Cambodia Beach Holiday: Where to Visit and What to Do?

Cambodia is often associated with Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat, but its beautiful beaches deserve recognition as well. During a Cambodia beach holiday, you will be enchanted by the stunning white sand islands and crystal-clear blue waters. Below is a curated list of the most captivating things to see and do while you are there!

Top Beach Destinations That You Cannot Miss

Long Beach, Koh Rong

Situated on the charming Koh Rong island’s western coast, Long Beach (also known as Sok San Beach) is the island’s most remarkable hideaway for your Cambodia beach holiday, with an almost uninhabited stretch of breathtakingly beautiful coastline stretching 7 kilometers. The silky sand makes such a unique crunch when walked on that guests could think a talcum powder factory mishap happened!

This coastal sanctuary is known by two names: 7 km Beach, for its astounding length; and Royal Sands Beach, for the lodgings located at the northern and southern ends of this secluded paradise. This might lead to a misunderstanding, though. For those who are familiar, this beach was a major location for the hit American TV show Survivor.

Tips: Travelers may easily go about the island and visit other beaches on motorbikes, or they can hire a longtail boat to commute between different coastal regions.

Lonely Beach, Koh Rong

Situated on a remote stretch of beach near the northernmost tip of Koh Rong, Lonely Beach is an ideal hideaway for those in search of peace and quiet during their Cambodia beach holiday. Water is provided using traditional coconut shell ladles, and the lovely cabins and open dorms take use of natural coastal airflow, which demonstrates a true commitment to environmental preservation at this little eco-friendly getaway.

In the height of summer, sightseers may go on undersea exploration experiences, feast on the seaside in the evenings and excursions to nearby islands. The ambiance is so captivating that many people end up staying for months longer than originally anticipated.

Tips: The Royal Pier in Sihanoukville is the departure point for the property’s easy daily boat transfer service.

Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Samloem

The island paradise of Koh Rong Sanloem is characterized by its expansive beaches and verdant tropical trees. There are three main towns on the island, and they all have their own unique vibe. But the most picturesque is definitely the arc-shaped Saracen Bay, with its beautiful ivory shoreline that frames the eastern side.

If you’re trying to decide between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem for your Cambodia beach holiday, it’s recommended to choose the latter for its quieter atmosphere, lack of building beyond the coastline and overall peacefulness. Travelers typically opt to walk or hire longtail boats due to the island’s minimal road infrastructure.

Tips: The bay’s 2.5km beachfront is lined with accommodations that serve various pricing groups, and this popular resort retains great links to mainland Sihanoukville by swift motorboat services. Regular ferry service also connects this area to the nearby island of Koh Rong.

Lagoon Beach, Koh Kong Island

The biggest island in Cambodia rises from the clear shallows where the sand grains are nearly visible, nestled in the blue waters off the coast of the country, not far from Sihanoukville. On the western coast, you can find seven beautiful beach retreats, each picture-perfect with lush vegetation and swaying coconut trees.

Many of these beautiful beaches are located at the point where little freshwater streams meet the ocean. The sixth beach, Lagoon Beach, is worth mentioning since it is located at the point where a narrow stream leads adventurers to a hidden lagoon.

Tips: Travelers may easily reach Koh Kong city from Phnom Penh, Kampot and Sihanoukville via regular buses and minivans. However, a boat excursion from Koh Rong city or mainland Tatai is necessary to reach Koh Kong Island.

Koh Thmei, Sihanoukville

Just beyond the beaches of Sihanoukville is Koh Thmei, another peaceful island paradise for a Cambodia beach holiday. This little-known paradise provides tranquil, sun-kissed beaches surrounded by verdant tropical flora and is closer to the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc than Sihanoukville proper. Travelers looking to disconnect from the world can find it in this idyllic location, free of roads, cars, and cell phone service.

The only place to stay on the island is an eco-friendly sanctuary that cleverly incorporates several systems to lessen its influence on the environment. While the sun goes down, guests relax in their own veranda hammocks, playing board games or just listening to the island’s natural soundtrack. Because there are no homes or businesses on Koh Thmei, tourists frequently enjoy the unusual pleasure of the island all to themselves.

