expect to explore the beach on foot — which honestly isn't bad at all. Non-halal food and drinks are not allowed on site, so keep that in mind before you pack.

The staff here are genuinely warm and helpful — that kind of hospitality that makes you feel welcomed rather than just checked in. It's not a resort, it's not a glamping park. It's a kampung-style campsite by the sea, and that's exactly what makes it special.

Getting There

The address is Jalan Masjid, Kampung Pugu, Sematan, 94500 Lundu, Sarawak. From Kuching, head towards Lundu — it's roughly 80 to 90km northwest of the city. From Lundu town, follow signs towards Sematan. Once you're near Kampung Pugu, look for Jalan Masjid as your turn-off. The campsite name is on Google Maps — search "Permata Pugu Camping Site" or use the contact number 019-809 0733 to call ahead for directions.

The road into the kampung should be manageable in a regular car, but road conditions in rural Sarawak can change after rain. Drive carefully and don't rush it. If you're coming in a loaded MPV, you'll be fine. No 4WD required based on what reviewers mention.

What to Expect

Lush surroundings, a quiet beach, and big open skies. That's Permata Pugu in three things. The site is clean and well-maintained — not manicured resort-style clean, but genuinely kept with care. Days here are spent walking the beach, listening to waves, and doing absolutely nothing productive. Nights are quiet. No nightlife, no noise. Just crickets and sea breeze.

This place suits families best. The cabin options make it beginner-friendly — if your kids aren't ready to sleep on the ground yet, book one of the rooms. The camping spots are good for those who want a real outdoor experience without going deep into the jungle. Solo travellers would enjoy it too, especially if you want solitude over socialising. Hardcore campers looking for technical terrain or waterfalls — this isn't your spot. But if you just want to unplug by the sea in Sarawak, Permata Pugu delivers.

Weekends are quiet here compared to more popular sites, so you won't be fighting for space. That said, if you're coming with a group, booking in advance makes sense — the cabin rooms are limited.

Facilities

Toilets & Bathrooms

Outdoor toilets and bathrooms available for campers. Basic but functional. One reviewer mentioned a clogged toilet in their cabin room, so it's not perfect — management has been flagged and hopefully it's been sorted. Bring your own toiletries regardless.

Accommodation Options

Mix of tent camping (from RM30/night), cabin rooms for small families (2 queen beds), and larger rooms with 3 queen beds for bigger groups. Inap Hawa rooms come with air conditioning — a solid bonus in coastal Sarawak heat. Basic household appliances and a single stove included in the rooms.

Tent Rental

Available on-site if you don't bring your own. Good option for first-timers who haven't invested in gear yet.

Security

One reviewer flagged that additional door locks for the cabin rooms would help. Basic security for now — bring your own padlock just to be safe.

Food Rules

Non-halal food and drinks are strictly not allowed. Plan your meals accordingly before coming.

Electricity

Cabin rooms have power — AC units are mentioned. Camping spots likely have limited or no power access, so bring a powerbank.

What Campers Are Saying

One family who stayed at Bilik Inap Kuning said the scenery was beautiful and the place was clean — but their toilet was clogged and the water pressure was weak. They also wished the door locks were more secure. Valid points, and the kind of feedback that matters for a place still growing its facilities.

A group of friends had a proper good time here — called it an awesome weekend, praised the helpful staff, and said they'd definitely be back. The vibe on site clearly makes up for whatever basic facilities lack.

Michelle, who came with a group, highlighted how secluded the beach is — even on weekends it doesn't get packed. She also pointed out the pricing breakdown clearly: RM30/night for a camping spot, cabin house fits a small family of 4 with 2 queen beds, and the bigger coloured houses sleep more. Useful info if you're planning a group trip.

Another camper, Nadzyrah, summed it up well — peaceful, lush, calming. Great for people who want to slow down and reconnect. Not much to do in terms of activities, but that's kind of the point.

The one consistent highlight across all reviews? The sea view. Big waves, fresh air, quiet beach. That's what people come for and that's what they get.

TAHAN Tip

If you're pitching your own tent, set up away from the tree line and closer to the open ground near the beach — you'll catch the sea breeze and it helps keep things cooler at night. Coastal Sarawak gets humid and warm even after sunset, so ventilation matters more than insulation here. Pick a spot that gets airflow, not shade.

Also, the beach has strong waves. Don't let small kids near the waterline unsupervised — it looks calm from a distance but the waves hit hard. Walk along the shore, enjoy the view, but be careful.

Since there's no electricity at the camping spots, a good lantern is essential. The TAHAN Luminate Multifunction Lantern is rechargeable, has four lighting modes, and doubles as a powerbank — handy when you're camping by the beach with no power point in sight. One of those things you'll use every night.

And if you're bringing the whole family and want proper sleep on uneven ground, the TAHAN Panthera Inflatable Sleeping Pad is 10cm thick with a built-in foot pump and integrated pillow. Comfortable enough that you won't spend the night counting rocks under your back.

Mike has been camping across Malaysia for over 10 years — from jungle treks in Taman Negara to beach camps in Perhentian. He writes about it so you don't have to find out the hard way. Follow along on TAHAN Outdoor's blog for honest campsite reviews, every week.

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