Diving in Cambodia
Including Koh Rong Samloem and Koh Tang. On the map.
The vibe
Diving here is refreshingly sparse and unpretentious, focusing on the slow discovery of macro life rather than the high-intensity, crowded sites found in neighboring countries. The best visibility arrives with the dry season, providing a window to explore the underwater landscape without the bustle of mass tourism. It feels like a community-led endeavor where you can easily find a spot on a boat without feeling like just another number in a queue.
Standard dive certification
Koh Rong Samloem
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Eric Seigne / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This island serves as the primary hub for scuba diving in Cambodia, offering accessible coral reefs and rocky pinnacles teeming with macro life. Divers visit for the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to explore sites like Nudibranch Heaven and Koh Koun, which feature vibrant soft corals and schooling fish.
Access. Accessible via ferry from Sihanoukville; multiple dedicated PADI dive centers operate directly on the island, offering daily boat trips to nearby reefs.
Notes. Best season is November to May; depths range from 5 to 20 meters with generally mild currents.
Koh Tang
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Located further offshore, Koh Tang offers some of the most pristine diving in Cambodia, characterized by clear waters and dramatic rocky topography. The sites are known for their abundance of marine life, including barracuda, groupers, and occasional pelagics, making it a favorite for multi-day liveaboard trips.
Access. Excursions are typically arranged via dive operators based in Sihanoukville or Koh Rong Samloem, often requiring a full-day boat journey or overnight liveaboard.
Notes. Suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to the remote nature and potential for stronger currents.