Tips: You may arrange for transportation to Koh Thmei Resort from the jetty at Ouchomna Market, which is around 35km from Sihanoukville. There are convenient minivan services that run between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, and this is where you can catch one.

Koh Ta Kiev, Sihanoukville

The little island of Koh Ta Kiev, off the coast of Ream National Park, is ideal for those who are looking for a quiet Cambodia beach holiday retreat where they can truly unplug. There are plans to develop the southern part of the island, but for the time being, it still has that pristine, secluded feel.

When guests arrive at the island, they will find a variety of eco-conscious, unique lodging options, as well as the beautiful Long Beach, perfect for a day of relaxation. In stark contrast to the soaring buildings of neighboring Sihanoukville, this spot has managed to hold on to the easygoing vibe of the original Otres Village.

Tips: Travelers staying at Koh Ta Kiev accommodations can arrange for longtail boats to take them from Sihanoukville’s Otres Beach or Ream Beach.

> See More Useful Guides: Top 10 Most Beautiful Sihanoukville Beaches—Your Bucket List Starts Here

Koh Tonsay, Kep

Kep, on the Cambodian mainland near Kampot, is a historic beach town that attracted well-heeled tourists during the country’s booming pre-war period. The allure of this once-thriving destination hasn’t diminished much over the years, and it still draws domestic travelers in search of kid-friendly beach activities and the world-famous pepper-infused crab meals.

Just a 20-minute boat ride from Kep is Koh Tonsay, often known as Rabbit Island, an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter seaside getaway. Weekdays on the island are perfect for relaxing on the palm tree-lined beaches and taking advantage of the great snorkeling options that are available to those who bring their own gear. Cambodians congregate on weekends to savor cheap, fresh seafood, making the island livelier overall.

While an upscale resort is being built on the island’s southwest coast, visitors should focus on the main beach area. There are a number of rustic bungalows there that offer affordable lodging, delicious food, hammocks to relax in, and trips to the small islands of Koh Puos and Koh Svay, where you can sometimes see dolphins.

Tips: The island of Rabbit is easily accessible by ferry from Kep’s main beach, which is right next to Rabbit Island Pier.

> See More Useful Guides: Top 10 Most Pristine Beaches in Cambodia Await Your Arrival

Activities and Attractions That Should Be Included In You Trip

Water Sports

• Snorkeling

The waters near Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem in Cambodia are perfect for snorkeling during your Cambodia beach holiday since they are so clear. Some of the top sites on Koh Rong include Long Set Beach and Lonely Beach, while on Koh Rong Sanloem, you’ll find Saracen Bay and Sunset Beach. Tropical species like parrotfish and angelfish, as well as, with any luck, sea turtles, can be seen in these places’ thriving coral gardens.

Notably, snorkelers and scuba divers may enjoy breathtaking views of marine life because of the excellent visibility (up to 20 meters on clear days). This makes snorkeling one of the most approachable water sports in Cambodia, as even first-timers may have a great time exploring the underwater attractions.

Snorkeling trips are offered by several guesthouses and tour companies, with equipment rental costing from 5—15 USD. 

• Diving

Despite Cambodia’s lack of infrastructure compared to Vietnam and Thailand, the country’s pristine diving spots are becoming more and more popular for a Cambodia beach holiday. Most dive shops are located in or around Sihanoukville and Koh Rong Sanloem. Koh Kon, Koh Tang, and Koh Phai are three of the most well-known diving spots in Thailand. 

Divers looking for an alternative to more popular diving spots in Southeast Asia are finding Cambodia to be an increasingly appealing destination due to its relatively unspoiled underwater environment, which provides a view into marine ecosystems that are still mostly pure. Also, these islands are home to different underwater rock formations, reef sharks, seahorses, and nudibranchs, among other marine creatures.

Trustworthy businesses provide PADI training and fun dives for 85—120 USD per person for two dives. The months of November through May are prime diving time because of the excellent visibility (up to 10—15 meters). 

