Beach and Island

Beaches are one of the most prominent natural features of Sihanoukville, spanning most of the coastline of the peninsular and found on many of the islands. Many of the beaches of Sihanoukville feature Casuarina equisetifolia, the shrub Calophyllum inophyllum and the herbs Ipomaea pes-caprae and Ishaemum muticum. Some of the undeveloped beaches feature a beach forest formation, beaches that continue into dense lowland evergreen forest on their landward side. These habitats are particularly important to some of the water-bird species.

Tourist Beaches

Miles of fine white sandy beaches line the coastline around Sihanoukville. About six kilometers of these beaches are accessible from town. The four main tourist beaches of Sihanoukville: Sokha, Ochheateal, Independence and Victory, each separated from the other by character and rocky outcrops provide the main focus of attraction for tourists. In addition there are three alternative beaches: Otres, Ream and Depot which are situated outside the town area. Today Sihanoukville has become the premier site for tourists seeking beaches in Cambodia, as the other neighboring coastal provinces do not have beach resources, and access is more difficult.

Islands

Approximately 24 islands lie within the jurisdiction of Sihanoukville. These include the larger islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem to the west, the islands inside Ream national park Koh Thmei and Koh Ses, and also a number of smaller islands found both close to shore and offshore, stretching as far north as the northern tip of Kampong Som Bay. Many of the islands have small beaches and some have been identified as good for snorkeling. These include Koh Khteah, Koh Chraloh, Koh Ta Kiev and Koh Chraloh. The island of Koh Tang, Koh Prins and Poulo Wai have good environments for diving. Most of islands are accessible by regular boat trips.

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