Overview
The
city of Sihanoukville—named in honor of former King Norodom Sihanouk—is almost always on every traveler’s Cambodia itinerary.
This Cambodia's coastal gem, beckons with its white sandy beaches, azure waters, and an island-like atmosphere perfect for unwinding. This vibrant city offers a blend of relaxation, thrilling water activities, and fascinating cultural discoveries, appealing to travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
While the city and its islands are popular, the hinterland holds hidden treasures. Discover secluded beaches bordering wild landscapes, majestic mountains sheltering refreshing waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna protected within national parks. Sihanoukville is your ideal destination to recharge, connect with nature, and experience Cambodia's most beautiful beaches, away from the usual tourist crowds.
Top Attractions
Serendipity Beach in Sihanoukville is famed for its captivating mix of golden sands and crystal-clear blue waters
Sihanoukville, also called Kampong Saom or Preah Sihanouk, is a coastal city in Cambodia and serves as the capital of Preah Sihanouk Province.
Here are the top attractions you won't want to miss
Idyllic Beaches
Sink your toes into the soft sands of Sihanoukville's renowned beaches, including Otres Beach, Sokha Beach, and Lazy Beach. Here, you can bask in the sun, swim in warm waters, and soak up the tropical vibes.
Island Paradises
Embark on an adventure to the nearby islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. These islands are famous for their pristine landscapes, exceptional diving spots, and vibrant nightlife.
Thrilling Water Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Sihanoukville offers a multitude of water activities. Dive into snorkeling and scuba diving, or try kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
Breathtaking Sunsets
Don't miss the spectacular sunsets over the sea. Witness the sky ignite with vibrant colors, creating an unforgettable moment.
See and Do
Ochheuteal Beach remains the town’s most popular and heavily visited shoreline
The beaches of Sihanoukville are the main attraction of this coastal city in Cambodia, catering to all tastes!
Ochheuteal Beach is one of the most popular, with its 3.3 km stretch of white sand. It has everything you could dream of for a day at the beach: sun loungers to relax, trees for shade, and plenty of restaurants and bars to refresh and dine. Families will also enjoy the Buddy Land Water Park, located directly on the beach.
For those seeking a bit more peace, Serendipity Beach is an excellent choice. Smaller and less crowded than the other beaches in Sihanoukville, it offers a more peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
Otres Beach is one of the largest on the mainland, stretching 4.6 km. Despite its size, it remains relatively unspoiled and uncrowded. You can even take windsurfing lessons for the more sporty.
If you're looking for luxury and comfort, Sokha Beach is the place for you. As a private property of a hotel, it offers upscale facilities and impeccable service.
But Sihanoukville is not limited to these few beaches. Many other sandy bays, such as Independence Beach, Hawaii Beach, Victory Beach, Hun Sen Beach, and Ream Beach, are also worth exploring.
Whatever your preference, you will surely find the beach of your dreams in Sihanoukville!
Koh Rong Samloem is a peaceful relaxing destination with breathtaking scenery
Sihanoukville also attracts visitors with its 22 paradise islands, easily accessible by ferry from the mainland.
Koh Rong, the largest and most popular of them, is a true tropical gem with its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. Whether you prefer the buzz of Long Beach, the comfort of Sok San, or the charm of Palm Beach, you will surely find your piece of paradise. The island also boasts a refreshing waterfall and traditional villages that reflect the local culture. The more adventurous can explore the island on foot or by bike, indulge in snorkeling or scuba diving, fishing, or even ziplining. And if you spend the night on the island, you may be lucky enough to witness a magical spectacle: bioluminescent plankton illuminating the waters of Koh Rong at night.
Koh Rong Samloem, its smaller sister, is a true haven of peace. More wild and less crowded, it offers pristine beaches, calm waters, and lush jungle. Saracen Bay, with its 3 km of fine sand, is a true jewel still preserved from mass tourism. Mpay Bay, on the other hand, is home to an ecotourism project where travelers can participate in environmental protection.
But Koh Rong Sanloem is not just about its beaches. The island offers a multitude of activities for all tastes: snorkeling or diving, fishing, jungle trekking, mountain biking... The most adventurous can even explore the island by exploring its trails and fishing villages.
While Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are the best known, other islands are also worth a visit. Koh Kaong Kang, uninhabited, is ideal for aspiring Robinson Crusoes dreaming of solitude and communion with nature. Diving enthusiasts will find their happiness at Koh Tuich and Koh Koun, renowned for their exceptional underwater world. Finally, Koh Bong Po-oun, with its exclusive hotel complex, will delight those seeking a luxury and refined experience.
Koh Thmei, located just 300 meters from the mainland, is a true haven of peace. With its large pristine beaches, lush vegetation, two mountain peaks, and a network of rivers, streams, and estuaries, it offers a wild and preserved nature. There are 155 bird species, as well as other wildlife, such as monkeys and the fishing cat. The island also houses two small villages, Taly and Chong Thmei, which reflect local life.
