Cambodia, a land of contrasts and captivating beauty, has much more to offer than just the stunning ruins of Angkor Wat. This Southeast Asian nation, situated between Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, has a wealth of attractions to explore. From fascinating historical monuments and vibrant urban centers to breathtaking beaches and lush tropical rainforests, Cambodia is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.
Despite its tumultuous past, Cambodia is slowly rebuilding and emerging as a popular tourist destination. The meandering Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake dominate the country’s central region, and there are also two severe mountain ranges in the west and north. Cambodia’s low-lying plains offer beautiful beaches and outlying islands to explore.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, is a colorful and bustling city that was once known as the “Paris of the East” for its excellent French colonial architecture. Although the city has been through a lot, it still retains its charm and has some incredible sights to offer visitors. While the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum are saddening reminders of the country’s brutal past, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are incredibly gorgeous landmarks that showcase the country’s rich cultural legacy.
Battambang and Siem Reap are the only other significant urban centers in Cambodia, with most Cambodians living in rural villages and small towns in the countryside due to the country’s general poverty. Battambang has beautiful colonial architecture and peaceful scenery, while Siem Reap serves as the entrance to Cambodia’s spectacular jungle-covered complex of temples.
Tonle Sap Lake’s floating villages, the ruins of Banteay Srei and Koh Ker, and Sihanoukville’s stunning beaches are just a few of the many attractions Cambodia has to offer. This beautiful and varied travel destination has something for everyone. So, plan your vacation to Cambodia today and explore this captivating country’s wonders for yourself. Don’t forget to visit at least one of the stunning beaches along the Gulf of Thailand.
10. Coral Beach
Discover a secluded paradise as two long tail boats traverse the crystal-clear waters of Koh Rong Island. Image source: Tony Calandruccio/Shutterstock.com
Koh Ta Kiev is a small island located off the coast of southwest Cambodia, not far from Ream National Park. Although the island has seen some construction, most of it is still unspoiled by human hands. Coral Beach is among the most beautiful of Koh Ta Kiev’s several beaches. Accommodations and restaurants are available at this tropical beach. For this reason, it’s a great spot to decompress if you want to get away from it all without sacrificing comfort. You may hire a hammock for the day and relax after your boat ride. Snorkeling, cliff diving, and spearfishing are just a few of the activities that await you if you make the trip.
9. Victory Beach
Experience the idyllic charm of Victory Beach in the vibrant town of Sihanoukville, Cambodia. Image source: Fizzik/Shutterstock.com
Sihanoukville, the most well-known beach in Cambodia, is located on the peninsula’s southwestern tip, facing the Gulf of Thailand. Victory Beach is one of the most accessible beaches in Sihanoukville. The Sihanoukville port, where vessels arrive and leave often, can be seen in the backdrop. The sand is powdery white, and there are plenty of palm trees for shade. There are a number of great seafood restaurants right on the beach if you’re looking for a memorable dining experience. For a family-friendly, low-maintenance destination, Victory Beach is hard to beat.
8. Koh Pos
Witness the bustling activity of Cambodia’s port, a gateway to new adventures and experiences. Image source: Youvorn Phy/Shutterstock.com
Koh Pos, often known as Snake Island, is located not far from Sihanoukville. Because of a tiny bridge that connects it to the mainland, Koh Pos is more easily accessible than many of the other beaches on the Cambodian islands. This bridge, known as the Techo Morakat Bridge, connects you to a beautiful island with verdant forests and rugged shores. The island’s main attraction is the appropriately named Treasure Island Seafood Restaurant, which offers beachfront dining, stunning vistas, and an abundance of fresh seafood. The forest, teeming with wildlife including monkeys and pythons, is only a short distance from the beach.
7. Koh Thmei
Behold the captivating beauty of Lonely Beach as seen from an aerial perspective in Koh Rong Island. Image source: goran_safarek/Shutterstock.com
Koh Thmei is an island in Ream National Park that is located just off the coast of Sihanoukville. The island is not very big, and there is only one place to stay on it. Koh Thmei is a gorgeous place with excellent beaches, but there isn’t much in the way of infrastructure or attractions. Try your luck at bird watching or dolphin spotting in the Gulf, or snorkel and explore the coral just off the island. Koh Thmei is a tropical paradise complete with bungalow accommodations.
