It is a heavily forested state, and most human activity is restricted mainly either to coastal areas or estuaries. There are beaches with facilities at Kuala Belait, Lumut Beach near Tutong and at Muara. Tourist sights in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital, include the minaret crowning the golden-domed Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque and the Churchill Memorial, incorporating the Churchill Museum and Aquarium. Outside the capital, it is possible to travel up river to visit village settlements, such as the Kampong Parit Resort. Kampong Ayer, a water village, is reputed to be the largest collection of stilt habitations in the world.
Local food is similar to Malay cuisine with fresh fish and rice and often quite spicy.
Alcohol is prohibited.