Imagine trading the temple crowds of Angkor Wat for stretches of powder-white sand lapped by turquoise waves.

Cambodia’s southern coast hides island gems where you can unwind under swaying palms and dive into crystal-clear lagoons—no passport checks required after Siem Reap.

Steps

1. Choose Island: Decide between party hubs like Koh Rong or secluded escapes such as Koh Ta Kiev.

2. Book Ferry: Reserve a round-trip seat (US $10–US $15) from Sihanoukville Pier at least 24 hours ahead.

3. Arrange Transfers: Hail a moto-taxi (US $2–US $5) or rent a bicycle (€5/day) to reach beaches after docking.

4. Pack Essentials: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, snorkeling gear (many resorts rent sets for US $5/day), and light rainwear during June–September.

5. Respect Nature: Carry out all trash and avoid touching coral to help preserve these fragile ecosystems.

Long Beach

On Koh Rong’s western flank, Long Beach—also called 7 km Beach—unfurls seven kilometers of ultra-fine, squeaky-soft sand. Accessible via a 20-minute moto ride (US $5) from Koh Touch pier, the beach remains blissfully uncrowded outside peak season (November–March). Bungalows start at US $20/night.

Saracen Bay

Koh Rong Sanloem’s Saracen Bay curves gently along 2.5 km of pristine shore. Ferries from Sihanoukville (US $12 one way) arrive hourly between 8 AM and 5 PM. Resorts here range from US $30/night bamboo bungalows to mid-range lodges at US $60/night. Snorkel trips (US $15) reveal colorful reefs just off shore.

Long Set Beach

Known locally as 4 km Beach, Koh Rong’s Long Set Beach offers a mellow vibe with boutique resorts from US $25/night. It sits a 10-minute walk west of Koh Touch village through shady forest paths. For an extra adventure, follow a 15-minute trail to hidden Nature Beach, where only a handful of sun-loungers claim the sand.

Lazy Beach

On Koh Rong Sanloem’s southwest tip, Lazy Beach lives up to its name. Rustic bungalows at US $40/night perch above calm waters ideal for families. A communal lounge stocked with board games complements. Book in advance—only one resort operates here.

Lagoon Beach

North of Sihanoukville, Koh Kong Island boasts seven immaculate beaches. Take a boat tour (US $50/day) from Tatai or Koh Rong city, and explore the sixth shore—Lagoon Beach. A narrow channel opens into a hidden freshwater lagoon, perfect for paddling or a private picnic. Day-trip rates include lunch at a beachfront shack (US $8).

Koh Ta Kiev

Just off Ream National Park, Koh Ta Kiev remains a low-key retreat. Longtail transfers from Otres Beach cost US $10 per person each way. Accommodations run from US $15/night eco-huts to US $50/night bungalows. Days here drift by with hammocks under coconut palms and communal dinners (rice and curry for US $5).

Koh Sdach Islands

For intrepid explorers, the Koh Sdach Archipelago lies off Botum Sakor National Park. Charter a boat (US $80/day split among passengers) to hop between deserted isles like Koh Ampil and Koh Smach. These sands are perfect for snorkeling—gear rental on Koh Sdach costs US $7/day—and nights are spent in basic guesthouses (US $20/night).

Conclusion

Cambodia’s beaches offer everything from seven-kilometer stretches of baby-powder sand to secret lagoons and family-friendly coves. Whether you seek sunrise yoga on Saracen Bay or sunset on Lazy Beach, these island escapes await your footprints. So Lykkers, which coastal hideaway will be your next Cambodian discovery?