Cambodia has a fascinating culture and lots of cool places to visit that bring in millions of tourists each year. Apart from the bustling capital Phnom Penh and the ancient ruins of Siem Reap, there’s also Sihanoukville, often called “Cambodia’s Maldives”. This article will give you some insights into touring Sihanoukville, Cambodia, if you’re planning to visit and explore.
Overview
Sihanoukville is a city in southern Cambodia, named after a former Cambodian king. It’s known for having the country’s only deep-water port and stunning beaches like Victory Beach, Lamherkay Beach, Koh Pos Beach, Independence Beach, Sokha Beach, Serendipity Beach, Ochheuteal Beach, and Otres Beach.
In the heart of Sihanoukville, you’ll find Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity Beach, surrounded by hotels, bars, cinemas, and more. At night, the area comes alive with tasty BBQ restaurants and a vibrant Western neighborhood along the coast.
Beyond the city, there are over a dozen islands with bustling fishing villages and beautiful coral reefs. Visitors can take boat trips to these islands, go diving to see the coral, or even spend a night on a boat. With its beautiful natural surroundings and a variety of tourist services, Sihanoukville is a popular destination for tours in Cambodia.
Best time to choose Tour Sihanoukville Cambodia
The best time to visit Sihanoukville, Cambodia, depends on the weather. Cambodia has two main seasons: rainy and sunny. The rainy season lasts from May to October, while the dry season runs from November to April.
For the most enjoyable trip, it’s best to visit in October and November. During these months, the weather is cooler, making it perfect for swimming and enjoying beach activities.
While the remaining months of the dry season are also good for traveling, it’s important to note that traveling during the rainy season, especially from May to October, can be risky. You might end up spending a lot of time indoors due to the rain, so it’s generally not recommended for travel during this time.
Vehicles
Helicopter
Travelers have the option to rent helicopters for transportation in and out of town or for excursions to nearby islands along the coast. If you’re fascinated by the sky, consider trying this mode of transportation during your visit to Sihanoukville.
Tuk Tuk
Similar to many other provinces in Cambodia, the primary mode of transportation in Sihanoukville is the Tuk Tuk. Tourists can easily hail a Tuk Tuk from anywhere along the road. Most rides within the city take only 2-5 minutes and cost around 1 USD. Taking a stroll along the coast in Sihanoukville at night adds an enjoyable experience to your trip to Cambodia.
Motorbike Taxi
In Sihanoukville, riding a motorbike is a quick and easy way to get around. That’s why you’ll see many local people driving motorbike taxis all over the place. These taxis can only carry one person at a time. The price for a motorbike taxi is similar to that of a Tuk Tuk. Before hopping on, it’s a good idea for tourists to negotiate the fare with the driver.
Boat
From the town’s beaches or hills, visitors can spot numerous islands scattered in the distance. Boats are the primary mode of transportation for tourists to reach these islands. Most hotels and motels offer arrangements for day trips, overnight stays, scuba diving, and swimming on the islands.
Renting a Car or Motorbike
To rent a motorbike in Sihanoukville, you’ll need a valid Cambodian driver’s license. Always remember to wear a helmet while riding and avoid using headlights during the day. When parking at attractions, make sure to lock your vehicle securely.
What to visit in Sihanoukville
Otres Beach
Experience tranquility at Otres Beach in Sihanoukville. Along its coast, you’ll find quaint fishing villages, adding to the serene ambiance that appeals to tourists seeking a peaceful lifestyle. With its fine white sand, clear blue waters, and unique natural beauty, Otres Beach is a gem. Nearby, there are several small fishing villages where visitors can learn about the lives of fishermen. While the beach is poised to become a luxurious resort in the future, at present, there are limited accommodations for tourists.
Sokha Beach
Known as Sihanoukville’s exclusive beach, Sokha offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking relaxation without the hefty price tag of a Maldives getaway. Surrounded by a sprawling resort reminiscent of paradise, Sokha Beach invites visitors to soak in its pristine beauty, sip refreshing drinks from the resort’s outdoor bar, and relish the wonderful ambiance.
Port Independence.
Independence Port is regarded as Sihanoukville’s most picturesque location for sunsets. Compared to other places, Independence Harbor projects farther into the ocean. You will feel as though you are moving closer to the blazing sun that is gradually setting in the distance from this point on.
Samloem Island’s Koh Rong and Koh Rong
These two Sihanoukville paradise islands have white sand beaches and a transparent, azure sea that reveals the bottom. Both beaches are distinct from other islands in Cambodia due to their natural, pristine beauty, which includes stunning, pristine seascapes with crystal-clear blue waters and silky white sand. Due to the abundance of stunning resorts on the island, you may spend a night there.
Coming here to witness the sunset, swimming, or diving to observe the vibrant corals will be enjoyed by visitors.
Wat Krom
If Sihanoukville does not attract attention for its temples and traditional culture, Wat Krom, a beautiful Khmer Buddhist temple with a view overlooking the sea will make you admire it.
