Beaches in Cambodia
Including Koh Ta Kiev Beach, Koh Thmei Beach, and Koh Tonsay Beach. On the map.
The vibe
The coastline here feels unhurried and raw, trading manicured resorts for stretches of sand where local life and fishing boats dominate the horizon. You will find the most comfort during the dry months when the skies are clear and the humidity remains manageable. It is a largely DIY experience, offering a quiet, authentic atmosphere that feels far removed from the polished beach scenes found elsewhere in the region.
Koh Ta Kiev Beach, Koh Ta Kiev
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Dmitry Makeev / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This island beach offers a pristine, secluded escape with soft sand and lush jungle surroundings. It is ideal for travelers looking for a 'castaway' feel without sacrificing basic amenities.
Access. Accessible via daily boat transfers from Otres Beach or Sihanoukville.
Notes. Infrastructure is rustic; expect limited electricity and connectivity.
Koh Thmei Beach, Ream National Park
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
This image was created by user Dmitriy Bochkov (convallaria) at Mushroom Observer , a source for mycological images. You can contact this user here . / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located within the protected Ream National Park, this beach is known for its quiet, natural beauty and golden sands. It is a peaceful destination where the forest meets the sea, offering a very different experience from the island resorts.
Access. Requires a boat trip from the mainland near Sihanoukville; limited infrastructure makes it a true nature retreat.
Notes. Part of a protected area; visitors should respect the local environment.
Koh Tonsay Beach, Rabbit Island
Kep
gbuschner / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Koh Tonsay features a small, charming crescent of sand shaded by coconut palms and clear, shallow water. It is a favorite day-trip destination for those visiting the coastal town of Kep.
Access. Reached by a short 20-30 minute boat ride from the Kep pier.
Lazy Beach, Koh Rong Samloem
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Reinhard Onasch / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Tucked away on the western side of the island, Lazy Beach is a secluded gem known for its golden sand and lush jungle backdrop. It offers a more private, rustic experience compared to the busier bays, with excellent swimming conditions.
Access. Reached via a 30-40 minute hike through the jungle trail from Saracen Bay or by private boat charter.
Notes. The beach is maintained by the nearby resort and remains very quiet and pristine.
Otres Beach, Sihanoukville
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
MCantsin / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Otres Beach provides a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere with long stretches of golden sand and gentle waves. It is the best remaining spot on the mainland coast for a relaxed beach day away from the urban development of Sihanoukville city.
Access. Easily reached by tuk-tuk or taxi from Sihanoukville town center.
Ou Ochnheay Beach, Koh Rong
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Kris Martyn / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This picturesque beach offers a more rugged and natural feel with its soft sand and clear, inviting waters. It is an excellent spot for those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying a beautiful, swimmable coastline.
Access. Accessible primarily by boat from the main island piers or via long-tail boat tours.
Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Samloem
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Hardlinerr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Saracen Bay is a stunning crescent-shaped cove featuring calm, crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft, powdery white sand. It is the quintessential tropical escape in Cambodia, offering a tranquil atmosphere perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Access. Accessible by a 45-minute fast ferry from Sihanoukville; the beach is lined with various low-key resorts and restaurants.
Notes. The water is very shallow, making it ideal for families but requiring a long walk out for deeper swimming.