Sihanoukville

Overview

Sihanoukville (also known as Kompong Som) is Cambodia's primary coastal city and main gateway to the Gulf of Thailand islands. Once a sleepy beach town popular with backpackers, the city has undergone dramatic transformation since 2016 due to massive Chinese investment in casinos and real estate.

Today, most travelers use Sihanoukville primarily as a transit hub to reach the beautiful islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. The islands remain largely unspoiled and offer the tropical paradise experience that Sihanoukville's mainland beaches once provided.

Best Time to Visit

The coastal region has distinct wet and dry seasons:

• November to April: Dry season—calm seas, best island weather, peak tourism. December-February offers ideal conditions. Book island accommodations in advance.
• May to October: Wet season—rougher seas may disrupt ferry schedules. Some island resorts close. However, you'll find fewer crowds and lower prices. Swimming can still be good between rain showers.

Ferry services to the islands operate year-round but may be reduced or cancelled during storms. Check schedules before traveling during monsoon season.

Things to Do

Beaches

Mainland beaches have changed significantly. Current options:

• Otres Beach: The best remaining mainland beach, about 8km south of town. Still relatively peaceful with beach bars and guesthouses. Two main sections: Otres 1 (more developed) and Otres 2 (quieter).
• Independence Beach: Near the Independence Hotel. Less developed, but can be quiet.
• Sokha Beach: Private beach belonging to Sokha Resort. Public access limited.

Island Hopping

Costs & Budget

Sihanoukville and island costs:

Budget Traveler ($25-45/day)

• Guesthouse in town or Otres: $8-15
• Island dorm bed: $10-20
• Local food: $5-10
• Ferry to islands: $10-15 one-way

Mid-Range Traveler ($50-100/day)

• Beach hotel: $25-50
• Island bungalow: $40-80
• Restaurants and bars: $15-25
• Speed boat + activities: $30-50

Comfort Traveler ($100+/day)

• Resort accommodation: $80-200+
• Private island transfers: $100+
• Fine dining and cocktails: $40-80
• Diving courses: $300-500

Where to Stay

Accommodation options depend on your plans:

• Near the Pier: If catching an early ferry, stay near Serendipity Beach Pier. Basic but convenient. One night maximum recommended.
• Otres Beach: Best mainland option. Beach bungalows and guesthouses retain some of the old Sihanoukville vibe. Stay here if you want beach time without island costs.
• Koh Rong: Range from party hostels at Koh Touch to secluded beach resorts. Most visitors stay on the main village side.
• Koh Rong Samloem: Quieter, more upscale options. Saracen Bay has the most development; other beaches are more remote.

Getting There & Around

Getting to Sihanoukville

• Bus from Phnom Penh: 5-6 hours, $10-15 USD. Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and others. Departures throughout the day.
• Flight: Sihanoukville Airport (KOS) has domestic flights from Siem Reap and international flights from some Asian cities.
• Bus from Siem Reap: 10-12 hours overnight, $15-20 USD. Or fly via Phnom Penh.
• From Kampot/Kep: 2-3 hours by bus or taxi, $8-15 USD.

Getting to the Islands

• Speed boat: 45 minutes to Koh Rong, $15-25 one-way
• Slow ferry: 2+ hours, $8-12 one-way
• Private boat: $150+ for charter

Book ferry tickets online through Speed Ferry Cambodia or at the pier. During peak season (Dec-Feb), book at least a day in advance.

Food & Dining

Dining options vary by location:

• Sihanoukville town: Mix of Khmer, Chinese, and international. Many Chinese restaurants due to demographics. Street food available near markets.
• Otres Beach: Beach bars, Western-style restaurants, and Khmer food. More tourist-oriented pricing.
• Islands: Limited options depending on where you stay. Most accommodations include restaurant. Expect higher prices. Fresh seafood is the highlight.

Must-try: Fresh seafood BBQ, especially crab and prawns. Beach restaurants on the islands grill catches of the day.

Safety Tips

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in casino areas
• Use reputable taxi services; agree on prices beforehand
• Watch for scams targeting tourists
• Keep valuables secure and don't flash expensive items
• Be cautious with drinks—don't accept from strangers
• On islands: respect ocean currents and don't swim drunk
• Check weather and sea conditions before island transfers
• Carry cash—ATMs limited on islands