How to get to Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is the premier seaside resort of Cambodia, located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. This lively city attracts travellers with its sandy beaches, warm climate, and the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood in numerous coastal restaurants. For many tourists, it also serves as the starting point for trips to the picturesque tropical islands located nearby.

The atmosphere here combines the dynamics of a major port centre with the relaxation of a resort zone. In Sihanoukville, one can find places with developed infrastructure and a vibrant evening atmosphere, as well as quieter corners for relaxation by the water, making it a popular destination for various categories of travellers.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the coast is by air. Sihanoukville is served by its own international airport (KOS), which receives flights from several Asian countries and provides domestic connections. Travellers often arrive here in transit through major regional hubs or combine a beach holiday with visits to other cities in Cambodia, such as Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

The airport is located approximately 20 kilometres from the city centre. Arrival infrastructure is well-developed: you can reach your hotel by official taxi, shuttle bus, or tuk-tuk. The journey to the main resort areas usually takes between 30 and 40 minutes, allowing you to begin exploring the local scenery on the way from the terminal.

Rail connection to the city of Sihanoukville exists and serves as an interesting alternative to road transport. The line connecting the coast with the capital, Phnom Penh, is operated by Royal Railway. The station is located in the port area, which is quite convenient for further transfers to beaches or islands.

A train journey is suitable for those who value the atmosphere and scenery outside the window more than speed. The trains move slower than buses or taxis but allow you to comfortably view the rural countryside of Cambodia. It is worth noting that trains may not run every day (the schedule is often focused on weekends), so it is best to check departure times in advance.

The busiest route connects the coast with the kingdom's capital, the city of Phnom Penh. Modern buses and minivans cover the distance of about 230 kilometres quite quickly: thanks to the new expressway, travel time has been reduced to 2.5–4 hours. This is the most popular way to get to the sea, allowing you to comfortably watch the urban landscapes change into the tropical greenery of the province.

For travellers planning a complex route through Indochina, trips from southern Vietnam are convenient, for example, from the island of Phu Quoc or the city of Rach Gia. Such a journey usually involves a combined transfer with border crossing and takes from 6 to 8 hours. Despite the duration, this option is in demand among tourists wishing to experience the culture of two Asian countries in a single trip.

The most comfortable way to reach the sea is to book a private transfer from the capital, Phnom Penh, via the new expressway. The journey of about 230 kilometres now takes just 2.5–3 hours, and the cost of a taxi ride usually varies from 60 to 100 US dollars depending on the vehicle class. This is an ideal option for those who value time and want to quickly swap the bustling metropolis for the relaxed atmosphere of the Sihanoukville coast.

Travellers coming from Vietnam often choose routes through the city of Rach Gia or a combined transfer from Phu Quoc Island, including a ferry and car. Such a trip, covering a distance of about 200 kilometres, will take from 5 to 7 hours due to the need for border control. Despite the duration, this route allows you to observe the smooth change of landscapes and the culture of two neighbouring countries right from the car window.

Preparing for a trip to Sihanoukville requires attention to detail to ensure your holiday is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. We have compiled a list of practical recommendations to help you quickly adapt to local conditions.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and humid year-round, so bring light clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to pack sunscreen with a high protection factor, a hat, and comfortable footwear. If your trip falls during the rainy season (May to October), bring a light raincoat, which protects against downpours better than an umbrella.
2. Transport. For getting around the city, it is most convenient to use tuk-tuks. To avoid long bargaining and inflated prices, we recommend installing taxi-hailing apps (such as PassApp or Grab). This allows you to see the fixed cost of the trip in advance and eliminates the language barrier with the driver.
3. Finances. Two currencies are used in parallel in the country: the Cambodian Riel and the US Dollar. Cash dollars are accepted everywhere, but it is extremely important that the banknotes are in pristine condition—without tears, stains, or creases—otherwise, they may not be accepted. Small change is often given in riels. Bank cards are mainly accepted in large hotels and supermarkets.
4. Health and Safety. It is strongly advised not to drink tap water; buy only bottled water. Use insect repellents, especially in the evening, to protect against mosquitoes. It is also worth arranging comprehensive medical insurance before flying, as quality healthcare can be expensive.
5. Communication. In tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, staff usually speak basic English. However, in remote places, communicating may be more difficult. Download an offline translator on your phone. Learning a couple of words in Khmer, such as "Sus-day" (Hello) or "Aw-kun" (Thank you), will help you build rapport with the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Cambodia is a Buddhist country with its own traditions. It is customary to remove shoes when entering temples or private homes. Women should cover their shoulders and knees when visiting shrines. Never pat children on the head—the head is considered a sacred part of the body, and touching it is not appropriate.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave valuables unattended on beaches, especially after dark. Try not to get into conflicts with locals and avoid discussing politics. Also, be careful when renting a motorbike: traffic here is chaotic, and international permits require a local license for full legality.
8. Additional Tip. Do not limit yourself only to the city beaches. Use the city as a starting point for trips to nearby islands, such as Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem. It is there that you will find that pristine tropical paradise atmosphere with crystal clear water and white sand.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident and safe during your holiday. May your introduction to the coast of Cambodia leave only bright and positive impressions!