Sihanoukville, also known as Kampong Saom or Preah Sihanouk, is a coastal city in Cambodia and the capital of Preah Sihanouk Province, at the tip of an elevated peninsula in the country's south-west on the Gulf of Thailand. Wikipedia
November to March: Dry season — best weather for beaches and boat trips.
April to May: Hot, less crowded.
June to October: Rainy season — some island services may pause, but it’s lush and quiet.
By Air: Sihanouk International Airport offers domestic flights (mainly from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap) and limited international routes.
By Road:
From Phnom Penh: 4–6 hours by bus, minivan, or private car.
From Kampot or Kep: 2–3 hours.
By Train: A scenic but slower option from Phnom Penh (weekends or holidays).
By Boat: Ferries connect Sihanoukville to nearby islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
Ochheuteal Beach: Long stretch of sand, lively and lined with restaurants.
Otres Beach: Quieter alternative to the main beach, once popular with backpackers.
Serendipity Beach: Central and active area near nightlife and ferry terminals.
Independence Beach: Clean and family-friendly, near high-end resorts.
Wat Leu Pagoda: Hilltop temple offering views of the city and sea.
Phsar Leu Market: Bustling local market with food, clothes, and souvenirs.
Island hopping: Visit Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing.
Boat tours: Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or sunset cruises.
Beach relaxation: Lounge on the sand with a coconut in hand.
Explore waterfalls: Kbal Chhay waterfall is a scenic spot for a day trip.
Try watersports: Jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking available on main beaches.
Budget: Hostels and simple guesthouses around downtown and Otres area.
Mid-range: Boutique beach hotels and bungalows.
Luxury: High-end resorts like Independence Hotel and Sokha Beach Resort.
Islands: Consider staying overnight on Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem for a peaceful beach experience.
Seafood: Fresh crab, squid, and fish — often grilled or stir-fried Khmer-style.
Local dishes: Amok, kuy teav (noodle soup), grilled skewers.
International options: Pizza, burgers, Indian, Italian, and more in Serendipity and Otres.
Beachside bars and cafés: Great for sunset drinks and casual dining.
A coastal city with a mix of Cambodian traditions and modern influence.
Wat Leu offers a peaceful spiritual retreat above the city.
The rapid growth of casinos and developments has shifted the cityscape, but Khmer hospitality remains strong.
Traditional fishing communities still operate near the outskirts and islands.