• Kayaking

More mainland locations, like Kampot and Kep, provide kayaking opportunities than only the islands themselves. Sea kayaking opens to undiscovered beaches and coves on Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem that are unreachable on foot. Novices will love the placid seas at Long Beach and Lazy Beach. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for some tranquil kayaking through fishing communities and mangrove woods, make your way to Kampot River.

Prices for kayak rentals range from 5—10 USD per hour, or 15—25 USD for a full day. Guided trips, which include equipment and training, may be booked for about 30—40 USD. Travelers can see Cambodia’s breathtaking coastline from many angles thanks to these numerous alternatives. 

Island Hopping

During their Cambodia beach holiday, adventurers are invited to go on exciting boat cruises that connect the dispersed island jewels of Cambodia through its turquoise waterways. Boats depart from the lively harbor of Sihanoukville for the picture-perfect islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, while trips from Kep show the serene beauty of Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) and its smaller neighbors. 

Koh Tang and Koh Kong Island, two of Cambodia’s most isolated islands, provide some of the best views of the country’s coastal environment for adventurers looking for a real escape.

Whether it’s snorkeling in thriving coral gardens, relaxing on pure white beaches, discovering secret lagoons, or meeting fishing villages that still practice traditional island life, every island offers something unique to tourists. The dry season (November to April) is perfect for island hopping, thanks to the calmer waters and perfect visibility beneath the waves. Moreover, local tour companies offer a variety of sailing activities, from half-day trips to multi-day voyages.

Culinary Delights

Foodies may find incredible seafood discoveries in the coastal areas during their Cambodia beach holiday. Notable among Kep’s many attractions is its bustling crab market, where customers may choose live blue swimmer crabs from bamboo baskets and have them cooked with the world-famous Kampot pepper.

Along with its famous crab dishes, Cambodian seafood restaurants include grilled squid, aromatic fish amok, and oysters that have just been shucked. These seafood specialties offer a true flavor of Cambodia’s coastal history, thanks to their fragrant seasonings made with native herbs and spices.

> See More Useful Guides: Phnom Penh Food Tour—Top 10 Cambodia Dishes to Sample

Cultural Excursions

Travelers who venture into Cambodia’s fishing towns during their Cambodia beach holiday get a true glimpse into the everyday rhythms and centuries-old traditions of coastal life. During the dry season, the buildings of Kampong Phluk rise significantly from the water, while the traditional wooden cottages on stilts in the town of Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) display residents hand-crafting fishing nets. 

At the same time, the lively fish markets and boat-building industries on Koh Sdach have provided locals with a means of subsistence for many years.

Also, local communities including Anlong Veng, Prek Svay on Koh Rong and Kampong Khleang entertain guests with cultural performances such as traditional dances, craft making and fishing ceremonies. Sustainable tourism projects have been set up by many communities so that visitors may take part in day-to-day activities, such as harvesting seaweed or learning traditional basket-weaving skills. 

Accommodation Options

Luxury Resorts

The exquisite overwater villas at Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia’s most luxurious beach holiday resort, were built using eco-friendly materials and time-honored methods. With a footbridge connecting two beautiful islands, this unique hideaway provides visitors with total seclusion, individualized butler service, and gourmet meals prepared using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. The resort’s environmental foundation also collaborates with locals to protect maritime habitats.

Other exceptional options include:

• Alila Villas Koh Russey: Minimalist villas nestled on a private bay with dramatic hillside views, featuring personalized dining experiences and a signature Spa Alila offering holistic wellness treatments.
• Six Senses Krabey Island: An intimate hideaway with 40 pool villas set among tropical landscapes. It emphasizes sustainability through its organic garden and comprehensive wellness programs inspired by Cambodian healing traditions.
• Shinta Mani Wild: A Bill Bensley-designed luxury tented camp in the Cardamom Mountains, offering adventure experiences like waterfall swimming and anti-poaching patrols alongside butler-serviced accommodations.

