Cambodia is not particularly well known in this country as a beach destination – Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh are much more famous. But why not relax a little after some strenuous sightseeing? Cambodia has no reason to hide from the beaches of its neighbouring countries. On the contrary, there are still some undiscovered gems to be found here. Come with me on a journey to the top 11 beaches in Cambodia!
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1) Saracen Bay Beach: Paradise in Koh Rong Samloem
Saracen Bay on Koh Rong Samloem is definitely one of my favourites. The powder-white sand crunches under your feet and the crystal-clear water shimmers in the most beautiful shades of blue. Believe me, the sunrise here is simply magical!
2) Lazy Beach: Hidden gem
Lazy Beach is truly a hidden gem. Located on Koh Rong Samloem, it enchants visitors with its white sand and crystal-clear water. Getting there is a little adventure: from Sihanoukville take a ferry to the island and then a taxi boat to the beach.
My tip: Grab a hammock and watch the sunset – it’s paradise!
3) Otres Beach: Where life pulsates
For the adventurous among you, the lively Otres Beach south of Sihanoukville is just the place. Here you can try water sports such as kayaking or marvel at the fire shows in the evening. The atmosphere is simply electric! Treat yourself to a delicious cocktail at one of the beach bars and end the day with live music. It’s just a stone’s throw from the centre of Sihanoukville by tuk-tuk.
4) Kep Beach: pure romance
If you prefer a quieter, more romantic setting, I recommend Kep Beach. This small beach is less crowded and perfect for long walks at sunset. Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby coastal town of Kep and try the famous crabs!
5) Koh Tonsay: Unknown gem
Koh Tonsay, also known as Rabbit Island , is my absolute insider tip for anyone who likes it unspoilt. Here you will find rustic charm in simple beach huts. The water shimmers in the warmest shades of turquoise – a snorkelling dream! From Kep, you can easily take a boat across, which only takes about 20 minutes. The island is a popular destination for a day trip. Once the day trippers have left, you will have the place to yourself. Take enough cash with you, as there are no ATMs on the island.
6) Koh Koun: Unadulterated serenity
This little paradise is truly an insider tip among the Cambodian islands. Koh Koun enchants with its pristine beach and lush vegetation. The island is uninhabited and therefore quiet.
Getting there is a bit of an adventure: from Sihanoukville, take a boat to the nearby Koh Rong Islands and from there a local fishing boat to Koh Koun. There is no permanent accommodation, so pack your tent for a real Robinson Crusoe experience!
My tip: Allow enough time to explore the colourful underwater world while snorkelling. In the evening, you can sit around the campfire and admire the starry sky – priceless!
7) Kok Hav Beach: Shhh, insider tip!
Another absolute insider tip, chic resorts are springing up here to attract sun-seeking holidaymakers who prefer a little more luxury. You’ll immediately understand why they are being built in the Dara Sakor region when you see the long, unspoilt sandy beaches. Right behind them is dense jungle. Those who prefer a comfortable resort with a pool and international cuisine to a simple beach hut will find the TUI BLUE Stardream Lake Hotel on Kok Hav Beach, or rather on the ‘White Sands’ section, from autumn 2025. Definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Cambodia!
Getting there: Either you have your own set of wheels or you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi. The infrastructure here is still quite sparse.
8) Koh Rong: The ultimate island experience
Koh Rong is simply the ultimate island experience! White powder sand, turquoise blue water and plankton sparkling at night – it’s like a dream! There are many beaches worth visiting here and the island itself is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Cambodia. Be sure to try snorkelling at Coral Beach. For a quiet beach in the north of the island, Lonely Beach is the place to go. Ferries to the island depart several times a day from the port in Sihanoukville. Allow about 45 minutes for the crossing and enjoy the breathtaking views!
9) Sok San Long Beach: A quiet retreat
Sok San Long Beach on Koh Rong is a wonderful place to relax. In one of the cosy hammocks, you can make your dream of a lazy beach life come true. The crystal-clear water invites you to swim, and the white sand stretches for almost 5 kilometres. Hence the name Long Beach.
Getting there: To get here, take a ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and then a taxi boat to Sok San Beach. In the evening, the local restaurants serve delicious seafood – definitely worth trying! And for all night owls: Sok San Beach has the most beautiful sunsets.
10) Victory Beach: Adventure awaits you!
Victory Beach is pure adventure! Water sports and cosy beach bars await you here. The beach is located north of Sihanoukville and is easily accessible by tuk-tuk. My highlight: a kayak tour at sunset. Afterwards, a cold beer in one of the bars tastes twice as good!
11) Beaches of Sihanoukville: Bustling activity
The beaches of Sihanoukville offer something for everyone. Ochheuteal Beach has great restaurants, while Serendipity Beach is perfect for partying. My favourite is the quieter Independence Beach – ideal for sunbathing and relaxing.
Getting to Sihanoukville is easy: There are regular bus services from Phnom Penh and a small airport. From the city, you can easily reach the various beaches by tuk-tuk.
More beautiful beaches in Cambodia
- Koh Kong
- Sner Beach
- Sokha Beach
- Otres Beach 2
- Sunset Beach
- Coconut Beach
Beach activities: from snorkelling to kayaking
These are the most popular activities on Cambodia’s beaches:
- Snorkelling: Explore the vibrant underwater worlds. Places like Coral Beach on Koh Ta Kiev or the crystal clear waters around Koh Rong are ideal for this.
- Kayaking: Explore the coast by kayak and discover hidden coves and beaches.
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP): A calmer but equally enriching activity, perfect for enjoying the sea breeze.
- Diving: With professional diving centres on Koh Rong Sanloem, for example, beginners and advanced divers can explore the colourful underwater world.
- Island hopping: Take a trip to neighbouring islands such as Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) or Koh Thmei, from one beautiful beach to the next.
Practical travel tip: Getting to the beaches
From Phnom Penh
If you are starting from Phnom Penh, simply take one of the daily buses to Sihanoukville. From there, a short tuk-tuk ride will take you to the beautiful Otres and Ochheuteal beaches. For Koh Tonsay, also known as Rabbit Island, take the bus to Kep and then hop on a boat for the short crossing – a little adventure in itself!
From Siem Reap
If you are in Siem Reap, it is best to fly to Sihanoukville. From there, you can easily take the ferries to the dream islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. By the way, there are even direct ferries from Sihanoukville to Saracen Bay on Koh Rong Samloem – super convenient!
My insider tip for you: Plan an overnight stay near the coast. That way, you can take the early boat transfers and be the first on the beach to enjoy the crystal-clear water and white sand.
And for the adventurous among you: Koh Thmei and Koh Ta Kiev are real insider tips! You can reach them by boat from Ream National Park. The trip there is an experience in itself and the unspoilt beaches will enchant you.
Conclusion: Your perfect beach holiday in Cambodia
Cambodia has a variety of beaches to offer that promise both relaxation and adventure. Whether you prefer the unspoilt nature of Koh Rong Samloem or the convivial atmosphere of Serendipity Beach, there is something for everyone here. The best way to combine a visit to Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh is with a beach extension on one of the beautiful beaches.