Things to Do in Jerudong

Jerudong sits along Brunei's northern coast as one of the sultanate's most affluent residential areas, though it's become something of an unexpected destination for travelers. What started as a planned community has evolved into a place where you'll find some genuinely impressive attractions alongside quiet suburban streets lined with substantial homes. The area gained international attention in the 1990s when it became home to what was then one of the world's most expensive theme parks, and while that particular chapter has ended, Jerudong has maintained its reputation as a place where ambition meets reality in interesting ways. You might find yourself surprised by how much there actually is to see and do here, from world-class golf courses to pristine beaches that feel surprisingly undiscovered given their proximity to the capital.

The dining scene in Jerudong tends to center around the major hotels and resorts, which offer everything from fine dining to casual beachside meals. The Empire Hotel has several restaurants worth trying, including options for international cuisine and local Brunei specialties. You'll also find some decent local restaurants along the main road serving traditional dishes at reasonable prices - these tend to be more authentic and considerably cheaper than hotel dining. For a broader selection, many visitors make the short drive back to Bandar Seri Begawan in the evenings, though honestly, the hotel restaurants here are good enough that you might not feel the need to venture far.

Jerudong's coastal location means it tends to be slightly cooler and breezier than inland areas, making it pleasant year-round with some caveats. The dry season from February to April offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities like golf and beach time, though you'll pay higher rates and deal with more crowds. The wet season brings afternoon thunderstorms that can be dramatic to watch from the coast, but they usually clear quickly. Interestingly, some of the best golf conditions actually occur during the shoulder months when the courses are less crowded and the greens are in excellent condition from the regular rainfall.