6. Sokha Beach
Experience the beauty of Sokha Beach, a tropical paradise in Sihanoukville, Cambodia. Image source: Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock.com
Private ownership helps keep Sokha Beach in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, mostly undiscovered by tourists. It is also one of the more sanitary and secure places to bask in the sun. You may either pay to stay at the resort on the beach or pay an admission charge to use the beach for the day. There is a fantastic stroll between Serendipity Beach and Sokha Beach, which follows the coast and has breathtaking vistas if you get tired of the snorkeling, sunning, and local eateries.
5. Koh Tonsay
Discover the beauty of Koh Tonsay Island as tourists embark on a boat journey through its pristine waters. Image source: Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock.com
Koh Thonsáy is a small island that may be found off the shore, quite close to the Vietnam border. This translates to “Rabbit Island” in English. Because of how slowly the island is being developed, tourists may look forward to having the place to themselves. Only a few bungalows and restaurants are open to the public; the majority of the buildings are local fishing shacks. From Kep, Koh Tonsay is just a 20-minute boat trip away. Koh Tonsay is often enjoyed by going on snorkeling excursions, exploring the island’s interior on foot, or both.
4. Sok San Beach
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Long Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in Koh Rong Island. Image source: Hang Dinh/Shutterstock.com
Miles of beautiful shoreline and clean beaches may be found on Koh Rong, an island located off the coast of Sihanoukville. Sok San Beach is a favorite among island visitors. Sok San Beach, which is so large that it has earned the nicknames “Long Beach” and “7km Beach,” may be reached either on foot or by boat. Sok San’s population has grown rapidly as a result of the filming of the TV program Survivor there. However, it’s a lovely and peaceful spot for a swim or a snorkeling trip. A visit after dark is highly recommended since the phosphorescent water glows when it is agitated.
3. Lazy Beach
Soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquility of Lazy Beach on Koh Rong Samloem Island. Image source: diy13/Shutterstock.com
The island of Koh Rong Samloem is located not far from Sihanoukville. It’s just a quick boat trip away to the island where Lazy Beach is located. A short stroll will take you from your beachfront home to the beautiful, tropical bush. Expect to be one of just a handful of visitors to Lazy Beach, since it is seldom visited by large groups of people. Whether you like to snorkel the reefs or lounge in a hammock, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the ocean here. Lazy Beach is home to its very own bar and restaurant, so there’s no need to go off the beach in search of beverages and tasty eats.
2. Serendipity Beach
Explore the beauty of Serendipity Beach, the main beach in Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia. Image source: Hang Dinh/Shutterstock.com
It’s possible to spend time at both Serendipity Beach and Ochheuteal Beach in Sihanoukville. Both beaches are often referred to as Serendipity, while the name “Serendipity Beach” refers to the rocky outcrop just off the shore. A nearly two-kilometer stretch of golden sand stretches out in either direction, with a busy ferry terminal at one end. The beach is accessible by Serendipity Beach Road, which is flanked by a variety of establishments, including restaurants, pubs, and even a golf course. Many budget travelers flock here, but those looking for more luxury may also find affordable options.
1. Otres Beach
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Otres Beach, a tropical gem in Sihanoukville, Cambodia. Image source: Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock.com
Instead of the crowded beaches of Serendipity and Ochheuteal in Sihanoukville, Otres Beach is a better option. Located just to the south of Sihanoukville’s busier tourist hotspots, this beach is far more peaceful, calm, and laid-back despite its proximity to the city’s most visited areas. Prior to a lengthy stretch of stunning beach, there is a row of pubs and lodging alternatives. Activities like kayaking and windsurfing make Otres Beach a fantastic place to enjoy nature. The nightlife scene at Otres Market is unparalleled on Saturdays. There are food stands and live music at the market that go all the way into Sunday morning.
