Best Beaches in Cambodia

With deep pink sunsets and crystal clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving, it’s a wonder how the beaches of Cambodia have remained such hidden gems. Until now. Less popular (and therefore populated) than neighboring Thailand, Cambodia’s beaches are ethereal in their beauty and sure to make you feel far, far away.

Main Beach, Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) – the paradisiacal escape
Despite Rabbit Island’s close proximity to the mainland, once you’ve stepped onto the soft sands of the main beach in Koh Tonsay, you’ll feel a million miles away from the world (see ya troubles). Lined with gorgeous palm groves and authentic thatched beach huts that serve up local beers and seafood, this stunning stretch of sand is the exact opposite of a manicured resort beach experience. Paradisaical in a rough and ready kind of way, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by a family of scampering crabs, or the odd chicken. Or wandering cow.

Otres Beach, Sihanoukville – for those who enjoy seafood and beach bars (who doesn’t?)
Take a deep breath and relax, because you’ve reached nirvana. This beautiful little beach is far away from any urban metropolis (or just local town), making it completely unspoilt. Velvety sands can be seen for miles cradling tired bodies after long days of exploring the crystal clear waters, while a smattering of seafood shacks and beach bars feed hungry bellies and ensure your hand is never without a cocktail (this is a holiday after all).

Sokha Beach, Sihanoukville – the one that has access to a private resort pool
Part of Sihanoukville’s most glamourous resort, Sokha Beach offers the type of place you would imagine if you were able to travel through your computer and onto your desktop background (which we do daily, but have yet to master). Immaculately pristine with practically effervescing white sands and warm mint coloured waters, we can’t think of a more ideal location for perfecting that bronzed goddess look. One slight hitch is that this beach is 80% private, as property of the Sokha Beach Resort; however, the other 20% is free to frolic in. And if the public end doesn’t quite live up to full utopian status, simply purchase a guest pass and gain full access to the private area (which gives you access to the hotel pool as well).

Long Set Beach, Koh Rong – fancy a spot of snorkelling?
Ideal for sunbathing, collecting shells and crabbing, this beach only began to see development quite recently and retains a very calm and desolate atmosphere. Under the sea, however, is a different story. Saturated with marine life and rich coral, Long Set is one of the best locations for snorkeling and diving in Cambodia. And, if you really want to see something special, hang around until nightfall; an evening dip in moonlight unveils a host of bio-luminescent plankton twinkling like an underwater Milky Way. Now that’s something worth waiting for.

Serendipity Beach, Sihanoukville – for the beach-party goer
If you’ve had enough of lazing in the placid shimmering waters and snoozing in the silky golden sands, it’s time to head to Serendipity Beach. Dotted with quaint restaurants, beach bars and BBQ shacks, backpackers tend to migrate here for late night beach parties and just an overall good time. If you’re here in high season, and don’t like crowds, this may not be the place for you. Otherwise, bring your sun hat and your party hat, and you may just end up having the time of your life.

Koh Pos Beach, Sihanoukville – for those who just want to chill
Known most prominently for serving up some of the best seafood in Sihanoukville, Koh Pos Beach is home to a hidden treasure, aptly named, Treasure Island Seafood Restaurant (oddly not located on an island). Small, secluded and extremely well shaded, Koh Pos is ideal for curling up with a book, gorging on lobster and finding that respite from the hot sun while your burn is slowly turning into tan (we’ve all been there). Word to the wise, keep your possessions within reach as the resident monkeys tend to enjoy looking through bags for a new toy or snack. Or both.

Victory Beach, Sihanoukville – the one with jaw dropping views
It’s no wonder this beach’s name connotes celebration, Victory Beach pretty much has it all. Between beach bungalows, seafood restaurants, bars and a local nightclub, it would seem you might not have to stray too far to find everything you need (now that’s a holiday). In addition to the host of food and entertainment right at your fingertips, this beach’s location avows it the most jaw dropping views of the town and port as well as chart topping sunsets. So just make sure your beach bag is packed for both day and night time activities (between the sunsets and the resident night club, who knows what the day will bring).

Koh Ta Kiev – for jungle loving bird spotters
All three beaches on the gorgeous island of Koh Ta Kiev boast vast stretches of golden sands shaded by aromatic pine trees. Vibrant coral reefs provide fabulous snorkelling in shallow turquoise waters, while winding trekking paths through the jungle offer something to do for the more adventurous types (just watch out for the carnivorous pitcher plants. Yikes). A spot of advice, make sure to pack your camera as a number of creatures call this jungle home; including over 150 species of birds (aka wear a hat in case of, well, you know).

By Sara Starkman