| Role | coastal port city and capital of Preah Sihanouk Province, on the Gulf of Thailand |
|---|---|
| Other names | Kampong Saom; Preah Sihanouk |
| Named for | former king Norodom Sihanouk |
| Population | about 89,800 in 2008, of whom about 66,700 in the urban center |
| Nearby | Ream National Park borders the coastal marshlands to the east |
Getting to know Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is the capital of Preah Sihanouk Province, located at the tip of a high peninsula in the southwest of the Gulf of Thailand. Standing out on tourism, Sihanoukville attracts visitors with many beaches along its coastline and coastal marshlands bordering Ream National Park. Not only will you enjoy the refreshing beaches, but you will also experience unique culture, cuisine, and entertainment.
Things to explore in Sihanoukville
Just a short ferry ride from Sihanoukville, Koh Rong Island and Koh Rong Samloem are must-see destinations when visiting Sihanoukville. The two islands are famous for their white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and water sports. Many Sihanoukville tour packages include boat trips where you can witness glowing bioluminescent plankton after dark. For those seeking adventure, there’s also the chance to try local fishing techniques with islanders.
About 18km from Sihanoukville center, Ream National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Spanning over 210 square kilometers, the park is a diverse ecosystem of mangrove forests, rivers, and coastal habitats that support a wide array of wildlife. Visitors can embark on guided boat tours along the Prek Toeuk Sap River, where they might spot rare bird species like the white-bellied sea eagle or even glimpse the elusive fishing cat and deer in their natural habitat.
Sihanoukville cuisine
Coming to Sihanoukville, you will be lost in a coastal cuisine that collides traditional Khmer flavors with fresh seafood. Among the must-try dishes, Absolute Asia Tours recommends you try amok trey, a fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves and savored with coconut milk, lemongrass, and kaffir lime. For seafood lovers, grilled lobster and prawns fresh from the Gulf of Thailand is a must-try! Lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish seasoned with black pepper all spice up your meals in here.
So, whether you’re looking for pristine islands, fresh seafood delicacies, or eco-adventures, there’s no shortage of fun things in Sihanoukville. As a gateway on your Cambodia tour, Sihanoukville will lead you to discover its unique charm, ultimate relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion in one picturesque setting!
Song Saa Luxury Private Island: Your Must-Visit Cambodian Sanctuary
For an unforgettable experience, consider staying at Song Saa, a luxurious private island resort in Cambodia. The resort offers serene accommodations, stunning views, and unparalleled service, providing the perfect escape for relaxation and tranquility amid beautiful natural surroundings.
The coastal city
English Wikipedia describes Sihanoukville as a coastal port city at the tip of an elevated peninsula in south-west Cambodia, with a string of beaches along its coastline and coastal marshlands bordering Ream National Park. It is also known as Kampong Saom or Preah Sihanouk, and was named in honor of the former king Norodom Sihanouk. The 2008 population was about 89,800. Several sparsely inhabited islands fall under its administration. The city has changed quickly in recent years, so we have not verified current beach conditions, ferry times or prices, and the older text below should be checked before you plan around it.
Sources (read in English, English Wikipedia): Sihanoukville. Last checked November 2026.
Sihanoukville: FAQ
What is Sihanoukville?
A coastal port city and the capital of Preah Sihanouk Province on the Gulf of Thailand.
What is Sihanoukville also called?
Kampong Saom or Preah Sihanouk.
Who is the city named after?
The former king Norodom Sihanouk.
What national park is next to it?
Ream National Park.
How many days do you need?
Two to three days for the beaches and islands.