With a handful of white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and a cozy atmosphere, this small southern Cambodian city is a favorite beach destination for many visitors over the years. Sihanoukville (also known as Kampong Som) used to be a sleepy port town, but has recently attracted tourists looking for a tropical getaway. If you plan on visiting the city anytime soon, here is a list of things to do in Sihanoukville.
Just a little past south of Ochheuteal Beach is the stunning Otres Beach. Take in the blinding white beach that stretches at 3 km while you bask in the salty breeze. The Otres Beach boasts a relaxing, laid back vibe compared to its neighboring resorts because of the lack of hotels or big buildings. Here, you can enjoy a string of beach-shack bars, bungalows, and coconut trees – a perfect vacation spot.
Another favorite tourist attraction in Sihanoukville, Cambodia is the Ream National Park. It boasts a beautiful natural landscape that invites visitors for a trek through the park, a stunning boat trip through coastal mangroves, and a long stretch of unspoilt beaches. Get to spot some birds as the park is also home to many local and endangered birds, including the Brahminy kite and white-bellied sea eagle.
The 4km-long Ochheuteal beach is one of Sihanoukville's most popular beaches, mainly because you’ll be greeted with an array of exciting activities to do. Having upscale hotels and casinos to laid-back beach bars, Ochheuteal beach has a lot in store for different kinds of travelers. You can lounge on their pretty grass umbrellas, take rentable beach chairs, or just sip some coconut drinks at one end of the beach.
Located 4.6km off the coast of Sihanoukville is Bamboo Island, or Koh Russei. It’s just one of the many small groups of islands in the Gulf of Thailand that boasts clean white sand beaches and clear waters. For years, the island has been an outpost for the Cambodian Navy, however tourists have been flocking to the island due to rising developments happening like luxury hotels, resorts, and casinos. If you’re looking for what to do in Sihanoukville, this is the place to go.
Nestled in Koh Rong Samloem is a peaceful island destination with a beautiful scenery to boot. The Lazy Beach, a paradise island, boasts pristine white beaches, sparkling ocean waters, and a lush tropical jungle. This is perhaps why many tourists who are looking for a peaceful break from the busier attractions flock to this place. Have some fun and go snorkeling, go drinking at the resort bars, or simply lounging on the beach.
Wat Leu Pagoda is one of the five main wats or Buddhist temples found in the port city of Sihanoukville. Standing at the top of Sihanoukville mountain, visitors can take in the stunning panoramic view of the city and appreciate the tranquil and serene atmosphere of Wat Leu at the same time. There are monkeys that freely roam around the area so be extra careful especially when you have food or they might just snatch it from you!
Located at the foot of Sihanoukville mountain you’ll find Independence Beach, another favorite tourist attraction. Named after the Independence Hotel, which is located in the area, you can find calmer currents here which are ideal for swimming. Apart from the white sandy beaches and cool crystal-clear seas, this attraction also has many local cafes, bars, hotels and resorts lined up along its coastlines.
If you’re looking for an off-the-grid island adventure, then head to Koh Ta Kiev. This tropical island is one of the bigger islands off the coast of Sihanoukville. It’s a perfect destination for travelers looking to truly immerse themselves in the beautiful rustic atmosphere, lounge in the beaches, or have a trek through the forest. It has no resorts, only homestays and bungalows, limited power, no internet service, and only a handful of small shops and cafes – truly an experience to try!
Somewhere near the beaches of Independent and Serendipity lies the 1.5km-long Sokha Beach. This pretty stretch of sand is a privately owned beach by Sokha Beach Resort. The beach is rarely crowded so it’s a perfect spot to fully bask in the sun and enjoy the sea without anyone bothering you.
This local market is the place to go to and find fresh seafood, souvenirs, clothes, and more! This market is where locals and tourists alike come to shop and eat local delicacies that are affordable. You can even ask merchants for a bargain if you’re up for it!
Sihanoukville is famous for the many beaches and tropical islands that surround the area. It used to be a small port town, but over the years, its white sandy beaches and tranquil waters have attracted a few developers to set up luxury resorts that, in turn, have invited many tourists to visit this southern Cambodian city.
Cambodia is a tropical country with warm to humid temperatures all year round. The best time to visit Sihanoukville is at any time, but if you want to bask in a lot of sunshine, you can avoid coming to the city during the last two months of the year during the rainy season.
The most popular location for good budget accommodation is in the Otres Beach area. It's perfect for first time travelers as you're surrounded by bars, restaurants, and shops. If you want to stay a little outside the city where it's less crowded, you can head to the islands of Koh Rong Sanloem and Koh Rong. They offer a list of luxury accommodations that are budget friendly.