November to April (dry season, calm seas)
$25-80 USD
Khmer (English spoken in tourist areas)
Cambodian Riel (KHR) / US Dollar widely accepted
Overview
About Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is Cambodia's primary coastal city, situated on the Gulf of Thailand in the southwest of the country. Known locally as Kampong Som, it serves as a hub for beach tourism and island access, with several offshore islands making it one of Southeast Asia's most accessible tropical island destinations.
The city itself has undergone dramatic and controversial changes since around 2017, when significant Chinese investment transformed much of the urban core with casinos and high-rise construction. This development altered the character of the city centre and of previously laid-back beaches such as Ochheuteal and Serendipity. Following the Cambodian government's ban on online gambling in 2019, much of this construction halted and the city is in a transitional phase, with the beach areas recovering their earlier character.
Otres Beach, located around 7 kilometres south of the city centre, remains the most appealing beach for independent travellers, with lower-key development and a more relaxed atmosphere. Independence Beach to the north retains a relatively peaceful setting and is accessed via the Independence Hotel grounds.
The offshore islands are the principal draw for many visitors. Koh Rong is the largest, approximately 45 kilometres from Sihanoukville by fast ferry, offering white-sand beaches and bioluminescent plankton in the surrounding waters after dark. Koh Rong Samloem to the south is smaller and quieter, popular with travellers seeking less developed conditions. Several smaller islands are accessible on day trips. The fast ferry to Koh Rong takes approximately 45 minutes.
Ream National Park, located about 18 kilometres east of the city, encompasses mainland forest, mangroves, estuaries, and 21 offshore islands. Boat tours through the park's waterways provide access to dolphin habitats and coastal bird populations. The park's condition varies with seasonal water levels.
The best time to visit Sihanoukville and its islands is November through April, when the Gulf of Thailand experiences calmer conditions and less rainfall. The monsoon season from May through October brings rough seas that limit access to some islands.
Accommodation
Where to Stay in Sihanoukville
Experiences
Things to Do in Sihanoukville
Koh Rong Island Full-Day Trip from Sihanoukville
A full-day excursion by fast ferry to Koh Rong, Cambodia's largest offshore island, visiting the main beaches at Koh Touch and Long Set Beach. The day trip includes snorkeling stops and free time on the island's white-sand beaches before returning in the afternoon.
Koh Rong Samloem Island Day Trip
A boat excursion to Koh Rong Samloem, the smaller and quieter neighbour of Koh Rong, known for the calm turquoise waters of Saracen Bay and its relative lack of development. Day trips allow several hours on the island before the return journey.
Ream National Park Boat Tour
A guided boat tour through the waterways and mangrove channels of Ream National Park, located 18 kilometres east of Sihanoukville. The tour covers estuaries and offshore islands with opportunities to see Irrawaddy dolphins, bird species, and coastal ecosystems.
Snorkeling Day Trip to Bamboo Island
A snorkeling excursion to Koh Pos (Bamboo Island) off the Sihanoukville coast, featuring coral reef exploration and clear shallow waters suited to beginner and intermediate snorkelers. Equipment is typically provided with the tour.
Bioluminescent Night Swimming at Koh Rong
An evening trip to the waters around Koh Rong to experience bioluminescent plankton, which creates a natural blue-green glow when disturbed by movement. Guided tours typically depart after dark on moonless nights for the best visibility.
Kbal Chhay Waterfall Visit
A day trip to the Kbal Chhay cascades, a series of tiered waterfalls located approximately 16 kilometres northeast of Sihanoukville in a forested valley. The site is popular for swimming in the natural pools and picnicking, particularly during the wetter months when water flow is strongest.
Island Hopping Multi-Stop Boat Tour
A boat tour visiting multiple smaller islands around Sihanoukville including Koh Pos, Koh Ta Kiev, and other uninhabited or lightly developed islands. The day includes snorkeling stops, a beach picnic lunch, and time for swimming at different island locations.
Wat Leu Temple Visit
A visit to Wat Leu, a Buddhist temple situated on a forested hill above Sihanoukville offering panoramic views over the city, port, and surrounding islands. The site is accessible by motorbike or tuk-tuk and is quietest in the early morning.
Practical Info
Sihanoukville Travel Tips
Airport
KOS
Timezone
UTC+7
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR) / US Dollar widely accepted
Population
90,000
Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beaches in Sihanoukville?
How do I get to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville?
Is Sihanoukville safe to visit in 2026?
What happened to Sihanoukville and why did it change?
What is the best time to visit Sihanoukville?
What can I do in Ream National Park?
How do I get to Sihanoukville from Phnom Penh?
Can I see bioluminescence in Sihanoukville?
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