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People relaxing at the Coconut Beach on Koh Rong, Cambodia.

Things to do in  South Coast

An island-dotted paradise

Despite often being overlooked in favor of its better-known neighbors, Cambodia’s South Coast has plenty to offer, with some of the best things to do here including lazing on white-sand beaches, hopping between tropical islands, visiting historic towns, and exploring lush jungles and coconut-fringed riverbanks. While the old gateway city of Sihanoukville has fallen from grace in recent years—most visitors now use it solely as a transport hub to get to and from Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem—the islands, Kampot, Kep, and even up-and-coming Koh Kong are all well worth a visit.

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Time Zone
PET (-5)
When to visit

The best time to visit Cambodia’s South Coast is in the high (and dry) season, which runs from December to March. November and April also usually offer good weather without crowds, whereas the rainy season (May to October) can be pretty muggy and muddy. While most visitors prefer the warmer, drier winter months, the hot, wet, and humid summers can be fun, too—although you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to get off the islands to avoid any bad-weather ferry delays.

Getting around

The best way of getting around Cambodia’s South Coast depends upon where you’re staying and where you’re going. For example, a tuk-tuk is ideal for a rice paddy and pepper farm tour from Kampot. However, a bus or taxi is much better if you’re traveling from Kampot to Sihanoukville or Koh Kong. And, while high-speed ferries zip visitors back and forth from Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, traditional wooden long-tail boats are the method of choice for boat trips and snorkeling tours.

Traveler tips

While most visitors used to flock to Cambodia’s premier coastal resort of Sihanoukville, its glory days are unfortunately long past. Now, travelers tend to travel through Sihanoukville to access Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, although the city is also a popular spot for visitors wanting to go on snorkeling and island-hopping day trips. Otherwise, many visitors usually base themselves around Kampot and Kep or head west towards Koh Kong and Nesat Village—one of the kingdom’s newest coastal getaways.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the best things to do on Cambodia’s South Coast?
A:

The best things to do on Cambodia’s South Coast include visiting Kampot and Kep, which are both known for their natural beauty and cultural attractions, and island-hopping around Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, Koh Ta Kiev, and Koh Tonsay. Other highlights include Otres Beach and Ream National Park.

Q:What is Cambodia’s South Coast known for?
A:

Cambodia’s South Coast is probably best known for its beaches, islands, cultural attractions, and laid-back pace of life, with everything—aside from the ferries to the islands—seeming to tick by in hammock time. It’s a beautiful place to spend a few days relaxing, island-hopping, and adventuring around Kampot and Kep.

Q:Where are the best beaches on Cambodia’s South Coast?
A:

If you’re looking for the best beaches on Cambodia’s South Coast, head to the islands. Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem have some of the most beautiful beaches in Cambodia. Otres Beach, on the mainland, is also a decent contender, as is the up-and-coming Nesat Beach in Koh Kong Province.

Q:What are the highlights of Cambodia’s South Coast?
A:

Some highlights of Cambodia’s South Coast include the islands, which are known for their beautiful beaches, bioluminescent plankton, and colorful coral reefs—join a snorkeling tour to see them. Kampot’s laid-back riverside vibes and historic buildings are also well worth a visit, along with nearby Preah Monivong Bokor National Park.

Q:How many days should I spend on Cambodia’s South Coast?
A:

It’s easy to spend a week—or longer—exploring the South Coast. Three days are usually enough to see Kampot and Kep, with an additional 2–3 days on the islands. If time allows, you could spend a few days on Otres Beach to go on a boat trip or visit nearby Ream National Park.

Q:Are the Cambodian islands worth visiting?
A:

Yes, the Cambodian islands are absolutely worth visiting. The main ones to see are Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, although if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, Koh Ta Kiev (accessible from Otres Beach or Ream) and Koh Tonsay (near Kep) are also worth a day trip or overnight visit.

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