The moment you step out of your car, you'll see this striking turquoise-blue water sitting right in the middle of Bau — completely out of place, yet absolutely stunning. It's a man-made lake, formed from an abandoned gold mine that flooded over, and the high mineral content gives it that unreal blue colour.

来源：Veroalex

I went there on a weekday morning and honestly, the colour is even more intense in real life. Photos don't quite do it justice.

What makes it special?

Back in the 1800s, Bau was a booming gold mining town. The Hakka Chinese started mining here in the 1820s, and by the time the British Borneo Company took over, the whole area was a massive gold mine complex. The pit was over 90 metres deep. When mining stopped, the pit filled with water — highly alkaline water, thanks to the arsenic and mineral residue.

The old locals call it "Tai Parit" (Hakka for "big drain"), and the miners believed a "Stone King" deity lived at the bottom who wasn't too happy about being disturbed.

来源：BorneoTalk

What to do there

Boat Ride (RM10/adult, RM5/child) — A speed boat takes you across the lake to Roxy Rock Cafe on the other side. From there, you walk back via the floating bridge. Takes about 20-30 minutes total.

Pedal Boat (RM10/person) — 30 minutes pedal boat ride on the lake itself. Great for couples or families with kids.

Floating Bridge (RM10/adult + free 2 canned drinks, RM5/child + free 1 drink) — Walk across the floating bridge. It's a bit wobbly, and watch out — the metal handrails give static shocks! I got zapped twice before I noticed the sign.

来源：Veroalex

Feed the fish — The lake has plenty of fish near the surface. Grab some food and watch them swarm.

What people are saying

On Google Maps, Tasik Biru sits at 4.2 with over 600 reviews. Some highlights:

"The water is incredibly blue — reminds me of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland but smaller. Free entry, just pay for activities." — Ahmad R., Google Maps

"Brought my family here on a weekend. Kids loved the pedal boat. The floating bridge is fun but my wife got shocked by the railing lol." — Siti M., Google Maps

"Interesting history behind this place. Read about the bus accident in 1979 where 30 people died — there's a monument planned. Spooky but fascinating." — David L., TripAdvisor

"Best time to come is around 9-10am before it gets too hot. The water colour changes with the sunlight, absolutely gorgeous." — Megan K., TripAdvisor

Practical info

Location: Bau, Sarawak (about 38km / 45 mins drive from Kuching city centre)
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat-Sun & PH 9am-6pm
Entry: Free (pay per activity)
Getting there: Drive yourself (road is straightforward with signboards) or take e-hailing (~RM60-80 one way from Kuching)

Pro tips

• Go early morning or late afternoon — noon sun is brutal
• Check weather first. Kuching rain is unpredictable
• Wear shoes with grip — the floating bridge can be slippery
• Bring a camera — seriously, one of the most photo-worthy spots in Bau
• No swimming allowed, and don't eat the fish (arsenic content)
• If you're driving, check your brakes before heading down — steep road near the lake

来源：Veroalex — Floating Bridge

Verdict

Tasik Biru is one of those places that looks photoshopped but is 100% real. For a free-entry day trip from Kuching, you can't beat it. The history adds a layer of mystery, the activities are cheap, and the scenery is absolutely worth the 45-minute drive.

Would I go again? Yes — especially on a sunny day when the water turns that electric blue.

来源：Veroalex — Floating Bridge sunny day

Have you been to Tasik Biru? Drop a comment below and share your experience!