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Sihanoukville, located on Cambodia's southwestern coast, is Cambodia's largest seaport. Built after 1950, Sihanoukville is more modern than other cities in Cambodia. During the war, Sihanoukville was renamed Port Som, but in the 1990s it was restored to its original name of Sihanoukville. Many people simply refer to it as Sihanoukville.
The city's most alluring feature is its dazzling white sand and azure waters. A trip to Dongpo Sai is perfect, as you escape the ancient, enigmatic city and spend a few days relaxing on the beaches of Sihanoukville, savoring freshly grilled fish and shrimp, watching the girls selling snacks, and the children playing around.
The region has a tropical monsoon climate with prevailing northeasterly winds. The average annual temperature is approximately 29°C. December to January is the coolest season and the best time to travel. March and April see the weather warm up, even reaching peak temperatures, making it unsuitable for outdoor activities. The rainy season, from May to October, accounts for 80% of the annual rainfall. However, during this period, the rainforest is exceptionally lush and green, and the overcast weather also mitigates the scorching heat on the ground.
Sokha Beach
One of Sihanoukville's most famous beaches, a great choice for a quiet vacation
Otres Beach
Sihanoukville's newly developed beaches are less touristy, quiet and relaxing, and there are many water activities on the beach.
Recommended play time: about 1-2 days
Sihanoukville (also called Preah Sihanouk) is a coastal city in southern Cambodia, named in honor of King Norodom Sihanouk. It is home to Cambodia’s only deep-water port, making it a strategic commercial hub. In recent years, it has developed rapidly with tourism, though with challenges of overdevelopment and changing infrastructure.
Sihanoukville is in Preah Sihanouk Province, southwestern Cambodia, along the Gulf of Thailand. You can reach it by bus, private transfer, or flights into Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS), located about 18 km east of the city. Within the city, tuk-tuks, motorbikes, and taxis are common; walking works in the beach stretches and central zones.
Beaches and island trips operate generally in daytime (sunrise to dusk). Ream Park and waterfall areas are open during daylight hours. The best season is the dry season, from November to April, when rainfall is minimal and marine conditions favorable for boating. The wet season (May to October, especially June–September) brings heavy rain and choppy seas.
Most beaches are free (though beach shacks or resort sections may require payment). Island-hopping tours, national park / Ream Park, and waterfalls may charge fees or tour operator costs. These are generally paid on site or via local tour operators (offline). (No consistent national online ticketing system known)
For popular island tours, especially in peak season, booking a day or two in advance is wise. For casual beach visits and waterfalls, no advance booking needed. Many tour operators allow last-minute booking locally.
To experience Sihanoukville’s main beaches, a day or two on islands, and a bit of nature (Ream Park, waterfalls), 2 to 3 full days is reasonable. More time lets you relax and venture deeper into islands.
Yes, many boat / island tours / city tours provide guides (often in English). Tour operators typically handle logistics. Formal audio guides are less common in Sihanoukville; live guiding is the norm.
Sample 3-day plan: Day 1: Visit beach(s) near city (Serendipity, Ochheuteal), walk local markets, evening beach bars Day 2: Take an island-hopping / snorkeling tour (Koh Rong or Samloem) Day 3: Explore Ream National Park, visit Kbal Chhay Waterfall, climb to Wat Leu, optional extra beach time or night out You can swap days depending on ferry schedules or weather.
While natural attractions are day-only, nightlife in Sihanoukville includes beach bars, casinos (with lights, shows), night markets, and evening beach BBQs. Some island tours or night snorkeling / firefly tours may be available.
Peak crowds occur in the dry season (Nov–Apr). Beaches and islands are less crowded in shoulder months and midweek. Inland nature spots like waterfall or Ream Park are quieter. Some parts of the city are under construction or development, which affects crowd flow.
Beaches near the city and in islands have beach shacks, restaurants, toilets, rental gear. In Ream National Park, trails and mangrove areas have more limited facilities. Tour operators provide amenities. In the city, shops, supermarkets, restaurants are available.
Many beach areas and cruise boats are accessible for children and moderate mobility. However, trails in Ream Park, waterfalls (Kbal Chhay) and island terrain may involve uneven paths, steps, or boat transfers that are challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Choose easier beaches, choose tours with minimal hiking.
Cash (Cambodian riel / US dollars) is widely needed—many small vendors, beach shacks, markets work cash only. In larger hotels, tour operators, and some restaurants, card or mobile payments may be accepted. It’s advised to carry cash.
Seaside seafood restaurants and beach bars line Ochheuteal, Serendipity, Otres. In the city, local Khmer eateries, cafés, markets. One example: Chhne Meas on Victory Beach (serves seafood, Khmer curries) though credit cards may not always be accepted.
Vegetarian and vegan options exist in many restaurants (tofu, vegetable dishes). Halal options are more limited; in beach tourist zones or near larger hotels you may find seafood or halal-friendly places, but check in advance. (Traveler reports)
Sihanoukville offers a range from beach bungalows, guesthouses, mid-range resorts to luxury hotels, especially along Otres, Ochheuteal, and around Sokha / Independence beaches. The historic Independence Hotel, perched above the sea, is a landmark.
You can combine with visits to Koh Rong / Koh Rong Samloem islands via day boat or overnight trips. Also, you could explore deeper forest trails or villages in Ream National Park.
Yes — local markets (Phsar Leu, beachside stalls) and shops in tourist zones. Typical souvenirs include shell jewelry, local handicrafts, woven goods, wood carvings, beachwear, postcards.
From Sihanoukville, you can travel by bus/minivan to Phnom Penh, Kampot, or other parts of Cambodia. You can also take boats / ferries to the islands (Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem). The Phnom Penh–Sihanoukville railway carries passenger service.