What to do in Sihanoukville
Relax on Serendipity Beach: Start your Sihanoukville journey by unwinding on the soft sands of Serendipity Beach. Fringed by palm trees and dotted with beachfront bars and restaurants, this picturesque stretch of coastline is perfect for soaking up the sun, taking a refreshing dip in the azure waters, or indulging in some delicious seafood.
Island Hopping: Embark on a thrilling island-hopping adventure to explore the pristine islands scattered off the coast of Sihanoukville. Visit Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, renowned for their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Snorkel, swim, or simply bask in the natural beauty of these tropical paradises.
Discover Cambodian Cuisine: Dive into the vibrant culinary scene of Sihanoukville and savor authentic Cambodian flavors at local eateries and street food stalls. Don’t miss trying the iconic Fish Amok, a fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves, or sampling fresh seafood dishes at the bustling Phsar Leu Market.
Explore Ream National Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Ream National Park. Trek through lush rainforests, spot exotic wildlife, and discover hidden waterfalls nestled within this biodiverse sanctuary. You can also take a boat tour along the mangrove-lined waterways to observe the park’s rich birdlife.
Experience Khmer Culture: Delve into Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to Wat Krom, a Buddhist temple perched atop a hill overlooking the sea. Admire the intricate architecture, colorful murals, and serene atmosphere as you learn about the country’s spiritual traditions and beliefs.
Sunset Cruise: Treat yourself to a magical sunset cruise along the coast of Sihanoukville. Sail aboard a traditional longtail boat or a luxury yacht and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors against the backdrop of the shimmering sea. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploration and relaxation.
Nightlife in Otres Beach: Experience the lively nightlife scene of Sihanoukville at Otres Beach, where beachfront bars and clubs come alive after dark. Dance to the rhythmic beats of live music, sip on exotic cocktails, and mingle with fellow travelers under the starry night sky.
What to eat in Sihanoukville
Seafood
You can easily locate and savor the wonderful seafood of Sihanoukville, a port city. There are little seafood eateries and street sellers around the coastlines that provide grilled lobster, steamed crabs, grilled snails, steamed squid, and more at reasonable costs and with excellent quality. On the beach, there will be a seafood BBQ party in the evening.
Amok Steamed Fish
One meal that embodies the essence of Cambodian cuisine is amok steamed fish. Despite having a straightforward look, the processing is really delicate and intricate. Fruit fish, catfish, or snakehead fish are the key components in this recipe. This dish’s popularity stems from the distinctive spices found in Cambodia.
Bai sach chrouk
Bai sach chrouk looks quite similar to Vietnamese broken rice, which is a Cambodian breakfast dish consisting of pork rice. In the morning, Cambodians often choose Bai sach chrouk which is both cheap, delicious and full of stomach to have energy for a new working day. The fragrant soft white rice grains served with deliciously marinated soft and sweet grilled meat will surely make you eat forever. If you have the opportunity to come to Sihanoukville, you definitely cannot miss this dish.
Bank chok.
Curry noodles are a Sihanoukville delicacy that embodies the essence of Cambodia. You must taste them when visiting! Street sellers provide this food. The broth is what’s unique about this meal that draws the eye in. Bank Chok fish sauce is commonly used in cuisines by the Khmer people, particularly as a broth in vermicelli meals. A perfect blend of several ingredients, including freshwater fish, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic, chile, and cold rice blended in a certain ratio, combine to create the incredibly “quintessential” Bank Chok sauce. It has contributed to making the Khmer people and the whole planet a “unique” flavor.
Notes for touring Sihanoukville, Cambodia
- Get a SIM card at the airport or a phone shop for easy internet access anywhere. Consider carriers like Metfone, Smart, Cell Card, Qb, or Traveler SIMs.
- Make sure your passport is valid.
- Pack appropriate clothing and travel items such as sunscreen, hats, power banks, waterproof gear for electronics and bags, modest attire for visiting temples (covering shoulders and knees), comfortable shoes for temple exploration and beach walks, and locks for securing belongings.
- Keep important documents, cash, and valuables with you to prevent theft, rather than leaving them in your hotel room.
- You can use USD for most purchases in Cambodia, so bring plenty of it. You can also withdraw USD from ANZ Royal Bank ATMs using VISA or Mastercard, though there may be a 3%-4% withdrawal fee.
- The local currency is the Riel, with an exchange rate of 1 USD = 4,000 Riel. Additionally, 1,000 Riel equals about 5,500 Vietnamese Dong.
Recommend a Cambodia itinerary that incorporates a visit to Sihanoukville.
CAMBODIA OVERLAND TOUR WITH WONDERS
PHNOM PENH – SIHANOUKVILLE BEACH TOUR FOR 4 DAYS
Sihanoukville beckons with its irresistible blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and exhilarating adventures. Whether you’re seeking serenity on the beach or excitement in the city, this coastal paradise promises an unforgettable experience at every turn. Plan your trip to Sihanoukville today and discover the best that Cambodia’s southern coast has to offer. Travel with Vietlong Travel, and embark on a journey that will create memories to last a lifetime.
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