Near Koh Thmei is the uninhabited island of Koh Seh, known for its mangroves. Many islands and beaches in Sihanoukville are part of the Ream National Park, which protects a vast area of 210 km2 of terrestrial and marine habitats. Forests, hills, coral reefs, freshwater wetlands... The diversity of landscapes is impressive.
Ream National Park offers a multitude of activities for all ages. Fishing trips, dolphin watching, snorkeling or diving, hiking, ziplining... Nature and adventure lovers will be delighted. It is even possible to sleep under the stars in the park, for a total immersion in the wild nature.
Exploring Kbal Chhay Waterfalls reveals nature’s breathtaking beauty and power
The hinterland of Sihanoukville also hides hidden treasures, such as the Kbal Chhay waterfall.
Located inland, in the province of Sihanoukville, this waterfall is fed by the waters of the Elephant Mountains. Discovered only in 1960, this site is now a popular visit during a day trip from the city of Sihanoukville, offering an interesting contrast with coastal life.
Go Green
Mr Linh's Adventures offers tailor-made tours in the Preah Sihanouk Province, suitable for all levels and preferences. Whether you're with family, as a couple, or with friends, you'll find the adventure that suits you.
Heritage
Wat Leu is one of the 5 main wats in the picturesque port city of Sihanoukville
The hinterland of Sihanoukville also hides cultural treasures, such as Buddhist temples.
Wat Leu, also known as the Upper Pagoda, is an important place of worship located at the top of Mount Sihanouk. Open for special celebrations throughout the year, it offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Imagine: after climbing the mountain, you discover this magnificent temple, with its bright colors and detailed sculptures. The panoramic view of Sihanoukville is breathtaking!
Wat Krom, or the Lower Pagoda, is another temple located at the foot of the hill, in the city of Sihanoukville. More modest than Wat Leu, it remains an important place of worship for the local community.
These two temples bear witness to the cultural richness of Sihanoukville and the importance of Buddhism in the daily life of Cambodians. So, during your stay in Sihanoukville, do not hesitate to visit these places of worship and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere that reigns there. You will discover another facet of this fascinating city.
The iconic golden lion statues mark the entrance to Serendipity Beach
Located on one of the roundabouts in Sihanoukville, the Golden Lion Monument is the most recognizable in the city. Built in 1996, it represents two golden lions, symbols of strength and courage. But this monument is not limited to its aesthetic aspect. It is steeped in history and symbolism.
According to locals, the Golden Lion Monument was designed to remind of the violence Cambodia experienced in the past, especially during the Khmer Rouge period. The golden lions represent the Khmer people's innate resistance to adversity. They are a symbol of hope and renewal, testifying to Cambodia's will to rebuild itself after years of conflict.
Food & Drinks
Bai sach chrouk is a Cambodian pork-and-rice dish often enjoyed as a breakfast staple
In Sihanoukville, do not miss tasting the local beer: Angkor Beer. Produced by one of Cambodia's main breweries, it is a symbol of the country and the most consumed beer throughout Cambodia. You will find it in all bars and restaurants in Sihanoukville.
Sihanoukville is known for its festive atmosphere and fresh seafood. Ochheuteal and Otres beaches are popular nightlife spots, with their lively bars and night markets offering a variety of local dishes and evening entertainment.
Kampot pepper crab is one of Sihanoukville’s standout specialties—and for good reason. This celebrated Cambodian dish pairs the natural sweetness of fresh crab meat with the warm, spicy aroma of Kampot pepper, a globally renowned spice grown in the Kampot region. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of succulent crab sweetness, savory sauce, and fragrant, peppery heat, making for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Pork rice, known locally as Bai sach chrouk, is a must-try specialty in Sihanoukville. This humble yet flavorful dish features thin slices of pork—often marinated in coconut milk or garlic—grilled over charcoal and served alongside fluffy broken rice, fresh cucumbers, radishes, ginger, and a bowl of fragrant onion-topped broth.
And finally, curry noodle soup, known locally as Nom banh chok, is a must-try specialty in Sihanoukville. Often sold by street vendors, it features tender rice vermicelli bathed in a fragrant white fish curry broth that’s rich, sweet, and steaming hot. Accompaniments include fresh vegetables—banana flower, papaya, lotus root, cowpea, and celery—plus herbs like mint, and garnishes of lime and chili. The combination of silky noodles, aromatic curry, and crisp, cooling greens delivers an unforgettable taste of Cambodia’s culinary heritage.
Directions
Location
Sihanoukville is located about 230 km southwest of Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.
How to get there
You can reach Sihanoukville by bus, taxi, or plane from Phnom Penh. There are no direct flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
The best season to visit
The best time to visit Sihanoukville is from November to April, during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and the temperatures are pleasant.