Mid-Range Hotels

Situated right on Sihanoukville’s sandy shore, the luxurious accommodations at Sokha Beach Resort offer a perfect Cambodia beach holiday in contemporary comforts with furnishings influenced by Khmer design. The large property is perfect for a beach getaway because of its several pools, verdant tropical gardens and proximity to a secluded length of golden sand. The hotel has a full-service spa that provides traditional treatments, as well as many restaurants that serve both foreign and Cambodian cuisine.

Similar value can be found at:

• Independence Hotel: A historic landmark from Cambodia’s “Golden Era” that has been meticulously restored, featuring retro-modern rooms with sea views and a private beach accessed via a forest-canopied elevator.
• Tamu Hotel: Contemporary beachfront boutique property on Otres Beach with minimalist white décor, an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and a respected restaurant serving Mediterranean-Cambodian fusion cuisine.
• The Royal Sands Koh Rong: Located on Cambodia’s second-largest island, offering stylish bungalows and villas along a pristine white-sand beach with excellent snorkeling opportunities right offshore.

Budget-Friendly Guesthouses

Adorable family-run guesthouses along the peaceful sands of Otres Beach, offering guests affordable, surprisingly pleasant lodgings with true Cambodian warmth. Clean, simply furnished accommodations are available at properties there, all within walking distance of the turquoise ocean. Guests may typically enjoy a complimentary breakfast served in outdoor beachside settings. 

Further affordable options include:

• Wish You Were Here: Colorful wooden bungalows with hammock-strung verandas just steps from Otres Beach, known for its friendly communal atmosphere and popular beachfront bar serving affordable cocktails.
• Mushroom Point: Distinctive toadstool-shaped accommodations on Koh Rong Samloem with shared bathrooms and a laid-back vibe, perfect for travelers seeking a digital detox in a rustic island setting.
• SeaGarden Bungalows: Family-run property in Kep featuring simple but clean rooms set in lush gardens, where guests can enjoy home-cooked Khmer meals while watching fishing boats return with the day’s catch.

Useful Travel Tips

Best Time For A Perfect Cambodia Beach Holiday

• Prime Season (November-March): Optimal weather conditions, including clear sky and comfortable temperatures, are available throughout this period. The months of December and January are the busiest and most expensive for hotel rooms.
• Shoulder Season (April-May): Warm temperatures and sunshine are typical throughout these months, but you won’t find many tourists around. Good weather and reasonable prices are well complemented by this period.
• Low Season (June-October): Dramatic storm clouds and infrequent rain showers are common throughout this time of year. For those on a tight budget who aren’t scared of a little rain, this is a great alternative because of the drastically reduced room prices.

Sustainable Tourism

• Minimize single-use plastic by bringing reusable water bottles, bags and straws
• Participate in organized beach clean-up initiatives offered by local environmental organizations
• Choose eco-conscious tour operators and accommodations with demonstrable sustainability practices
• Respect marine ecosystems by avoiding touching coral when snorkeling or diving
• Purchase souvenirs and crafts directly from local artisans to support community livelihoods
• Conserve water and energy by reusing towels and turning off air conditioning when not in your room

Health Precautions

• Apply high-quality mosquito repellent containing DEET, particularly during dawn and dusk hours
• Ensure all routine vaccinations are current, with special attention to Hepatitis A and Typhoid
• Carry a basic first-aid kit including antiseptic, bandages and medication for common travel ailments
• Stay hydrated with bottled or properly filtered water and avoid ice in remote locations
• Use sun protection, including high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing that covers exposed skin
• Consider travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency evacuation

Final Words

A Cambodian beach holiday may appear like a hidden gem to someone who is too accustomed to beach holidays in well-known locations like Vietnam or Thailand. With the help of the information and suggestions above, you can plan a full trip that includes relaxation, exploration, and authentic cultural experiences, no matter how unpopular it is.

If a tailor-made beach vacation is what you’re looking for, connect with Asia Trip Deals now to have customized seaside getaways in Cambodia. Relax and let us take care of everything while you get ready for a trip to the beautiful beaches of Cambodia.