Cambodia's Best Beach

Today, Sihanoukville is best known as Cambodia’s main beach town. Indeed, this tropical seaside spot does have the atmosphere and stretches of sand to match many a Southeast Asian beach paradise. Sihanoukville’s past is marred by violence, and it is only in the last ten years that it things have really quieted down. Though there are many stories of buses and trains being hijacked by bandits, the roads are quite safe, and buses run regularly between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville without problem. Flights are also available from Phnom Penh.

A private car can also whisk people from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville in an afternoon.

For most people, the main attraction’s in Sihanoukville are the beaches and islands. The diving and snorkeling are not comparable to Thailand or Indonesia, but underwater exploring around some of the outer lying islands will satisfy scuba fans.

The backpacker scene on a stretch of sand known as Serendipity Beach is usually in full swing. This beach is crowded and less than idyllic, but most people seem to be here to socialize and take advantage of the reasonably priced beach side accommodations. Victory Beach is best for watching the city and the port. Otres Beach is the least spoiled stretch of beach. This southernmost sandy stretch is not crowded and has all the trappings of a stereotypical tropical paradise: sand, palms, and lack of crowds. Sokha Beach is similarly beautiful, but, except for a small bit, is owned by a 5-star seaside resort.

Ream National Park offers a place to get closer to nature. Many tour companies run boat tours along the swampy coast 10 miles from Sihanoukville. Mangrove forests and wildlife abound, and there are several deserted beaches that would put anything in town to shame.

Some of the outer lying islands are also worth a visit. Bamboo Island offers a deserted island experience, and even has basic accommodations. Many guesthouses run day tours that offer trips to the islands along with snorkeling and, mostly, beer drinking. These tours are enjoyable (and more affordable) if a large group is organized. There are several scuba diving outfitters with good reputations. The water around the Koh Rung Islands is reputed to be the best for diving.

The city of Sihanoukville itself is not as busy as Phnom Penh. Getting around by bicycle or motorcycle taxi is easy and cheap (a motorcycle ride shouldn’t cost more than $1).

Sihanoukville has a pretty happening backpacker scene, and some great beaches. Southern Thailand it’s not, but it is worth a trip if you’re visiting Cambodia.