Snorkeling in Cambodia
Including Koh Preas Island, Koh Rong Samloem, and Koh Tang Island. On the map.
The vibe
Snorkeling here is a low-key affair, defined by the simple pleasure of drifting over shallow reefs that feel like a well-kept secret rather than a commercial attraction. The water clarity is at its peak during the calmer, drier season, making it the ideal time to slip into the sea. You will mostly find yourself on small, shared boats with a local guide, keeping the vibe intimate and uncrowded.
Small marine park entry fee
Koh Preas Island
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Dmitry Makeev / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This quiet island features shallow, sandy-bottomed areas transitioning into rocky reef patches. It is a peaceful spot to observe juvenile reef fish and sea urchins in relatively calm, protected waters.
Access. Reached by private longtail boat hire from the mainland near Ream National Park or via organized island-hopping tours.
Notes. Visibility is highly dependent on recent rainfall and wind conditions.
Koh Rong Samloem
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Eric Seigne / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This island offers calm, shallow waters with accessible coral patches just off the beach. Snorkelers can explore the vibrant marine life around the rocky headlands and near the jetty areas, where visibility is generally good for tropical reef fish.
Access. Accessible by ferry from Sihanoukville; snorkel trips can be arranged directly through local beach resorts or small boat operators on the island.
Notes. Be mindful of boat traffic near the main piers.
Koh Tang Island
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
As one of Cambodia's outer islands, Koh Tang offers significantly better water clarity and more intact coral reefs compared to the mainland coast. It is a premier spot for seeing a wider variety of tropical fish and healthy coral structures.
Access. Requires a full-day boat excursion from Sihanoukville or Koh Rong; most snorkelers visit via organized boat tours.
Notes. Remote location; ensure your tour operator provides reliable safety equipment.
Koh Thans (Rabbit Island)
Kep
gbuschner / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located off the coast of Kep, this island features shallow, rocky reefs that are ideal for snorkeling. The water is often clear, allowing visitors to see schools of small reef fish and sea urchins among the submerged rock formations.
Access. Short boat ride from the Kep pier; local boatmen offer half-day snorkel excursions around the island's perimeter.