Preah Sihanouk
Tropical Islands & Gulf of Thailand Beaches
Best For
Beaches & Islands · Snorkeling
Stay
3–5 days
Best Time
November to April
Type
Top Destination
About
Why Visit Preah Sihanouk?
While Sihanoukville city has undergone dramatic changes in recent years, the islands offshore remain genuinely extraordinary. Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem are among Southeast Asia’s most beautiful — long white beaches, warm turquoise water, and a pace of life that immediately dissolves any urban stress.
Koh Rong
Cambodia’s second-largest island is the livelier of the two main islands — Long Beach stretches for 7km of white sand, and the main village has grown a vibrant backpacker scene. The bioluminescent plankton visible at night is one of nature’s most magical phenomena. Stay at a budget beach bungalow or upgrade to Song Saa Private Island for world-class luxury.
Koh Rong Samloem
Smaller, quieter, and arguably more beautiful than Koh Rong. Saracen Bay on the eastern side is a perfect crescent of white sand fringed by jungle — pure paradise. Development is intentionally low-key; most accommodation runs on solar power.
Ream National Park
Just 18km from Sihanoukville, Ream National Park protects mangrove forest, estuary, beach, and coral reef — home to dugongs, Irrawaddy dolphins, and the quiet sands of Koh Thmei island. A slow boat through the mangrove channels is a calm counterpoint to Sihanoukville’s busier beaches.
Getting There
Ferries to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem depart from Sihanoukville’s Ochheuteal Beach pier multiple times daily. The crossing takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the island and sea conditions.
Highlights
Top Things to Do in Preah Sihanouk
- 1 Koh Rong Cambodia's Backpacker Paradise Island
- 2 Ream National Park Mangroves, Beaches and Dugongs Minutes from Sihanoukville
- 3 Koh Rong Samloem Saracen Bay's Mirror-Calm Lagoon
- 4 Otres Beach Sihanoukville's Laid-Back Mainland Beach
- 5 Song Saa Private Island Cambodia's "Spa With No Walls" on a Private Island
- 6 Koh Ta Kiev An Off-Grid Jungle Island With No Roads
- 7 Koh Thmei Ream National Park's Quietest Beaches
Places
Where to Go in Preah Sihanouk
island Koh Rong
Cambodia's Backpacker Paradise Island
nature Ream National Park
Mangroves, Beaches and Dugongs Minutes from Sihanoukville
island Koh Rong Samloem
Saracen Bay's Mirror-Calm Lagoon
beach Otres Beach
Sihanoukville's Laid-Back Mainland Beach
experience Song Saa Private Island
Cambodia's "Spa With No Walls" on a Private Island
island Koh Ta Kiev
An Off-Grid Jungle Island With No Roads
island Koh Thmei
Ream National Park's Quietest Beaches
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Getting Here
How to Get to Preah Sihanouk
By Bus & Minivan
Air-conditioned buses and shared minivans connect Preah Sihanouk to Phnom Penh and other major cities daily. Buses are comfortable and affordable; minivans are faster. Book through your guesthouse or a local travel agency. Getting Around Cambodia guide →
By Flight
Preah Sihanouk has a domestic airport with regular connections to Phnom Penh and international flights from major Asian cities. Flying is the fastest option and often affordable when booked in advance.
By Boat
Boat services operate seasonally to and from Preah Sihanouk — a scenic way to travel through Cambodia's rivers and lakes. Check schedules locally as services vary by season and water levels.
From Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is Cambodia's main transport hub. Regular buses, minivans, and taxis depart daily for Preah Sihanouk. Book in advance during peak season (November–March) to avoid disappointment.
From Bangkok
Bangkok is a popular gateway to Cambodia. Overland crossings at Poipet or Koh Kong connect Thailand, or fly direct into Phnom Penh or Siem Reap with budget airlines like AirAsia or Bangkok Airways.
Timing
Best Time to Visit Preah Sihanouk
Cool Dry Season
November – February
Cool mornings, clear skies, and ideal conditions for temple exploration and beach days. Peak tourist season — book accommodation in advance.
Hot Dry Season
March – April
Still dry but considerably hotter, with Khmer New Year in mid-April. Fewer crowds than peak season and prices ease slightly.
Green Season
May – October
Afternoon downpours refresh the landscape and bring lush green scenery. Significant discounts on hotels and tours. Some rural roads may be impassable. Temples are quieter and more atmospheric.
Accommodation
Where to Stay in Preah Sihanouk
Budget
Under $25/night
Guesthouses and hostels near the centre offer clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and helpful staff who can arrange tuk-tuks and day trips.
Budget tipsMid-Range
$25–$80/night
Boutique hotels and well-appointed guesthouses with pools, air-conditioning, and often a central location. The sweet spot for most travellers.
Browse itinerariesLuxury
$80+/night
Cambodia's luxury hotels are world-class and affordable by international standards — stunning pools, exceptional Khmer cuisine, and attentive service.
Luxury itineraries
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