SOUTHERN COAST AND ISLANDS
This region is Cambodia’s hidden paradise, offering pristine white-sand beaches, laid-back island life, and a taste of history. From the bustling coastal towns to the secluded tropical islands, it’s the perfect escape for sun-seekers and ocean enthusiasts.
Why Visit the Southern Coast and Islands?
Idyllic Islands: Discover untouched, beautiful islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem with turquoise waters and peaceful vibes.
Seaside Vibe: Experience the chilled-out atmosphere of seaside towns like Kep and Kampot, known for their unique charm.
Kampot Pepper: Tour the famous pepper plantations and sample the world’s most prized pepper, a culinary must-do.
Smart Travel
Peak Season (November–April): This is the dry season, offering the best weather for the islands and beaches. Expect calm seas, sunny skies, and higher prices.
Shoulder Season (May & October): Enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices as the seasons transition. Expect occasional rain showers, but often clear weather and good value.
Off-Season (June–September): This is the rainy season. While prices are lowest, ferry schedules may be limited, and the seas can be rough.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Sihanoukville & The Islands
Sihanoukville serves as the main gateway to the islands, though the city itself is undergoing rapid development. The real gems are the nearby islands, especially Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem, which boast stunning beaches, clear water, and a relaxed, backpacker-friendly atmosphere.
Your Smart Tip: When traveling to the islands, book your fast ferry ticket in advance during Peak Season. To avoid the construction in Sihanoukville, take a pre-arranged taxi directly from the airport to the ferry terminal.
Kampot & Kep
These two charming towns are famous for their colonial architecture, relaxed riverfronts, and the world-renowned Kampot Pepper. Kep is known for its serene coastline and fresh crabs, while Kampot offers views of the Bokor Mountain National Park.
Your Smart Tip: Rent a scooter for a day trip to see both towns, visit a pepper farm in Kampot, and then treat yourself to a glorious seafood lunch at the famous Kep Crab Market.
Bokor Mountain National Park
Located near Kampot, this park offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s past with the haunting ruins of a French colonial hill station, including the abandoned Bokor Palace Hotel. The drive up offers spectacular views of the coastline.
Your Smart Tip: Wear layers. The temperature at the top of Bokor Mountain is significantly cooler than the coast, and visibility can be quickly reduced by fog or mist, especially during the wet season.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is tropical, with two main seasons. The dry season (November–April) is hot and sunny, while the wet season (May–October) brings high humidity and heavy, short downpours, mainly in the afternoon.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Dress Code: While swimwear is acceptable on the beach, always cover up when walking around towns or visiting temples. Cambodia is generally conservative.
Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and with tuk-tuk drivers, but always keep it light-hearted and respectful.
The Head: Never touch a Cambodian person’s head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.
Greetings: A slight bow with the hands pressed together (Sampeah) is a respectful form of greeting, though a handshake is acceptable.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($5–$15), mid-range bungalows/guesthouses ($20–$50), luxury resorts ($70+). Island prices can be slightly higher.
Food: Street food/local eateries ($2–$5), mid-range restaurant meal ($8–$15 per person), fine dining ($25+).
Transport: Tuk-tuk ride (short distance: $1–$3), taxi from Sihanoukville Airport to the port ($15–$25), fast ferry to the islands ($20–$25 round trip).
Activities: Island snorkeling/boat trip ($15–$25), Kampot Pepper tour (free to $5).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $30–$50 (hostels, street food, public/shared transport).
- Mid-range: $60–$100 (guesthouse, restaurants, attractions).
- Luxury: $120+ (resorts, private transport, guided tours).
Getting Around
By Ferry: Fast ferries are the primary way to travel between Sihanoukville and the islands. Always check the sea conditions, especially in the wet season.
By Bus/Taxi: Buses connect the coast to Phnom Penh. Taxis are faster and can be shared.
By Tuk-Tuk: The best way to travel short distances within towns like Kampot and Kep. Always agree on a price before you start the journey.
By Scooter: Renting a scooter is a popular and affordable way to explore the areas around Kampot and Kep, but drive cautiously.
Must-Try Food
Khmer Amok: A creamy, fragrant fish curry steamed in a banana leaf cup. (Salty)
K’dam Chaa with Kampot Pepper (Kep Crab): Stir-fried blue crab from Kep Market, famed for its perfect pairing with fresh green Kampot pepper. (Salty)
Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef or pork served with fresh onions, lettuce, and a pepper-lime dipping sauce. (Salty)
Samlor Machu Trey: A sour fish soup with a blend of herbs, tamarind, and pineapple. (Salty)
Pleah Sach Ko: A refreshing beef salad, often with lime juice, chili, and herbs. (Salty)
Num Kachay: Fried chive cakes, a popular street food snack. (Salty)
Banh Sung: Vietnamese-influenced vermicelli noodles with pork, herbs, and fish sauce. (Salty)
Kuy Teav: A light, clear pork or beef broth noodle soup, often eaten for breakfast. (Salty)
Num Ansorm: Sticky rice wrapped in a banana leaf, filled with banana or, less commonly, pork and beans. (Sweet/Salty)
Chek Chean: Sweet, deep-fried bananas, often served hot from a street stall. (Sweet)
Pong Moan Ang (Grilled Eggs): An egg mixed with seasoning and grilled inside its shell. (Salty)
Must-Try Drinks
Angkor Beer/Cambodia Beer: The two dominant local lagers, widely available and often served with ice. (Alcoholic)
Sra peang (Rice Wine): Homemade, often potent rice wine infused with various herbs or fruits. (Alcoholic)
Mekong Whiskey: A local spirit similar to rum, often mixed with soda or coke. (Alcoholic)
Kampot Coffee: Highly prized, locally grown Arabica/Robusta coffee, traditionally served strong with condensed milk (called Garr-feh tuk-koh). (Non-Alcoholic)
Teuk Chaa (Iced Tea): Simple, refreshing iced tea that is often served free at local food stalls. (Non-Alcoholic)
Sugar Cane Juice (Teuk Om-Pow): Freshly pressed juice from sugar cane stalks, often mixed with a squeeze of lime or pineapple. (Non-Alcoholic)
Fresh Coconut Water (Teuk Dong): Sold everywhere and perfect for rehydration on the coast. (Non-Alcoholic)
Fruit Shakes/Smoothies: Made with fresh local fruit like mango, pineapple, or passion fruit. (Non-Alcoholic)