Sihanoukville summer travel experience: An unmissable journey to the blue sea.

Let's explore these summer travel tips for Sihanoukville to ensure a fulfilling and budget-friendly trip!

1. The ideal time to visit Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville's beaches are crystal clear in summer, ideal for a relaxing vacation. (Photo: Collected)

Summer, from May to August, is an ideal time to visit Sihanoukville . Although there are occasional short showers, the weather is mostly sunny and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, or exploring the islands.
A small note: It's best to avoid weekends and international holidays if you want a quieter and less crowded environment.

2. How to get to Sihanoukville

It's advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid price increases during peak season. (Image: Collected)

From Vietnam, you can choose from the following transportation options:

By plane: There are domestic flights from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Sihanoukville International Airport.
Coach: From Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a bus to Phnom Penh, then continue your journey to Sihanoukville (total travel time is approximately 10–12 hours).
Sea/ferry: If you're visiting Koh Rong, you can take a ferry from the island back to Sihanoukville port.

3. Where to stay when traveling to Sihanoukville?

Book a room near the beach for easy access and to enjoy the cool sea breeze every morning. (Photo: Collected)

Choosing accommodation when visiting Sihanoukville in the summer depends on your budget, desired experience, and level of amenities. In this coastal city, visitors can easily find many options ranging from luxury to budget-friendly, catering to diverse tastes.

Luxury beachfront resorts: If you want to enjoy a luxurious, relaxing summer vacation close to nature, resorts like Sokha Beach Resort or Independence Hotel are ideal choices. With private beaches, infinity pools, high-end spas, and professional service, these are perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends who want to experience complete relaxation.
Affordable homestays and hostels: For young travelers who enjoy exploring, interacting internationally, and saving money on their summer trip to Cambodia , hostels like Monkey Republic or Onederz Hostel offer a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. Dorm rooms, common areas, and local tours will make your journey more enjoyable and memorable.
Mid-range hotels: Located primarily in the Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity Beach areas, these mid-range hotels offer a good balance of comfort and affordability. The area is also conveniently situated for easy access to the night market, the ferry terminal to Koh Rong Island, and popular beachfront restaurants.

A little tip : Regardless of your accommodation choice, prioritize booking a room near the beach so you can wake up to fresh air and hear the sound of waves every morning – a truly wonderful summer experience that Sihanoukville offers.

4. Unmissable experiences in Sihanoukville during summer

Koh Rong – an island near Sihanoukville, is known as the "Maldives of Cambodia". (Photo: Collected)

Swimming in the sea and snorkeling to see coral reefs.

When talking about summer travel experiences in Cambodia , one cannot forget the leisurely morning strolls on the soft sand or the refreshing splashing in the cool waters of famous beaches in Sihanoukville such as Otres Beach, Ochheuteal Beach, or Independence Beach. Summer here brings golden sunshine and crystal-clear blue seas – ideal conditions for trying your hand at scuba diving, snorkeling to admire coral reefs, or kayaking. The tranquil atmosphere, pristine nature, and romantic sunsets will leave an unforgettable impression on visitors.

Explore Koh Rong Island and Koh Rong Samloem Island.

Just a 30-45 minute ferry ride from Sihanoukville port will take you to two island paradises, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem – often referred to as the "Maldives of Cambodia". These are must-visit destinations for a truly fulfilling summer vacation. Koh Rong is perfect for those who enjoy lively parties and fun, while Koh Rong Samloem is ideal for relaxation, unspoiled nature, and tranquility. Lying in a hammock amidst coconut trees, listening to the gentle waves, or gazing at the twinkling stars at night – this is the perfect "healing remedy" for a meaningful summer.

Enjoy delicious fresh seafood.

One of the essential parts of a summer trip to Sihanoukville is exploring its seafood cuisine . Night markets and restaurants along the coast offer a variety of freshly caught seafood dishes such as grilled squid, grilled prawns with chili and salt, steamed crab with lime leaves, grilled scallops with scallion oil, and more. Reasonable prices, authentic local cooking styles, and the rich, salty flavors of the sea will captivate any diner. Don't forget to order a cold glass of Angkor beer to complete your seaside dinner!

5. Tips for traveling to Sihanoukville safely and affordably in the summer.

Enjoy the stunning sunset at Otres Beach – one of the unforgettable summer travel experiences in Cambodia. (Photo: Collected)

Despite being an ideal summer destination in 2025, Sihanoukville still has a few things to keep in mind to ensure your trip is safe, enjoyable, and budget-friendly:

Prepare thoroughly for sun protection: Summer in Cambodia is quite sunny and hot, especially at the beaches. Bring strong sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and your own water bottle to ensure your health throughout your trip.
Spend wisely and safely: You don't need to carry too much cash, as the city has many ATMs and accepts card payments at major locations. However, it's a good idea to bring some small change for grocery shopping or local services.
Check the weather forecast and book in advance: Summer weather can sometimes bring sudden rain, so you should check the forecast before booking island tours or renting boats. Booking tours in advance through Vietravel or other reputable providers also helps you avoid being overcharged during peak season.
Be flexible in negotiations and maintain a friendly attitude: When renting a motorbike, booking a tour, or shopping at the market, you should ask for the price carefully beforehand and negotiate gently. The people in Sihanoukville are friendly, and your openness will make your trip much more enjoyable and pleasant.

With its blue sea, golden sunshine, and many exciting activities, Sihanoukville is a popular Cambodian summer travel destination for many international tourists in 2025. Hopefully, these tips for traveling to Sihanoukville in the summer will help you have a fulfilling, memorable, and adventurous trip.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/kinh-nghiem-du-lich-sihanoukville-mua-he-v17205.aspx