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Sihanoukville, a beachside city in Cambodia along the Gulf of Thailand, is known for its islands, beaches, and seafood. A popular tourist destination, it offers vibrant nightlife, casinos, and boat trips to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. Visitors can explore local markets, villages, and national parks or enjoy fresh seafood by the shore. This guide covers its location, how to reach, must-visit places, and more.
Location
Photo: Kiensvay / Wikimedia Commons
Sihanoukville is a coastal city in Cambodia, situated southwest of the country along the Gulf of Thailand. It is around 230 km from Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. The city is known for its ports, beaches, and proximity to islands such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
How To Reach
Photo: Dmitry Makeev / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Sihanoukville by air, bus, or rail, with convenient options connecting it to major cities and countries nearby:
By Air: The Sihanoukville International Airport is the main airport, located about 20 km east of the city centre. Direct flights operate from neighbouring countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and China.
By Bus: Buses and minivans connect Sihanoukville with major Cambodian cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Battambang. Several companies like Giant Ibis and Virak Buntham provide services at reasonable fares.
By Rail: A passenger train runs between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville on weekends. The train ride takes about 7 hours and offers a scenic journey through the countryside.
Places To Visit In And Around Sihanoukville
Discover the top places to visit in and around Sihanoukville, offering beautiful beaches, islands, and vibrant local attractions:
1. Serendipity Beach
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
Serendipity Beach is one of the busiest beaches in Sihanoukville, attracting both locals and tourists. It is known for its soft sand and clear water, making it a good place for swimming and sunbathing. The beach has restaurants and bars where visitors can try fresh seafood and Cambodian dishes. During the evening, the area becomes lively with music and fireworks. Tourists can also take boat trips from here to nearby islands.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
2. Otres Beach
Photo: Wikirictor / Wikimedia Commons
Otres Beach is quieter than Serendipity Beach and is divided into two sections, Otres 1 and Otres 2. It has small guesthouses, local restaurants, and markets where people can buy handmade crafts. The beach is good for jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. On weekends, a local market called Otres Night Market takes place, where visitors can find street food, live music, and handmade jewellery.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
3. Koh Rong Island
Photo: Wikirictor / Wikimedia Commons
Koh Rong is the largest island near Sihanoukville and is known for its long coastline and clear water. It has more than 20 beaches, including Long Set Beach and Coconut Beach, which are popular for snorkelling and diving. The island is home to a bioluminescent plankton phenomenon, where the water glows at night when disturbed. Visitors can go on boat tours to see this natural effect.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Boat transfer costs around 100,000 KHR / ₹2,000
4. Koh Rong Samloem
Photo: Wikirictor / Wikimedia Commons
Koh Rong Samloem is a smaller island near Koh Rong and is less crowded. It has a few small resorts and beach bungalows. The island has different beaches, such as Saracen Bay, Lazy Beach, and Sunset Beach. Lazy Beach is a good place for snorkelling as coral reefs are close to the shore. Visitors can also go on kayaking trips around the island. Many tourists take guided boat tours that include snorkelling. Some parts of the island are forested, and short walking trails connect different beaches.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Boat transfer costs around 100,000 KHR / ₹2,000
5. Ream National Park
Photo: Dmitry Makeev / Wikimedia Commons
Ream National Park is about 18 km from Sihanoukville and covers forests, mangroves, and a coastline. It is an important area for wildlife, with animals such as monkeys, deer, and bird species. Boat tours through the mangrove forests allow visitors to see the park’s natural beauty up close. The park also has hiking trails that lead to waterfalls and viewpoints. One of the well-known spots inside the park is Kbal Chhay Waterfall, a popular stop for tourists.
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: 20,000 KHR / ₹400
Where To Stay
Photo: Engin_Akyurt / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation in Sihanoukville varies from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Popular options include Sokha Hotels & Resort, which offers a private beach, and Independence Hotel, known for its historical significance. Budget travellers can stay at Mad Monkey Koh Rong or Onederz Hostel, both providing affordable stays with a social atmosphere.
Where To Eat
Photo: Andrea Piacquadio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Seafood is a highlight of Sihanoukville, with restaurants serving fresh fish, prawns, and crabs. The Secret Garden at Otres offers Cambodian and international dishes, while Sandan Restaurant is a great place to try local Khmer cuisine. For street food lovers, the night market near Serendipity Beach has grilled meats, fresh juices, and local snacks.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Dmitry Makeev / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Sihanoukville is from November to March when the weather is dry and comfortable. Temperatures range between 24° – 30°C, making it ideal for beach activities. From May to October, the rainy season sees heavy downpours, which may affect travel plans.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dmitry Makeev / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A budget trip to Sihanoukville costs around 400,000 KHR / ₹8,000 per person for 3 days, covering accommodation, food, and transport. Mid-range travellers can expect to spend 800,000 KHR / ₹16,000, while luxury travellers may spend over 2,000,000 KHR / ₹40,000 for high-end hotels and activities.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry cash, as ATMs may not be available on nearby islands.
- Tuk-tuks are the best way to travel within the city. Negotiate fares before getting in.
- Avoid swimming during monsoons due to strong currents.
- Try local Khmer dishes such as Amok and Lok Lak.
- Take a waterproof bag if visiting the islands.
Sihanoukville boasts beaches, islands, and markets that draw travellers from all over. Relax by the sea, savour fresh seafood, and explore nearby islands. Whether for a short visit or an extended stay, there’s plenty to enjoy. Plan your trip now and discover Cambodia’s coastal gem. Book with TripXL for a seamless travel experience.
Cover Photo: Kiensvay / Wikimedia Commons
