Sihanoukville Travel Guide: Beaches, Islands & Nightlife in Cambodia

Once a sleepy fishing village, Sihanoukville has transformed into a dynamic beach town that balances Cambodia’s traditional charm with modern resort living. Located on the southwestern coast, it offers stunning islands, golden beaches, fresh seafood, and growing nightlife—all backed by a dramatic urban skyline.
 

As a tour guide, I’ve watched Sihanoukville evolve into one of Cambodia’s most talked-about destinations. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, diving coral reefs, or just relaxing on the beach, this city has something for everyone.

📍 Where Is Sihanoukville?

Location: Southwestern Cambodia

Province: Preah Sihanouk

Distance from Phnom Penh: ~230 km (4–5 hours by road)

Access: Domestic airport (KOS), buses, taxis, and ferries

🌊 Why Visit Sihanoukville?

Gateway to Cambodia’s best islands

White-sand beaches and turquoise waters

Fresh seafood and beach BBQs

Growing nightlife and casinos

Scuba diving, snorkeling, and water sports

It’s the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

🚗 How to Get to Sihanoukville

From Phnom Penh:

By Bus: ~$8–$15 USD, 4–6 hours

By Taxi: ~$60–$90 USD, 4 hours

By Train: Scenic but slow (6.5 hours)

By Plane: 45-minute flight via Cambodia Angkor Air

Tip: Use Sihanoukville as a base for island-hopping.

🏖️ Best Beaches in Sihanoukville

1. Otres Beach

Most scenic and relaxed

Divided into Otres 1 and Otres 2

Ideal for swimming, sunsets, and laid-back vibes

2. Ochheuteal Beach

Long, lively, and popular with locals

Water sports and beach bars

Gets crowded during holidays

3. Serendipity Beach

Closest to the city center

Buzzing with nightlife, restaurants, and ferry docks

4. Independence Beach

Quieter, near upscale resorts

Great for families and peaceful walks

5. Sokha Beach

Private beach (but often accessible via resort)

Clean and less crowded

🏝️ Island-Hopping from Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is the jumping-off point for some of Cambodia’s most stunning islands.

🌟 Koh Rong

Cambodia’s most famous island

White beaches, nightlife, and diving

Activities: Zip-lining, plankton tours, snorkeling

🌿 Koh Rong Samloem

Quieter, with calm waters and eco-resorts

Ideal for couples and digital detox

Lazy Beach and Saracen Bay are highlights

🐠 Koh Ta Kiev

Rustic, undeveloped charm

Backpacker-friendly with simple bungalows

Great snorkeling and beach camping

Tip: Ferries and speedboats to islands depart daily from Serendipity Pier.

🎒 Top Things to Do in Sihanoukville

1. Beach Hopping and Sunbathing

Rent a scooter or take a tuk-tuk to explore Sihanoukville’s multiple beaches. Each one offers a different vibe—from party-central Serendipity to peaceful Otres 2.

2. Island Excursions

Join a day tour or stay overnight on Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem for pristine waters and coral reefs.

3. Snorkeling & Diving

The nearby islands offer beginner-friendly snorkeling and diving, especially around Koh Rong Samloem. Expect to see colorful reefs, parrotfish, and sea urchins.

4. Visit Wat Leu Pagoda

Located on a hill, this serene temple offers panoramic views of Sihanoukville and its coastline.

5. Relax with a Beach Massage

Massages right on the beach for ~$5–$10/hour. Perfect after a long island tour or travel day.

6. Nightlife & Casinos

Serendipity Beach has bars, beach clubs, and international DJs. The city center has casinos, mostly serving Chinese tourists.

🍽️ What to Eat in Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a seafood lover’s paradise. Dine on the beach or explore local restaurants and street food stalls.

Local Dishes to Try:

Amok Trey (Fish Amok)

Grilled squid with Kampot pepper

Crab and shrimp straight from the sea

Lok Lak (stir-fried beef with lime-pepper dip)

Recommended Restaurants:

Sandan – Social enterprise with Khmer cuisine

Maybe Later – Mexican food with cocktails

Olive & Olive – Italian/Greek fusion

Ernie’s Burgers – For Western comfort food

Tip: Try a seafood BBQ buffet on the beach at sunset.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Sihanoukville

Accommodation options vary from backpacker hostels to 5-star beach resorts.

Budget (Under $25 USD):

Onederz Hostel

Monkey Republic

Mango Rain Boutique Hotel

Mid-range ($30–80 USD):

Good Time Resort

Sandy Clay Bungalows

The Harbour Boutique Hotel

Luxury ($90+ USD):

Sokha Beach Resort – Private beach access

Independence Hotel by Dara

Queenco Hotel & Casino – Upscale with sea views

Island Option: Book a stay on Koh Rong Samloem for a remote escape.

🧳 What to Bring

Lightweight clothing and swimsuit

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat

Mosquito repellent

Snorkel gear (optional)

Reusable water bottle (eco-friendly travel)

Waterproof bag for island trips

🔒 Safety and Travel Tips

Sihanoukville has seen rapid Chinese investment—expect construction and urban development.

Some beaches are affected by pollution—check local conditions before swimming.

Be cautious with valuables; petty theft can happen.

Avoid unlicensed boat operators—book through reputable tour agencies.

Use Grab or local tuk-tuks for transport.

🧠 Fun Facts About Sihanoukville

Named after King Norodom Sihanouk in 1964

Originally called Kompong Som

The only deep-sea port in Cambodia

Now a major hub for Chinese investment and tourism

Close to Ream National Park, a great side trip for nature lovers

🌿 Day Trips from Sihanoukville

1. Ream National Park

Mangroves, beaches, and birdlife

Great for kayaking and hiking

Located ~18 km from Sihanoukville

2. Kbal Chhay Waterfalls

Popular picnic spot, especially during the rainy season

7 km from the city center

3. Kampot & Kep

Easily reachable within 2–3 hours

Famous for pepper farms, seafood, and colonial charm

✅ Summary: Is Sihanoukville Worth Visiting?

Yes—if you’re looking for island access, beach adventures, and a taste of Cambodia’s evolving coastal scene, Sihanoukville is a great choice. While the city itself is rapidly modernizing and not without its challenges, the surrounding islands and beaches remain breathtaking.

Whether you’re diving into turquoise waters, enjoying a sunset BBQ on the beach, or hopping on a speedboat to Koh Rong, Sihanoukville is your gateway to Cambodia’s tropical paradise.